Crotch Straps & Thigh Straps – Why they Matter

Recent research by UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency confirms why the hated crotch strap is necessary. It can stop a badly-adjusted lifejacket from riding up over your head and mouth when it inflates in water.

The Deckvest’s double-buckle helps reduce this risk by making chest belt adjustment easy and instinctive, but for human error reasons, Deckvest owners are still advised to use the special thigh strap which Spinlock provide.

Deckvest are also tested and approved with and without the thigh straps.

The 2010 Deckvest thigh strap is designed to fit comfortably around the hip joints. It can also be used as a single crotch strap between the legs if preferred.

Visit our Spinlock Deckware store to order the Spinlock Deckvest

The New Gill Sail Jacket now available!

The Sail Jacket from Gill combines striking new graphics and contemporary design with the classic elements of the popular Crew Jacket.

Constructed from a 1 dot laminated soft-touch fabric with fully sealed seams, the jacket is both waterproof and breathable. A Synthetic-fill lining provides warmth and is much easier to put on than a conventionally fleece-lined jacket. A thin reflective strip is incorporated into the back of the collar and sleeves adding a subtle trim detail.

The jacket has a drawstring waist and there are multiple pockets. With striking design and a durable and lightweight finish, the new Sail Jacket is perfect for active sailing or wearing on-shore, and is available in Black or Silver Grey.

Visit our Gill store to order the new Gill Sail Jacket

Harken UniPower Radial® Electric Winch Increases Headroom Belowdeck

Harken’s electric UniPower Radial® winch is the answer for sailors that want more headroom belowdeck. The motor of this one-of-a-kind winch is partially embedded inside the drum so only 4 1/8 in (105 mm) projects under the cabintop, an important feature for smaller boats where space below is limited. The compact UniPower is available in mirror-finished chrome or lightweight aluminium to match boat style.

The skirt and self-tailing jaws are made of high-strength composites, which save weight without sacrificing durability. Composite roller bearings reduce friction when the winch is under load and do not require lubrication. The UniPower winch has a maximum pull of 900 kg (1,984 lbs). In the event that the boat loses power, the winch can be operated manually by using a standard winch handle.

Visit our Harken store to order the Harken UniPower Radial Electric Winch

Sailing with the Mauri Pro Sailing Team

By Kerry Pelton (Texas A&M Sailing Team)

I joined the Texas A&M Sailing Team in the fall of 2009, racing 420s in the Southeast Intercollegiate Sailing Conference. This is the beginning of my competitive sailing career. This past march, I was lucky to be invited to sail with the Mauri Pro Sailing team on their Farr 39 at Lake Texoma during Lakefest and several other regattas as part of their support program to local College Sailing Teams.

My experiences with Juan and his crew have taught me more about sailing in a few short weekends than I ever have understood before. By racing on bigger boats, I have begun to understand the uses and purpose of the fine-tuning adjustments.


My favorite aspect of racing with Mauri Pro Sailing is their sense of focus and determination to dominate on the race course. From the preparatory flag to the finishing gun, they mean business. I have learned that each race is a new start and you have to race yourself, push the limits and never take it easy. Even if you are in the lead, no place is guaranteed.

I love assisting on the bow. Each mark rounding with spinnaker hoists and peels leaves me with a huge adrenaline rush. I certainly get nervous every regatta when the gun goes off, but I am glad to be in such a wonderful learning environment.


I love Juan Mauri and his team welcoming personalities and immediately felt like part of their family, more than just a teammate. The international aspect of their crew really intrigues me because I have a Spanish background and plan to minor in Spanish. I am very thankful that I was introduced to the Mauri Pro Sailing crew and cannot wait for future regattas on board their boats, improving my sailing skills while developing lasting friendships.

Kerry Pelton
Texas A&M Class of 2013

Ronstan Core Blocks now available at Mauri Pro Sailing

Ronstan’s new Core Block Series evolves the concept of the basic sailing block beyond the simple ball bearing design from decades ago. With class-leading performance and contemporary race-inspired styling, Core Blocks now offer sailors an attractive and affordable option appropriate for today’s refined sailboat designs.

The heart of the new Core Blocks is an exclusive 2-stage bearing system housed in durable alloy cheeks. Stage one is an ultra-low friction system for moderate loads, while stage two engages when loads increase for superior high-stress performance.

Core Blocks also complement the looks of any modern sailboat. Block cheeks are shaped with precision from the highest quality alloy to maximize strength, minimize weight and allow for easy maintenance. The unique cheek design reduces rope wear by incorporating a flare at the block throat. Other great features include: removable becket pins for use with pre-spliced sheets, a fully articulating support base for the stand-up models, and a universal head system that can be locked in either of two planes, or left free to swivel.

Core Blocks are ideal for sheet blocks on cruisers or racing cruisers and are also a good choice for high static load applications like halyards and backstays. They are available in two sizes: Series 60 and Series 75, generally suitable for boats up to 14m (46 feet) depending on the application. Alloy sheave models are available for use with wire cables.

Visit Ronstan Blocks store to order the new Ronstan Core Blocks now!

The New i5 Gill Crosswind Midlayer Jacket and Salopettes

The i5 Gill Crosswind midlayer jacket and Salopettes has been redeveloped with an improved fit and new color scheme. The Crosswind comes in to its own when the temperature drops or the sun goes down, providing excellent cold-weather insulation.

Using the latest in laminate fabric technology, the garments are waterproof and breathable, providing an extremely soft, low-bulk mid-layer.

Thermally lined in all the key areas with highly insulating non-water absorbing synthetic internal lining that features a high CLO rating (Insolating factor). The Crosswind has a slippery lining making it extremely easy to get in to in a hurry when the weather conditions deteriorate, even over other layers.

A stretch material in the shoulder panel of the Salopettes complements the most aerobic moments on the boat. An elasticized waist and abrasion resistant seat and knees all contribute to an extremely comfortable and versatile product that can even be worn as an outer shell in less aggressive conditions.

Visit our Gill Sailing Gear store to order the new Crosswind Jacket and Salopettes

New Sailing Gear & Apparel Clearance Section

We just launched a new sailing gear and apparel clearance section with products up to 50% off their original List Price. Featuring all of the top sailing brands such as Gill, Harken, Slam, Camet and Henri Lloyd, this is the place to pick up a bargain. You can find sailing shoes, hiking pants, jackets, smocks, spray tops, life vests, PFD´s, rashguards, tech tees, shorts, pants, trousers, sunglasses and more. Most of the items we have on clearance are brand new products (unless other wise stated) still on their original package.

Most of the items we have on clearance are brand new products (unless other wise stated) still on their original package. There is a chance once in a while there will be one item that was opened and then returned to us unused and/or that it is discounted (last year model). Either way we hope you take advantage of these low prices. Quantities are limited so get advantage of these offers today! Visit our Sailing Gear & Apparel Clearance section.