SafetySpinlock Mast Float - lifejacket for the rig

Hauke Schmidt

 · 25.02.2026

The capsize protection cushion in use, here the large version with a volume of 20 litres.
Photo: Spinlock
The British safety equipment manufacturer Spinlock is launching an inflatable capsize protection for dinghy masts onto the market. The mast floats are designed to prevent capsizing and make righting much easier. They are available in two sizes with a volume of five and 20 litres.

The capsize protection is primarily aimed at sailing schools, trainers and dinghy owners who want to reduce the risk of a complete capsize. Unlike fixed foam solutions, the inflatable floats can be easily removed and stowed away to save space.

Two sizes, customisable buoyancy

The capsize protection floats are inflated with a standard air pump via a universal valve before rigging. They can be mounted either on the headboard or in the mast groove, where they are also pulled up. Depending on the size and type of boat, several floats can be combined to achieve the desired buoyancy for effective capsize protection. The floats are equipped with toggles that allow several units to be connected. An optional mast track tag, available for ten euros, is designed to provide additional safety for larger or combined float set-ups. The material used is a lightweight but, according to the manufacturer, robust fabric, which should also guarantee a long service life in school use. The neon yellow fabric makes it easier for trainers to find capsized boats on the water.

Useful for training and young talent

The capsize protection system is primarily designed for education and training purposes. The mast buoys reduce the risk of lengthy and strenuous righting manoeuvres, especially when working with children and young people. Price and source of supply: The small mast float with a volume of five litres costs 49 euros, the large version with 20 litres 69 euros. The optional mast track tag is available for ten euros.


TECHNICAL DATA:

  • Buoyancy: 5 litres or 20 litres
  • Fastening: On the headboard or in the mast groove
  • Valve: Universal valve (for standard air pumps)
  • Combinable: Yes, via toggles
  • Material: Robust, neo-yellow fabric
  • Price: 49 euros (5 litres) / 69 euros (20 litres)
  • Mast Track Tag: 10 Euro

ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTS:


Hauke Schmidt

Hauke Schmidt

Test & Technology editor

Hauke Schmidt was born in Hanau, Hesse, in 1974, but moved to the coast at the age of an Opti and grew up sailing dinghies and tall ships. School and semester breaks were used for extensive Baltic Sea cruises. During and after his oceanography studies in Kiel, he took part in various international research trips to tropical and polar regions. The focus was on ocean currents and their influence on climate change. Eventually he was drawn back to his home coast and to YACHT. He completed a traineeship there and has been working as an editor in the Test & Technology department since 2009. His core tasks include equipment and boat testing, as well as practical topics relating to electronics, seamanship and refits. As a passionate DIY enthusiast, he loves to spend his summers on the water with his family and winters working on his boat

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