sailboat racing gear

Regatta Gear: The Leaders in Yachting Gear and Sailing Apparel

Welcome to regatta gear, makers of high-quality sailing and yachting clothing..

Formed over 15 year ago, Regatta Gear has outfitted some of the world’s biggest racing circuits with sailing gear and clothing that keeps up in even the most demanding of situations. With apparel designed especially for both men and women, we have created great fitting pieces made from durable, high-quality materials.

Located right by the water in Newport Beach, we are constantly inspired by the water and the ocean. With a deep understanding of the needs of those constantly in the water, we have created collections of yachting and sailing clothing that is stylish, comfortable, and durable. Regatta Gear also specializes in creating customized team yachting apparel. Our finalized personalized gear will be suited exactly for your team’s functionality, and culture. We have a variety of custom colors, materials, and designs for you to choose from.

Here we only do one thing, and we do it well—the absolute best yachting and clothing gear on the market, with an affordable price point for everyone.  

Sailing Gear Essentials: the Ultimate Packing List (and PDF)

When I first started, I wish I had an overview of what I need right now, and might possibly want in the future. So here's the list with all sailing essentials.

What gear do I need for sailing? You need clothes that dry quickly, deck shoes with good grip that don't leave marks, and multiple layers of clothing. You also want to bring water and sunscreen. Depending on your type of sailing and your role onboard, you need different kinds of specialty gear.

It really matters what sort of trip you're planning. Also, if you're the skipper, you're responsible for bringing a lot of additional skipper & boat gear. I've specified the complete list below for all different conditions and roles.

I've also made a printable checklist that you can download for free.

Download free sailing gear packing list

Interactive Sailing Packing List

On this page:

Gear essentials: quick summary, essential sailing clothes, skipper gear, gear you need if you own a boat, related questions.

What you need to bring depends on the sort of trip, the trip length, and your role.

I categorize gear into four types of gear:

Clothing - There are some basic rules for clothing, which I'll explain below. But the best way to know what kind of clothes to wear is asking the skipper or sailors that are regulars in the area. Weather conditions on the water are very different from land.

Crew gear - All other personal things like paperwork and toiletries. Only applies for trips of multiple days or international journeys.

Boat gear - Navigation equipment, electronics, and safety gear. Boat gear is always the responsibility of the skipper, so if you're joining as crew, you don't have to worry about this.

Supplies - You always need supplies, and with long trips, this can really add up. But with one-day trips, you don't really need to worry beyond water, since there will probably be restaurants and stores around. However, you never know: a simple trip around the lake can end up in spending the night there. Mechanical breakdown happens all the time, so perhaps you want to bring at least some food and extra water.

Below I'll go into more detail for each of the different gear categories. You'll also find all of these items on the downloadable checklist. But first, let's quickly take a look at the packing list for beginner day-sailors.

What you need to bring as crew on a 1-day sailing trip:

If you're tagging along for a short trip as (beginner) crew, you don't need to bring much. You need to wear appropriate clothes and bring a bottle of water and sunscreen. Appropriate clothes are:

• multiple base layers of clothing that are comfortable and dry quickly
• non-marking deck shoes that provide a good grip like sneakers or boat shoes
• sweater and (sailing) jacket
• sun protection, like a hat or cap, and long sleeve shirts

I'll go into multiple day trips below, but first I want to take a look at the stuff each skipper needs to consider when planning a trip.

Factors that determine the supplies and boat and crew gear

If you're the skipper, you're responsible for the boat gear and any necessary supplies. You need to decide what navigation equipment you need, and how much fuel, food, and what safety gear to bring. To make planning easier, I've created a system for myself.

There are basically three kinds of trips that determine what safety and boat gear I need to bring:

• freshwater trips - not a lot needed besides basic navigation tools
• coastal and offshore trips - more safety gear required by the USCG
• ocean passages - besides more safety gear, also more supplies and tools needed

Freshwater trips - Freshwater trips are the easiest to plan. There isn't a lot of safety gear required by the Coast Guard, and you don't need a lot of supplies or fuel, because there's always a gas station nearby. So no worries here. You just need to bring your basic navigation tools. Something like a compass and marine chart will do fine, or perhaps a chartplotter.

Coastal and offshore trips - For coastal and offshore trips you need to bring a lot more safety gear, especially on larger boats. You'll also want more navigation gear, and you'll need more anchors.

