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Running rigging

Running rigging encompasses the adjustable lines, ropes, and wires on a sailing vessel that are used to hoist, trim, lower, and control the sails, enabling precise maneuvering and sail optimization in response to wind conditions, in contrast to the fixed standing rigging that supports the mast and spars.^[1]^[2] Historically, running rigging evolved alongside sailing technology, with ancient vessels employing natural fiber ropes for sail control, transitioning through the age of sail to more robust materials suited for global voyages.^[3] Traditional materials included hemp, derived from nettle-like plants and valued for its strength and flexibility in hoists and sheets; manila, a golden-brown fiber from Philippine plantain leaves prized for its durability in rigging; sisal, a paler, more affordable agave-based option often tarred for weather resistance; and coir from coconut husks, which was lightweight and buoyant but prone to rot and thus used sparingly.^[3] By the 19th century, as clipper ships like the Cutty Sark (launched 1869) demonstrated, running rigging systems could span over 11 miles of cordage on a single vessel, facilitating complex sail handling amid the decline of sail power with the rise of steamships around the mid-1800s.^[3] In modern sailboats, running rigging has advanced with synthetic materials that offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, low stretch, and UV resistance, transforming sail control into a more efficient and less labor-intensive process.^[4] Key components include halyards, which raise and lower sails; sheets, which adjust sail angle and tension; outhauls, for extending the foot of the sail; vang controls, to manage boom position and prevent twisting; and auxiliary systems like reefing lines for reducing sail area in strong winds.^[4]^[5] These lines typically route through blocks (pulleys with ball or roller bearings to minimize friction), winches (manual or electric for powered handling), rope clutches (for securing multiple lines), and furlers (such as headsail or continuous-line systems for easy deployment and storage).^[4] Common contemporary materials feature polyester (Dacron) for its balance of affordability and performance in sheets and control lines; high-modulus fibers like Dyneema or Vectran for low-stretch halyards and backstays; and specialized options such as Torlon or PBO for ultra-high-strength applications.^[4] This integration of durable synthetics and hardware not only enhances safety and speed but also allows cruisers and racers to optimize sail shape for capturing wind energy effectively.^[6]^[4]

Fundamentals

Definition and Purpose

Running rigging refers to the movable ropes, wires, or lines employed on a sailing vessel to hoist, lower, trim, and adjust sails.^[6] These elements form the dynamic component of a vessel's sail-handling system, enabling precise control over sail positioning and configuration during navigation.^[4] The primary purposes of running rigging center on facilitating effective sail management to harness wind for propulsion. This includes raising and lowering sails using halyards, adjusting sail angle relative to the wind via sheets, and refining sail shape through control lines such as outhauls to optimize performance and stability.^[7]^[4] By allowing these adjustments, running rigging ensures the vessel can respond to varying wind conditions and maneuvers efficiently.^[6] The term "running" derives from the historical nautical practice where these lines "run" freely through blocks and fairleads, distinguishing them from the fixed elements of standing rigging that support the mast and spars.^[8] This nomenclature, traceable to at least the 17th century, underscores the adjustable nature of these components in contrast to static rigging.^[9] At its core, running rigging operates on principles of tension and friction management, primarily through pulleys called blocks that provide mechanical advantage and redirect forces. These blocks, often equipped with bearings, minimize resistance under load, enabling crew members to handle substantial forces with relative ease during sail adjustments.^[6]^[4]

Distinction from Standing Rigging

Standing rigging consists of the fixed wires, stays, and shrouds that provide structural support to the masts, booms, and spars on a sailing vessel, bearing the primary loads from wind forces to maintain overall stability.^[10] These components, typically made from stainless steel wire or rod, are designed to remain under constant tension and are rarely adjusted during operation.^[11] In contrast, running rigging encompasses the adjustable lines, such as halyards and sheets, that move with the sails to control their position and shape, enabling dynamic adjustments for sailing maneuvers.^[12] The primary distinctions lie in their functionality and mechanical roles: standing rigging is static and load-bearing, focused on providing unwavering support against lateral and fore-aft forces, while running rigging is dynamic and control-oriented, allowing sailors to trim sails without altering the vessel's core structure.^[10] Running rigging does not endure constant compression or tension loads in the manner of standing stays, which are engineered to resist ongoing stresses from the mast's compression under sail pressure.^[11] This separation ensures that running lines prioritize flexibility and frequent handling over permanent structural duty. Despite these differences, running and standing rigging are interdependent, as the former relies on the latter for secure attachment points; for instance, halyards typically route through sheaves at the masthead, which are held in place by the standing rigging's support of the mast itself.^[7] From a safety perspective, failure in standing rigging can lead to catastrophic structural collapse, such as mast dismasting, posing immediate risks to the vessel's integrity, whereas issues with running rigging primarily impair sail control and maneuverability without compromising the overall framework.^[13]^[14]

Materials

Historical Materials

The earliest known use of hemp ropes for running rigging dates back to around 2000 BCE in Mediterranean cultures, where twisted hemp fibers were employed in early sailing vessels for their flexibility and strength in hoisting sails.^[15] Hemp, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, was valued for its durability and ability to withstand the rigors of sea travel, though it was susceptible to rot from prolonged moisture exposure and exhibited noticeable stretch under heavy loads.^[16] These limitations necessitated regular maintenance, including drying and reseaming to prevent degradation.^[3] During the medieval period and into the Age of Sail, hemp remained the primary material for running rigging in European navies, sourced from regions like Russia, Italy, and the Baltic for its smooth, hard texture and superior tensile strength compared to alternatives.^[3] To enhance preservation against saltwater and weather, hemp ropes were often tarred, a process that coated the fibers in pine tar to reduce rot and UV-induced breakdown, though this made them stiffer and heavier.^[3] In the 18th century, manila rope, made from abacá fibers native to the Philippines, was introduced to Western sailing fleets, offering greater water resistance and strength-to-weight ratio than traditional hemp; British ships began adopting it for halyards and sheets due to its flexibility and reduced tendency to absorb moisture.^[3] Unlike tarred hemp, manila was typically left untreated for running rigging to maintain its pliability.^[3] Sisal, derived from the agave sisalana plant and originating from Mexico and Central America, emerged as a more affordable alternative to hemp and manila in the 19th century. It was valued for its pale color, moderate strength (about 80% of manila), and ability to be tarred for improved weather resistance, making it suitable for sheets, halyards, and other running rigging on merchant and naval vessels, though it was stiffer and more prone to UV degradation than manila.^[3]^[17] By the 19th century, innovations included experimental use of wire ropes for greater durability in high-stress applications, though their inflexibility limited adoption to standing rigging rather than running lines, which required more elasticity.^[18] Coir, derived from coconut husks and sourced from regions like Sri Lanka, found niche use in lighter running rigging lines such as lashings or temporary hoists, prized for its buoyancy and low weight but hampered by inferior strength and rapid rot when wet, precluding tarring.^[3] Natural fiber ropes in these eras generally exhibited low elastic stretch under load, providing necessary give for sail handling but contributing to fatigue over time, alongside vulnerabilities to UV degradation that weakened fibers after prolonged sun exposure.^[19] These properties demanded frequent replacement to avoid failure, as rot and chafe could significantly reduce strength in harsh conditions.^[20] British Navy standards in the 1700s, as outlined in naval manuals, specified rigorous sizing for running rigging; for instance, major halyards on ships-of-the-line required 18-inch circumference ropes to handle the immense loads of large square sails. This ensured proportional strength across vessel classes, with hemp or manila graded by quality to meet these exacting requirements. In the early 20th century, the shift toward synthetic materials began to address the persistent issues of natural fibers' degradation and maintenance needs.^[21]

