Name: 11m2 Furling Self tacking Jib
Brand: North Sails
SKU: Kittiwake 24
Price: 695 EUR
Availability: InStock

Question 1

What type of sail is this and what are its key features?

Accepted Answer

This is an 11m² Furling Self-tacking Jib, manufactured by North Sails. It is constructed from NorDac 3Di material and includes a 5mm luff tape and vertical battens.

Question 2

What are the dimensions of this jib?

Accepted Answer

The jib has a sail area of 11 square meters. Its specific measurements are:

Luff: 8.9 meters
Foot: 2.75 meters
Leech: 8.25 meters

Question 3

What are the benefits of a Furling Self-tacking Jib?

Accepted Answer

A furling self-tacking jib offers several advantages for sailors, particularly for those sailing shorthanded or looking for easier handling. It eliminates the need to release and pull in new jib sheets during a tack, as the single sheet and car system automatically moves across the boat. This simplifies tacking, keeps the cockpit clear of multiple lines, and can lead to faster, smoother maneuvers. The furling capability also allows for easy reefing and storage.

Question 4

What material is NorDac 3Di, and what are its properties?

Accepted Answer

NorDac 3Di is a revolutionary cruising sail material developed by North Sails. It is made from 100% polyester fiber and a polyester thermoset adhesive, forming a composite structure. Unlike traditional woven sails, NorDac 3Di uses North Sails&#8217; patented 3Di process, where yarn fibers are spread into individual filaments, pre-impregnated with resin, and laid into ultra-thin tapes. These tapes are then thermoformed on 3D molds into a seamless, one-piece sail.
Key properties include:

Shape Holding: Offers superior shape retention and longevity compared to woven Dacron sails, maintaining its aerodynamic shape as wind increases.
Durability: Highly resistant to UV, flex, chafe, and abrasion, contributing to a longer lifespan. It is also not prone to delamination, a common issue with some laminate sails, as it contains no Mylar film.
Performance: Designed to reduce heel, helm, and leeway for a better cruising experience.
Lightweight and Strong: Significantly stronger and lighter than many competitor&#8217;s laminate sails due to the precise alignment of filaments.

Question 5

What is the purpose of vertical battens in this jib?

Accepted Answer

Vertical battens in a furling jib help to support the leech (the aft edge of the sail), allowing for a straighter or even positively roached leech profile. This design can increase the sail&#8217;s effective area and power, while also preventing leech flutter and improving sail shape stability. Vertical battens are specifically designed to roll up smoothly with the sail when furled.

Question 6

What is a 5mm luff tape?

Accepted Answer

A 5mm luff tape refers to the rope-like material sewn into the luff (leading edge) of the headsail, which slides into the groove of a furling system. The 5mm measurement indicates the diameter of this tape. It is a common size for many furling systems, ensuring the sail can be hoisted, furled, and unfurled smoothly.

Question 7

How should I care for and maintain this North Sails 3Di NorDac jib?

Accepted Answer

North Sails 3Di NorDac sails require minimal maintenance. It is recommended to rinse your sail with fresh water to remove salt and surface grime. For more thorough cleaning or to address mildew, professional sail cleaning is advised. To extend the lifespan and maintain performance, avoid prolonged flogging, use the sail within its designed wind ranges, and adjust the leech line to prevent flutter. Also, ensure there is no unnecessary contact between the sail and standing rigging to prevent chafe. An annual checkup at a service site can help identify and repair minor damage or wear points.

11m2 Furling Self tacking Jib

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