For my 1990 Standard Rig I'm finally replacing the original full battened mainsail! Amazed it's lasted this long. So now I have a choice to go full battened or partial battened. This is all new to me. What is the benefit/drawback of either way and what are most of us going with now? We don't race but have been cruising for 29 years. If and when we sell our boat (maybe to someone who races?) which way is best for resale? Or does it matter? Thanks! Kerk
I would go full batten. It holds its shape much better in light air and in my oppinion keeps its shape over the life of the sail vs partial batten sails.
To add to what waughoo said I'd say also for a loose footed sail. If you can budget for it I'd also look into North Sails 3di Nordac, it will hold its shape for much much longer than a regular panel cut Dacron.
It is unlikely that your boat originally came with a fully battened sail. However that being said, I would recommend replacing it with another new fully battened sail. Loose footed as well.
Here is an article discussing pprps and cons:
https://www.quantumsails.com/en/resources-and-expertise/articles/the-lowdown-on-battens
The 3di sail mfg process is exceptionally cool!!
Kerk : Go with a full batten Main. Just make sure that the sail maker has a good Full Batten main car to fit in the sail track !! Most important!!
A thought
One addition point, folding a full batten main with lazy jack is almost like cheating. Managing a full batten mail is much easier, folding, reefing. Loose foot is the standard. A good Dacron will last many years. Good Luck Just asking how old is your head sail?