Modern Materials

Following World War II, synthetic materials revolutionized running rigging, offering superior performance over natural fibers. Nylon, introduced in the late 1940s, provided excellent shock absorption due to its elasticity, with elongation of 20-30% at breaking strength, making it suitable for applications like dock lines but less ideal for precise sail control owing to excessive stretch.^[22]^[23] By the 1950s, polyester (commonly known as Dacron) largely supplanted nylon in running rigging, exhibiting lower stretch of about 8-10% at 20% of breaking strength while demonstrating enhanced UV resistance and dimensional stability in marine environments.^[24]^[25] From the 1980s onward, high-performance fibers such as ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), marketed as Spectra or Dyneema, transformed rigging for competitive and cruising yachts with their exceptional properties: elongation limited to 1-2%, tensile strength up to 15 times that of steel by weight, and minimal creep under sustained loads.^[26]^[27] Aramid fibers like Kevlar complemented these by offering near-zero stretch for high-load applications such as halyards, though their sensitivity to UV degradation necessitates protective coverings to prevent strength loss over time.^[28] These fibers enabled lighter, more responsive rigging systems without sacrificing durability. Modern running rigging often employs composite and hybrid constructions, such as 12-strand Dyneema cores encased in braided polyester covers, which enhance chafe resistance while maintaining low stretch and high grip for winches and clutches.^[29] For contemporary yachts, these lines typically range from 8-12 mm in diameter, balancing strength with ease of handling and reducing overall boat weight compared to larger traditional ropes.^[30] Selection of modern materials prioritizes breaking strength calibrated to expected loads, with lines engineered to withstand 2-3 times the anticipated maximum force to account for dynamic sailing conditions like gusts and waves.^[31] Environmental factors, including saltwater abrasion and UV exposure, further guide choices, favoring hybrids that combine core strength with protective outer layers. As of 2025, bio-based synthetics, such as those derived from renewable sources in Dyneema formulations, are gaining traction for their sustainability, achieving significantly lower carbon footprints compared to conventional synthetics like nylon or polyester without compromising performance.^[32]^[33]

Components and Terminology

Key Components

Running rigging encompasses the movable lines and associated hardware essential for controlling sails on sailing vessels. These components enable the hoisting, trimming, and adjustment of sails to optimize performance across various wind conditions and vessel types.^[4]^[6] Halyards are the primary lines used for hoisting and lowering sails, typically attaching to the head of the sail and running through sheaves at the masthead before leading to the deck for control. In modern Bermuda rigs, a single halyard per sail suffices, but gaff rigs employ specialized types such as the peak halyard, which raises the outer end of the gaff, and the throat halyard, which elevates the end nearer the mast. These lines are often low-stretch to maintain sail tension, with diameters around 8-10 mm suitable for halyards on a 30-foot sloop.^[7]^[34]^[35] Sheets serve as control lines attached to the clew of the sail, allowing adjustment of the sail's angle to the wind for optimal trim. For instance, jib sheets are commonly led aft through blocks to cockpit winches, enabling easy handling from the helm. The term "sheet" derives from Old English "sceatline," referring to the line controlling the lower corner of the sail. Sheets on smaller vessels, like a 30-foot sloop, typically measure 10 mm in diameter to balance strength and flexibility.^[4]^[6]^[36]^[35] Control lines include specialized ropes for fine-tuning sail shape and position. The outhaul tensions the foot of the mainsail to flatten it against the boom, often routed through a block at the boom end to a winch. The downhaul, or cunningham, tightens the luff by pulling downward near the tack, enhancing sail draft control. The vang, meanwhile, manages the boom's vertical angle to prevent twisting and maintain leech tension. These lines are scaled to vessel size, with 8-10 mm diameters common for a 30-foot sloop.^[7]^[4]^[6]^[35] Guys and prevents are lines used primarily for stabilizing downwind sails, such as spinnakers or asymmetric sails. A guy acts as a windward support line, often passing through the pole jaws for symmetric spinnakers, while a prevent (or downhaul) restricts forward movement of the pole or sail. In asymmetric setups, the tack line functions similarly to a guy, securing the sail's forward position. These components ensure controlled deployment and gybing, with diameters around 10 mm for mid-sized boats.^[7]^[4]^[35] Associated hardware facilitates the efficient routing, tensioning, and securing of running rigging lines. Blocks, or pulleys, reduce friction and provide mechanical advantage, with ball-bearing models preferred for high-load applications like halyards. Cleats and clutches hold lines in place, while fairleads guide them to prevent chafing; for example, rope clutches allow quick release under load. On a 30-foot sloop, hardware is selected to match 10 mm line diameters, ensuring safe working loads exceed typical sail forces.^[6]^[4]^[7]

