Conditions

Sailing the conditions

How to adapt your technique to what the day gives you.

LIGHT AIR (0-8 KTS)

Maximise flow, minimise drag

  • ▸Move weight forward and to leeward to lift transom
  • ▸Steer minimally, every rudder movement costs speed
  • ▸Keep sail twist open to match light pressure
  • ▸Tack on every meaningful header; don't get stuck
MEDIUM AIR (8-15 KTS)

The fairest racing

  • ▸Hike to maintain flat boat, power comes from leverage
  • ▸Sheet harder upwind, ease through chop
  • ▸Sail the long tack first off the line
  • ▸Pressure usually beats angle in shifty conditions
HEAVY AIR (15+ KTS)

Survive then thrive

  • ▸Depower early, vang, cunningham, outhaul max on
  • ▸Steer over the waves, not through them
  • ▸Bear off in gusts rather than pinching
  • ▸Conserve energy for the second beat; many races are won by the sailor who hasn't blown up
SHIFTY OR UNSTABLE WIND

Read before you commit

  • ▸Look upwind 10 boat lengths before deciding
  • ▸Bias toward the favoured side, but never the corner
  • ▸Don't lever off the fleet, protect the middle
  • ▸Tack on persistent headers, hold through oscillating ones