Ocean passages - Ocean passages are the ultimate planning challenge. Besides all safety gear, navigation, and so on, you also need to think about your supplies and bring extra tools. Once you're out there, you're on your own, so you need to be able to do minor repairs yourself.

Make sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Required Safety Equipment on a Boat . There you'll find a USCG safety gear checklist for all different hull lengths.

Trip length

The second factor that determines required gear is the trip length. Obviously, the longer your trip, the more you'll need to bring.

• short trips (1-2 days)
• extended trips (2 - 14 days)
• ocean passage (multiple weeks)

I mention ocean passage again here because it's usually the longest kind of trip, but it also requires special planning. You need to bring a lot more fuel than on an ordinary two-week trip along the coast because chances are you won't find any gas stations in the middle of the Atlantic.

Also, you need to bring a lot more water onboard, and spare parts for minor engine and sail repairs. With long trips along the coast, you can always find a safe harbor with a store, or request Coast Guard assistance. They will probably be there within a couple of hours at most. But in the middle of the Atlantic, chances are nobody will come for at least a couple of days.

What you need to wear depends on your role and ambitions. If you're just tagging along as crew or a curious landlubber on a sailing yacht, you need to take a good look at your clothes, but you don't need to worry as much about specialty gear. If you're a pro sailor (or want to become one), you need special sailing gloves and wetsuits. And then there are foul weather clothes for heavy weather.

For sailing clothes, the rules of thumb are:

• you want to wear clothes that are appropriate to the climate
• you want to wear multiple layers because the temperature on the water can change quickly
• you always want to bring dry clothing
• wear clothes that dry quickly; neoprene and polyester are great for cold weather, linen is great for warm weather
• wear clothes that can't be caught in lines or winh; no scarfs or shawls, rather a large blanket or a thick coat for when you get cold

Beginner sailing outfit

• in cold weather, wear heavy, thick undergarments made from water repellant materials. Neoprene sailing socks are great, but wool works as well. Always bring plenty of spares.

Professional sailing clothes

• sailing gloves
• boat shoes or sailing boots
• water shoes
• polaroid sunglasses with croakies
• sailing hat, helmsman hat, or cap with retainer clip
• high-quality sailing jacket (inshore, coastal, and offshore jackets all have different linings)
• sailing trousers - this can be a polyester legging, made from wetsuit material, or a UV protective, water-repellent chino
• canvas sailing belt - works than a leather belt in wet conditions
• drysuit for cold weather

Foul weather/offshore clothes

• foulies (heavy weather rain suit)
• ocean trousers or salopettes

Crew gear is stuff every crew member needs to have, including the skipper. The safety gear is the responsibility of the skipper, the rest is up to you.

Safety gear

Each crew member should wear the following safety gear:

• life jacket - also called a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) - if you go sailing regularly, you might want to consider buying your own
• whistle for signaling when you go overboard
• waterproof headlamp for signaling when you go overboard
• For coastal and offshore sailing: harness and tether - clips you to a fixed padeye onboard to stay within reach when you go overboard

Toiletries (for multiple-day trips)

If you're going out for multiple days on end, be sure to bring your the following toiletries:

• toothbrush and toothpaste
• medications and perhaps medication for seasickness
• dry shampoo

If applicable, make sure to bring:

• passport for international trips
• diving certificate
• drivers license
• dry bag - to protect your precious gear
• swimming/snorkeling/diving gear
• fishing gear

Additional gear for multiple-day trips

• sleeping bag
• cellphone and charger
• electronics like an e-reader, tablet, laptop, camera, and chargers
• 12V to DC adapters
• power banks and spare batteries for all electronic equipment
• outlet travel multi-adapters for international trips

As skipper, you need to carry some tools to ensure a safe boat and the general safety:

• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) to transmit location in case of emergency
• utility knife and marlin spike, or:
• mariners knife (has a marlin spike) - used to work on the rigging, splitting lines, and so on
• sailing watch - A digital sailing watch has at least an alarm, which you need for reminding you to do check-ups on the course, weather conditions, and so on. Most sailing watches also have a digital compass and barometer, which is great as a backup.
• captains log if you use one
• marine binoculars (with rangefinder)

The skipper needs some additional paperwork:

• International Certificate of Competence (ICC) - for international trips only
• USCG skipper's license
• VHF certificate
• sailing guides on the area
• legal paperwork for the boat and captain - like boat registration document, and a photo ID like a driver's license

Boat gear consists of cockpit gear, navigation, communication, and safety gear. For short inland trips, you only need some of that gear. You don't need a lot of navigation equipment since the waters are well mapped and finding your way isn't very difficult. First I'll give you the bare minimum, and then I'll specify each category for longer trips.