Common Terminology

Running rigging employs a specialized vocabulary rooted in centuries of maritime tradition, where terms describe both the lines themselves and the actions performed with them. The word "halyard," for instance, derives from the Middle English "halier," combining "hale" (to haul) and "yard" (referring to a spar or beam), reflecting its original purpose in hoisting yardarms on square-rigged vessels.^[37] Similarly, "sheet" originates from Old English "sceatline," meaning "sheet-line," where "sceata" denoted the lower corner or projection of a sail, akin to a projecting edge of cloth.^[38] Core nautical terms for manipulating running rigging include "belay," which means to secure a line by winding it around a pin, cleat, or bollard to hold it fast under tension.^[39] "Trim" refers to the act of adjusting the tension and angle of sheets or other lines to optimize sail shape and efficiency relative to the wind.^[40] The "clew" designates the lower aft corner of a sail, the attachment point for the sheet that controls its position.^[41] In square-rigged ships, rig-specific jargon prevails, such as "braces," which are lines attached to the extremities of a yard to rotate it horizontally for sail orientation.^[42] "Tacks" denote the forward lower corners of a sail, secured by dedicated lines that hold the sail taut when sailing close-hauled. Contemporary sailing introduces terms adapted for modern rigs, like the "lazy sheet," the inactive jib or genoa sheet kept slack on the leeward side until a tack switches its role.^[7] A "barber hauler" is an auxiliary line or system that adjusts the lead of a genoa sheet, pulling the clew inward or downward for finer trim control on reaches or runs.^[43] Regional dialects persist, however; for example, the windward spinnaker line is called a "guy" in American usage and sometimes a "brace" in British usage. "Preventer" commonly refers to lines preventing accidental gybes of the boom.^[7] These conventions, evolving from earlier 17th- and 18th-century glossaries, facilitate precise communication in both traditional and recreational contexts.^[44]

Applications in Traditional Rigs

Fore-and-Aft Rigged Vessels

Fore-and-aft rigged vessels feature sails set parallel to the keel, enabling efficient upwind performance through their ability to point closer to the wind compared to transverse sail arrangements.^[45] This rig type emphasizes streamlined airflow over the sails, with running rigging primarily configured to hoist, trim, and control sails on single-mast or multi-mast setups, such as those found in sloops, cutters, and schooners.^[46] The design prioritizes maneuverability in varying wind conditions, relying on adjustable lines to optimize sail position without the need for extensive yardarms.^[47] In a Bermuda sloop, a common single-mast configuration, the running rigging includes the mainsail halyard to raise the mainsail, jib sheets to adjust the headsail's angle, and a traveler system for controlling the boom's lateral position across the deck.^[45] Gaff rigs, prevalent in traditional cutters and schooners, incorporate additional peak and throat halyards to hoist the gaff spar, allowing the four-cornered sail to be tensioned and set effectively.^[48] These elements enable quick adjustments during tacking, with sheets attached to the sail's clew for precise trimming.^[46] Fore-and-aft rigs became dominant in 19th- and 20th-century merchant and naval vessels, particularly for coastal trade where their handiness in confined waters and shallow drafts proved advantageous.^[47] Vessels like Dutch tjalks, with sprit-mainsails supported by vangs and staysails for inland transport; English billy-boys, resembling Dutch coasters with leeboards; and North American schooners were widely employed in fisheries, piloting, and short-haul commerce across Europe and the Atlantic coasts, often outnumbering square-rigged ships in these roles due to their adaptability to estuaries and variable winds.^[47] Naval applications included revenue cutters and pilot boats, such as Bristol Channel cutters, which used the rig for agile pursuit and navigation in coastal patrols.^[47] The scale and complexity of running rigging in fore-and-aft vessels are notably lower than in square-rigged counterparts, with fewer lines required for sail control, allowing operation by smaller crews.^[47] This simplicity stems from the absence of multiple yards and the focus on longitudinal sail adjustments, reducing the overall rigging demands.^[46] Adaptations in multi-sail setups, such as ketches, involve separate halyards for each mast to independently hoist the mainsail and mizzen, enhancing balance and sail-handling efficiency in larger vessels.^[45] Schooners extend this by distributing running lines across fore and main masts, often including dedicated sheets for staysails between masts to maintain coordination during maneuvers.^[47]

Square-Rigged Vessels

In square-rigged vessels, sails are suspended from horizontal yards positioned perpendicular to the keel, a configuration that excels in harnessing trade winds for downwind voyages across oceans.^[49] This setup allows for efficient propulsion in following winds but imposes structural demands on the running rigging to manage the transverse orientation of the yards.^[49] Each mast typically supports multiple tiers of yards—such as the lower yard, topsail yard, and topgallant yard—each equipped with dedicated halyards to raise and lower them independently. Braces, consisting of ropes attached to the yard-arms, enable rotation of the yards around the mast to align sails with the wind direction.^[49] These components form a layered system where halyards hoist the yards to set the sails, while braces provide lateral control, often doubled for stability except on higher spars like topgallant yards.^[49] Historical full-rigged ships, such as the American clipper Flying Cloud launched in 1851, exemplified this complexity with three masts carrying 21 sails, necessitating coordinated handling by crews of up to 40 sailors to manage the extensive array during long-haul trades like the California Gold Rush routes.^[50] Clippers of the 1850s era routinely employed over 20 sails per vessel, amplifying the demands on running rigging for rapid adjustments in variable conditions.^[50] On large square-rigged vessels like HMS Victory, the rigging incorporated hundreds of running lines, systematically organized across deck levels with pinrails—wooden racks fitted with belaying pins—for securing halyards, braces, and sheets to prevent tangling during maneuvers. This organization was essential for efficient crew operations on ships requiring dozens of hands to handle the volume of lines simultaneously. Square-rigged vessels face inherent limitations in windward sailing, capable of pointing only about six points (67.5 degrees) off the wind due to the yards' tendency to swing outward when braced sharply, reducing effective sail area and lift.^[51] These challenges were partially mitigated through precise running rigging adjustments, such as tightening braces and sheets to optimize yard positioning and minimize leeward drift, though such efforts still demanded significant crew coordination compared to simpler fore-and-aft alternatives for upwind work.^[51]

