Your sailing venue
If you sail in a low wind venue, a spinnaker is going to tremendously augment the fun you and your crew get from sailing. More speed, more action on the boat…
If you sail in a strong wind venue – San Francisco harbor, Perth, Lago di Garda, spinnaker sailing is going to be more ‘sporty” , as long as you are not racing, a custom, smaller spinnaker will be easier to handle- asymmetrics can be less trouble, and sleeves definitely help launching and retrieving.
Predominant wind direction
Consider the following diagram: A symmetric spinnaker symmetric is better suited for running, as the pole offsets the sail away from the main sail’s wind shadow. On the other hand, an asymmetric will let you reach closer to the wind, but will require gybing back and forth if you need to run, as a dead downwind run is not possible.
Crew situation
A symmetric is a little more complex, requires a competent bowman and pit or mast man to gybe (unless you snuff it first with a sock) – some crews enjoy the challenge, others fear it!
An asymmetric is better suited to short-handed or limited ability crews – it requires as little work to set up and gybe as a genoa (although the technique is different).
Boat set up
Both types of spinnakers require a dedicated halyard with the top block set up above the main stay / genoa furler.
Both require dedicated winches and/or cleats, and sheets.
In addition, a symmetric requires a pole, topping lift, downhaul and associated cleats/ blockers, and possibly a track on the front the mast.
Retrieval system
If you are going to retrieve the spinnaker race style, you will need 1-2 people to haul it down. This can be physically challenging in medium-high winds and using a sock will allow snuffing the sail before taking it down, making it a one person, easier job.
Many factors come into play, but for a first spinnaker a standard asymmetric with a sock is often a worry free, low-demand-on-the-crew solution.
Do not hesitate to call or write us to discuss your situation in details!