sizing a new sail

[svobsession]

I have a 1980 us 30, I need to replace my current jib as the repair costs are close to that of a new sail. The jib I have been using is a 110% bagged out and torn up sail. I am having trouble making the decision to go to a 135% -150% sail. The boat has felt under powered in light winds, but sailed beautifuly in 15-20knts with full sail. I would like to buy one good all around sail ( I have a 150% drifter as well but have never flown it) that I can use for cruisng the bay and costaly keys and bahamas. MOst of the sail lofts are recomending a 150% Do I need that much sail?

[Danny33]

If its on a roller led aft ... yes !

[sailingdog]

I would recommend you get a 120-135% genny instead. These will hold their shape better in higher winds and will furl down to a smaller size better than a 150%. Also, you have the 150% drifter for light air, so getting a sail that complements it and can work in heavier wind conditions is probably a better use of your money.

Most sails on roller furling will only reef down about 30%, so a 150% would only reef down to about 100-110% before losing decent shape. A 135% would reef down to about a 90% working jib size before losing decent shape.

[svobsession]

I think im going to go with a 135% I think a 150 with a 20 ft foot would be a hastle.

[sailingfool]

Depends on the average wind strength of your sailing area, in areas such as Long Island reputed to have a lot of light air, a 150% can make sense, most areas with average wind strengths, a 120-130% is a better choice.

[svobsession]

Anybody know of a good place online to buy a lightly used one?

[sailingdog]

Originally Posted by svobsession

Anybody know of a good place online to buy a lightly used one?

Bacon Sails, atlantic sail traders...