Mainsail cover, Waterproof?

[WindermereColvic]

Just in the process of replacing our worn out mainsail / boom cover. Is it worth buying a waterproof one? I've seen a well priced one that is made of fairly thin canvas, how opaque does canvas have to be to stop UV?

Thanks as always,

Matt

 

[prv]

I reckon a typical sailcover is unlikely to be fully watertight, so using waterproof fabric is more likely to trap the water that does get in than to keep the sail dry. As you imply, blocking UV is more important.

Pete

 

[Javelin]

Agree with PVR,

Breathable is more important.
A waterproof cover resting on wet cloth or especially laminate cloth won't allow the sail to dry.
Most breathable cover fabrics will stop the uv from getting at your sail.

 

[FirstAway]

I agree with the others, how often do you put your sails away dry on the lake?

 

[Lakesailor]

I had a cheap (£60) sail cover which lasted about 3 years before becoming a lot tatty. The guy who bought Feckless got a breathable one made for about £160.
I had a breathable one made for Slippy in about 2006 in black. It was still very smart the last time I saw her (last year)