Functions in Traditional Rigs

Supporting the Sails

In traditional sailing vessels, running rigging plays a crucial role in hoisting sails to their operational positions through the use of halyards, which are lines specifically designed to raise yards, sails, and related spars along masts or stays.^[52] Halyards typically run through blocks at the masthead or yard ends, allowing crews to lift heavy sails from the deck. To manage the substantial effort required, especially for larger sails, these systems often incorporate purchases—block-and-tackle arrangements that provide mechanical advantage by distributing the load across multiple parts of the rope. For instance, a four-part purchase, common in gaff-rigged mainsails, reduces the force needed to hoist the sail by a factor of approximately four, accounting for friction losses, enabling even small crews to handle loads that might otherwise require dozens of personnel.^[52]^[53] Once hoisted, sails are secured in place to maintain their position against dynamic forces. Traditional methods include belaying halyards to cleats, belaying pins, or pins on a pin rail, where the line is wrapped in a figure-eight pattern or hitched to hold tension without slippage.^[54]^[55] In gaff and square rigs, peak halyards are particularly vital, elevating the outer end of the gaff or yard to set the sail's angle; these are often secured similarly after adjustment to ensure stability during maneuvers.^[52] For square-rigged vessels, additional lifts—running rigging lines attached at multiple points along the yard—distribute support evenly, preventing uneven sagging under load.^[52] The loads imposed on running rigging during sail support combine the static weight of the sailcloth, spars, and fittings with dynamic wind pressures, which can escalate rapidly. In moderate conditions, these can result in significant loads, often several tons in total for larger sails, distributed across multiple lines, necessitating robust line diameters and secure attachments to avoid failure.^[56] Fore-and-aft rigged vessels typically employ a single halyard per sail for simpler hoisting, while square rigs use multiple halyards and lifts per yard to handle the greater complexity and weight distribution of stacked sails.^[52] Maintenance of running rigging focused on sail support emphasizes preventing chafe—the abrasive wear at contact points like blocks, sails, or spars—which can compromise line integrity over time. Periodic inspections, recommended daily for visual checks and annually for thorough examinations, involve scanning halyards and purchases for fraying, UV degradation, or tension inconsistencies at attachment points. Traditional practices include worming, parcelling, and serving lines with tarred spun yarn to shield against chafe, ensuring longevity in harsh marine environments.^[52]

Shaping the Sails

Running rigging plays a crucial role in shaping sails by adjusting tension along the luff, foot, and leech to optimize curvature and aerodynamic performance in traditional vessels. In fore-and-aft rigs, the outhaul tensions the foot of the sail, pulling the clew aft to flatten the lower portion and control draft depth, while the downhaul applies additional luff tension below the halyard attachment to shift the draft forward for better upwind efficiency.^[57]^[58] These controls help position the sail's maximum draft—the deepest point of the belly—at approximately 30-50% of the chord length from the luff, promoting a balanced airfoil shape that maximizes lift while minimizing drag.^[59] For boom and gaff adjustments in gaff-rigged setups, the vang prevents the boom from lifting and twisting the upper leech, maintaining a uniform sail profile, while gaff topsail brails allow crews to haul up sections of the sail for reefing, effectively altering its shape to reduce area and flatten the curve in stronger winds.^[60]^[58] In square-rigged vessels, clew lines attached to the lower corners pull the clews upward and inward to flatten the sail during heavy weather, distributing tension evenly across the sail height and preventing excessive belly that could lead to stalling.^[61] Fore-and-aft sails often incorporate battens supported by leech lines, which tension the trailing edge to reduce flutter and hold the sail's shape, ensuring the leech remains straight for consistent airflow.^[62]^[60] Aerodynamically, reducing twist—where the upper leech angles away from the wind—through vang and sheet tension ensures even power distribution from luff to leech, as excessive twist depowers the top of the sail and imbalances the vessel's drive.^[58] Crews follow a systematic trimming sequence in traditional rigs, beginning with luff tension via the downhaul to set the forward draft, followed by foot adjustment with the outhaul, and concluding with leech control using the vang or sheets to fine-tune twist and openness.^[57] This approach complements adjustments for wind angle by optimizing the sail's inherent profile for varying conditions.^[57]

Adjusting to the Wind

In traditional sailing vessels, running rigging plays a crucial role in orienting sails to the apparent wind direction, enabling efficient propulsion across various points of sail. Trimming systems, primarily composed of sheets and travelers, allow sailors to adjust the angle of sails relative to the wind, optimizing lift while minimizing drag. For close-hauled sailing, sails are typically set at an apparent wind angle of 15-45 degrees, depending on vessel type and conditions, to achieve the closest possible course to the windward direction.^[63]^[64] In square-rigged vessels, braces are the primary running rigging elements for adjusting sail orientation, used to rotate the yards laterally around the mast to align sails with the wind. These braces enable yards to be braced up to 90 degrees from the vessel's centerline for a beam reach, maximizing sail area exposure, while for close-hauled points of sail, yards are typically braced to about 30 degrees from centerline, allowing the vessel to sail approximately 60-70 degrees off the true wind. Tacks secure the lower forward corners of the sails, working in conjunction with sheets to hold the clews taut and prevent luffing during adjustments. Effective angle adjustment relies on prior sail shaping to ensure smooth airflow over the canvas.^[65]^[66]^[67] Fore-and-aft rigged vessels employ sheets led through adjustable fairleads or travelers to fine-tune sail angles, with jib or staysail sheets controlling the forward sails and the mainsheet managing boom swing for the mainsail. Jib sheets are routed through leads positioned to maintain optimal sheeting angles, typically pulling the clew aft and downward to align the sail at 40-50 degrees to the true wind when close-hauled, while the mainsheet tensions the boom to match, often via a multi-part purchase system for leverage. This setup allows precise control over the boom's lateral position, swinging it across the vessel's centerline to adapt to wind shifts.^[68]^[69] Responses to wind shifts involve coordinated easing and tightening of sheets and braces to maintain optimal sail trim without stalling. In fore-and-aft rigs, gybing (or jibing) sequences require easing the working sheet to allow the boom to swing across while simultaneously trimming the new leeward sheet to catch the wind on the opposite tack, preventing uncontrolled gybes that could damage rigging. For square rigs, similar adjustments occur during downwind maneuvers, with sheets eased and braces hauled to rotate yards progressively as the wind moves aft.^[65]^[69] Historical tactics in square-rigged vessels leveraged running rigging for maneuvers like "wearing ship," a downwind turn where the stern passes through the wind to change tack without tacking into it. This involved manning braces and sheets to brace yards around sequentially from aft to forward masts, easing fore course sheets while hauling tacks and new braces, allowing the vessel to pivot efficiently while keeping sails drawing. Such techniques minimized time lost to wind shadows and preserved momentum in fleet actions or narrow channels.^[65]^[66]

