Topic: Mainsail
Hi All am hoping one of you can advise me on the difference\benefit\drawback between a loose footed main and the regular slid down the boom type ?
- Adrian
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Re: Mainsail
With a loose-footed main, one can change the draught of the sail by loosening the outhaul. The sail will belly out more, giving it more power in situations where one needs it. With a regular main on slides, this can't be done with any sort of efficiency.
I also happen to think a loose-footed main is easier to set up, but that's just me. I've only ever used one once, and quite enjoyed the experience.
Re: Mainsail
Any decent sailmaker can make a main with a boltrope and a shelf foot and that allows the draught to be changed as if it was loose footed. The amount a conventional sail's draught can be changed is considerable anyway and if there isn't enough adjustment range a flattening reef is another option.
A loose footed main is likely to be more highly stressed at the clew than a conventional one.
Re: Mainsail
Thanks folks for the responces best Phil