Pinching (Sailing)

Sailing closer to the wind than the sails and hull can support efficiently.

When pinching, the sail’s leading edge may begin to lift and drive falls, reducing speed and water flow over the rudder. Although the heading points higher, the loss of speed and increased leeway can reduce progress made to windward.

The boundary depends on sail trim, sea state, current and vessel design. Briefly heading high can be tactically useful, but persistent pinching is distinguished from a balanced close-hauled course by its degraded flow and performance.