Developments in yachting are continuing apace, with something happening in every segment. And not just in the regatta sector. Cruising sailors can look forward to ever more powerful and, above all, easier-to-use sails. The topics of the current Sailing Special:
Wing spinnaker Following the expiry of manufacturer Istec's patent, there is competition. Oxley Sails is also launching space winders, which are a mixture of spinnaker and paraglider. Istec, on the other hand, has launched a new model on the market. We have tested the products in practice and clarified whether Parasailor, Levante and Bora are also suitable for use on short trips or whether wing spinnakers are justified for use primarily on long journeys.
Wireless headsailA new technology makes heavy and unwieldy cables in the luff of Code Zeros superfluous, making the sail more suitable for deeper courses. There are now also gennakers that are "cableless" and furled from bottom to top. Why the new sails are a real asset, especially for cruising sailors.
Old against new Dacron mainsail and genoa still claim the largest market share. The cloth is durable, tough and inexpensive - but it will eventually wear out. How to recognise that the main drive has its best years behind it and what differences become apparent in comparison.
Large sailing special in issue 21, which will be available from newsagents from 2 October, can be ordered individually directly from the publisher and is also available as an electronic magazine.
