Sailboat Racing Tips: Downwind Wind Shadows Explained

Avoiding wind shadows is an important part of your downwind strategy. Where are the shadows and how do you avoid them? Mike Ingham explains the essentials of avoiding bad air downwind.

When sails are eased and the spinnaker is flying, the wind shadow that results is one to be avoided on a downwind or reaching leg. Sailing World Racing Editor, Mike Ingham explains the dynamics of these wind shadows for asymmetric and symmetric spinnakers, and how to position your boat accordingly.