Sail Shape and Controls USING SAIL CONTROLS FOR DOWNWIND SAILING


SAIL AND BOATHANDLING CONTROLS: When sailing downwind, as sails shift from pull mode to push mode, there is a need for deeper, more powerful sails. The Cunningham/downhaul should be eased and the boom vang and outhaul loosened. The draft will then be at its deepest spot, in the middle of the sail.


Since the boom vang controls the tension of the leech, when the boat turns downwind it is necessary to adjust the vang appropriately for the wind velocity. Ease the boom vang so the top batten is parallel with the boom. If the vang is too tight when the boat starts sailing downwind, the leech will likely hook to windward (hinging on the inboard end of the battens); if the vang is too loose, the leech will twist open too much or even cause the boat to become unstable. The sail may also chafe and tear on the rigging.


The outhaul controls the draft of the sail. When sailing down- wind, a fuller draft with its deepest point in the middle of the sail is best for increased power. On a reach, the outhaul can be eased slightly compared to upwind sailing. As the boat heads down to a broad reach or run, the draft can move far- ther back still, until the deepest part of the sail is nearly 50% of the way back from the luff. Remember to retension the out- haul if you head up and sail upwind; if it is left loose, the boat’s performance will suffer.


TIP


EDon’t forget that you can pull the underwater foils (centerboard/ daggerboard) up about half-way when sailing downwind; this reduces friction in the water. Leave enough of the board down to steer comfortably and keep the boat tracking straight ahead.


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