Measuring You Sails

Print the DOWNLOADABLE version of this page to organize your measurements.  For custom sails,  follow all of the steps and be detailed and specific about your requirements including hardware and tack pin set back. For stock sails focus on the basics; dimensions, cloth weight, and luff types on headsails. Then perform a search by luff length leaving boat type “Unspecified”.  A close fit is good but an exact fit is not necessary.  Measure according to the instructions below and fill in the boxes. Please be conservative when ordering and allow a few inches for stretch or error. A little short is fine but too long can be a problem.

Measuring

It is best to measure the sails on the boat.  If the sail is not available, you can also measure the rig of the boat.  Measuring sails that are not stretched to the proper tension will result in faulty measurements.  Please do not measure on the ground.  If you have any questions, please contact us at southwestsail@gmail.com or 831-646-5346.

Measuring the Mainsails:

You will need to measure the Luff, Leech, Foot, Luff and Foot Attachments and Tack Pin Setback.  For complete measurement guide and direction click HERE.

Measuring the Headsails:

You will need to measure the Luff, Leech, and Foot. You will also need to indicate whether you use hanks or luff tape to attach your sail to the forestay.  If you use luff tape, please indicate the size.  For complete measurement guide and direction click HERE.

Spinnakers:

You will need to measure the Luff, Leech, and Max Girth (the Luff and Leach will be the same for Symmetrical Spinnakers).  For complete measurement guide and direction click HERE.