OLD SAIL

[HAL]

I’ve heard it said that an old, soft “blown out” sail creates a lot of weather helm and heel. I assume weather helm is created because the draft cannot be pulled forward by halyard tension. But why is excess heel created?

 

[HAL]

I’ve heard it said that an old, soft “blown out” sail creates a lot of weather helm and heel. I assume weather helm is created because the draft cannot be pulled forward by halyard tension. But why is excess heel created?

 

[Jack h23.5]

By flattening the sail,

you are depowering the main, the baggy shape actually gives a lot of power, but so much that you heel more and have to let out the main to keep it flat. So for a given wind speed, say 12 knots, a flat sail will heel less. Also keep in mind that these boats are also limited by hull speed, so once you reach your 6.2 knots, you're not going to go much faster no matter what you do to your sails new or old. New sails just get you there flatter and quicker.

 

[Jack h23.5]

By flattening the sail,

you are depowering the main, the baggy shape actually gives a lot of power, but so much that you heel more and have to let out the main to keep it flat. So for a given wind speed, say 12 knots, a flat sail will heel less. Also keep in mind that these boats are also limited by hull speed, so once you reach your 6.2 knots, you're not going to go much faster no matter what you do to your sails new or old. New sails just get you there flatter and quicker.

 

[HAL]

Old sail thanks

Thanks for your ideas on old sails. I'll keep the importance of not overpowering in mind.