Kantapäille

Kantapäille is a Finnish term that translates to "to the heels" or "heel-wards." It is primarily used in a nautical context, referring to the direction of the wind or the course of a vessel relative to the wind. When a sailing boat is described as sailing "kantapäille," it means the wind is coming from behind the boat, blowing in the same general direction the boat is traveling. This is often referred to as running with the wind. In contrast, sailing "vastatuuleen" means sailing against the wind, or upwind. The term can also be used more generally to indicate movement or direction towards the heel of something, though its most common application is in sailing terminology. Understanding this term is crucial for interpreting sailing maneuvers and descriptions of wind conditions in Finnish maritime contexts. It provides a simple yet specific way to describe a fundamental aspect of sailing.