North Sails

North Sails. It is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance sails and sailcloth, founded by Lowell North in 1957. The company revolutionized the sailmaking industry through the introduction of computer-aided design and engineered materials, moving from traditional hand-cut cotton to precision laminates. Its products are used by top racing teams, including those in the America's Cup, The Ocean Race, and the Olympic Games, as well as by cruising sailors worldwide.

History

The company was established in 1957 in San Diego by aeronautical engineer and Olympic medalist Lowell North, who applied scientific principles to sail shape and construction. A pivotal moment came in the 1960s with the shift from natural fibers like cotton to synthetic Dacron, greatly enhancing durability and performance. Under the leadership of individuals like Tom Whidden, the company expanded globally, acquiring competitors such as Sobstad and pioneering the use of CAD and load-path engineering. In 1984, it was purchased by the Litton conglomerate, and later became part of the Vista Outdoor portfolio before a 2020 management buyback.

Products and technology

Its core products include a full range of sails for dinghy racing, offshore racing, and cruising, constructed from advanced materials like 3Di and 3DL molded laminates. The proprietary 3Di technology, developed with Formula One expertise from BMW Oracle Racing, involves bonding unidirectional carbon fiber and aramid filaments into a seamless, three-dimensional sail membrane. Other innovations include the North EPEX cruising laminate and the Helix structured luff technology for code zero sails. The company also produces performance sailcloth for other lofts and a line of technical marine apparel.

Manufacturing and operations

Global manufacturing is centralized in high-tech facilities called "Sailmaking lofts," with major production hubs in Nevada, Sri Lanka, and Mindelo, Cape Verde. The design process is driven by its proprietary NS CFD and VPP software, which is used by designers like Tom Schnackenberg to simulate sail performance. A network of over 50 service lofts worldwide, from Auckland to Antibes, provides custom design, repairs, and consulting. The company also operates the North Cloth division, supplying materials to other sailmakers and industries.

In sailing competition

Its sails are ubiquitous in top-tier sailing events, having powered victories in every America's Cup since 1974, including campaigns for Team New Zealand, Luna Rossa, and American Magic. In fully crewed ocean racing, it has equipped winners of The Ocean Race, such as Ericsson 4 and Azzam, and dominates the Superyacht circuit at regattas like the St. Barths Bucket. In Olympic classes, sailors like Hannah Mills and Mathew Belcher have won gold medals using its products, and it is the official supplier to the SailGP league.

Corporate structure

Following a 2020 management-led buyback from Vista Outdoor, the company is now privately held, with ownership shared among senior executives and the investment firm Oakley Capital. It operates as a group of integrated companies, including the sailmaking division, the North Cloth manufacturing arm, and the apparel business. Strategic partnerships with entities like MarineMax and Grand Prix racing teams ensure continuous R&D feedback. The corporate headquarters are located in Milford, Connecticut, overseeing its worldwide network of lofts and licensing agreements.

Category:Sailmaking companies Category:Companies based in Connecticut Category:Sailing equipment manufacturers