SOLARIS 36 OD Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The SOLARIS 36 OD, designed by Lostuzzi and built by Se.Ri.Gi., is a refined cruiser-racer optimized for performance sailing and one-design competition. With a fleet of only 8 boats, it is a specialized platform targeting sailors who prioritize speed, stiffness, and precise handling.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 3.08 indicates a high-aspect rig designed for efficient lift and superior pointing ability.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.65 is optimized for high-aspect headsails, offering a balance between power and ease of tacking.
• Sail Area: A generous 70m² total upwind area provides a high power-to-weight ratio for its 10.99m length.
• Performance: The combination of a 2.32m draft and high-aspect rig makes the Solaris 36 OD exceptionally weatherly and fast in light-to-moderate air.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Configurations typically feature full battens for shape stability or racing-oriented roach profiles.
• Headsail: Most owners utilize 100-105% non-overlapping jibs for modern handling, though the I/J ratio allows for larger genoas in light-air regions.

Key Characteristics

• High-aspect mainsail (P/E 3.08) ensures efficient aerodynamic lift and reduced drag.
• Versatile foretriangle (I/J 3.65) facilitates a range of headsail options from jibs to code sails.
• Deep 2.32m draft provides the necessary stability to carry 70m² of upwind sail area.
• Optimized for responsive, high-performance sailing in both offshore and coastal conditions.

Sailing Considerations

• The Solaris 36 OD excels in 8–18 knots of breeze, where the high-aspect sail plan generates maximum lift.
• While manageable short-handed, a crew of 6–7 is recommended to maximize performance during competitive racing.
• Expect a stiff, stable ride with high pointing angles thanks to the Lostuzzi-designed hull and deep keel.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the SOLARIS 36 OD, we recommend SurgeX membrane sails as the optimal choice for most sailors. SurgeX uses continuous fiber construction where fibers are laid along load paths and embedded in a thin membrane, providing superior shape retention compared to traditional Dacron while being more affordable than premium laminates. The continuous fiber structure means less stretch over time, maintaining the designed sail shape for years.

For racing applications, specify a lightweight SurgeX configuration with minimal base weight to maximize performance in light-to-moderate conditions. For cruising or performance touring, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection against the rig. Based on the 3.08 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout works best to handle the high vertical loads of this tall rig. A typical inventory includes a performance mainsail, a heavy-duty J3 for high-wind control, and an all-purpose A2 spinnaker. With 70m² of sail area, plan to reef the mainsail around 18-20 knots to maintain an upright, efficient plane.

Conclusion

The SOLARIS 36 OD is a high-performance platform that thrives with modern, stable sail shapes that can handle its powerful rig. Explore sail options for SOLARIS 36 OD to maximize your yacht's speed and durability.