New Sails?

I have a 86 Hobie 16 that I've sailed for a number of years and have added some upgrades along the way: 6:1 blocks, jib traveler system, epoxied corner castings, etc. I've gotten into racing in recent years with some success. However, I've also found that I'm less competetive with guys with newer boats. My question is "How important are new sails to racing performance?" I'm still sailing with the original sails(#88324). I have noticed that it has become alot easier to pull the downhaul to the black band recently. Should I consider new sails to take me to the next level? Thanks for your input!

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Go Spiders
'86 H16

Yes. Especially a jib.

A jib's competitive lifetime is about 3 seasons; a main's about 6.

OK, I guess after 20 years these sails don't owe me anything. I understand that to be class legal my sails must be from Hobie but if I buy new sails am I limited to the current hobie colors? What about the sail numbers? Do they stay the same or do I somehow get new ones? Will Hobie attach the numbers and the Flying H or is something done after I receive the new sails? Thanks for your help.

chopper

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Go Spiders
'86 H16

Custom #'s and colors are availible. Talk to your local dealer and they'll give you the scoop. Right now I think the stock colors are Spirit, Misty, and white of course. There may be one more standard pattern soon, but not sure.

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Sail Revolution
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Yes, get new sails. Also look at the hulls and make sure they are smooth. My sister gained a full knot on her 36' monohull by replacing just the main.

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1989 Hobie 18 Worlds Boat, Magnum Wings & Spinnaker
1987 Hobie Holder 20 #273

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