- Technology and Innovation
The Sailing Upgrade: The Furling System That Simplifies Every Crucial Maneuver
The Furling Flaw: Addressing Sail Complications
The design of the furling boom—a crucial piece of equipment for ease of operation and sail management—has traditionally faced a core flaw: complications caused by the furling line during hoisting or reefing. Mainfurl, a company founded by enthusiastic, professional yacht racers and builders, developed a sophisticated solution to this operational hurdle. Their Mainfurl MLS in-boom furling system, a nominee for the prestigious DAME Design Awards, was a technical highlight at METSTRADE 2025.
The Locking Blueprint: Hoisting Without Line Drag
The core innovation of the Mainfurl MLS lies in its dual locking and braking mechanism. The rotatably mounted mandrel—the cylinder around which the sail furls—can rotate freely when the coupling element is in its release state. This crucial technical feature ensures the mainsail may be hoisted without complications caused by the furling line, eliminating line drag and simplifying the initial sail set. This attention to optimizing sail handling reflects the founders’ decades of practical experience, including sailing and yacht building.
Security in Reefing: The Braking Advantage
Security is paramount when the wind builds. The Mainfurl system features a sophisticated braking arrangement that prevents the mainsail from unfurling when the coupling element is in its coupling state. This is particularly vital when the mainsail is reefed (partially reduced) and needs to be held absolutely secure against increasing wind loads. This mechanical assurance provides increased confidence to the crew during challenging conditions, fusing high safety standards with efficient operation.
The Insider’s View: Design by Sailors
Mainfurl’s integrity stems directly from its team. The company consists of four professional yachters and boat builders, including former sail makers and CEOs of production companies. The idea for the product itself originated with a desire for an outstanding furling boom that simply wasn’t available on the market. This insider perspective, where design is driven by a thorough understanding of racing competitiveness and family cruising needs, ensures the final product is focused entirely on providing the highest quality and service.
The Verdict: The Final Word on Sail Management
The Mainfurl MLS system is a clear statement that high-tech precision can profoundly simplify life on deck. The DAME nomination confirms the system’s innovative design and commitment to quality. By perfecting the functionality of the furling boom—from frictionless hoisting to secure reefing—Mainfurl delivers a definitive solution for modern yacht builders and owners who demand effortless efficiency and uncompromising safety from their sail management systems.
