Spinnaker & Whisker Poles

Spinnaker and Whisker Poles for Sailboats

Spinnaker and whisker poles are essential equipment for sailboats, each serving distinct purposes to enhance sailing performance with downwind sails. This article will help you understand their differences, uses, and how to choose the right equipment for your needs.
Sailboat poles, such as the well-known Forespar whisker pole, are excellent for cruisers. They work well with asymmetrical spinnakers and genoas.

Spinnaker Poles Purpose and Use:

• Support and Control Headsails: Primarily used to support and control spinnakers, spinnaker poles can also be used with other sails like genoas and jibs when sailing downwind without a spinnaker.
• Fixed Length: These poles are typically fixed in length and are usually too long to work effectively with a jib or genoa.

Whisker Poles Purpose and Use:

• Wing Out Headsails: Whisker poles are used to "wing out" headsails, especially jibs, when sailing downwind. This helps stabilize the sail and improve performance.
• Length Limitation: Whisker poles usually have a variable length via telescoping tubes. They are ideal for non-spinnaker class racing, short-handed cruising, or when downwind performance is desired without conventional spinnakers.

Choosing the Right Pole

When selecting a spinnaker or whisker pole, consider the following:

• Sail Type: Determine whether you need a pole for a spinnaker or a jib/genoa.
• Pole Length: Ensure the pole length is appropriate for your sail and boat size. If racing, the pole cannot be longer than 1.8 times the "J" measurement of the boat.
• Material: Poles can be made from aluminum, carbon fiber, or a combination of both, affecting weight and durability. Older boats may have poles made out of wood.

Fisheries Supply: Your Spinnaker Pole Supplier

Fisheries Supply is your go-to source for high-quality spinnaker and whisker poles. We have spinnaker poles for sale and whisker poles for sale from top brands, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your sailing needs.

Our Product Range Includes:

• Spinnaker Pole Kits: Spinnaker pole end fittings and complete kits for easy installation.
• Whisker Pole Fittings: Including tubes, whisker pole ends, brackets, slides, ring cars, and toggle cars.
• Spinnaker Pole Sliders: To conveniently store poles up against the mast.

Shop now and save or browse our wide selection of sailboat rigging hardware for the rest of your rig.