Mainsails

Dimension/Polyant 190B HTP+ is used for 95% of our X-cut 470 mains whilst we use the 165 SQ HTP+ (a "squared" cloth from the same producer) for all our Radial-cut sails. The 165 SQ is also used as an alternative choice for the X-cut Mains; it has tech. specs. very similar to the 190B when loads are limited. Because of its lighter weight (aprox. 25 gr/sqm making the sails about 250 gr. lighter) few sailors are using it in light wind conditions with some advantages... but as the wind increase this cloth elongates more and the sail loose his ideal shape much quicker. This does not happen with the Radial-cut as the panels are oriented along the stress direction and the overlap of the panels gives a further resistance to elongation.

Jibs

DP 160 B HTP+ as for the mainsails is used for most of our X-cut jibs. Here what gives strength to the cloth is the peculiar finish. The DP 165 SQ HTP+ is used for the Radial-cut Jibs and is also offered as an alternative choice for the X-cut. The peculiarity of the Radial-cut is to give the sail a much more stable shape, therefore longer lasting.

Spinnaker

The ULTRA-LIGHT is giving the highest performances in light-medium wind and flat sea. This polyester fabric is quite rigid, and the advantage is the driving force is immediately transferred to the boat, whilst the elasticity of Nylon fabrics commonly used are absorbing part of this force. Another advantage is they don't absorb water like Nylons do.

The new RIP-STOP, tested for the first time in the spinnakers used in the ISAF 2006 world championship, has given excellent results during the past season. For this reason, we have decided to use it in replacement of the earlier Light. It is slightly heavier but also much more resistant to tearing, and is hence longer-lasting. It gives its greatest propulsive power in conditions of strong wind. Thanks to its durability, however, it is also suited to less expert crews.

WARNING!!!our top performing spinnakers are made of POLYESTER fabrics, which gives the highest performance being stiffer than commonly used Nylons. This allows the transmission of power to the boat earlier. Whilst the elasticity of Nylon has the effect of "absorbing part of the power". POLYESTER spinnakers are VERY FRAGILE especially, when BRAND NEW. You should use them with all possible CARE and protect them from all sharp parts of your boat, including the Jib clew, the sail-bag, etc. After some use the polyester looses some of the finishing coat, making it slightly more elastic, therefore less easy to break.