Baby Stay

A short inner forestay that supports the forward part of a sailing vessel’s mast.

A baby stay normally runs from a point on the forward face of the mast to a fitting on the foredeck, aft of the main forestay. It helps control mast bend and supports the lower or middle section of the mast rather than carrying the principal headsail.

Its arrangement varies between rigs. It may be permanently attached, adjustable or removable, and it must be tensioned and maintained in accordance with the rig design because excessive or insufficient tension can alter mast shape and rig loads.