The wing section of the stabilizing spinnaker acts as a batten to flatten the mid section of the sail. In high winds it also provides lift to keep the bow from burying. UK Sailmakers is become a distributor for self stabilizing spinnakers. These unique sails have been designed for cruising sailors who are looking for extra downwind speed, and more stability than conventional spinnakers can produce.

Stabilizing Spinnakers Explained

Unlike conventional spinnakers and gennakers, stabilizing spinnakers feature an integrated lifting wing. This innovative design enhances downwind performance while significantly reducing rolling and generating lift, making for a more stable and controlled sailing experience.

For long-distance cruisers, particularly those relying on autopilot, the benefits are substantial. The lifting wing helps balance the sail, reducing rudder pressure and minimizing course corrections. This results in more efficient autopilot operation, lower energy consumption, and a smoother ride overall.

Generally, it is recommended to use a stabilizing spinnaker as a stand-alone sail, without a mainsail, as the mainsail will disrupt air flow around the foil. If a mainsail must be used, it is recommended that the main is reefed so that the head of the mainsail is positioned beneath the foil.

Two Types of Stabilizing Spinnakers

There are two popular styles of stablizing spinnaker. Please refer to the image above. Left: inflatable wing version, Right: standard wing version.

We offer both variations of stabilizing spinnakers, each with distinct wing designs to suit different sailing conditions:

• Inflatable Wing Option: This version features a fully three-dimensional airfoil-shaped wing that inflates as wind flows through the vent. The inflated wing acts as a soft batten, flattening the sail and optimizing its shape for a broad range of wind angles. It is ideal for true wind angles ranging from 60 to 180 degrees and performs well in wind speeds of 5 to 25 knots.
• Standard Wing Option: Instead of an inflatable structure, this version uses a fixed, curved wing that generates lift. While it provides a stabilizing effect, it does not create as much flattening as the inflatable wing. This makes it particularly suitable for lighter wind conditions, with an operating range of 70 to 180 degrees true wind angle and wind speeds from 2 to 20 knots.

Both designs allow the sail to function effectively without the need for a spinnaker pole and extend the usability of a downwind sail in a variety of conditions.

Dousing and Handling

To make handling easier, all stablizing spinnakers come with a dousing sock or snuffer. We offer two dousing sock options: classic rigid oval models and inflatable dousing socks. Both use a two-stage control system which prevents the sail from becoming jammed in the snuffer.

Inflatable dousing socks feature a durable Dacron outer layer and an inflatable inner tube, forming a resilient yet lightweight snuffer collar. This design ensures quick inflation and deflation, making it easy to stow and deploy. The softer construction also reduces the chance of scratching the mast.

Choosing the Right Stabilizing Spinnaker

For rougher conditions or boats that experience significant movement in gusts, the inflatable wing version is ideal due to its ability to dump excess wind pressure and maintain a flatter shape.

For lighter wind ranges and more moderate conditions, the standard wing version excels, as it requires less wind to generate lift and provides a smoother response.

Heavy-displacement yachts often do not require the gust-handling properties of the inflatable wing and can benefit from the standard wing option.

Modern wide-stern boats that carry maximum beam aft may benefit more from the additional lift provided by the inflatable wing.

If you have any questions about which stabilizing spinnaker best suits your cruising needs, contact your local UK Sailmakers loft today.