Profurl
Profurl was founded in 1980 and quickly became a pioneer in reefing and furling technology. Over the years, it has established itself as a global leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced furling systems for cruising, racing, and offshore yachts. The company, now part of the Wichard Group since 2002, integrates a wealth of expertise and innovation into its products, ensuring durability, performance, and ease of use. Based in France, Profurl utilizes cutting-edge manufacturing processes and collaborates closely with leading riggers, sailmakers, and sailors to deliver high-quality products tested in extreme sailing conditions. With over 40 years of experience, Profurl continues to equip yachts participating in renowned regattas such as the Vendée Globe, America's Cup, and Route du Rhum. Read more below...
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Profurl Furling Systems
Profurl designs and manufactures mechanical and motorised furling systems for cruising, racing, and performance yachts, with a strong emphasis on load management, durability, and long-term reliability. All Profurl systems are engineered and manufactured in France, with component design focused on high static and dynamic load capability, minimal maintenance requirements, and predictable operation under offshore sailing conditions.
Manual Headstay Furling Systems
Profurl manual furlers are widely specified on cruising and performance yachts due to their sealed bearing architecture and robust extrusion profiles. All manual systems use 100C6 carbon steel ball bearings running in a sealed grease bath, eliminating the need for periodic servicing while maintaining smooth rotation under high forestay loads. The foil extrusions are manufactured from 6106 aluminium alloy, selected for its strength-to-weight characteristics and resistance to deformation.
Profurl manual furlers are available in two primary ranges:
- Cruising Range – Designed for yachts from approximately 5 to 26 metres LOA, featuring silver anodised extrusions and conservative section geometry optimised for longevity and ease of handling.
- Racing Range – Intended for weight- and performance-sensitive applications, using black anodised aerofoil extrusions and features such as opening pre-feeders to facilitate faster sail hoists and reduced friction during headsail changes.
Motorised Headstay Furling Systems
For larger yachts and higher sail loads, Profurl offers electric and hydraulic furling systems designed to deliver controlled torque at low power consumption. These systems are typically specified for yachts in the 14 to 22 metre range and above.
- NDE² Electric Furlers – Available in multiple drum and motor configurations, incorporating emergency manual override capability and adaptable deck layouts.
- NDH² Hydraulic Furlers – Designed for high-load applications, delivering high torque output with consistent performance in demanding offshore conditions.
Profurl NEX Code Zero Furler
Flying Sail Furlers (Code Zero, Gennaker, Asymmetric)
The Profurl NEX series is engineered for furling flying sails such as Code Zeros, gennakers, and asymmetric spinnakers. These systems integrate anti-torsion cable compatibility, optimised drum geometry, and lightweight rotating components to ensure even torque distribution along the luff.
Models are available across a wide load range, from smaller yachts handling sail areas around 100 m² to large performance yachts exceeding 55 feet with significantly higher luff tensions.
Top-Down Spinnaker Furlers
The SPINEX range is designed specifically for top-down furling of asymmetric spinnakers. The system uses a dedicated swivel mechanism that allows the sail to roll from the head downwards, improving control and reducing sail distortion. These furlers are commonly specified for shorthanded and offshore sailing where cockpit-controlled sail handling is critical.
Structural Furlers – Pro Am Series
The Profurl Pro Am structural furler range is intended for “all-or-nothing” sail plans on day boats and sports boats. These furlers integrate the halyard swivel directly into the system, allowing sails to be hoisted and completely lowered when not in use. Compact dimensions and low rotating mass contribute to reduced windage and improved upwind performance.
Motorised Flying Sail Furlers
The NEXe electric flying sail furlers extend the NEX platform with motorised operation for larger and heavier sails. Models such as the NEXe Lite 4.0 and NEXe 8.0 are typically specified on yachts from 45 to 60 feet, handling sail areas up to approximately 250 m² while improving safety during hoisting and furling operations.
Profurl NEXe Electric Furler
Stayfurlers
Profurl stayfurlers are developed for high-performance yachts requiring reliable furling of staysails and inner jibs. Lightweight construction, efficient locking mechanisms, and reduced mast compression loads make these systems suitable for racing and offshore configurations where structural load paths are carefully managed.
Profurl Technical Design Characteristics
Across the Profurl range, common technical features include sealed bearing systems, anodised aluminium extrusions, and impact-resistant composite drums. Components are load-tested and validated for long-term operation under cyclic stress. Many Profurl furlers are designed to be maintenance-free and are supported by extended manufacturer warranties, with optional accessories such as pre-feeders, protective covers, and multiple attachment configurations available.
Profurl systems are widely specified by yacht designers, riggers, and experienced owners seeking mechanically efficient furling solutions with predictable performance across a broad range of sailing applications.
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