I want to replace my genoa sheets. The existing ones are two different sizes. One is 1/2" (too big to easily slip into the cam cleats) and the other is 3/8"(seems just right). I am going to replace both, and was considering New England Rope's "Sta-Set - 3/8". I am sailing a Catalina 22. Does any one else use that type of line for genoa sheets? How does it perform? Are there any other suggested brands? Thanks
what type of line is best for genoa sheets
- Thread starter Mike1956
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shock loads
your genoa is often subject to intense shock loading. think about sailing downwing and having the genny collapse blanketed by the main, then you round up a bit and the wind fills the jenny and if you were holding the sheet you'd get yanked overboard. You want your sheets to be stretchy to absorb that loading by stretching to take the shock off the equipment on the boat like sheet leads, track, and winches. So do not get a low stretch line, that is used for halyards. 1/2 inch is way too big for your boat. I use 1/2 to 5/8 for my 35 and the 5/8 is too big. Dave
your genoa is often subject to intense shock loading. think about sailing downwing and having the genny collapse blanketed by the main, then you round up a bit and the wind fills the jenny and if you were holding the sheet you'd get yanked overboard. You want your sheets to be stretchy to absorb that loading by stretching to take the shock off the equipment on the boat like sheet leads, track, and winches. So do not get a low stretch line, that is used for halyards. 1/2 inch is way too big for your boat. I use 1/2 to 5/8 for my 35 and the 5/8 is too big. Dave
I prefer Low-Stretch
I disagree with Dave’s opinion that “You want your sheets to be stretchy” (to absorb shock loads), and advise that you NEVER want to be hand-holding the sheet (you’ll eventually get worse than “yanked overboard”). Halyards, sheets, guys, running backstays and checkstays require a line with very little stretch, whereas mainsheets, topping lifts, travelers, and boom vangs can sustain some stretch. There may now be better choices than N.E. “Sta-Set”, though I’ve been satisfied with it. Check out New England Rope’s Selection Guide: http://www.pyacht.net/online-store/scstore/h-new_england_ropes_selection.htm And the STA-SET (Double Braid Polyester) Specifications & Description: http://www.ropeinc.com/sta-set.htm Available at Sailnet: http://www.sailnet.com/store/item.cfm?pid=12462 HTH, Gord
I disagree with Dave’s opinion that “You want your sheets to be stretchy” (to absorb shock loads), and advise that you NEVER want to be hand-holding the sheet (you’ll eventually get worse than “yanked overboard”). Halyards, sheets, guys, running backstays and checkstays require a line with very little stretch, whereas mainsheets, topping lifts, travelers, and boom vangs can sustain some stretch. There may now be better choices than N.E. “Sta-Set”, though I’ve been satisfied with it. Check out New England Rope’s Selection Guide: http://www.pyacht.net/online-store/scstore/h-new_england_ropes_selection.htm And the STA-SET (Double Braid Polyester) Specifications & Description: http://www.ropeinc.com/sta-set.htm Available at Sailnet: http://www.sailnet.com/store/item.cfm?pid=12462 HTH, Gord
5/16 is all you need...
I like Yale YachtBraid for an all purpose, economical sheet. Stay with the 5/16. It'll save you money, cleat easily and it weighs less. I also like Samson XLS for this application. New England Sta-Set is okay, but Stay away from Sta-Set X. Don't waste your money on high tech, super low stretch cordage. At your level of sailing (or mine for that matter) you won't appreciate the difference versus the extra cost. Here's some important tips. Use two separate sheets tied to the clew with bowline knots, not one looped through the clew. That way they get switched about... less wear you see. Another is to always stow them after sailing. Don't leave them attached to the sails, either. I guarantee you'll get long life that way. Neither Yale or Samson charge extra for solid colors. I like solids cause they don't show dirt. Buy online and you'll save at least 40%. Finally make sure you get them long enough to handle the largest size genoa you'll ever use on your boat. Gord left you some pretty good links to help you with that.
I like Yale YachtBraid for an all purpose, economical sheet. Stay with the 5/16. It'll save you money, cleat easily and it weighs less. I also like Samson XLS for this application. New England Sta-Set is okay, but Stay away from Sta-Set X. Don't waste your money on high tech, super low stretch cordage. At your level of sailing (or mine for that matter) you won't appreciate the difference versus the extra cost. Here's some important tips. Use two separate sheets tied to the clew with bowline knots, not one looped through the clew. That way they get switched about... less wear you see. Another is to always stow them after sailing. Don't leave them attached to the sails, either. I guarantee you'll get long life that way. Neither Yale or Samson charge extra for solid colors. I like solids cause they don't show dirt. Buy online and you'll save at least 40%. Finally make sure you get them long enough to handle the largest size genoa you'll ever use on your boat. Gord left you some pretty good links to help you with that.
You can also get them pre-measured here
All you have to do is select your boat model... see link below.
All you have to do is select your boat model... see link below.
Thanks, Phil...
...I hadn't considered this Chandlery. I had a rigger replace my main halyard on my Legend 40.5 and he used 1/8 larger line and Sta-set X. After 3 years the stuff still coils as if it had rod rigging under the cover and it has a lot of drag in the sheaves, just about the last thing you need in a full-batten main. Stiffer is not always better, believe me. Anyhow, I'm going to get rid of this miserable stuff and buy the replacement here. Thanks, Rick D.
...I hadn't considered this Chandlery. I had a rigger replace my main halyard on my Legend 40.5 and he used 1/8 larger line and Sta-set X. After 3 years the stuff still coils as if it had rod rigging under the cover and it has a lot of drag in the sheaves, just about the last thing you need in a full-batten main. Stiffer is not always better, believe me. Anyhow, I'm going to get rid of this miserable stuff and buy the replacement here. Thanks, Rick D.
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