Want to stay fast when the breeze comes up big during the race? Learn how to tighten the vang while sailing. Watch the video demonstration below. It looks hard, but after some practice, you’ll get the hang of it.

How to Tighten the Vang While Sailing

Step 1. Pull in the mainsheet as much as possible

Pull in the mainsheet very hard to create slack in the vang. Note the wrinkles in the sail. If it’s really breezy, you may have to head up in the wind a bit to maintain control.

Step 2. Hold the tiller and mainsheet in your aft hand

This allows you to scooch forward while maintaining control of the boat.

Step 3. Scooch forward and pull on as much vang as possible

Pull hard on the vang rope while sailing in the groove or luffing slightly.

Step 4. Make sure the vang line is securely cleated

You will want to push the line into the jam cleat to make sure it stays put.

Boom Vang Upgrade from Harken Blockheads

Here’s a nice upgrade to make adjusting the vang easier from Harken Blockheads. Watch the video: Upgrade Your Opti Boom Vang.

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