The bare essentials:

• boat compass
• marine chart
• required safety gear
• first aid kit
• small tool kit or multitool
• working anchor and rode

Cockpit equipment:

• wind vane and/or handheld wind meter
• Cockpit Mayday procedure card
• compass deviation card
• boat maintenance log

Navigation equipment:

Bring at least one (but preferably two) the following:

• handheld compass
• chartplotter - make sure you bring updated charts
• backup chartplotter - this can also be a laptop, tablet, or even smartphone
• sextant & up-to-date navigation almanac
• marine charts

I always want to bring at least two means of navigation. My favorites are the compass (by far) and the GPS since these are very reliable. I also plan to dive into celestial navigation, since this is a great backup, and it's more accurate than you might think.

You can get a cheap but reliable chartplotter and compass for less than $500 - in total. If you want to learn more, head over to the recommended gear section:

• Click here for my recommended chartplotter
• Click here for my recommended compass

For a complete overview of types of marine navigation, I recommend to check out my in-depth article about it .

Communication equipment:

• satellite phone
• marine VHF radio
• handheld depth sounder
• signaling flags for international waters

Safety gear:

• air horn or whistle
• bosun's chair for rig work
• radar reflector
• flares or LED signaling light
• emergency weather radio
• first aid kit - needs to contain at least
• fire extinguisher(s)
• life raft for offshore sailing

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Find the latest performance sailing gear reviews including, racing equipment, foul weather gear, marine gear and sailing accessories. All tested and reviewed at Sailing World.

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It takes courage to compete on the water. The elements make everything unpredictable and even one mistake can cost the race. Embrace the adrenaline of competitive racing and that irrepressible desire to win.  When performance and technology meet, anything is possible. 

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Sailboat racing: a passionate enthusiast’s guide.

Ahoy there, fellow sailing enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, you’re probably either a seasoned sailor looking for tips to up your sailboat racing game or a curious novice eager to dive into the exhilarating world of sailboat racing. Well, you’re in for a treat! In this article, I’ll share my insights and advice on sailboat racing, offering helpful suggestions and reasons behind them.

Introduction to SailBoat Racing

Sailboat racing is not just a sport; it’s a thrilling adventure that combines the beauty of sailing with the excitement of competition. Whether you’re racing on a serene lake, a choppy sea, or a picturesque coastal route, the rush of the wind in your sails and the camaraderie among fellow racers are truly unmatched.

Choosing the Right Sailboat

Before you hit the waves, you must choose the right sailboat for your racing endeavors. Factors like boat size, design, and materials play a crucial role in determining your racing performance.

Factors to Consider

Consider factors such as boat size, hull shape, keel type, and sail plan. These elements directly influence your boat’s speed, stability, and maneuverability on the water.

Essential Gear and Equipment

To ensure your safety and comfort during sailboat racing, you’ll need the right gear and equipment.

Sailing Apparel and Safety Gear

Sailboat Rigging and Setup

Properly rigging and setting up your sailboat is essential for optimal performance on the racecourse.

Setting Up Your Sailboat

Learn how to rig your sails, adjust your rigging, and fine-tune your boat’s settings to maximize speed and control in different wind conditions.

Understanding Wind and Weather

A deep understanding of wind patterns and weather conditions is crucial for successful sailboat racing.

Reading Wind Patterns

Learn to read wind patterns, such as shifts, gusts, and lulls, to navigate the course efficiently and gain a competitive edge.

Sailing Techniques and Strategies

Mastering various sailing techniques and strategies is key to becoming a successful sailboat racer.

Upwind and Downwind Sailing

Explore the nuances of upwind and downwind sailing, including tacking, jibing , and sail trim techniques, to outmaneuver your competitors.

Racing Rules and Etiquette

To maintain fairness and safety on the water, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with racing rules and etiquette.

Understand rules related to right of way, mark rounding, and protest procedures to ensure fair competition and avoid penalties.

Training and Skill Development

Continuous training and skill development are vital to improving your sailboat racing prowess.

