New for 2007, the Alpha is a sail purpose-made for onshore, less than ideal, wave-sailing conditions. It is the most powerful wave sail in the collection and is designed to deliver consistent power across a broad spectrum of conditions. With an entirely new configuration featuring a wider luff pocket, longer boom and reduced luff length, it was possible for the Design Team to create a powerful, yet forgiving, sail.

Design Objectives:

• To develop the most powerful wave sail in the range; a sail that excels in onshore wave sailing conditions.
• The sail must have good bottom-end and strong upwind capabilities.
• The sail must feature good lift and drive for back- and front-side wave riding, and jumping in onshore conditions.
• To focus as much of the sails' power as possible around the rider.

Objectives Achieved By:

• The Alpha is low-aspect compared to the Combat and Zone - it features a slightly longer boom and shorter luff (relative to the 2006 Search). This enhances upwind performance, generates lift and delivers more constant power.
• A reduced luff-length allows the sail to be rigged on shorter masts (4.5m to 5.4m all rig on a 400cm mast). This gives the sail a softer, more relaxed feeling - without compromising draft stability.
• The Alpha has the most shaping of all Neil Pryde wave sails - this creates power.
• Reducing the size of the head means the head can be designed relatively 'tighter' compared to the Search. This enhances upwind ability but does not give the sail a top-heavy feeling.
• Introduction of a wider luff-sleeve (compared to the Search) allows the sail to neutralize more easily and be less "direct" in gusty conditions.