I think it's pretty cool that you can play with the sails compared to the older designs though. It doesn't give you a HUGE advantage, but it sure does make things more interesting.
Indeed, these are only small improvements with each step. However, over a longer time period these do add up and that is why SMOD classes like the FX-one, Spitfires, Tiger and Nacra 20 are suffering with respect to the A's, F16's and F18's.
Within these formula classes the rule is that if you got a proper sail design that is not older then 3 years (and not blown out) then you'll be alright competitive wise. Try to be competitive with a sail design that was designed close to 10 years ago and you'll be left hanging even if it is brand new (not blown out).
Of course after 3 years of use a sailor must replace his sails anyway as they will be too blown out for any highly competitive sailing in a heavily contested fleet. But that is no different in SMOD classes, so the overall costs in order to remain competitive are about the same.
Yeah, I think the formula concept is a major breakthrough in sail boat design/racing. It just works so well.
Wouter
