Asymmetrical Spinnaker Shape....

[bluewater]

We are purchasing an asymmetrical spinnaker this spring and have always had good luck with advice and experience from the CF, so what are your thoughts on a triradial (star blister) versus a radial head asymmetrical (Figure A).

versus

What do you have?
What are the performance differences?
Preferences?
Likes?
Dislikes?

Thanks!

[bugeye]

I'm looking at these also and am interested in the discussion although I have no experience with asymmetricals myself other than a blooper we used with our nonsuch 30 to go wing and wing.

[DennisM]

I also will be interested in help and advice. I just ordered a Doyle UPS, furling asymmetrical. Link here.

[Prerequisite]

Typically a tri-radial will last a little longer because the orientation of the cloth is such that the stress can be better absorbed. Also, it should hold it's shape under sail quite a bit better for the same reason. I've raced with both symmetrical and asymmetrical spinnakers enough over the years as a trimmer (before the Admiral declared herself the official trimmer and demoted me to driving- I hate driving) to opine that I prefer tri-radials over radial/crosscut, but I've honestly never cruised with either. That being said, I've only owned symmetrical chutes (that's what our one-design fleet is limited to) so I haven't done any research towards purchasing or owning an asymm. They are great sails though!