Reefing Lines

Lines forming part of a system that reduces and secures a sail’s exposed area.

On slab-reefed mainsails, reefing lines commonly pull a reef clew towards the boom and may also control the reef tack in a single-line system. Traditional reef points secure bunt cloth after the primary tack and clew loads are taken, while roller systems use different lines and mechanisms.

Reefing lines can carry high loads and must follow the intended lead through reinforced cringles, blocks, clutches and winches. Loose sail ties or reef points should not be used to take structural leech load, and chafe, twists, boom-end sheaves and line length require inspection before conditions worsen.