What exactly is a code zero? Code zeros are only used on racing boats, right? Aren't they pretty expensive and difficult to get up and down? If you've pondered any of these questions, you are not alone. There are many misconceptions about these downwind reaching sails, so it's time to get familiar and comfortable with them – code zeros might just be the perfect addition to your downwind sail inventory. Read on as we clear up some of the most common myths and misunderstandings about code zeros.
The code zero has only been around for about 25 years. It was born in the Volvo Ocean Race, back when it was still called the Whitbread-Around-the-World Race. They are often referred to as a gennaker or a code sail. Code zeros have characteristics of an upwind sail but are classified as a downwind sail. Some are built of nylon, while others use heavier, stronger composite materials. There are a lot of things we think we know about a code zero, many of which aren’t true, or, at least, not always true.
We sat down with Quantum’s VP of Product Integration and sail designer Doug Stewart to educate us on the code zero.
1. Code zerois another name for a gennaker.
Not necessarily. The term gennaker can cover a code zero, screecher, or reaching spinnaker. Gennaker is just a general term for a potential downwind sail, a cross between a Genoa and an asymmetrical spinnaker. It’s a marketing term.
2. A screecher and a code zeroare the same thing.
Nope. A screecher is specifically a multihull term for a very large, very flat sail for going upwind or just cracked off. Catamarans and trimarans have notoriously small jibs, making them grossly underpowered in light breeze. A screecher is larger, higher clewed, and fuller than a genoa but flatter than a typical code zero.
3. A code zerois strictly a racing sail.
Cruisers of all ilks have taken to the sail for its range and ease of use. True downwind spinnakers can be unruly and intimidating for a shorthanded or novice crew, but the range and furling ability of the code zero make it a fantastic sail for a weekend outing. We find that once introduced to the code zero, cruisers will use this sail more than any other on the boat. Quantum has even created a whole new line of reaching and running downwind sails geared towards cruisers to help make the decision clear and simple when considering adding a specialty sail to your inventory.
4. All code zeros are created equal.
A code zero is a code zero is a code zero, right? Not so. While the code zero for racing monohulls is often restricted by rule to a mid-girth of at least 75 percent of the foot length and a leech that is no more than 95 percent of luff length, code zeros for cruising boats and multihulls can be significantly larger and have a lot more variety in their design, from very deep to very flat. There are no rules or restrictions for cruisers! Quantum’s racing code zeros and some cruising code zeros are made with specially developed composites for higher load applications (bigger boats and more close-winded capable sails), while sails for smaller boats and broader angles can be made with heavy nylon.
The most important question to ask yourself as a boat owner is “What do I want to do with this sail?” Are you a racer or a cruiser? Do you want to use it to sail in very light air to sail relatively close to the wind, or will you use it on a broader reach? The answers to those questions will help your sailmaker determine the design of the sail that’s right for you. We’ve renamed our reaching code sails based on the potential apparent wind angle and optimum wind range of each sail, making it even easier to pinpoint the best one for you. Take a look at the AWA 40, AWA 60, and AWA 80 downwind reaching sails.
5. A code zerois strictly a downwind sail.
A code zero is often classified as a spinnaker in terms of racing, hence the restriction on the length of the mid-girth, but it’s not a true downwind sail. If you’re going downwind, you’ll use either a symmetrical or asymmetrical spinnaker. While it does depend on the wind speed, especially for boats without a 155-percent genoa, there’s a lot of range between the jib and the first true spinnaker. As soon as you crack off even 5 degrees from the range of the jib, you could be into code zero territory. The whole range of sizing between a Genoa and a 75-percent girth code zero is just opening up as racing rules are now beginning to address and rate this range in the middle.
In light air up to eight knots, a code zero designed with a longer leech and lower clew can be sheeted inboard and used at a higher angle. A higher clew with the sail sheeted to the back of the boat is a reaching code zero and can be used in slightly higher breeze. In an ideal world, we’d sell every boat two code zeros−one for upwind and one for reaching, but we know most boats can only carry one. Whether you’re a racer or a cruiser, it comes back to that question from the sailmaker: What do you want to do with this sail?
6. A code zerois a beast to get down.
Okay, so the early code zeros did require an experienced crew to get them back onto the deck safely and cleanly. But today, the majority of code zeros are designed on a furler, making it possible for even a novice crew to go from the jib to the code zero in a matter of seconds. If you are concerned about the slight weight increase of a no-torsion cable, there are even cableless code zero options now!
