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Mainsheet systems, simple yet vital hardware, play a crucial role in sailboat operation due to their constant use. A block and tackle or ‘purchase’ system is a form of mechanical advantage, where the input force is multiplied through a series of pulleys or blocks to create a much larger output force. Trying to understand how to achieve different purchase ratios might seem daunting to the uninitiated, but it’s quite straightforward once you know some basic principles. In this blog we will guide you through different purchase systems used on modern sailboats. 
 

Winterizing the boat is a common task for many boat owners, regardless of where your boat is located. For some, in milder winter conditions, it means keeping everything dry and tidy, but for many, with more severe winters where it snows and even freezes, the need for packing up the boat for winter is a necessity. This article from our blogger Dave Proctor will guide you through the preparation for the winter to avoid some unpleasant surprises next spring. 

Image credit - © Kohlhoff GmbH

Today we are speaking about deck hardware and rig setup to Max Kohlhoff, the winning helmsman of the 2023 Star Worlds. With Ole Burzinski from Flensburg Yacht Club, onboard Playmate, they recently scored two bullets out of six races in Scarlino, finishing the championship ahead of double Star World champion Diego Negri. They now join the long list of Star World Champions, that have raced annually since 1923, to claim this prestigious title.

Image copyright - © Polyform AS

One of latest additions to our sailing hardware line-up are the Polyform fenders from the original Norwegian manufacturer, Polyform AS. Established over  60 years ago, Polyform AS is renowned for inventing the modern plastic buoy and producing fenders of exceptional quality. In this article, we will look into the key features of Polyform fenders, share the story of Polyform Norway versus Polyform US, and provide a technical comparison of some of their popular A and F-series fenders.
 

Image copyright - © Facnor

The sailing world is undergoing a sea change, embracing the power of electrification for unparalleled ease and convenience, especially for older crews and solo sailors. Electric systems are revolutionising boats, from lithium-ion battery improvements to automation in rigging systems. Electric furlers for headsails are now common, making sail handling more effortless than ever. 

Image copyright - © Studio Borlenghi / Stefano Gattini

In this blog we round up 5 of the best bottom up furlers on the market. Choosing the right bottom up furler is a question of boat size and SWL (safe working load), sail area, performance level and budget. Furling code zero sails and asymmetric/gennaker sails offer fast reaching and ease of handling that appeals to sailing cruisers as well as to sail racers. In one of our previous blogs we have posted a guide to help you choose the right size of code zero or asymmetric/gennaker furler. In this blog we explore different furler brands, their features and to which style of sailing they are best suited.