Spinnakers...Which type?

[Paul]

Looking for information about Asymetric vs Traditional Spinnakers. I want a downwind sail that offers some performance. Traditional cruising spinnakers require the pole and a crew that is comfortable working on the deck. Asymetrical spinnakers are simple to operate and difuse. I am told that the full traditional spinnaker offers far greater speed compared to asymetrical. Is this true or can the asymetrical sail offer a far greater range (slight off wind positioning)? Comments are appreciated...Paul

 

[Mark Burrows]

Performance of the sail doesn't matter...

if you don't have the crew that can handle setting up the sail or doesn't like working on the foredeck. Both require the crew to be forward for the setup.Using the symmetrical spinnaker is more complex (setting up the pole, moving the pole up and down, gibing, take down.) The assymetrical is less complex bu will still require someone forward to attach it to the boat. Launching, jibing, and takedown are a lot simpler if you use a spinnaker sock but its still more work and requires more techniques than using a roller furling genoa. Both sails are designed for a specific purpose. Symmetricals are for closer to dead down wind. Assymetrical are for reaching. The sailmakers offer guides that show the specific angles. So if you are ready to make the plunge, first choose the one you can handle. Then buy the other one for a complete sail inventory.MarkdbMarkdb