Submitted on February 22, 2007 by Robert Elmer

Question: I have a new loose footed main for my 32 foot cruiser/racing yacht and it seems fine. I am concerned whether I should have a shelf foot added to avoid leakage in down wind or reaching conditions. Is this problem significant enough to warrant having the extra material added?

Robert Elmer

Answer: Dear Robert,

Shelf foots are generally only specified on racing sails to stop the downdraft and create an endplate effect, but measuring the benefit of this questionable. Therefore, on cruising sails the shelf foot is not necessary, and a straighter foot curve is less likely to flap and also collect rainwater which might dump onto your head at an inopportune time!

If you have any queries, or would like a quote on any further sails, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Best of luck!
Julian Plante
North Sails, Australia

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