Posted by Nick Wigen (216.26.9.22) on May 01, 2000 at 07:54:45:
We want to get a new 135% jib to use in addition to the 95% that came with our 1990. It was probably original equipment. What's been your experience with Catalina loft sails as opposed to other lofts such as North, Banks, etc. Might also be looking at replacing our main in the next year or so.
Thanks for your help.Nick
Posted by Colin Ward (63.25.39.27) on May 01, 2000 at 17:46:52:
I bought a new jib from UK sails recently and while doing so, took in the Catalina Main for an additional reef point to be added. The loft owner pointed out a few details in the Catalina sail that he felt were not up to UK standards. The head, luff and leach were not as stiff (fewer layers of cloth) as a UK sail would be. He sewed some additional webbing on the head to give it extra strength. He also noticed that one of the reef cringles was too close to a sail slide grommet which caused some stress. All in all, I think he could point out some minor defects, but the Catalina sail is certainly pretty decent. I assume the Catalina sails are cheaper - if not I'd probably go with a loft like UK. I am basically happy with my Catalina sails though - they set well and have held up well so far.
