Soft shackles have surely penetrated the mainstream sailing in recent years. They are a popular alternative to traditional metal shackles. Made from single braid Dyneema® soft shackles offer several advantages over their metal counterparts. Read our blog to understand the main benefits of switching to soft shackles, their applications and maintenance requirements.
Image credit - Vakaros
Recently we've introduced the latest Vakaros Atlas 2 sailing instrument to our shop and compared it in our review to other top sailing instruments. This is a highly accurate GPS computer that is designed to enhance precision and reliability on the water. Loaded with cutting-edge technology, the Atlas 2 is a top-tier portable sailing instrument. At Upffront.com we are always sharing the latest development in sailing systems and this blog will guide you through the main features of the Atlas 2 device.
Image credit - Vakaros
The term ‘sailing instrument’ is broadly applicable to just about any onboard system with a sensor and a readout. While wired instrument systems are common, in this blog we discuss portable GPS sailing instruments from Velocitek, Sailmon and Vakaros. Aimed at dinghies and small keelboats without a wired instrument package, these portable race computers have transformed the level of data available to sailors while training, sail racing and during post race analysis ashore.
Image credit - 11th Hour Racing/The Ocean Race
Why will your standing rigging benefit greatly from replacing the steel wire with composite fibre stays? I have been thinking of the advantages of composite rigging while following the different races and yachts challenges circumnavigating the world. With so many people chasing the dream of crossing oceans and sailing around the world, the importance of fitting your boat with the right material is paramount.
Image source - Stock images
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.
