Measure for a Headsail

Selecting the correct PC sail for your boat is a simple process.

PC sails are intended to closely, but not precisely, fit most production boats.

You should find most production boats listed in our rig dimension database.  This database is provided for you to determine the approximate size of your new sails, but should not be used for the purpose of selecting sails for your boat.

In order to ensure an acceptable fit, it is important that you physically measure your boat.

The links on this page will guide you through the process of measuring your boat, and selecting the correct PC sail.

If you have any questions regarding the process, please do not hesitate to contact us for clarification.

Decimal Feet....

Sailmakers, like many engineers, commonly use decimal feet as a unit of measure.  All PC sails information is specified in decimal feet.  This facilitates the calculations necessary when designing sails.  The table below is a conversion chart.

Measure twice, order once....

While there are different methods to obtain the correct dimensions for your new sails, there is no substitute for accuracy in obtaining your measurements. 

In order to avoid making mistakes, you should always take your measurements, record the dimensions, and then repeat the process and compare the results.

Err on the short side....

Remember that PC sails are intended to fit closely, not exactly.   If you are concerned that a particular PC sail's dimensions are a little too big for your boat, they probably are.  By choosing a smaller sail, you sacrifice little in the way of performance, and save the freight expense and inconvenience of returning the sail to be exchanged.

The right tools for the job....

If you do not have a good measuring tape of the appropriate length, you should try to borrow one.  If you can't find one, most hardware stores carry inexpensive measuring tapes which are suitable for measuring your boat. 

A pair of binoculars is helpful for determining where the measuring tape is located at the top of your mast.

A clip board with paper and a proper writing instrument will help you record legible dimensions.  Dimensions scribbled on slips of scrap paper are all too easily misinterpreted.

Be calm....

Both the measurer and the weather should be calm when a boat is being measured.

Measuring your boat is simple.  Relax, take your time, and have fun.  Remember, you're enhancing your skills as a sailor, and saving money at the same time!

You should also measure your boat in calm weather.  It is not possible to obtain accurate measurements in strong winds as the measuring tape can not be pulled taught.

Don't hesitate to contact us....

If you have a question, or there is something unique about your boat which we have not addressed, give us a shout.  We'd rather spend the time to help you get the correct sail the first time than sort out the exchange.