How Long Do Sails Last?

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:00:04 +0000

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How long do sails actually last? Sailmakers often say cruising sails last around 10–15 years, but what happens when you discover a sail that’s nearly 50 years old? In this video I head to the sail loft to inspect the sails on my sailboat Lady K and uncover a surprising piece of sailing history: a genoa that turns out to be the original sail from 1980. That discovery raises an important question every sailor eventually faces when maintaining a sailboat — how long should sails really last?

We break down the lifespan of Dacron sails vs laminate sails, why cruising sails can sometimes survive for decades, and the real factors that determine when a sail needs replacing. From UV damage and stitching failure to sail shape and performance loss, this video explains what sailors, cruisers, and boat owners should know before ordering expensive new sails. If you’re wondering whether your mainsail or genoa is worn out, or how to extend the life of your sails, this deep dive into sail longevity will help you understand what really happens to sailcloth over time.

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