Duotone Ifront 2.0 Boom Front End

The technical masterpiece which makes all NorthSails booms even more functional: iFRONT 2.0 the latest new and improved in all aspects headpiece of the next generation.

The STREAMLINER.DESIGN has aerodynamic as well as weight-oriented advantages. It doesn’t just look slimmer and smoother, the iFRONT 2.0 is also a whopping 35% lighter than its predecessor! With 345 grams it is the lightest front-end on the market!

90% of all other booms on the market are equipped with the same front-end from China, which usually differs only in color or design details. Especially in major components we at NorthSails are investing heavily in research and development to be far ahead of the competition. A prime example of this is the completely redesigned and absolutely unique iFRONT 2.0 front-end; it combines maximum ease of use with highest functionality, low weight and guaranteed durability.

Currently, two different front-end systems are offered on the market:

1 The performance-oriented design (NeilPryde, NorthSails iFRONT 1.0). These are uncompromisingly rigid front-ends in ALL directions, offering maximum vertical (torsional) stiffness. This leads to an extremely direct connection / transmission of boom to mast (= maximum performance). Whilst this construction offers no horizontal flex which is where the performance aspects come into play the adaptation to different mast diameters is possible only via a V-geometry of the collar. This can lead to point loading of the mast, which increases the risk of slipping and also mast breakage.

2 The "cuddly" construction (Aeron and all OEM versions that are used on 90% of all booms). This front-end flexes in ALL directions and the soft sidewalls of the collar adapt to any mast diameter. This protects the mast and avoids slippage. The disadvantage is that the soft sidewalls offer just a very low vertical (torsional) stiffness = low performance.

For the first time the construction of the new iFRONT 2.0 combines the advantages of both concepts in one front-end:

A Unlike other front-ends, the extra-long stainless steel axle-bolts are directly connected to the side walls. Thus we obtain a maximum vertical stiffness, which results in an extremely direct connection/transmission of boom to mast (= maximum performance).

B The partially recessed center of the collar gives the iFRONT 2.0 a kind of hinge function, so that the collar fits to any mast diameter without any gap (= very smooth on the mast and extremely slip resistant). We know of no other front-end that fits so smoothly around the mast and thus effectively protects the mast. This exceptional fit is guaranteed on SDM as well as RDM masts as the iFRONT 2.0 can be adapted within seconds through the exchange of 2 different friction pads.

It is an open secret that different conditions require front-ends with different vertical/torsional stiffness so that the rig can develop its maximum potential yet the comfort doesn’t suffer. For this reason, we deliver the new iFRONT 2.0 in two different stiffness options that are tailored to the individual disciplines and requirements:

- Stiffness I with 15% vertical flexibility has a very low flex for direct power transmission yet maximum control and comes with all RED, SILVER, as well as GOLD and PLATINUM (up to 170) booms. 

- Stiffness III with 0% vertical flexibility for uncompromizing torsion-stiffness and maximum performance on large sails comes with all GOLD and PLATINUM (190 and up) booms.

Of course, we remain true to our promise of long-term compatibility even with the iFRONT 2.0. Therefore it is 100% retro-compatible with older NorthSails booms that can be upgraded and tuned.