Stay

A tensioned part of the standing rigging that supports a mast, normally in a fore-and-aft direction.

Forestays lead forward and backstays lead aft, while additional inner or intermediate stays can support particular sections of the mast or carry sails. Stays may be wire, rod, fibre or another engineered component appropriate to the rig.

They work with shrouds and the mast structure to maintain alignment and resist sailing loads. Terminals, chainplates, tension and the stay itself require inspection because failure can lead to loss of mast support.