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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 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. 
 

Image copyright - Premium Ropes (S Cup halyard - Performance range)

When it comes to sailing, the choice of ropes can make all the difference in your performance on the water. Whether you're a dinghy sailor, cruiser, or a competitive racer, having the right running rigging lines can greatly enhance your sailing experience. Today we look at Premium Ropes range with our advice on preferred ropes depending on the size of your boat.

Credit - Robline

We recently added a range of Robline ropes to our configurable product range, allowing you to choose splicing options and purchase finished sheets and halyards directly online. In this blog we look at how to use the configurator and give an overview of the new products.  

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. 

Credit - Premiumropes 

The issue of plastic waste has come to the forefront of public attention in recent years, with plastic bottles clogging our waterways and gathering as vast floating islands in our oceans. Now scientists and entrepreneurs across the world are scrambling to come up with solutions to the problem and find novel ways of recycling waste plastic. Premiumropes are no different and have recently launched their Eco range of ropes featuring recycled Polyester.