Storsegel

Storsegel is the largest type of headsail used on fore-and-aft rigged sailing vessels. In Nordic naval terminology it denotes a large headsail hoisted on the forestay and typically overlapping the mainsail. In English sailing terminology this is usually called a genoa, with sizes described as a percentage of the foretriangle: a 100% jib is standard, while 120% or 150% genoas are progressively larger sails.

Purpose and use: A storsegel increases the sail area forward of the mast, improving speed and upwind performance, especially in light to moderate wind conditions. It is commonly used on sloops and cutter rigs and can be deployed with roller furling for easier handling.

Design and handling: The storsegel lies in front of the mast, overlapping the mainsail when deployed. Larger genoas require more involved sheet handling and can affect balance and weather helm. In heavier conditions a smaller headsail may be preferred to maintain control and maneuverability. Some boats use adjustable headstay configurations or roller furling to vary the effective size of the sail without changing sheets.

History and terminology: The term storsegel is used in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish language contexts and corresponds to the English term genoa. The concept originated as sailors sought greater forward sail area to improve upwind performance, with genoas becoming common on many sailing yachts in the 19th and 20th centuries.

See also: Genoa (sail), foretriangle, roller furling.