purjeketju

Purjeketju is a Finnish term that translates to "sail chain" or "jib sheet" in English. It refers to the rope used to control the angle and trim of a headsail, such as a jib or genoa, on a sailboat. The purjeketju is a critical piece of equipment for steering and sail management, allowing the crew to adjust the sail's efficiency and power in response to changing wind conditions.

Typically, a purjeketju is made of durable, low-stretch rope, often polyester or a similar synthetic material. It runs from a clew (the aft lower corner) of the headsail through a block or fairlead on the deck of the boat and then to a cleat or winch on either side of the cockpit. By pulling or releasing the purjeketju, sailors can move the boom of the headsail in or out, thereby controlling the sail's angle relative to the wind.

Properly trimming the purjeketju is essential for optimal sailing performance. It helps to depower the sail in strong winds, preventing excessive heeling, and to maximize its effectiveness in lighter breezes. Experienced sailors understand that the tension and position of the purjeketju significantly impact the boat's speed, stability, and overall handling. The term is primarily used in the context of dinghy sailing and smaller keelboats where headsails are actively trimmed by hand.