Best depends on many factors beyond things like efficiency, weight, or durability. Lateen sails are easy to implement with a single mast, are easy to store and maintain, and everyone that has sailed has experience with them. Other sails might do a better job of catching the wind, but with tradeoffs on maintenance and usability.
Practicality is often complex and leans towards easier maintenance and established knowledge.
We don’t always do the most practical thing though.
For instance lateen sails are not the best sail design but is used by every sail manufacturer currently.
Best depends on many factors beyond things like efficiency, weight, or durability. Lateen sails are easy to implement with a single mast, are easy to store and maintain, and everyone that has sailed has experience with them. Other sails might do a better job of catching the wind, but with tradeoffs on maintenance and usability.
Practicality is often complex and leans towards easier maintenance and established knowledge.