Equipment: The most important innovations in fittings and deck equipment
Every year, Mets is the highlight of the trade fair season for all shipyards, chandlers and service companies. This is where manufacturers present their latest products, which are intended to enrich the market during the following season. An important place to find products and do business. However, the trade fair had to be cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, and many visitors also stayed away from the exhibition last year due to strict restrictions and the possibility of quarantine on their return.
After two years of drought, the organisers were able to record visitor numbers like before the coronavirus for the first time. While only 14,065 visitors were counted last year, this year's figure was 26,480 - only just below the 2019 level. Niels Klarenbeek, Maritime Director of the Mets, was delighted: "We have made every effort to ensure that the Mets can fulfil its important role as the epicentre of the global water sports industry. The work seems to have paid off, as both exhibitors and visitors were happy to be in contact with each other again."
Park Avenue tree to pump up
With the Sail in Boom, the company Tiki Yachting has produced a lazy bag using the dropstitch method. This makes it similar to a SUP: the side sections are inflated at high pressure (approx. 1 bar). The construction can be slipped over the main boom and should therefore be easy to retrofit. The system is available for boat sizes from 21 to 55 feet. The Sail in Boom is designed to simplify recovery. Price: from 1,280 euros. Info at tiki-yachting.com
Low-friction trimming
Harken has new blocks in its range with the Zircon series. The bearings are fitted with ceramic balls to guarantee particularly smooth running. This makes them particularly suitable for tacking. This allows the mainsheet to be trimmed sensitively even in light winds. Available in different versions for eight and ten millimetre ropes. Info: harken.de
Flying furler
With the CXe 45 OD, Seldén presents a new electric furler especially for Code Zeros up to 200 square metres. OD stands for On Deck. The compact winch is rigged on the bowsprit using a snap shackle. Only a cable for the power supply (12 volts, 50 amps) needs to be connected. Info: Gotthardt-yacht.com
Roll in Code Zero in 45 seconds
The Dame Award jury gave a special mention to the electric Code Zero furler from Facnor, which furls sails of up to 140 square metres. The jury was particularly impressed by the extremely compact and lightweight design and the low power consumption of just 400 watts. The furler including top swivel costs 5,770 euros. Info: facnor.com
Exchange platform for 3D print files
The 3D printer can be used to create fittings in the hobby room. If you lack inspiration, you can download free print files from Karver and share your own designs. Info: karver-systems.com
Elegant and quick to install
The fitting for removable staysails is equipped with a 3:1 tack and is available in two sizes for yachts between 30 and 50 feet. Alternatively, it is also available with a lashing instead of bolts. Price: from 1,900 euros. Info: karver-systems.com