Improving Your Sailing Skills

Invest time in practicing maneuvers, refining your sailing techniques, and honing your racing strategies to stay ahead of the pack.

Joining a Sailing Club or Team

Consider joining a sailing club or team to connect with fellow enthusiasts and gain access to valuable resources.

Benefits of Sailing Communities

Sailing communities offer support, mentorship, and opportunities to participate in organized races and regattas.

Preparing for Your First Race

Your first sailboat race can be nerve-wracking, but with the right mental and physical preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle the challenge.

Mental and Physical Preparation

Stay calm under pressure, focus on your goals, and maintain physical fitness to excel on race day.

Race Day Tips and Strategies

On the day of the race, employing effective tips and strategies can make all the difference.

Staying Competitive and Safe

Learn how to make tactical decisions, adapt to changing conditions, and prioritize safety throughout the race.

Common Challenges

Sailboat racing isn’t without its challenges. Prepare yourself to face adverse conditions and unexpected situations.

Dealing with Adverse Conditions

Discover strategies for handling strong winds, unpredictable currents, and equipment failures gracefully.

Celebrating Your Victories

As you progress in sailboat racing, don’t forget to celebrate your achievements and the joy of being part of this incredible sport.

Enjoying the Sport and Achievements

Share your experiences with fellow sailors, savor the camaraderie, and bask in the thrill of the racecourse.

Safety Precautions and Emergency Protocols

Prioritize safety at all times by following proper safety precautions and emergency protocols.

Staying Safe on the Water

Know what to do in case of emergencies, from man overboard drills to calling for assistance.

In conclusion, sailboat racing is a thrilling pursuit that combines the joys of sailing with the excitement of competition. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned sailor, following these tips and strategies will enhance your racing experience. So, hoist your sails, embrace the wind, and embark on an unforgettable journey of sailboat racing!

What is sailboat racing?

It is a competitive sport where sailors race against each other to complete a designated course using sailboats.

What type of sailboat is best for racing?

The best sailboat for racing depends on various factors, including boat size, design, and materials. It’s essential to choose a boat that suits your racing goals and experience level.

How can I improve my sailboat racing skills?

Improving your racing skills requires practice, training, and a deep understanding of sailing techniques and strategies. Joining a sailing club or team can also help you progress.

Are there any safety precautions for sailboat racing?

Yes, safety is paramount in sailboat racing. It’s crucial to wear appropriate safety gear, know emergency protocols, and be prepared for adverse weather conditions.

Can beginners participate in sailboat races?

Yes, beginners can participate in sail

Michael Thompson

Embarking on a lifelong love affair with the sea, I found solace and exhilaration in the art of sailing. From navigating treacherous waters to harnessing the wind's untamed power, my passion has evolved into a mission to inspire others. Join me on a voyage of discovery as we explore the vast horizons of sailing's timeless allure.

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Proper dinghy sailing gear and apparel can make the difference when keeping your crew comfortable on your next sailing adventure. We carry top sailing gear and clothing for adults and kids from top brands like Gill, Zhik, Ronstan, SEA, Astral, Stohlquist, Rooster and more. From drysuits, thermal tops, and wet suits for cold weather, to spray tops and spray pants for scholastic sailors, to foul weather gear, dinghy boots, life jackets, hiking pants, gloves, and hats for any sailor, we offer one of the most comprehensive selections of dinghy sailing gear you'll find anywhere. Our staff of sailors knows the product inside and out and can offer practical tips for the best gear for your particular sailing situation. Get ready to own the water with the experts at West Coast Sailing.

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Featured Products

Spinlock Small Boat Sheave Organizer

Harken Carbo 40mm Twing Block

Forespar LC 10-18 EL-UTR Aluminum Whisker Pole

Forespar LC 12-22 UTS-UTR Carbon Whisker Pole

Forespar LC 15-27 UTS-UTR Carbon Whisker Pole

Forespar LC 13-24 UTS-UTR Carbon Whisker Pole

Forespar Pole ADJ 7-15 Aluminum Whisker Pole

Forespar Pole ADJ HD 6-12 DL Aluminum Whisker Pole

Forespar Pole ADJ 6-12 DL Aluminum Whisker Pole

Forespar Pole ADJ 6-12 Aluminum Whisker Pole

Forespar LC 15-27 UTS-UTR Combo Whisker Poles

Forespar LC 15-27 TS-UTR Aluminum Whisker Pole

Client reviews.

