I am always surprised by the number of people I see with a lack of downhaul. Most modern sails, particularly NP, like a lot of downhaul. I've been a culprit myself in the past.

Often they'll use insufficient down haul and then start cranking on the outhaul when they get overpowered, which is pretty quick with an under down hauled sail.

Quite often when I've made the suggestion they look in disbelief but after trying it the smile comes out from the transformation. I was chatting to a fellow sailor who was in total disbelief with the difference it made. He was considering getting rid of the sail because it felt heavy and had poor range.

The real culprits are the race sails, particularly the earlier model NP RS sails I've used. Even with a winch it's feels difficult. Not to mention the popping, creaking sounds and the disbelief that I still have 2cm to go. Waiting for the whole rig to self destruct certainly had me scared, but the worst thing that happens is a snapped rope.

So if you see a fellow sailor with a badly rigged sail, please do them a favour.