Do you build ASO kites any differently for boats with prods vs. boats with standard poles?
LL: Asymmetricals developed for adjustable spinnaker poles are very different than sails developed for non-adjustable prods or sprits. The most significant difference is in the geometry or edge lengths of the sail. Because sails set from a prod cannot be squared, the foot length must be designed shorter to prevent the sail from becoming too deep as the sheet is eased for more downwind angles. Basic shape differences are more subtle. The sail designed for the prod must be more “All Purpose” in design as the sail is restricted to less adjustment. If a customer comes to you with a club racer like a Catalina 27 or an old Half-Tonner and asks about switching to an ASO setup, what do you tell them? LL: First there are rating rules to consider, and unfortunately the consequences of these rules usually decide this question. Rules and rule-makers typically react slow to new inventions in sailing and most of the time, move slowly and cautiously, in an effort to maintain the status quo. Sometimes
