Without Jib Battens?

I'm not sure what year my Jib is but as I learn and don't want to spend any more money on the boat buying super battens, or hinges right now, what's the downside of running the jib without the battens? Not going to race- I'm just hacking around the lake with my kids.

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'81 H16 yellow hulls

My understanding is that the batten helps the sail hold it's shape and stops the roach flogging around uncontrollably, which will eventually destroy your sail.

If you don't have battens (which is weird), but are worried about spending more money on the boat, spend it on battens or eventually spend it on a new jib.

Battens are cheaper!

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'97 Hobie 16.

Skype: rob_arnolda

I have a furling jib on the 16 (no battens) and it flutters a bit at different points of sail but performs well... try it out.. at least you won't have the problem of the battens hanging up in light winds...

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•Present boat -1998 Hobie 16 Solana Sails furling jib[/size]

Do you have the normal battens now? Having a problem when you tack? Cut the battens shorter so the the tie string goes straight though the sail grommets and batten cap hole at the same time because it sounds like you're not worried about adjusting them.

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Buxton
18' T16 Silent Lightning (16' T2 Hybrid)
11' H16 White Lightning
79' H16 Green Lightning

All good info! I'll try cutting the battens first. Eventually, I might get the super battens if cutting doesnt work enough. Im not worried about the jib flapping unless its just really destructive early on. I dont plan on running with them out for long.

Thanks!

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'81 H16 yellow hulls