More Than Just a Watch

As an avid sailor, the Optimum Time OS Series 12 is a game-changer! Its easy-to-read display, countdown timer, and waterproof design make it an indispensable tool on the water. A must-have for anyone serious about sailing!

The Precision Engineering Of Ronstan Orbit Blocks Is Impressive

These blocks have been a game changer for my sailing rig. The smooth rotation and lightweight design make maneuvering sails a breeze." Highly recommended!

Simple And Light, They Do The Job

I have three cleats on each side of my boat, all of which excel at snagging spinnaker sheets. These things solve the problem perfectly without adding too much weight. I bought two pair, one for the bow cleats and another for the center cleats. The aft most cleats are not a problem.

Excellent One Design Compass

Easy to read and yet smaller; doesn't get in the way of lines on the mast etc. Features are very good and the buttons are actual push buttons that are very responsive (vs touch screen that can be a challenge when wet, with gloves or sunscreen). The Distance to line is extremely accurate.

Exactly what I Needed

Product works great on my 1996 Precision P21. Vela Sail was super helpful and the shipping was super quick.

The VX Evo taking over the US...starting with Texas!

Racing in paradise: offshore sailing school in the bvi's, carbon fiber....is it time to hybrid-it, popular brands.

New Arrivals

Harken Unit 1 Forked Tack Swivel Terminal

Harken Unit 1 Forked Fixed Tack Terminal

Zhik Square Print Tee Mens

Zhik 3D Logo Tee Womens

Zhik 3D Logo Tee Mens

Sailtec Race -08 Custom for J/105 Pins 7/16" & 1/2"

Harken Cam Cleat #150 – Plastic Base/Caps/Washer

Harken Standard Cam Cleat Spring HSB56 (MS-006)

Zhik Microfleece X Sleeveless Top Womens

Zhik Microfleece X Top Womens

The crew at Vela is dedicated to helping sailors finding solutions to all their needs: from the day sailor to the hardcore racer we connect with you and make sure to provide the tools you need for every challenge

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Go sailing...Sail hard!

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• Site Map (Posts)

• Fitness & Nutrition
• Miscellaneous
• Racing Education
• Race Commentary

RaceGirlTalk is intended to be a resource for female racing sailors (guys can read & post here too, but some of the bathing suit tips might not be as applicable).  It will cover topics such as racing education, nutrition & fitness, sailing clothing that works, cute stuff to wear to the after party, sailing gear, sailing related vacations & fun stuff. How to race as strong as the guys, but still be a girl.

This blog began as a way to share everything that I wished I knew when I started racing – and some stuff that I didn’t know I needed.  Hopefully, this site will be helpful to sailors of all levels and experience.  If you’ve learned something along the way, please post and “pay it forward.”  If you have questions, let’s use this forum to help each other out.  Most importantly, let’s make it fun — even if we can be incredibly competitive out on the race course.

New topics may be added if we find them interesting or old topics may fade away if they aren’t used or get too boring.  Here’s a bit about the topics I intend to cover.

Racing Education:

This is where I’ll share what I’ve learned about racing.  Hopefully, you’ll help too – by asking questions or posting to help teach others.

I want to know that I’m as strong as possible and ready for any situation when I step on the boat.  Here, I’ll share tips with you so that we can all be strong and healthy.  This will also be another way that I hold myself accountable.  If I’m telling you to exercise and be healthy; then I’d better be doing it too, right?

Sailing Clothes That Work: OK, straight to the point –> I don’t want to fall out of my top and I don’t want people looking down the back of my shorts.  This is where I’ll share things like my quest for sailing shorts that actually fit and sailing tops that look good and keep me contained without giving me funky tan lines.

Cute Stuff to Wear to the After Party: It’s great to go out and get grimy and sweaty in the heat of competition.  But, when I’m back on land, I want to get cleaned up, look good, and feel like a girl when I go to the after party.  Here I’ll share tips about where to find this cute stuff.

Having the right gear can make a race pleasurable instead of painful.  Here, I’ll share my advice on gear and reviews of any neat or especially useful products I come across. 

Sailing Related Vacations & Fun Stuff — Who doesn’t need a little more fun in their life? 

Let’s see what we think of some pro races out there — opinions? Stuff we’ve learned? Discussion points?

