New XHL makes eXtremly Happy Laser sailors

Introducing a new Laser specific vang block the A2031XHL-873.

The block which features the same extreme high load dynamic bearing technology as the rest of the Allen XHL range has been specifically adapted to work as the Laser dinghy’s top vang block.

The XHL range was conceived when the Allen design team worked with the World’s top International Moth sailors to create a solution for the extreme high loads, they were putting through the vang.

More recently Allen has been working on feedback from top Laser sailors who are looking for a more efficient top block for their vang. It was inevitable then, that the Allen design team would use the tried and tested XHL block to solve the problem. By adapting the 30mm XHL block to incorporate a stronger vang key the Allen design team has come up with a solution that is not only capable of withstanding the Laser vang loads but also sleek and stylish.

Southeast Sailboats who specialise in providing world-class rigging for the Laser has been using the XHL block and commented:  “This extremely free running block makes pulling on the vang easier, and the stronger key will ensure that it will cope with the increased loads imposed by the Laser MkII rig. By integrating the vang key into the block the overall length of the block and key is minimised, thereby not compromising the overall vang operating range.  This great block will also help sailors who are currently struggling to pull on enough vang to depower the sail for the conditions, and in addition, make it easier for sailors who want to take a purchase out of the vang system.”

The A2031XHL-873 has a breaking load of 1000kg and comes with a removable clevis pin.

The XHL range has grown

The original 30mm XHL block was released by Allen at the end of 2015, the design was received exceedingly well by the sailors in the high-performance market. This year Allen has expanded the range to include a 20mm and 40mm sheave size to help fill gaps in the market.

The Allen XHL range has been designed to deal with eXtremely High Loads without compromising on low load dynamic performance. By combing the Allen patented Dynamic Bearing Technology with CNC machined aluminium side cheeks and a precision turned stainless steel sheave, the company has created a block range that can take a static load of up to 1500Kg. Perfect for use in vang cascades or halyard turning points where loads can be extremely high.

  • 20mm XHL block
  • A2030XHL The one that started it all!
  • A2031XHL-873 Designed for the ILCA Vang

A2020XHL

Maximum Working Load: 300KG

Breaking Load: 900 KG

A2030XHL

Maximum Working Load: 350Kg

Breaking Load: 1250Kg

A2040XHL

Maximum Working Load: 400Kg

Breaking Load: 1500Kg

The XHL range is available in a variety of colours. 

The 30mm XHL was originally designed on the feedback of Team Allen sailors who wanted a block strong enough to keep up with the demands of high-performance sailing. Watch the video below to find out how it’s made.

Allen Brothers, based in Essex, is known for consistently developing and upgrading sailing hardware. The company has a team of professional sailors that are always testing and relaying product feedback back to the Allen design team to ensure the hardware keeps up with the demands of modern sailing.

Archives by Subject:

Archives by Month: