Asymmetrical spinnaker

An asymmetrical spinnaker is a recently developed sail used when sailing downwind. Also known as an "asym"[1] or "aspin",[2] it can be described as a cross between a genoa jib and a spinnaker. It is asymmetric like a genoa, but, the asymmetrical spinnaker is not attached to the forestay over the full length of its luff, being rigged like a spinnaker. The asymmetrical spinnaker has a larger camber than a genoa, making it optimal for generating lift at larger angles of attack, but the camber is significantly less than that of a spinnaker.[1]

The asymmetrical spinnaker is a specialty sail primarily used on racing boats, bridging the performance gap between a genoa, which develops maximum driving force when the apparent wind angle is between 35 and 60 degrees, and a spinnaker, which has maximum power when the apparent wind is between 100 and 140 degrees. Due to its geometry, the sail is less prone to collapsing than a spinnaker and does not require the use of spinnaker pole.[1]

The sail can benefit greatly and be much larger if the boat is equipped with a bowsprit.[1] Some boats (e.g., the Melges 17), have retractable bowsprits for this sail.[3]

Rigging is different from other spinnakers.[4] Maximizing performance and effective sailing of asymmetrical spinnakers requires unique sail and boat trim.[5] It is often paired with a Spinnaker chute.

Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Flynn, David (2010). "Just The Facts... A Guide to Asymmetrical Spinnakers" (PDF). Quantum Atlantic (Quantum Sail Design Group, LLC.). Retrieved November 6, 2013.
  2. ↑ Goodall, Sandy. "Inside the Asymmetrical Spinnaker". FX Sails. Retrieved November 8, 2013.
  3. ↑ "Product Brochure, Melges 17" (PDF). Melges Boatworks. Retrieved November 6, 2013.
  4. ↑ Goodall, Sandy. "Rigging Your Asymmetrical Spinnaker". FX Sails. Retrieved November 6, 2013.
  5. ↑ The Editors (June 14, 2005). "The Commandments of Asym Trim". Sailing World. Retrieved November 7, 2013.

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