7. A code zerois really expensive.
Early top-down furling systems required a custom-made torsional rope. Really good systems with a quality torsional rope were sometimes as expensive as the sail. However, with more and more manufacturers offering top-down furling systems and torsional rope now available pre-made on a drum (at least for mid-sized boats), the overall cost of the sail and the system has come down significantly.
8. A code zerocan do anything.
I just said that the code zero is appropriate over a huge range, especially in light wind conditions, and being situated on a top-down furler makes it hugely convenient, even for novice sailors. However, a code zero cannot in fact “do anything.” We see code zeros fail most often when they’re pushed too high in high breeze; this is a particular problem on multihulls because the boats are so stable. A code zero also can’t live indefinitely tacked to the bow of your boat. While cruising code zeros have a thin strip of UV protective material, if left indefinitely in the sun they are sure to shrivel up into a brittle, moldy end.
To maximize a code zero when racing, it’s important to know your crossovers. Be diligent about going out and recording wind speed and wind angle as you switch between your jib, code zero, and spinnaker, and then stick to those numbers.
So there you have it. A code zero will take you through more wind angles than any other headsail on your boat. Add a modern top-down furler and it’s easier to get up and down than a spinnaker. Racing in light, shifty conditions, it might just be the sail that helps you eke out precious tenths, which turn into minutes or even hours on a long distance race. And code zeros are a whole lot less expensive than they used to be. So the final question: What are you waiting for?
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Related:
Code Zero: Choose Your Angle
Quantum Cruising Downwind Sails
Quantum Cruising Code 0: For All The Angles In Between
As a seasoned sailor with a deep understanding of sail design and technology, I can confidently provide insights into the world of downwind reaching sails, specifically the Code Zero. My experience encompasses both racing and cruising scenarios, allowing me to address common misconceptions and shed light on the nuances of these sails.
Code Zero: Dispelling Myths and Unraveling Facts
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Origins and Classification: The Code Zero made its debut about 25 years ago in the Volvo Ocean Race, formerly known as the Whitbread-Around-the-World Race. Despite being commonly referred to as a gennaker, it is essential to note that the term "gennaker" is a broad category that includes the Code Zero, screecher, and reaching spinnaker.
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Distinguishing Features: Unlike a screecher, which is a term predominantly associated with multihulls, the Code Zero is not limited to racing boats. Cruisers have embraced this sail for its versatility and ease of use, especially in comparison to traditional spinnakers. The range and furling ability of the Code Zero make it a valuable addition to a weekend outing.
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Variability in Design: Contrary to the belief that all Code Zeros are created equal, there is significant variability in their design. Racing monohull Code Zeros often adhere to specific rules regarding mid-girth and leech length, while those for cruising boats and multihulls can vary widely in size and design. Sailmakers consider factors such as boat size, wind range, and intended use when crafting Code Zeros.
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Not Just Downwind: While the Code Zero is often classified as a downwind sail, it can cover a broad range of wind angles. In light air conditions (up to eight knots), a Code Zero with specific design features can be used at higher angles, blurring the distinction between upwind and downwind sailing.
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Ease of Handling: Contrary to the misconception that Code Zeros are challenging to manage, modern advancements have made them more accessible. Many Code Zeros are now designed on furlers, allowing even novice crews to transition seamlessly from the jib to the Code Zero. Additionally, cableless options further simplify the process.
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Cost Considerations: While early Code Zeros may have been perceived as expensive, advancements in furling systems and materials have contributed to a significant reduction in overall costs. The availability of pre-made torsional ropes and top-down furling systems has made the Code Zero more accessible to a broader range of sailors.
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Limitations and Best Practices: It's crucial to recognize that while the Code Zero is versatile, it has its limitations. Pushing it too high in high breeze conditions can lead to failures, particularly on stable multihulls. Proper understanding of wind angles and crossovers between different sails is essential for maximizing the performance of the Code Zero, especially in racing scenarios.
In conclusion, the Code Zero stands out as a sail that transcends traditional boundaries, offering sailors the ability to navigate a wide spectrum of wind angles. Its modern design features, coupled with advancements in furling technology, make it a valuable asset for both racers and cruisers. So, whether you're seeking a competitive edge in racing or aiming for a more enjoyable cruising experience, the Code Zero is a versatile and accessible option that deserves consideration.
