skødebælte

A skødebælte, which translates to "sheet belt" or "harness belt" in English, is a piece of sailing equipment used primarily in dinghy sailing and small keelboats. Its main purpose is to provide a secure and comfortable way for a sailor to brace themselves and maintain their position in the boat, especially when the boat is heeled over. This bracing allows the sailor to exert leverage against the boat's motion, aiding in balance and sail trim.

The skødebælte is typically worn around the waist and secured with a buckle or other fastening. Attached to the belt is a loop or a short strap that can be clipped or hooked onto a designated point on the boat, such as a deck cleat, a ring, or a specific fitting on the mast or hull. This attachment point is crucial for preventing the sailor from being thrown overboard in rough conditions or during sudden maneuvers.

Sailors use the skødebælte to achieve a stable stance, allowing them to effectively manage the mainsail sheets, rudder, and other controls without being pulled off balance by the wind and waves. It distributes the sailor's weight and provides a fixed point of leverage, which is particularly important for smaller, lighter boats where the crew's weight has a significant impact on performance and stability. The design of skødebælter can vary, but they are generally made from durable webbing and feature robust attachment hardware.