Sailboat Rigging

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Polyester Running Rigging
Polyester Running Rigging
Use for many applications calling for affordable, durable multi-purpose line, such as sheets, control lines and halyards on cruising boats, handheld control lines on all types of boats.
Dyneema & Spectra Rigging
Dyneema & Spectra Rigging
Use for low-stretch sheets, halyards and controls. Excellent durability and much lower stretch than polyester double braid.
Technora & Kevlar Rigging
Technora & Kevlar Rigging
Use for headsail halyards that control low-stretch sails which cannot tolerate any creep or stretch.
Vectran Running Rigging
Vectran Running Rigging
Use for cascades and purchase systems, sportboat/performance racing boat backstays and runners, low-stretch and high-strength applications.
Chafe-Resistant Covers
Chafe-Resistant Covers
Designed to reinforce the cleating or friction-prone areas of single braid runner tails and sheets.

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Halyards
Vangs
One-Design Running Rigging
Sail Rigging
Rigging Tools
Shock Cord
Webbing
Standing Rigging
Wire
Rigging Tape
Architectural Rigging
Sailing Trapeze Gear
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New England Ropes - together in motion
Samson - the strongest name in rope
Robline
West Marine
Ronstan
Bainbridge International
Harken
Hayn Marine
C. Sherman Johnson Marine Hardware
Alexander-Roberts Co.

Advice & How-To

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Selecting Line for Running Rigging

Chockablock with useful commentary and several engaging videos, this article will get you up to speed on what to consider when selecting running rigging for your application.

By Tom Burden, Last updated 6/12/2019

Buyers Guide
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Stainless Steel Rigging

This article discusses stainless steel alloys and alerts sailors to the danger of crevice corrosion. You’ll also find a helpful checklist to follow when inspecting your standing rigging.

By Tom Burden, Last updated 6/13/2019

Advice
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Climbing Your Sailboat's Mast with a Bosun's Chair

A bosun's chair is the most popular way to climb a sailboat's mast. With commentary that includes important tips and with an informative video, this article instructs sailors on how to safely go aloft.

By Tom Burden, Last updated: 10/28/2019

DIY
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The Vang

Boom vangs provide essential safety and twist control for sailboat mainsails. This article includes explanations and some helpful diagrams to inspire do-it-yourself riggers design a system that works for them.

By Tom Burden, Last updated: 6/14/2019

Advice

Is It Time for a Rigging Tune-up?

Like your car, sailboats also have an “engine”—in the form of their sails, standing rigging and running rigging. Depending on the type of sailboat you have, this “engine” might be low-tech, high-tech or maybe somewhere in between. To keep this engine “tuned up” and operating its best, West Marine offers a complete selection of standing and running rigging; plus a variety of rigging tools, hardware and accessories.

Running rigging includes halyards, jib sheets and other lines used to raise, lower and otherwise control sails. If your running rigging has seen better days, now might be the time to replace it. Our selection runs the gamut, from economical polyester single- and double-braids to high-tech, low-stretch line made from materials such as Dyneema, Spectra, Technora, Kevlar and Vectran.

Standing rigging supports your boat’s mast. If your standing rigging is old and corroded, consider replacing it. We offer a complete selection of standing rigging, including standard 1 x 19 stainless steel and Dyform wire.

Do-it-yourselfers can take advantage of West Marine’s complete selection of standing rigging hardware. In addition to 1 x 19 wire, you will find a complete selection of wire terminals to accommodate most applications. Examples include turnbuckles, toggles and a variety of swage fittings.

West Marine also offers a complete selection of lifeline hardware, including 7 x 7 wire, lifeline turnbuckles, toggles and other fittings.

Online and in our stores, you will also find specialized systems and equipment, including trapeze gear, vangs and backstay adjusters.

West Marine’s selection of boat rigging hardware encompasses all the most respected brands, including FSE Robline, Loos, New England Ropes, Ronstan, Samson Rope, Alexander Roberts, Alps Wire Rope, C. Sherman Johnson, Schaefer, Suncor and Edson Marine to name a few.

Of course, for hard or complicated jobs, experienced professionals at West Marine Rigging Service are always ready to help.

Sailing Rigging FAQ

Sailboat rigging typically includes the standing rigging (e.g., shrouds and stays, which support the mast) and running rigging (e.g., halyards, sheets, and control lines, used to adjust sails). Each component has specific materials and tensions to handle various sailing conditions.

Rigging should be visually inspected regularly, especially before long journeys, and professionally inspected every 5–10 years. Environmental factors like saltwater and UV exposure can degrade rigging materials over time.

Common materials include stainless steel for standing rigging due to its strength and corrosion resistance, and synthetic lines like Dyneema for running rigging, which offers flexibility and reduced weight while remaining strong.

While small adjustments can be DIY, major rigging replacements or installations should involve a professional. Proper rigging is essential for safety and requires precise tensioning and expertise.

Choosing rigging depends on your boat’s size, sailing style, and environment. Consult manufacturer guidelines and a rigging expert to ensure compatibility and optimal performance for your boat.

Proper tensioning ensures that sails are set correctly and reduces wear on the rigging. Loose or overtight rigging can affect sailing performance and increase the risk of component failure. Regular checks and adjustments maintain ideal tension.