J/28 vs Pearson 28
How do the J/28 and Pearson 28 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
J/28 
Pearson 28 | J/28 | Pearson 28 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 28.5 ft8.69 m | 28.5 ft8.67 m |
| Waterline length | 24.0 ft7.32 m | 24.5 ft7.46 m |
| Beam | 10.0 ft3.05 m | 9.8 ft3.00 m |
| Draft | 5.0 ft1.52 m | 5.0 ft1.52 m |
| Displacement | 7,900 lb3,583 kg | 7,000 lb3,175 kg |
| Ballast | 3,000 lb1,361 kg | 3,530 lb1,601 kg |
| Sail area | 413 ft²38.4 m² | 392 ft²36.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.66 | 17.14 |
| Displacement / Length | 255 | 213 |
| Comfort ratio | 22.4 | 20.1 |
| Capsize screening | 2.01 | 2.06 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 6.6 |
J/28 vs Pearson 28: the short version
- The J/28 and Pearson 28 are close in length (28.5 ft8.69 m vs 28.5 ft8.67 m ).
- The J/28 is heavier, displacing about 13% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Pearson 28 carries the more powerful rig (17.1 vs 16.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The J/28 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the J/28 rates better for offshore work (2.01 vs 2.06).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.