Asymmetrical Spinnaker Size
Russ, Any rig can be pushed to the limit given enough pressure from the wind and sails. It is important to be able to sense when your boat is overpowered and to set sails appropriate to the conditions. Most weekend sailors and coastal cruisers will use a cruising spinnaker to increase downwind performance in light to medium wind strengths. These sails need to be easy to handle and at the same time large enough to add sufficient power to the sailplan. We have found that an asymmetrical spinnaker with a girth or width of about 165% of J(the distance from the mast to the bow) works the best. This sail is slightly smaller than a typical symmetrical spinnaker and does not require the use of a pole. We do design larger asymmetricals for both cruising and racing applications, but these sails have a more limited in terms of wind range and practicality. If you only sail in light air you might consider one of these specialty sails. Bill Colombo, Doyle SF