Enhancing Stability

Running rigging plays a crucial role in enhancing vessel stability by mitigating risks associated with sudden wind shifts and excessive heel in traditional sailing. Preventer lines, such as boom preventers, are essential running rigging elements rigged from the boom end to a secure point forward or on the deck to restrain uncontrolled boom movement during accidental gybes, thereby preventing the boom from swinging violently across the cockpit and potentially causing injury or capsize.^[70] In square-rigged vessels, fore and after guys serve a similar stabilizing function for the lower yards or poles, with the fore guy led through a fairlead in the forecastle to control forward motion and the after guy through a lower sheave to manage aft positioning, ensuring the yard remains steady against rolling seas and wind gusts.^[71] Adjustments to running rigging also enable sailors to balance the vessel by countering heel through targeted sail trim. For instance, easing the leeward sheets during gusts reduces sail power on that side, allowing the vessel to heel less excessively and maintain a more even keel, which is particularly vital in fore-and-aft rigs where unbalanced forces can lead to broaching.^[72] Reefing systems further contribute to stability by incorporating running lines like brails or reef points that haul in excess sail area, reducing the center of effort and overall windage; in traditional gaff or leg-o-mutton sails, brails progressively shorten the sail from bottom to top, tying reef points to secure the bunt without excessive flapping.^[73] This dynamic reduction in sail area helps prevent overpowering in heavy weather, preserving balance and reducing the risk of knockdown. Historically, running rigging has proven instrumental in averting capsize during storms on 19th-century square-riggers, with coordinated adjustments to sheets, guys, and reefing lines distributing loads and maintaining balance under gale-force winds. Proper load distribution via even tension in running lines, such as coordinated sheet and guy adjustments, minimizes uneven heeling moments by ensuring symmetrical sail forces across the vessel, thereby enhancing overall righting capability without relying solely on standing rigging.^[74]

Modern Applications

Recreational Sailing

In recreational sailing, fractional rigs are prevalent on sloop-rigged vessels measuring 20 to 40 feet, featuring a forestay attachment point below the masthead to optimize sail shape and handling for leisure cruising.^[75] These setups typically incorporate a modest number of running lines, including main and jib halyards, jib sheets, mainsheet, outhaul, and boom vang, providing sufficient control without overwhelming complexity for casual outings.^[76] Self-tailing winches are standard equipment, enabling single-handed operation by automatically gripping the line during trimming, which enhances safety and ease for amateur sailors managing sails independently.^[77] Polyester remains the preferred material for halyards and sheets in recreational applications due to its balance of affordability, UV resistance, and flexibility, making it suitable for low-to-moderate loads on leisure boats.^[78] Color-coding these lines—such as red for port-side headsail controls and green for starboard mainsail lines—facilitates quick identification and reduces errors during adjustments, a practical feature for non-professional crews.^[79] Line diameters are sized for comfort and strength, with 10 mm sheets commonly used on 30-foot sloops to ensure reliable grip in winches while minimizing hand fatigue.^[80] Running rigging in this context supports straightforward uses like day sails, where minimal adjustments to halyards and sheets maintain sail trim amid light to moderate winds, emphasizing enjoyment over precision.^[6] Roller furling systems integrate running lines for effortless jib deployment and reefing from the cockpit, allowing sailors to shorten sail quickly without leaving the helm, a key convenience for short recreational trips.^[81] These designs draw briefly from traditional fore-and-aft rigging principles, adapting them for simpler, modern leisure vessels.^[82] Maintenance focuses on preventing degradation from environmental factors, with routine inspections for fraying or stiffness recommended after each season.^[78] Polyester lines exposed to UV should be replaced every 3 to 5 years to avoid sudden failure, particularly in sunny climates where degradation accelerates.^[78] Cleaning with mild soap and storing coils away from direct sunlight extends usability, ensuring reliable performance for ongoing recreational use.^[78] As of 2025, accessibility has improved with app-integrated tension gauges like the Spinlock Rig Sense, which connect via Bluetooth to smartphones for real-time monitoring and logging of line loads, empowering amateur sailors to tune rigging accurately without specialized tools.^[83] This technology logs data for repeatable setups, reducing guesswork in sail trim and promoting safer, more confident handling on the water.^[84]

Racing and Performance Sailing

In racing and performance sailing, running rigging systems are engineered for precision and minimal interference with sail shape and boat dynamics, particularly on yachts ranging from 40 to 80 feet. These setups often incorporate over 20 dedicated lines, including multiple halyards, sheets, outhauls, and control lines for sails like the mainsail, jib, and spinnakers, allowing crews to make rapid adjustments during high-speed maneuvers. Modern materials such as Dyneema enable low-stretch performance, with minimal elongation under typical dynamic loads, which maintains sail tension and prevents power loss in gusts.^[85]^[86] Optimization techniques focus on fine-tuning sail shape to maximize aerodynamic efficiency, such as using the mainsheet and boom vang to control mainsail leech twist, where increased twist in light winds promotes airflow attachment and reduced twist in heavy air flattens the sail for depowering. On grand prix racers, hydraulic assists integrated into running rigging—such as ram systems for sheets and backstays—allow instantaneous adjustments without manual effort, enabling crews to respond to wind shifts in seconds. Class rules under systems like IRC and ORC govern rigging measurements to ensure fair competition, including requirements for running rigging to be slack during measurements and limits on attachments that could alter hull or sail ratings, though specific line strengths are often left to designer specifications within safety margins.^[87]^[88]^[89] Emerging 2025 trends emphasize lightweight carbon blocks, which significantly reduce line friction compared to traditional metal sheaves, minimizing energy loss during trimming and allowing thinner, lighter lines without compromising control.^[90] Using thin-diameter Dyneema lines reduces weight aloft, enhancing the yacht's stability and performance. In high-profile case studies like the America's Cup, foiling catamarans employ advanced running rigging with continuous line loops for sheets and controls, facilitating seamless tacks without dropping foils, as demonstrated in the 2017-2021 cycles where teams achieved full-foiling maneuvers at speeds exceeding 40 knots. Similar advanced systems were employed in the 37th America's Cup (2024) with foiling monohulls, achieving speeds over 50 knots using continuous line controls for seamless maneuvers.^[91]^[92]^[93]

