Hard to hoist with age

HOW TO SAIL BETTER

Misunderstood and little used, the kicking strap or vang is often largely ignored by cruising sailors. It is an important sail control, however, helping you to flatten or open the main as required. Ra

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A regular review of your boat’s rigging will prevent expensive failures – and potentially be a lifesaver…

Ascending a mast is often undertaken light-heartedly, but it’s a high-risk operation which, if it goes wrong, can result in serious injury, explains Andrew Simpson