Dacron:
A fiber introduced in the early 1950s, polyester
is the most common fiber used in sailcloth. Polyester’s
desirable properties include excellent durability, high
abrasion resistance, high
UV resistance, high flex strength and low cost. Low absorbency
allows the fiber to dry quickly. Although polyester has
been replaced by higher modulus fibers for most racing
applications, its proven durability makes it the most
common choice among cruisers.
Vectran:
Vectran is a polyester-based high performance LCP (liquid
crystal polymer). It is naturally
gold in color and has a modulus similar to Kevlar 29. It's
endurance is a benefit for applications where
durability is key. Additional advantages of Vectran
fiber
include zero creep, high abrasion resistance
and high tensile strength. High resistance to UV.
Nylon:
The most common fiber used for offwind sails.
It is used in full radial and asymmetrical spinnakers
because of its light weight, high strength, superior
abrasion resistance and flexibility. Is light and strong
for its weight.
Typical sailcloth weight: 0.75 and 1.5 oz. and colors:
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