REFLEX 38 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

Designed by Stimson, the Reflex 38 is a high-performance racer-cruiser built for offshore versatility and competitive IRC racing. It balances a powerful rig with a deep-draft hull, targeting sailors who demand responsive handling and speed in varied sea states.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 2.77 indicates a high-aspect rig, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency and lift for superior upwind performance.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.48 is optimized for high-aspect headsails, allowing for tight sheeting angles and excellent weatherly capabilities.
• Sail Area: 67m² total upwind area provides a high power-to-weight ratio for an 11.59m hull.
• Performance: The configuration is heavily racing-oriented, focusing on close-windedness and acceleration through gusts.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Usually configured with full battens or a high-roach profile to maximize the 14.49m luff length.
• Headsail: Typically utilizes non-overlapping or slightly overlapping jibs (100-105%) to maintain efficiency in the tall foretriangle.

Key Characteristics

• High-aspect rig (P/E 2.77) for exceptional upwind pointing and light-air lift.
• Optimized foretriangle (I/J 3.48) supports efficient, easy-to-tack headsail crossovers.
• Deep 2.34m draft creates a stiff platform capable of carrying high sail loads.
• Performance hull by Stimson designed for responsive, offshore racing stability.

Sailing Considerations

• Performs optimally in 10–22 knots; the tall rig requires proactive depowering as the breeze builds.
• Requires a crew of 6–8 for fully competitive racing, though the sail plan is manageable for shorthanded cruising.
• Performance expectations include rapid acceleration and high stability in offshore conditions.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the REFLEX 38, 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 Technora or Carbon fibers and minimal base weight to maximize performance. For cruising or bluewater sailing, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection. Based on the 2.77 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout or a full membrane build works best to support the high vertical loads. A typical inventory includes a high-roach mainsail and a versatile J2 headsail. With 67m² of sail area, plan to reef around 18 knots to keep the boat flat and fast.

Conclusion

The REFLEX 38's high-aspect Stimson design is a masterclass in performance balance and offshore capability. Explore SurgeX membrane sail options to unlock the full potential of your REFLEX 38.