Do you guys have a good mainsheet for my boat? This is one of the most common questions asked of us. We have a bunch of great options... but like most things, it depends on what you're doing. There are a couple of variables involved. You should consider lines based on: Application, Sailing Style, Price and Color.
The application is both your boat, and line type. In this case we're talking mainsheet, so we're looking for a line that can cleat and uncleat well, while also being able to curve around the blocks easily. Generally called a sheeting line, the mainsheet is typically easy to operate in the cleat and also feels good in your hands. Heavy wind sailors may look for a harder line that is easier to whip and doesn't blow in the breeze as much, line size may be chosen at the upper range of sizing for a better feel in your hands. Light wind sailing may call for a lighter line that will flow more easily through the blocks. A sailor may opt for a smaller line diameter to reduce the friction in the blocks so that the line can feed out more easily with the lighter load. Mainsheet systems may have been upgraded and/or replaced, so sheave size may limit specific line sizes that you can use.
The sailing style is mostly broken up into two groups, racers or recreational sailors. While many people sailing do both, the majority of sailors are recreational sailors that don't race. The primary concern for lines is a balanced longevity of the line. While racers may buy new boats frequently, or regularly upgrade parts to stay relevant and fast, the recreational sailor is more interested in getting a mainsheet that will be functional, and very durable. Generally the recommendation for the recreational sailor is one of our spun braid lines. We have used a few manufacturers over the years, at the time of this write up, we are using an FSE Robline solution. This is similar to what came on Hobiecat Sailboats and is both an economical line and durable line. It does absorb a bit of water and weighs more than some other options, but for the boat that lives on the beach, dock, shore or other location with lots of sun exposure and you generally cruise around, the spun braid is your best bet. Racers on the other hand, or significantly performance minded sailors are looking for lighter mainsheet solutions. Racing sheet generally doesn't absorb water and has some technical fibers in it that reduce stretch and can help with grip in the cleat. Racing sheets tend to come in more vibrant colors, but also break down more quickly in the sun. At the time of this write up, we have some great options for racing sheet from Alpha Rope and from FSE Robline. Some lines can be purchased hollow braid, with no core, and some come with a core. They may also have a tight or loose weave, which becomes a factor in tapering your mainsheet.
The Price! The Racing sheets are almost always more expensive than others. If price is your main concern, spun braid all the way! Racing sheets that make use of spectra, dyneema, technora or other high tech fibers tend to cost more money. Less stretch, better grip, etc. Largely the Alpha Rope SSR line is an economical racing sheet solution that works great. If you're getting into more advanced splicing techniques, you probably already know the traits you're looking for, if not, give us a call!
The COLOR! It's generally best to keep lines in proximity to each other different colors. When things get crazy or when teaching crew how to sail, having 4 different lines on your boat that are all black, is a good recipe for confusion. Color schemes and options can be a bit limiting sometimes, so splurging for more expensive lines may be necessary. It's good to consider that colored lines tend to fade more quickly than black or white. Red generally fades the fastest! Some sizes are only available in certain colors. Pay attention to color options when selecting your line sizes.
How long is my Mainsheet?
Hobie Mainsheet Specs:
Hobie Getaway mainsheet is 38′ Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Hobie 14 mainsheet is 42′ feet for a 5:1 system Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Hobie 16 mainsheet is 44′ for a 6:1 and 40′ for 5:1 system Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Hobie 17 mainsheet is 42′ Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Hobie 18 and 18sx mainsheet is 48′ for a 7:1 system Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Hobie 20 mainsheet is 41′ for just the mainsheet and 50′ with integrated center traveler control Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 10mm
Hobie 21 mainsheet is 68′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 10mm
Nacra Mainsheet specs:
Nacra 5.0 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Nacra 5.2 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Nacra 5.5 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Nacra 5.7 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Nacra 5.8 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Nacra 6.0NA mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Prindle Mainsheet specs:
Prindle 16 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Prindle 18 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Prindle 18.2 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Prindle 19 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
Solcat 18 mainsheet is 40′ of 3/8″ line Spun braid 3/8" or SSR 8mm