References

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RUNNING RIGGING definition and meaning - Collins Dictionary
running rigging in British English. noun. nautical. the wires and ropes used to control the operations of a sailing vessel. Compare standing rigging. Collins ...
[2]
Running Rigging Definition & Meaning | YourDictionary
Running Rigging definition: The movable parts of a vessel's rigging, as halyards and sheets, used to position and control sails, booms, etc.
[3]
Cordage: its origins, construction, properties and uses in ships
Maritime history. Cordage: its origins ... In sailing ships it was frequently used for rigging hoists, ship mooring lines and ship's boat hoists.<|control11|><|separator|>
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Understanding Running Rigging - Cruising World Magazine
Jan 22, 2020 · Standing rigging keeps the mast in place, but it's the running rigging that handles all the action aboard a boat under sail.
[5]
https://www.fisheriessupply.com/sailboat-parts/rigging-hardware
[6]
Sailboat Running Rigging - NauticEd Sailing Blog
Oct 18, 2023 · A sailboat's running rigging consists of those items controlling the sails and helping the sails to capture the wind's energy.
[7]
Nautical Terminology 101 – Running Rigging | iNavX
Oct 5, 2023 · We're on to running rigging – the various lines that you move, pull, and release to sail the boat. Running rigging has at least one free end.Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
[8]
[PDF] RiGGiNG - Good Old Boat
are called running rigging. Standing rigging may be made of rope or wire. On ships of the line in. Nelson's day, it was all-rope, set up with dead eyes ...
[9]
RUNNING RIGGING definition in American English - Collins Dictionary
Word origin. [1660–70]. COBUILD frequency band. running rigging in British English. noun. nautical. the wires and ropes used to control the operations of a ...
[10]
The difference between standing and running rigging
In essence, standing rigging supports the boat's structure, while running rigging controls the sails and enables the boat to harness the wind effectively. Both ...
[11]
Running rigging, standing rigging, what's the difference?
Jan 23, 2024 · On a sailboat, a distinction is made between running rigging and standing rigging. A dormant maneuver has both ends fixed at each end.
[12]
Rigging - NauticEd Sailing Blog
Oct 24, 2023 · Standing and Running Rigging ... Standing rigging is just that; it does not move and is a generic name for masts, spreaders, and stays, many of ...
[13]
Cruising Boat Running Rigging Inspection
Feb 26, 2022 · ... consequences of failure are, while still problematic, less of a disaster than a spar section or standing rigging failure. Rather ...
[14]
The Most Common Rigging Failures and How to Prevent Them
Mar 17, 2025 · Your standing rigging (shrouds, stays, and wires) holds up your mast, so a failure here can be catastrophic. Over time, stainless steel wires ...Missing: implications | Show results with:implications
[15]
Ultimate Guide to Natural Fiber Rope Types and Uses - iRopes
3000 BCE – Egyptian reeds – early cordage for river boats, the first documented natural‑fibre line. 2000 BCE – Bronze Age hemp – twisted hemp fibres powered ...
[16]
[PDF] Naval power and textile technology: sail production in ancient Greece
The use of hemp, especially for ropes, is also noted from the 5th century BCE. Surviving archaeological textiles indicate that until the 6th century BCE linen.
[17]
http://www.lapware.org/files/pdf/rope-1.pdf
[18]
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/084387149200400107
[19]
What was the potential lifespan of a ship in the Age of Discovery?
Jun 5, 2015 · Cordage and rigging would have to be replaced fairly frequently. Manila rope (that is, rope made from the abacá plant, native to the ...Missing: fiber frequency
[20]
Tons of Rope - Fishermen's Voice
Wire rope replaced hemp and manila for standing rigging on the steel ships with steel masts that were in use in by the late 1800's. Fiber rope continued to ...Missing: materials coir<|control11|><|separator|>
[21]
Technical Bulletin Elastic Stiffness - Samson Rope
In a sailboat's rigging, some lines benefit from lower stretch to limit movement while others require a higher degree of elasticity to ease strain on hardware ...Overview · Changing The Way We Express... · Using The New Elastic...
[22]
Nylon vs Polyester vs Polypropylene Rope | Best Synthetic Rope
Apr 18, 2025 · Nylon can stretch as much as 25 to 30 percent at its breaking strength depending on the construction of the rope; Very high strength. About ...
[23]
https://www.connect-knkt.com/nylon-vs-polyester-vs-polypropylene-rope-how-to-choose/
[24]
Checking Rope Strength - Practical Sailor
Elongation is also stable: in nylon rope, there is 2.5 percent elongation at 10 percent breaking strength; in polyester rope, there is 6 percent elongation at ...
[25]
The World's Strongest Fiber | Dyneema®
Our most durable composite ever made - built for the toughest expeditions and the world's most extreme terrains. Explore our game changing fabric innovation.Buy Dyneema · Performance apparel and... · The sectors we serve · Fabric FinderMissing: Kevlar rigging
[26]
[PDF] Dyneema®/ Spectra® Lifelines | US Sailing
Jan 22, 2014 · This fiber has very attractive properties: extremely strong (15 times stronger than steel fiber of the same weight) and low stretch for its ...
[27]
[PDF] Kevlar® Aramid Fiber Technical Guide - DuPont
EFFECT OF UV LIGHT ON KEVLAR®. Like other polymeric materials, Kevlar® is sensitive to UV (ultraviolet) light. Unprotected yarn tends to discolor from yellow ...
[28]
Ropes for boats - order online at Premiumropes - worldwide shipping
Free delivery over €200 14-day returnsOrder ropes for boats in our online store. Premiumropes offers a wide range of sailing ropes for different types of boats and sailors.
[29]
New England Dyneema Core Polyester Cover - Vela Sailing Supply
Free delivery over $450 30-day returnsSpecially engineered 12 Strand Dyneema SK 75 core with Marine-Tech coating and the sports best 24 carrier braided polyester cover. Use for sheets, halyards, ...Missing: modern | Show results with:modern
[30]
[PDF] Digging Deep into Running Rigging - Practical Sailor
For running rigging, braided lines are preferred over laid rope. Tests evaluate durability, elasticity, handling, and abrasion resistance. Safe working loads ...
[31]
End-to-end sustainability | Dyneema®
Our innovative solution is ISCC certified and boasts a considerably lower carbon footprint than conventional Dyneema® fiber. Learn more. Recycled-based Dyneema® ...
[32]
Marlow Turns Tide on Sustainable Rope Manufacturing
Aug 20, 2022 · Marlow has reduced reliance on fossil fuels by making all its standard synthetic rope products using sustainably sourced fibers manufactured ...Missing: synthetics | Show results with:synthetics
[33]
