Downwind Sails

Downwind sailing is the icing on the cake for some sailors. The exciting feeling when the colored sail is hoisted and you feel the boat accelerate due to the pressure in the sail. We at Bank Sails recognize this feeling completely. We offer you sails that cover all angles of downwind sailing. Our goal is to turn your boat into a winning machine. In the past 40 years a multitude of downwind sails have been developed for every ship, course and weather. In the diagram most of the different downwind sails are plotted on course and wind strength. In the toggles below these sails are explained.

We are happy to help you make the right choice.  

Symmetrics

Symmetric spinnakers are designed with a distinct shape that allows them to catch wind from behind, typically when sailing downwind. They feature a broad, balloon-like profile and are attached to a system of lines known as sheets, which allow for easy adjustment of the sail’s angle to optimize performance. The symmetrical shape of these sails enables them to be flown on either tack, making them versatile for various wind conditions.

S-0

Material: 
ZL / CZ or similar
Nylon from 0.75 oz to 1.50 oz.
Purpose: 
Tight Reacher
TWS: 0 – 8 kts
TWA: 80° – 110°

S-1

Material: 
Nylon from 0.50 oz to 0.60 oz

Purpose: 
Light reacher
TWS: 4 – 10 kts
TWA Optimal: 80° – 130°

S-1.5

Material: 
Nylon from 0.50 oz to 0.60 oz

Purpose: 
Light runner
TWS: 6 – 15 kts
TWA Optimal: 100° – 150°

S-2

Material: 
Nylon from 0.6 oz to 0.75 oz

Purpose: 
Runner
TWS: 10 – 22 kts
TWA Optimal: 130° to 180°

S-3

Material: 
Nylon from 1.10 oz to 1.75

Purpose: 
Heavy Reacher
TWS: 15+ kts
TWA Optimal: 110° to 150°

S-4

Material: 
Nylon from 0.75 oz to 1.50 oz

Purpose: 
Heavy Runner
TWS: 20+ kts
TWA Optimal: 150° – 180°

Asymmetrics

Asymmetric spinnakers are specially designed to be flown on a single side of the boat, allowing for efficient downwind sailing with a streamlined approach. Unlike traditional symmetric spinnakers, these sails have a distinctive shape that resembles a large, billowing kite, optimizing their ability to capture wind from behind at various angles. This innovative design makes them particularly well-suited for both racing and cruising.

A-0

Material: 
iRevolution / Membrane
ZL / CZ or similar
Nylon from 1.50 oz to 3 oz
Purpose: 
Tight Reacher
TWS: 0 – 20 kts(Depends on material)
TWA Optimal: 45° – 120°

A-1

Material: 
Nylon from 0.50 oz to 0.75 oz

Purpose: 
Light reacher
TWS: 4 – 10 kts
TWA Optimal: 90° – 135°

A-1.5

Material: 
Nylon from 0.50 oz to 0.75 oz

Purpose: 
Light runner
TWS: 8 – 16 kts
TWA Optimal: 110° – 150°

A-2

Material: 
Nylon from 0.60 oz to 1 oz

Purpose: 
Runner
TWS: 10 – 20 kts
TWA Optimal: 120° to 160°

A-3

Material: 
Nylon from 1.10 oz


Purpose: 
Reacher
TWS: 15+ kts
TWA Optimal: 100° to 140°

A-4

Material: 
Nylon from 1.10 oz to 1.50 oz

Purpose: 
Heavy Runner
TWS: 20+ kts
TWA Optimal: 140° – 160°