I'm using three patches (more or less) with a 2 mtr long sock. the 3rd patch is actually located right on the foot of the spi halveway between tack and clew. Better is to have this one about 1 meter up as well. Now the other two can move up a little bit and all comes down in a neat package of only 2 mtr length. It is remarkable how easy she still snuffs with three patches and normal rip stop cloth. I put it down to the smooth aluminium ring and the material of the sock.

Of course on a 16 foot boat I can't have a 3 mtr sock or tube without being killed on windage.

Wouter