Sail Cut to the Boat?
I have a 135 and 155% Mylar/Dacron Genoas measured for my deep keel 1986 28.5 as well as the 'original 110 Jib. The Genoas are cut to fit right down to the deck; not roller furlers and both were cut to the measuremeants of the boat. The 155 sheeted in to 4-6" off the spreaders is the highest point setting. The 135 does not sheet in as close because the shorter foot puts the Genoa car up closer to the shrouds, but in the higher wind speed (15-20 aparent)it's the right sail.If you are backwinding the main you may just have blown out sails. If you regularly sail in winds above 15-18 knots, then a 155 is probably too much sail, particularly if it's your only headsail. However, if you often are trying to sail in 5-10 knots of wind, a 155 will make you think you have a new boat.Jeff, I'm sorry but I don't buy your caveats about racing presumably vs cruising. The sail either fits or it dosen't. If you can carry an asymetrical you can sail effectively with a 155 in the same wind range but point much higher when you trim above a close reach.