asymetrical spinnaker

[Jim]

Iam thinking of buying an asymetrical spinnaker for my H 31. Some doubts as to the measurements allowed for racing. My PHRF book says: Max length ".95" of jibstay length, width is 180% of "J". They don't specify "asymetrical", Is there any different measurements for asymetrical. Also any comments as to the performance of the asymetrical on a H 31. Are they any good jibing on a broad reach? I do a lot of down wind sailing and prefer to jibe rather to go wing and wing.

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Measurements

Rather than guess, ask the sailmaker. One of the benefits of a production boat is that the measurements are fairly standard. North Sails did a fine asymetrical for me, even came out and measured themselves. I fly mine on a Hunter 29.5, and it does best on a broad reach, picking up 2-3 knots compared to the jib. You're quite correct that it's faster than wing-on-wing. I typically run downriver on 4-5 tacks and can run the spin on one long tack back, maybe two. What an adventure!For more, check the Archives under "spinnaker." There are hundred of postings with sage and safe advice.