Sail Size vs Mast Size/Weight

[robwootton]

Hi All,

I have a quick query for you. For the benefit of the question, can we assume that the sails and masts are Tushingham and that a 490 mast greater than 45% carbon is not available:

Will an 8.6m freeride sail with a 490, 45% mast plane earlier/better than a 7m freeride sail with a 460, 75% mast?

It seems to me that the larger sail will obviously generate more force, but will its longer and heavier 490 mast (only 45% carbon) outweigh this benefit compared with using a slightly small sail which can take a smaller and lighter 460 mast (75% carbon).

Thanks,
Rob