Downwind Sails for Cruising Sailors
A Complete Guide by UK Sailmakers
For cruising sailors, downwind sailing can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of their time on the water. It can also be one of the most frustrating if you’re trying to sail downwind and your genoa or jib are blanked behind the main.
Having the right downwind sail is crucial for enjoyable and safe cruising. At UK Sailmakers, we’re committed to helping you make the best choice for your sailing needs. Our range of downwind sails, combined with our expertise and support, ensures you’ll find the perfect solution for your cruising adventures.
Whether you’re planning extended ocean passages, coastal cruising, or weekend sailing, we have the right combination of sails and systems to enhance your downwind sailing experience. Our expert team understands the unique challenges of cruising and can help you select and optimize your sail inventory for maximum enjoyment and safety.
Contact your local UK Sailmakers loft today to discuss your downwind sail options. Our experts are ready to help you enhance your sailing experience with the perfect downwind sail package for your needs.
Understanding Downwind Sails
Downwind sails are designed to maximize your boat’s performance when sailing with the wind behind you. Each type of downwind sail has its specific purpose and optimal wind range. These sails are essential for cruising sailors who want to maximize their boat’s performance and enjoy a smooth sailing experience, particularly in trade wind regions.
Types of Downwind Sails
Factors to consider when selecting a downwind cruising sail include if you will be sailing fully crewed or shorthanded, if you want to use a spinnaker dousing sock system, or if you want to rely on a roller furling configuration.
Many cruising sailors often find themselves shorthanded or not wanting to hassle with setting a spinnaker pole. If that’s the case for you, asymmetrical spinnakers (gennakers) make the most sense, however, they will not let you sail much deeper than 160 degrees apparent. A symmetrical spinnaker with a pole will allow you to sail virtually dead downwind in certain circumstances.
Asymmetrical Spinnakers (Gennakers)
Asymmetrical spinnakers have become increasingly popular among cruising sailors due to their ease of use and efficiency, especially for shorthanded crews.
Cruising Code Zero
Description:
Flat reaching spinnaker designed for close reaching in light air. Especially valuable for modern cruising boats with non-overlapping genoas. The design can be refined to your boat.
Apparent Wind Speed:
1 – 14 knots
Apparent Wind Angle:
45 – 125 degrees
Materials:
Light laminate or 1.5 oz. nylon
Easy Furl Code D
Description:
A cruising spinnaker with a nearly straight luff that rolls like a genoa. The straight luff makes this sail look like the letter “D.” With a continuous line furler, the sail is very easy to use.
Apparent Wind Speed:
3 – 16 knots
Apparent Wind Angle:
70 – 160 degrees
Materials:
.75 oz or 1.5 oz. nylon
Cruising Spinnaker
Description:
Asymmetrical pole-less cruising spinnaker. Sail is optimized for reaching and broad-reaching. Nylon weight selected depending on boat size and displacement.
Apparent Wind Speed:
5 – 18 knots
Apparent Wind Angle:
75 – 165 degrees
Materials:
.75 oz. or 1.5 oz. nylon
Stabilizing Spinnaker
Description:
Symmetrical cruising spinnaker with an airfoil section that makes the sail more stable and reduces downward forces that can bury a boat’s bow in strong winds.
Apparent Wind Speed:
1 – 18 knots
Apparent Wind Angle:
90 – 180 degrees
Materials:
.75 oz. nylon
Genoas
The genoa is often your first choice for light downwind work, especially on a cruising boat. These large headsails typically extend past the mast and overlap the mainsail, making them particularly effective in light to moderate winds. Cruising genoas are typically equipped with a foam luff to improve shape when partially furled, and can be designed with a high-cut clew for greater visibility. They can also be set wing-on-wing using a spinnaker or whisker pole if desired.
Key Features:
- Easy to handle with existing furling systems
- Requires no additional hardware
- Versatile across multiple wind angles
- Available in various overlap percentages (135%, 150%)
- Perfect for trade wind sailing and passagemaking
Sail Handling Systems
At UK Sailmakers, we understand that ease of use is crucial for cruising sailors. We offer various handling systems to make your downwind sailing safer and more enjoyable:
Spinnaker Socks
- Easy deployment and retrieval
- Color-coded for foolproof operation
- Durable construction
- Available for both symmetrical and asymmetrical spinnakers
Furling Systems
- Top-down furlers for asymmetrical spinnakers
- Code Zero furling systems
- Anti-torsion cable options
- Specialized furling systems for various sail types
Snuffer Systems
- Simple and reliable
- Perfect for cruising couples
- Minimal hardware required
- Easy to operate in various conditions
Choosing the Right Sail for Your Needs
When helping our customers select the right downwind sail, we consider several factors:
- Typical Sailing Conditions
- Average wind speeds
- Common wind angles
- Sea state considerations
- Local weather patterns
- Crew Experience and Size
- Number of regular crew
- Handling experience
- Physical capabilities
- Short-handed sailing requirements
- Boat Characteristics
- Design type and age
- Available hardware
- Storage space
- Multihull or monohull considerations
- Sailing Goals
- Coastal cruising
- Ocean passages
- Weekend sailing
- Trade wind cruising
UK Sailmakers Advantage
As noted above, choosing the right downwind sail should not be a difficult experience. UK Sailmakers has decades of experience and continuous innovation in downwind cruising sails so we will work with you to select the right sail for you. When you choose UK Sailmakers, you get:
- Personal Consultation: Our experts work with you to understand your specific needs
- Custom Design: Each sail is designed for your boat and sailing style
- Quality Construction: Using the latest materials and manufacturing techniques
- After-Sale Support: Ongoing service and support from our global network
- Warranty: Comprehensive warranty coverage
- Expert Advice: Guidance on optimal sail selection and usage
Maintenance and Care
To ensure the long life and optimal performance of your downwind sails, regular inspection, proper storage, and professional servicing are essential. Inspect sails frequently for chafe points, seam integrity, patch wear, hardware and corner webbing condition, and signs of UV damage. Store sails in appropriate bags or covers, in clean, dry environments, and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight when not in use. Annual professional inspections are recommended, along with timely repairs and periodic cleaning to keep your sails performing at their best.
Safety Considerations
Safe downwind sailing requires:
- Proper Equipment: Having the right hardware and handling systems
- Weather Understanding: Knowing when to use each sail
- Crew Training: Ensuring everyone knows their role
- Regular Practice: Familiarizing crew with procedures
- Emergency Procedures: Having clear protocols for heavy weather
- Sail Selection: Choosing appropriate sails for conditions