Outhaul Meaning in Sailing

An outhaul is a control line used to pull the back corner of a sail. This line runs along the boom and adjusts the tension of the bottom sail edge. Tightening the outhaul flattens the sail to make it more efficient in heavy wind conditions. A sailor pulls the outhaul tight when the wind increases to reduce the boat leaning. Loosening the line creates a deeper curve which provides more power in light air. This adjustment allows the crew to change the sail shape without lowering the sail itself. Proper outhaul tension is critical for maintaining a fast and balanced boat on all headings. The crew checks this setting frequently as the strength of the wind changes during the day.