Asymmetric Cruising Spinnakers

With a leech length different than its luff length, an asymmetrical spinnaker displays the best features of both a classic forward sail and a symmetrical spinnaker....with few of their drawbacks.

Because an asymmetrical clew flies higher than its tack, it can be set on the bow like a jib, or on the bowsprit, without requiring the use of a spinnaker pole, all the attendant hardware.... and additional crews to handle the beast. As the maximum draft is located approximately 1/3 of the way from the luff, this sail is particularly effective on reaches. Jibing is as easy as with a jib, whether you jibe your asymmetrical forward of the stay, or between the forestay and the mast.

For maximum simplicity, you can even use it with a sock - maximum fun, minimum hassles when you have a reduced or inexperienced crew!

Asymmetrical spinnakers are generally a little smaller (for the same boat) than their symmetrical cousins. They are also a little less suited to a dead run, since they tend to sit in the wind shadow of the main when running. Then again, because jibing is so much easier, a boat with an asymmetrical will go downwind as fast, and more comfortably by jibing 20 deg either side of a dead run.....

Our Symmetrical spinnaker has a modern all-around tri-radial panel layout with medium draft. The cross section shape has a softly rounded entry, that straightens and flattens towards the leech - this draft shape makes the sail more tolerant, easier to trim, and minimizes heel when on a tight reach.

This is the ideal, multi-purpose sail for the skipper who does not want to deal with more than one spinnaker - optimized for wind angles in the range of 80 - 155°!

Currently available in our new High Tenacity Nylon .75 oz (50g/m²) in size 37 to 64m² and 1.5 oz (70 g/m²) Nylon for sizes from 75 to 265 m². You can even choose custom colors here!

Click here to determine which size will fit your boat.

Click here to go to the Asymmetrical Spinnakers Store