Boom Brake Meaning in Sailing

A boom brake is a mechanical device used to control the horizontal swing of the boom. This hardware attaches to the bottom of the spar and uses friction to slow movement. It prevents the heavy metal pole from swinging violently across the deck during a wind shift. This safety tool protects the crew and the rigging from accidental damage during a gybe. Sailors adjust the tension on the brake line to set the desired swinging speed. An example happens when a boat turns away from the wind during a heavy sea. The boom brake slows the spar so it moves gently across the center of boat. This prevents the rigging from snapping or hitting a person standing in the open cockpit. Using this device allows a single sailor to manage a large mainsail with much more control. It serves as an excellent safety feature for long distance cruising in unpredictable weather conditions. High tension on the brake can also lock the boom in one fixed position.