Cruising sails - Most sailors tend to both cruise and race. Therefore, we primarily offer “performance" cruising sails. Even those who never race want their boat to sail well and reliably. Our performance c

X-Drive Sails: Revolutionary Construction for Superior Performance

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Transform your sailing experience with X-Drive sails, the innovative construction method that’s revolutionizing the sailing industry. Developed by UK Sailmakers, X-Drive technology delivers superior performance, exceptional durability, and outstanding value for both racing and cruising enthusiasts.

What Makes X-Drive Different?

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X-Drive is a two-part construction system. As the diagram shows, the sail is made from a lightweight material cut into cross-cut panels that, when put together with broad seaming, achieve the 3-D shape created by the sail designer. Next the sail is reinforced with a grid of narrow, high-strength, low-stretch fibers that are bonded to the sail up to 11 at a time.

X-Drive represents a breakthrough in sail construction, combining the best aspects of traditional paneled sails with cutting-edge membrane technology. Our proprietary process applies high-strength fiber tapes in a distinctive X-pattern across a single-piece sail membrane, creating an incredibly stable and responsive sail structure.

The X-Drive Advantage

  • Superior Load Management: Our unique X-pattern tape configuration distributes loads evenly across the entire sail, preventing distortion and maintaining optimal shape in all conditions. Learn more about X-Drive Racing Mainsails →
  • Exceptional Durability: The dense network of reinforcing fibers ensures your sail maintains its designed shape longer than traditional constructions, making X-Drive sails a smart long-term investment. Explore X-Drive Endure options →
  • Cost-Effective Performance: Experience the benefits of advanced membrane sail technology at a more accessible price point. See pricing options →

Schedule a consultation with our experts →

Get A Quote Today!

Contact your local loft today to discuss your next Cruising Mainsail options from UK Sailmakers.

Perfect for Every Sailing Style

Whether you’re a competitive racer or passionate cruiser, there’s an X-Drive sail perfect for your needs:

Racing Excellence

Optimize your racing performance with X-Drive Carbon sails, featuring our most advanced fiber options for maximum stability and minimum weight. Discover X-Drive Carbon →

Performance Cruising

Experience the perfect balance of durability and performance with X-Drive Taffeta sails, designed for the demanding needs of blue water cruising. Learn about X-Drive Taffeta →

Club Racing

Step up your game with sails that deliver professional-grade performance without breaking the bank. Explore club racing options →

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An XP50 Uni-Titanium double taffeta boom-furling mainsail and roller/furling genoa.

Customization Options

Every X-Drive sail is tailored to your specific requirements:

  • Multiple fiber options (Carbon, Technora, S-Glass, Endumax)
  • Custom membrane materials
  • Various taffeta options for enhanced durability
  • Available for all sail types (mainsails, genoas, jibs, and spinnakers)

Get your custom sail specification →

The Science Behind X-Drive

Our innovative construction process creates sails that:

  • Maintain their designed shape through a wider wind range
  • Respond more efficiently to trim adjustments
  • Last longer than traditional paneled sails
  • Provide superior performance in all conditions

Download our technical specifications →

Join the X-Drive Revolution

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your sails. Experience the X-Drive difference and join thousands of satisfied sailors worldwide who have made the switch to this revolutionary technology.

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An Italia 12.98 with X-Drive carbon full-batten mainsail and roller/furling genoa. The base laminate has a white taffeta on the side opposite the fibers, while the main has taffeta applied over the fibers on the leech for extra durability.

Ready to Upgrade Your Sailing Experience?

Take the first step toward better performance and durability:

  1. Request a quote
  2. Consult with our experts
  3. Get your custom-built X-Drive sails

Contact Us Today →

Special Offer

Request a quote this month and receive a free sail consultation with one of our expert sailmakers. Let us help you choose the perfect X-Drive solution for your sailing needs.

UK Sailmakers: Innovating for Your Success Since 1946

Get A Quote Today!

Contact your local loft today to discuss your next Cruising Mainsail options from UK Sailmakers.

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