Lower Fore St, Beer, East Devon, EX12 3EG
In yacht rigging, an Inner Forestay fulfils a different role from a Babystay, but the adjustment hardware can be appropriate for both applications.
Wichard produce an excellent range of adjusters with quick-engage-and-release for deployment and a choice of fine-tuning methods: wheel, lever handle, and lever handle with ratchet.
Inner Forestay | Babystay | |
Advantages | Sail plan versatility, improved balance, steadier heavy weather performance | Structural mast stability |
Purpose | Cutter rig configuration | Prevents forward mast bend |
Position | From the upper section of the mast to the foredeck, aft of the primary forestay | From lower on the mast than an inner forestay to the foredeck |
Sail Usage | Staysail or Storm Jib, with a furler or simple hanks | Not typically used for sail attachment |
Wichard are the leading European manufacturer of top-quality yacht stay adjustment hardware.
The Wichard website and catalogues refer to all their adjusters as Babystay Adjusters, but they are very specific in their product descriptions, stating that they are equally suitable for inner forestays - see below.