RIDAS 35 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The RIDAS 35 is a versatile performance cruiser-racer designed by Lönngren/Ridas for a niche fleet of five yachts. It targets sailors seeking a balance between competitive club racing and comfortable coastal cruising with a focus on ease of handling.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 3.20 indicates a high-aspect-ratio rig, providing efficient lift and better pointing ability in light to moderate air.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.16 is optimized for modern non-overlapping or slightly overlapping headsails, offering a balanced sail plan.
• Sail Area: 60m² total upwind area (29m² main / 31m² jib) provides a powerful power-to-weight ratio for a 10.6m hull.
• Performance: The sail plan is designed for weatherly performance, ensuring the boat is close-winded and responsive to trim adjustments.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: High-roach configurations are common to maximize the tall P dimension and improve light-air drive.
• Headsail: Typically equipped with a 105-110% LP jib for versatile performance across varying wind ranges.

Key Characteristics

• High-Aspect Main: The 3.20 P/E ratio ensures low induced drag and superior aerodynamic efficiency.
• Balanced Foretriangle: The 3.16 I/J ratio facilitates easy tacking and maintains a clean slot for the mainsail.
• Stiff Hull Profile: The 3.40m beam and 1.98m draft offer the necessary righting moment for the 60m² sail plan.
• Versatile Handling: Sized for manageable loads, making it ideal for both shorthanded crews and full racing teams.

Sailing Considerations

• Recommended for reefing the mainsail at approximately 16-18 knots to maintain optimal heel angle.
• Requires active backstay tensioning to control headstay sag given the high-aspect foretriangle.
• Typical crew requirements range from 4 to 6 for competitive racing, though it remains manageable for couples when cruising.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the RIDAS 35, 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 carbon laminates. The continuous fiber structure ensures minimal stretch over time, maintaining the designed aerodynamic profile for years of service.

For racing applications, specify a lightweight SurgeX configuration with a Technora or Aramid fiber map and minimal base weight to maximize performance in light air. For cruising or bluewater sailing, we recommend adding a light taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection against the rig. Based on the 3.20 P/E ratio, a fiber layout optimized for high-aspect loads works best. A typical inventory includes a full-batten SurgeX mainsail and a vertical-batten furling jib. With 60m² of sail area, plan to reef as the apparent wind crosses 18 knots to keep the boat on its lines.

Conclusion

The RIDAS 35 features a sophisticated, high-aspect rig that rewards precise sail trim and modern materials. Explore sail options for RIDAS 35 to maximize your yacht's performance potential.