VMG upwind: pointing versus footing
What velocity made good (VMG) is, why the fastest boat speed is not always the fastest way upwind, and how to find your best mode.
Velocity made good (VMG) is how fast you are making progress directly towards the wind (upwind) or directly away from it (downwind). It is what actually wins races on the beat, not boat speed alone.
The formula
Upwind VMG = boat speed × cos(true wind angle)
So a boat sailing 6.0 knots at 45° to the true wind has a VMG of about 4.24 knots. The same boat at 5.6 knots but 42° makes 4.16 knots: pointing higher and slower lost VMG here. You can try your own numbers in the VMG calculator.
Pointing versus footing
- Pointing (higher angle, lower speed) helps in flat water, when you need to hold a lane, or when you’re overpowered.
- Footing (lower angle, higher speed) helps in waves, in light air, or to get away from boats to leeward.
The trade-off is not fixed. Your best mode depends on the wind strength, the sea state and your boat set-up, which is exactly why measuring it is worth more than any rule of thumb.
Polars
A polar diagram shows your target boat speed for each wind speed and wind angle. Comparing your actual VMG with the polar target tells you whether you are sailing to your boat’s potential, or leaving speed on the table.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to point high or sail fast?
Neither by default. VMG combines speed and angle; the best mode changes with wind strength, waves and your boat. Measuring VMG is how you find out which one works for you.
How is VMG calculated?
Upwind VMG equals boat speed multiplied by the cosine of the true wind angle. At 6 knots and 45 degrees, VMG is about 4.24 knots.