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Sometimes the most difficult problems to solve can have the simplest resolution, provided you know who to talk to! 

We have previously reported on the benefits of composite backstays: to reduce weight aloft and increase performance. An effective control system to finely tune backstay load is equally important, particularly for a race yacht. In this blog we look at 3 popular configurations for backstay purchase systems using block and tackle. 

The world of modern sailing ropes is bright and bountiful. But from the plethora of brands, colours, materials and styles, Gottifredi Maffioli’s Superswift perpetually stands out. The family run Italian firm pioneered the ‘Swift’ style of lines more than 2 decades ago which have since been imitated by so many other manufacturers. Superswift features that iconic grippy, durable cover with a compact braid DSK78 Dyneema core. In this blog we explore why this material lends itself so well to light weight spinnaker sheets. 

All sailing boats need ropes. But what is required of a rope varies greatly depending on the application. A vang purchase system demands different characteristics to a sheet, just as a halyard on a cruising boat can differ greatly to that on a grand prix racing yacht. Typically we don’t need to worry about the details too much as manufacturers tend to target their product lines: ‘cruising sheet’, ‘performance halyard’ etc. But what really differentiates these ropes on a technical level and which materials are responsible for providing the various characteristics? In this blog with give a brief overview of some of the fibres most commonly found in modern rope covers. 

Credit - Robline

Picking out the perfect sheet can be difficult, but we're here to help! Check out the information below for some tips on what you should consider when buying.

We are pleased to announce our Custom Splicing, running rigging service at upffront.com. We have created a configurator to allow you to build and order finished sheets and halyards online. We have started with a small range of Gottifredi Maffioli lines but, if you like it, we hope to expand this range in the future. The lines are built by hand-picked, high quality rigging partners from around the world.