The Gaff Rig Handbook: History, Design, Techniques, Developments
Nov 11, 2013 · This is the internationally regarded definitive handbook for anyone designing, building, rigging or sailing gaff rigged craft.
[34]
None
### Rope Diameter Recommendations for Boats Around 30ft (Running Rigging)
[35]
Why are sheets called sheets | YBW Forum
Apr 16, 2010 · Old English apparently. "rope that controls a sail," O.E. sceatline "sheet-line," from sceata "lower part of sail," originally "piece of cloth, ...
[36]
Halyard - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
Originating from Middle English halen meaning "to haul," the word evolved from halier (late 14c.) meaning "carrier" to denote a rope for hoisting sails by ...
[37]
Sheet - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
Sheet originates from Old English sciete, meaning "length of cloth," from Proto-Germanic *skautjon- (corner, seam), evolving to also mean "rope controlling ...
[38]
Glossary of Nautical Terms and Abbreviations | SailChecker.com
May 21, 2025 · Shackle: A metal link with a removable bolt, often D- or U-shaped, used for attaching rigging or hardware. Sheet: The rope attached to the clew ...
[39]
https://sailchecker.com/sailing-terminology-glossary/
[40]
Glossary of Nautical Terms and Abbreviations - Nomad Sailing
Run - to sail with the wind aft and with the sheets eased well out. Running rigging - all the moving lines such as sheets and halyards used in the setting and ...
[41]
Nautical Glossary - MarineWaypoints.com
Braces - On square rigged ships, lines or cables attached to the ends of each yard; these are used to pivot (brace) the yards around the mast at different ...<|separator|>
[42]
Try a Barber Hauler for Better Sail Trim - Practical Sailor
Aug 13, 2019 · A barber hauler helps with sail trim, especially when jib positioning is difficult, and can be used for spinnakers and reachers.
[43]
Nautical Terminology - Civil War Navy
This 19th century publication contains a complete dictionary of nautical terms and phrases, plus biographies of prominent U.S. naval officers, information about ...
[44]
UK v US - schooner-britannia.com
A lighthearted enlightenment of the differences between American and British nautical terms. I always though it was Winston Churchill who originated the phrase.
[45]
Origin of Navy Terminology - Naval History and Heritage Command
As required by 17th century law, British ships-of-war carried three smaller boats -- the boat, the cock boat, and the skiff. The boat -- or gig -- was usually ...
[46]
Types of Sailing Rigs
Most modern ships are fore-and-aft rigged, while most older ships are square-rigged. Rigs with one mast are sloops and cutters. Ketches, yawls, brigs, and ...
[47]
The Fore and Aft Rig | Good Old Boat
An important point with cutters and most double-headsail rigs is that running backstays are required to properly tension the staysail stay. Often, you'll find ...
[48]
None
Below is a merged response that consolidates all the information from the provided summaries into a single, comprehensive overview. To maximize detail and clarity, I’ve organized key sections using text for narrative content and tables in CSV format where appropriate (e.g., for running rigging configurations and comparisons). The response retains all mentioned details while avoiding redundancy where possible.
[49]
the book of the sailboat - readingroo.ms
Where sails have no gaff or piece of wood at the upper edge only one halyard is used. Running Rigging of Fore-and-aft Rig. A—Jib halyard. B—Downhaul. C ...Missing: configuration | Show results with:configuration
[50]
Topsail schooner belaying plan - Masting, rigging and sails
Nov 4, 2021 · As you can see, there are 35 running rigging lines coming down from the foremast (not counting studding sails!). The base of the mast seems a ...
[51]
Sail Ship Rigging - GlobalSecurity.org
Jul 22, 2011 · Square-rigged vessels required braces, which are used to adjust the fore and aft angle of a yard. A brace is a rope employed to wheel, or ...
[52]
How U.S. Clipper Ships Changed World Trade | National Geographic
Aug 31, 2018 · The definition of an American clipper ship is a three-masted, full-rigged ship with square sails on each of her three masts that was built for ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[53]
HMS Victory by EdT - FINISHED - 1:96 - POB - Model Ship World
Feb 17, 2013 · The rope ranges in size from the 27” circumference (9” diameter) anchor hawsers, down to 1” for flag halyards. All rope size is designated by ...Rigging sizes in relation to scale of model - Masting, rigging and sailsSize of blocks & rigging thickness ? - Model Ship World™More results from modelshipworld.com
[54]
[PDF] MASTS, SAILS AND RIGGING - USS Constitution Museum
A square rigged ship could only sail to about six points, or 674 degrees, of the wind, A fore and aft rigged ship of the period could usually get within five.
[55]
The Elements and Practice of Rigging And Seamanship
There are two species of Rigging: one called STANDING-RIGGING; the other RUNNING-RIGGING. ... TOW-LINE is a small hawser, used to remove any vessel, by means of ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[56]
The Ultimate Guide to Purchase Systems and Mechanical Advantage.
May 16, 2024 · It involves blocks (the unsung heroes) and ropes, creating a setup that multiplies your muscle power, making sail control and rigging adjustment ...Missing: gaff | Show results with:gaff
[57]
Cleat - UK Sailmakers
To secure a line to a horn cleat, wrap the line in a figure-eight pattern around the cleat's horns, crossing over each other as you alternate sides. Finish with ...
[58]
Cleating the Main - Small Boats Monthly
Oct 1, 2019 · A traditional way to secure a sheet is with a slipped hitch on a half pin. The Ashley Book of Knots describes the Slippery Hitch, ...
[59]
How to calculate halyard and sheet loads | Sailing Anarchy Forums
Aug 2, 2023 · But if you do the math for ~20kt, 20^2x0.00256=1.024. So the formula you had is basically SA+sheet load for halyard load at 20kt of wind. So ...Missing: topsail historical
[60]
Mainsail Trim - UK Sailmakers
The mainsail can be adjusted to vary the amount and location of draft, and trimmed to control the shape of the leech and its angle to the wind.
[61]
The Cruiser's Guide to Mainsail Control - Quantum Sails
Oct 23, 2023 · Mainsail control can be achieved using the traveler, mainsheet, boom vang, backstay tension, outhaul, or cunningham to manipulate sail shape.
[62]
Sail draft - Lester Gilbert
Some skippers insist that maximum draft should be about 45% of chord, while others say 30%.Missing: traditional rigs
[63]
Glossary Marine Rigging | Sailing Terms - Nance Underwood Rigging
Leech line. A line used to tighten the leech of a sail, helping to create proper sail shape. Leech The aft edge of a fore and aft sail. Leecloths Cloths ...Missing: brails | Show results with:brails
[64]
Clew - UK Sailmakers
