Standards of new sails?

[Norm]

I am interested in updating the sail wardrobe for the forthcomming season. ( Radial )

Does anyone have any info on where (which lofts) are producing the better sails at present??

In past years there have been some minor differences between the loft productions. Does anyone know if this still exists or they have become better aligned of late?

[kelsey]

Hi, I have a radial North. It must be the sail, because I can''t seem to win!!

Seriously I know there is a differnce between the North and Hyde in regrds to shape/size. I don't know if there is any difference in performance. Interestingly enough the Olympic coach made a point that it appears that mast bend is of more importance than sails - and that was coming from a sail maker. The North seems longer on the luff, so much so that it sits on the gooseneck witout any cunningham on at all. Comments have been made to me that the Hyde sail cloth seems to be a slightly better grade.

I also believe that most of the serious sailors purchase Hyde. My next purchase will be a hyde, however I should probably make sure I can tack properly before I worry too much about my sail.

[kirsty]

TEXT i don't actually think that the sail affects performance but the point bout the bending of the mast was very true, even though they may differ slightly there is no real advantages in purchasing hyde over north... but its definitely a personal choice.

[Norm]

Thanks for your input Kelsey and Kirsty! Mast bend, wether it be actual or accidental is a great point!

Foot flutter, I'm sure would be affected by a longer luff?? TEXT (comments anyone?)

I'll be doing a little more research and will post any interesting findings, (should I find some.)