Rollerreefing

Rollerreefing, commonly called roller furling, is a sail furling system that allows a sail to be rolled around a stay or luff by turning a drum or foil. This enables changing sail area quickly and safely without lowering the sail or reefing it by hand. The arrangement is most widely used on headsails, but mainsails can also be roller-furling with in-mast or in-boom systems.

How it works: A rotating foil or drum is attached to the forestay or mast. The sail’s luff is secured to the foil or drum. By turning the halyard line or a dedicated furling line, the sail is rolled around the stay, reducing or restoring sail area. To deploy, the sail is unrolled in the opposite direction. Headsail systems often use a forestay-mounted foil, while many modern cruisers use in-mast or in-boom mainsail furling.

Types and usage: Headsail roller furlers are the most common and can be added to most modern sloop or cutter rigs. Mainsail furling systems, including in-mast and in-boom designs, are also widely installed on cruising boats. Notable manufacturers include Furlex, Profurl, and Harken, among others.

Advantages and drawbacks: Roller furling simplifies reefing and sail handling, enhances safety in heavy weather, and allows more precise sail area control. Disadvantages include added initial cost and weight, potential drag and sail shape changes when partly furled, increased maintenance needs, and the risk of jamming or wear if not operated and serviced properly.

Maintenance and safety: Regular inspection of the forestay, foil or drum, and halyards is recommended. Keep components clean and lubricated as prescribed by the manufacturer, and always follow guidelines to avoid over-furling or sail distortion.