Sail Types and Features

Sail Types & Features

At Elvstrøm Sails, every sail is tailored to match your sailing style and ambitions. Explore our sail types and find the perfect fit across six sailing segments.

Mainsails

The mainsail is always in use and must perform across a range of wind angles and forces. Its shape is determined by:

  • Sail design

  • Material stretch

  • Mast bend

Soft materials stretch more and suit variable conditions, while laminates and EPEX provide precision in specific wind ranges.

Mainsail Options:

  • Conventional Main (with/without battens)

  • Race Main

  • Furling Mains (In-Boom & In-Mast)

  • EMS & FatFurl systems

  • Fathead & Pinhead designs

Full battens offer more sail area and act as efficient reefing points. Fathead designs improve aerodynamics but require special rig setups.

Headsails (Genoas & Jibs)

Used for upwind sailing (apparent wind under 90°), headsails are usually attached via furlers, hanks, or zippers. Racing boats may use twin-groove foils for quick changes.

Genoa vs. Jib:

  • Genoas overlap the mainsail, ideal for light winds

  • Jibs are smaller, easier to manage, and good for heavier conditions

Tuning Tips:

  • Forestay sag = deeper sail (light breeze)

  • Tight backstay = flatter sail (strong wind)

Head Sail Types:

  • Genoa (Standard & Furling)

  • Jib (Self-Tacking, Furling, Heavy Weather)

  • FatFurl variations

Downwind Sails

Sailing downwind offers some of the most enjoyable cruising. The right downwind sail makes all the difference.

Types:

  • Spinnakers (Symmetric & Asymmetric)

  • Gennakers

  • Code Sails

  • Furlstrøm & Blue Water Runner

Key Options:

  • Furlstrøm: Furls on an anti-torsion cable, ideal for ease

  • Blue Water Runner: Combines performance with single-handed convenience

Spinnakers

Symmetric Spinnakers
Flown with a pole, suited for traditional sailing on various wind angles.

Asymmetric Spinnakers (Gennakers)
Easier to handle, flown from a bowsprit or centerline. Can be used with spisok or furlers. Lightweight and customizable via our Sail Configurator.

Code Sails

A hybrid between headsail and spinnaker, perfect for light winds and reaching. They’re furled for easy handling and available with or without cables.

Types Include:

  • Multipurpose Code

  • Code Zero (Cruise & Race)

  • Cable-Free Code (Cruising & Racing)

Material choice depends on wind strength—EPEX is best for performance, woven polyester for versatility.