On square-rigged ships, clew lines allowed the crew to gather and secure the lower corners of the square sails, adjusting or furling them as needed. This ...
[65]
Batten - UK Sailmakers
A batten is a flexible strip inserted into specially designed pockets in a sail, typically running horizontally from the leech (back edge) toward the luff.Missing: fore | Show results with:fore
[66]
Dynamics of Headsail Trim - Sailing World
Apr 19, 2022 · Professional sailor Erik Shampain explains the fundamentals and dynamics of active headsail trimming on small keelboats.
[67]
Six Factors of Perfect Upwind Headsail Trim - Quantum Sails
Aug 11, 2021 · The six main factors to consider when trimming the headsail are sail choice, sheet tension, lead height, sheet angle, headstay tension, and sail cloth tension.<|separator|>
[68]
[PDF] Trimming Sail
Square sails are trimmed using braces and sheets to adjust to the apparent wind, which moves forward as the vessel gains speed. Fanning is also used to adjust ...
[69]
[PDF] Square-Rig Sailing - Andrew Owen
Square rigged vessels usually cannot brace their yards to more than about 30 degrees from the centreline of the vessel. At this stage the ship's yards will be ...
[70]
Rigged to Blow: Sailing a Square-Rigged Vessel
Oct 26, 2017 · The yards would be adjusted through lines called “braces” to utilize the most sail area. A square-rigged vessel could only sail approximately ...
[71]
[PDF] Windward Sailing Capabilities of Ancient Vessels
Apr 15, 2021 · Ancient vessels had modest windward performance in moderate conditions, but this quickly decreased with fouled hulls or poor conditions. This ...Missing: limitations | Show results with:limitations
[72]
Trim Your Jib Sail Like a Pro | Cruising World
Dec 9, 2011 · Jibing is easy with a jib. Simply ease it out and trim in the new sheet just as the main is moving across the boat.
[73]
How to rig a preventer and boom brake: Our expert guide
Jul 31, 2024 · A boom brake or preventer can take the force out of an accidental gybe – especially important if your mainsheet crossed the cockpit.
[74]
Boy's Manual Of Seamanship And Gunnery - Rigging - RootsWeb
To Reeve a Fore-Guy. Reeve the end out through a fair lead in the forecastle ... To Reeve an After-Guy. Reeve the end out through the lower sheave in ...
[75]
Tips to Ease your Mainsheet for Speed - International Sailing Academy
Oct 5, 2017 · Ease in the gusts: Ease the main when the puff initially hits, thus trimming the sails to the new apparent-wind direction. Lulls and the Ease.Missing: counter traditional
[76]
Brail reefing for a leg-o-mutton? - The WoodenBoat Forum
Jul 28, 2016 · The secret to success is in the tuning of the system: you must arrange to progressively shorten the lengths of the brails from bottom to top of ...
[77]
How would a 19th century rigged sailing vessel prepare for a violent ...
Dec 26, 2021 · If in harbour, they would simply not set sail, and wait out the storm for better weather. If out at sea, they would: reef or shorten sail area, if willing to ...What measures can be taken to prevent a ship from capsizing in ...How can a sailboat capsize, and what can be done to prevent one ...More results from www.quora.com
[78]
20 ways to boost Lug rig and lug sail performance! Rigging and ...
Sep 17, 2017 · There's a video of us changing the heel of the boat when running just by moving the sheet in and out. Video of heeling control on a run ...3/ Two Lug Sail Rigging... · 12/ Lug Rig Setup From 100... · 13/ Reefing Faster...
[79]
Know-how: Modern Rigs 101 - SAIL Magazine
Mar 5, 2020 · By far the most common configuration these days is the sloop rig with aluminum spars, so that's what we'll talk about here. MASTHEAD/FRACTIONAL.Missing: 40ft | Show results with:40ft
[80]
Running Rigging for Cruising Sailors
Oct 15, 2020 · Upward increases sail twist, and downward reduces it. A topping lift should also be used to take the weight of the boom off the mains'l ...
[81]
https://www.svb24.com/en/guide/sailing-made-easy-everything-you-need-to-know-about-roller-furling-systems.html
[82]
Halyards, Sheets, and Lines: A Guide to Choosing and Maintaining ...
May 11, 2023 · It is essential to choose a halyard that matches the load the sail will have on the line. Low-stretch halyards are ideal for racing and performance sailing.
[83]
https://www.premiumropes.com/spinlock-rig-sense
[84]
Rope diameter advice - how thick should your sailing ropes be?
Sheets and halyards: rope diameter advice ; 6-8 m / 20-26 ft · 8 mm, 8 mm ; 9 m / 30 ft · 10 mm, 10 mm ; 10 m / 33 ft · 10 mm, 10 mm ; 11 m / 36 ft · 12 mm, 10 mm ; 12 m ...
[85]
Sailing made easy: Everything you need to know about roller furling ...
A furling system allows you to set, recover and partially reef your foresail (genoa or jib) conveniently and practically from the cockpit.
[86]
https://www.noonsite.com/report/how-to-choose-a-new-halyard/
[87]
Spinlock Rig Sense Tension Gauge | Premiumropes
Free delivery over €200 14-day returnsThe Rig-Sense App extends the functionality of your gauge by allowing you to: • Log and track tension data: Maintain a record of tension settings for different ...Missing: integrated | Show results with:integrated
[88]
https://www.sailingworld.com/how-to/the-leech-is-the-thing/
[89]
https://worldcruising.com/articles/welcome-advanced-rigging
[90]
How to Choose a New Halyard - Noonsite.com
100% polyester lines are fine for cruising yachts, but a Dyneema core will deliver higher strength and reduce the strain compared with the applied force.
[91]
UNDERSTANDING TWIST - North Sails
A sail has lots of twist when the upper part of the leech is open, while a closed leech has little twist. Increasing twist reduces power because it opens the ...Missing: control | Show results with:control
[92]
The Leech Is the Thing | Sailing World
Dec 20, 2016 · All is cured with mainsail trim, with the trimmer using the main's leech as the primary “rudder.” In the first instance, if the trimmer ...Missing: sticks | Show results with:sticks
[93]
Welcome to Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics - World Cruising Club
With decades of experience, Advanced Rigging and Hydraulics offers specialist insight into how to specify, service, and maintain a yacht's rig for safety, ...
[94]
Series 30 Ball Bearing Orbit Block™, Triple with Cleat - Ronstan
In stock Free delivery over $75Their precision design provides the optimum number of ball bearings for minimum friction while weight reduction is achieved through the use of fibre-reinforced ...
[95]
The Case for Carbon Rigging - Scuttlebutt Sailing News
Apr 28, 2021 · Less weight aloft translates to more righting moment from the keel, resulting in better stability under sail and less pitching at anchor. ORC ...
[96]
New America's Cup class revealed. Think 46 knots in 16 knots of ...
Apr 2, 2015 · There are gains to be made in ease of use, how the boat manoeuvres, how the wing pops through on tacks and gybes. If we start considering foil- ...