Cocktail Time – Are You Ready for a Mudslide?

If you’ve spent much time at block Island, there’s a good chance you’ve been tempted to enjoy a Mudslide. So, I thought it was worth it to do some research.  From what I can find, there are two main variations on the recipe.  Basically, both recipes include vodka, coffee liqueur, and irish cream liqueur. The thing that varies is the source of creaminess.  Some recipes use ice and cream or milk.  Other recipes use vanilla ice cream.  Some recipes even […]

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Recommendations for 24 Hour Watch Schedules

  Last weekend took me to Newport to bring a boat back to Annapolis.  At this time of year, there are a lot of distance races and deliveries to and from Annapolis.  So, I thought it was worth taking a minute to share some experiences. This is my third delivery in three years (Bermuda, Charleston, and Newport all back to Annapolis).  One thing I’ve learned is that there is not one RIGHT watch system.  It is dependent on aspects like: […]

Who Remembers November?

The weather has been crazy around the Mid-Atlantic coast lately.  It was especially stormy on Wednesday.  Forecasts were showing storms all around Annapolis.  Races were cancelled over an hour before the race start due to the storms.  Even with that being said, it was interesting to see how word spread from person to person. Some crew members on my Wednesday night boat drive as far as an hour and fifteen minutes to make the race.  Others live within walking distance […]

Sailboat Racing Trim — Part 15

In Chapter 15 of his book Racing Trim, Bill Gladstone talks about rig tuning. The following post shows a short summary of the highlights I got out of that chapter.   Tuning Masthead Rigs Side Bend & Lean — Make sure that the mast is centered in the deck.  Tighten the shrouds (uppers first) evenly to make sure that tensions and distances are even.  Don’t over tighten the shrouds.  Sail in a moderate breeze on both tacks and watch for symmetry in the […]

What’s That Glowing in the Water?

As it got dark during the night race to Solomon’s Island, I started to notice a lot of bioluminescence in the water.  This doesn’t happen all the time; but when it does, it’s really neat to see.  At first, it looks like a flash.  I usually have to ask myself whether I really saw something or not.  Then, I see it again and realize I’m not making this up.   Bioluminescence is when a living organism emits light.   You […]

Sailboat Racing Trim — Part 14

In Chapter 14 of his book Racing Trim, Bill Gladstone talks about boat preparation. The following post shows a short summary of the highlights I got out of from that chapter.   Bottom Preparation Make sure that your keel is fair and smooth — and that it matches the design of your boat.  The leading edge should be round trailing to a parabola and the trailing edge should cut off at an angle. Make sure that the bottom is sanded smooth and finished […]

Follow Me . . . The Flag, That Is

Welcome to the height of summer.  Thinking back on mid-summer races in Annapolis, there is one flag that comes quickly to my mind.  It is the “L” flag.  If this flag is flown ashore, it signifies that a notice to competitors has been posted.   However, when it’s flown on the water  it is used to signal “come within hail” or follow me.”  Race committee will fly this flag when the race course needs to be moved (often because they are […]

Sailboat Racing Trim — Part 13

In Chapter 13 of his book Racing Trim, Bill Gladstone talks about driving downwind. The following post shows a short summary of what I learned from that chapter.   Coordinated effort between the helmsman and spinnaker trimmer is crucial along with input from the tactician.  Wind and water conditions must also be taken into consideration.  It is helpful to channel all suggestions through the trimmer.   The boat gets too noisy otherwise and then no one can concentrate on their own job.   […]

Gearing Up for a Night Race

Next weekend is the Solomon’s Island race.  It’s a feeder race to get boats from Annapolis to Solomon’s Maryland in advance of the following week’s Screwpile Lighthouse Challenge regatta.   This will be my first night race of the season.  So, it’s time to go through my sailing gear and make sure that my essentials are in order for night sailing.  I consider the things below to be necessary for night sailing — partially because stuff is more difficult and takes […]

Sailboat Racing Trim — Part 12

In Chapter 12 of his book Racing Trim, Bill Gladstone talks about asymmetric spinnaker trim. The following post shows a short summary of what I learned from that chapter. The main controls for an asymmetric spinnaker are: Sheet — The sheet is most used and gives the most immediate feedback about sail trim.  Use it to keep a curl in the sail. Halyard — The halyard can be eased on a broad reach to let the spinnaker rotate further to weather. Tack line […]

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