Read the special articles in our sailing guide:
- Sail production: classic Dacron - how sailcloth is made
- Sail materials: the differences between fabric, laminate and membrane
- Sail cuts: cross-cut, radial cut or seamless membrane?
- Sail wardrobe: Which sails come on board? - Typology
- Sail maintenance: prevention and care - increasing the durability of the cloth
- Stowing sails: Well bagged - that's what matters with sail bags
- Sailing terms: warp, weft and footshelf - small sailmaking lexicon
It's autumn and your car will soon be due for a change to winter tyres. Would you then say to the tyre dealer: "I think the rear right tyre is about to burst. Do I need a new tyre? Then I'll take four tyres for my Golf. Give me something black." Certainly not. You read test reports, look at the braking behaviour and noise levels, pay attention to the experiences of your friends and steer clear of cheap tyres without a name. That's a good thing. But why don't we do the same when ordering a new sailing wardrobe? Especially as these are not only the same as the tyres on the car, but also the engine?
For those who don't sail actively, the sails are often just white goods with no content. However, there are a few things to consider when buying a sail and later when sailing, caring for and maintaining it - to your advantage. In this sailing special, we therefore take a close look at the propulsion of sailing yachts, from the right cut to the latest technology, as well as how to care for the old Dacron cloth.
How is sailcloth made?
Cloth sails are still used on the majority of yachts. But how is it actually made? The sailmaker has a lot of levers at his disposal during configuration, which he can adjust all the better the more precisely he knows about the customer, his boat and his sailing behaviour. Area, length of use, performance requirements, trimming experience - these are just a few of these factors. A good craftsman can respond to these factors with a customised sail cut, appropriate equipment and - above all - the right sailcloth. Because even if white sails always look the same from a distance, there are striking differences in the material, which sometimes differ greatly in terms of load-bearing capacity, durability, profile fidelity and price.
The differences between fabric, laminate and membrane
However, Dimension-Polyant's filament technology is by no means all there is to modern sailcloth. Over the years, there have been several material revolutions since the replacement of Dacron. It is difficult to give a generalised answer as to which material is the best. Owners need to define their requirements and circumstances, but above all they need to know the differences between all the materials and brand names. Directly to the special article Sail materials: the differences between fabric, laminate and membrane
However, more is needed to achieve a good result with the chosen material that suits the boat and its owner. As already mentioned, the cut is particularly important. Here too, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone or a complete yacht. A distinction must be made depending on the sailing wardrobe and boat type, and the basic types of horizontal or radial cut are also divided into sub-categories. An understanding of the respective characteristics not only helps with the next purchase, but also with the trim.
These sails should be on board every yacht
One particularly important question has already been raised: Which sails do I actually need? Regatta yachts such as Boris Herrmann's "Malizia Seaexplorer" often have eight or more headsails - the perfect sail for all conditions and courses. It should be clear that this is not necessary on a summer cruise or even an after-work trip. However, most cruising sailors don't want to do without too much - which sail types and shapes are possible and sensible:
Longevity: correct sail care
In addition to material, cut and the choice of the right type of sail, correct care also plays an important role in the durability of the cloth, which is so important for owners. After all, sails are the most expensive wear material on board. With the right precautions and maintenance, a lot of money can be saved and reinvested in extending the sail wardrobe, for example. Even older sails can - if you know how - still be utilised and a new purchase can be postponed.
Sail bags: What is the best way to stow sails?
It is also important to store the sails correctly. A number of details need to be observed both on the boat and in winter. When sailing, for example, in terms of safety and speed during manoeuvres, in port for short preparation times and in winter storage with a particular focus on durability. The right sail bags are also crucial.
Understanding and using technical terms: a small sailmaking lexicon
If you have already decided that it is time for a renewal or major maintenance of your sail wardrobe this winter, you should find your way through our guides as well as in dialogue with the sailmaker. As in every trade, sailmakers also use their own technical language, which can quickly lead to misunderstandings. Some English terms have also become commonplace, but not every sailor is familiar with them.
