Sail configuration in higher winds

[John]

Seems most folks suggest reefing a C-22 around 15mph wind speed. Up to what wind speed is a single reefed main with 100% jib safe? Figuring reasonable attentiveness and skill easing the sheets, heading up, for gusts, waves etc. When it's blowing harder what sail configuration works well? How does the boat behave with reefed main only or jib only and when do you just pull'em down? Thinking more about safe and flat, not racing.

 

[Ted]

I'd Reef at 20 mph

15 mph may be a little low to reef.at 25 mph+ you can run a reefed main and no jib.20-25 is your call.I used to run a 150 Genoa up to 15 mph wind speed.Regards,Ted

 

[Big Windy]

Reef

I don't pay much attention to the wind speed and its relation to reefing. When I say to myself..."I'd better think about putting in a reef or rolling in the furler"...it is time to do it right then.

 

[Dave]

Sail Selection

Sailing with main only on my 88' 22 is not fun. There's so much weather helm, I'm afraid of damaging the tiller/rudder. I've heard that sailing with the jib only works much better but I haven't tried it yet. I'm sure you'll lose a good bit of pointing ability though. I have a small storm jib (approx 70%) that helps balance quite a bit with the reefed main in a heavy blow. Typically the 110% and reefed main are a good combo well into the 20's wind speed.