Best sail cloth weight

I am looking to purchase a new main for my 16 from a friend. The sail is new but a few years old and never used. It is made by Whirlwind sails. He does not know if the material is 4 or 5 oz and I don't know what the advantage would be for either. I mostly sail on protected waters and I do not plan on racing so that is not a issue. I do want a good sail and one that will last. I am on the East Coast and I really only use the boat 10 times a year in winds up to 15 knots or so, Although I do have the occasional capsize and heavier wind sailing days. Is there a easy way to tell what weight the material is and should I avoid it if its one or the other? Thanks

Chip at Whirlwind is a well respected sailmaker, and considering the amount and kind of sailing you do then your friend's sail will be just fine for you, regardless of cloth weight.

Because of the loads on cat sails (racing or not), heavier cloth is better.

Whirlwind uses the lighter weight cloth for cost savings (they show 4 and 5 oz available... the 5 oz listed is nearly $200 more for a sail). Hobie Cat uses 5.6 oz.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)