Running rigging refers to the system of ropes, lines, and cables on a sailing vessel that are used to raise, lower, shape, and control the sails while underway. Unlike standing rigging, which supports the mast and remains fixed, running rigging is dynamic and constantly adjusted to optimize sail performance in changing wind conditions

⚓ Core Terms

• Halyard: A line used to hoist or lower a sail. Each sail typically has its own halyard (e.g., main halyard, jib halyard).
• Sheet: A line used to control the angle of a sail to the wind. For example, the mainsheet adjusts the mainsail, and jib sheets control the jib.
• Downhaul: A line that pulls a sail or spar downward, often used to tension the luff of a sail.
• Outhaul: A line that pulls the clew of the mainsail toward the end of the boom, flattening the sail.
• Vang (Kicker): A line or tackle system that controls the angle of the boom vertically, affecting sail twist and power.
• Traveler: A track and car system that allows lateral adjustment of the mainsheet attachment point, fine-tuning sail shape.
• Cunningham: A line that adjusts the tension in the luff of the mainsail, improving sail shape in varying wind conditions.

⛵ Headsail Controls

• Jib Sheet: Controls the trim of the jib sail.
• Genoa Sheet: Similar to jib sheets but used for larger overlapping headsails.
• Lazy Sheet: The inactive sheet on a headsail during a tack.
• Barber Hauler: A line used to adjust the angle of the jib or spinnaker sheet for better sail shape.

🌬️ Spinnaker & Downwind Gear

• Spinnaker Halyard: Used to hoist the spinnaker.
• Spinnaker Sheets: Control the trim of the spinnaker.
• Guy: A line that controls the position of the spinnaker pole.
• Topping Lift: Holds the spinnaker pole up.
• Foreguy/Downhaul: Keeps the spinnaker pole from lifting too high.

🧵 Reefing & Sail Reduction

• Reefing Line: Used to reduce the sail area in strong winds by securing part of the sail to the boom.
• Lazy Jack: A system of lines that helps guide the mainsail down onto the boom when lowering.

🪢 Miscellaneous

• Boom Preventer: A line rigged to prevent the boom from swinging dangerously during an accidental gybe.
• Running Backstay: Adjustable backstays used to control mast bend and forestay tension.
• Telltales: Small ribbons or yarns attached to sails to indicate airflow and help with trim.