TWOSTAR 36 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The TWOSTAR 36 is a performance-oriented cruiser-racer designed by Hakan Sodergren, specifically engineered for efficiency and speed in shorthanded offshore conditions. Its narrow beam and deep draft reflect a design philosophy focused on high-windward performance and agility.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 2.60 indicates a high-aspect rig, providing efficient lift and reducing drag for superior upwind performance.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.39 supports a versatile range of headsails, from overlapping genoas to high-aspect working jibs.
• Sail Area: With 60m² of total upwind sail area, the boat is well-powered for its 10.93m length.
• Performance: The configuration is balanced for competitive racing while remaining manageable for performance-focused cruising.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Typically a full-battened high-aspect sail to maximize the 13.65m luff length.
• Headsail: inventory often includes a 135% genoa for light air and a 100% blade jib for heavy-weather stability.

Key Characteristics

• High-aspect mainsail (P/E 2.60) optimizes aerodynamic lift and windward pointing.
• Tall foretriangle (I/J 3.39) allows for powerful headsail configurations in varying sea states.
• Deep 2.05m draft and narrow 3.03m beam result in a stiff, weatherly hull with minimal leeway.
• Optimized for shorthanded efficiency, making it a favorite for TWOSTAR-style racing events.

Sailing Considerations

Given its narrow beam, the TWOSTAR 36 is a stiff boat that remains stable in a breeze but requires precise sail trim to maintain momentum. It is exceptionally close-winded and performs best when the rig is tuned for maximum forestay tension. The boat is easily handled by a small crew, provided the reefing systems are well-organized.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the TWOSTAR 36, 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. For cruising or bluewater sailing, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection. Based on the 2.60 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout works best to handle the high vertical loads on the tall mainsail. A typical inventory includes a SurgeX Mainsail, a Code 2 Jib, and an All-purpose Symmetric Spinnaker. With 60m² of sail area, plan to reef the main around 18-20 knots to maintain an upright, efficient plane.

Conclusion

The TWOSTAR 36 is a masterclass in Hakan Sodergren’s performance design, offering a stiff and weatherly platform that rewards technical sailors. Explore sail options for TWOSTAR 36 to unlock its full racing potential.