RS Aero - Downwind wobble

This is a Laser sailor from Chew on a run in a light breeze, demonstrating fairly extreme forward trim. Moving the weight forward reduces wetted surface area and the related friction. However, in the extreme you then reduce waterline length which may start to become a detrimental trade off. In this instance he appeared to be going very well like this (and you can't beat trial and proof rather than just theory!), although it did also affect his stability. As a general rule; if in doubt move forward - If you are too far back you are likely to go a lot slower, but if you are too far forward it is unlikely to make much difference. Check the amount of wake and water noise coming from the transom, if this reduces by moving forwards a little then it is a good thing - and repeat.

In context this was the sailor's first day in an Aero and first sail in this mode. If he felt fast like that I am sure that 2nd time around he would be wise to that little wobble and be fine.