Päällysteib

Päällysteib is a type of frostbiting sailboat rig used in traditional Finnish sailing. It is characterized by a large mainsail and a forestay, with the mast positioned far forward of the bow of the boat.

The term "päällysteib" literally translates to "cover or cloth sail" in Finnish, which refers to the way the sail is covered with a second sail, known as the päällyssaili, on windy days. This second sail is often much smaller than the mainsail and is used to reduce sail area in strong winds.

Päällysteib sailboats are typically small, open vessels with a flat bottom and a narrow beam. They are designed for sailing in shallow waters and are often used in the Finnish archipelago. The boats are usually made of wood and are equipped with simple, traditional equipment.

The use of päällysteib rigging allows sailors to adapt to changing wind conditions, making it a popular choice among sailors in Finland. The rig is particularly well-suited for sailing in tight, sheltered waters where boats are often required to tack frequently.

Today, päällysteib sailboats are still an important part of Finnish sailing culture, with many traditional sailboats preserved and used for pleasure sailing and racing. The uniqueness of päällysteib sailboats lies in their ability to adapt to changing wind conditions, making them an attractive and challenging sail for sailors in Finland.