Reffmöglichkeiten

Reffmöglichkeiten refers to the various options or possibilities for reefing a sail. Reefing is the process of reducing the sail area of a boat's mainsail or jib to better handle strong winds or to maintain optimal sail trim in lighter conditions. This is typically done by folding or rolling a portion of the sail and securing it.

There are several common methods of reefing. Slab reefing, also known as jiffy reefing, is a popular technique for mainsails. This involves tying down a section of the mainsail using pre-installed reefing points and lines, effectively shortening the luff and foot of the sail. Roller reefing, or furling, is another method, often used for jibs and sometimes mainsails. This system involves rolling the sail around a spar, either the forestay for a jib or a dedicated spar on the mast for a mainsail. In-mast furling systems are also common for mainsails, where the sail rolls into a hollow mast. Sail area can also be reduced by lowering the mainsail and re-tying it at a lower position on the mast, a method sometimes called "lowering" or "topping" the sail. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of ease of use, speed, and the shape of the reefed sail. The choice of reefing method often depends on the type of boat, the size of the sails, and the sailor's preference.