Standing rig is the fixed part of a boat’s rig that stabilizes the mast and supports the weight of the sails. It includes lifelines and should be regularly inspected for wear and damage. Race rigs are adjustable, while standing rigs are not.
Standing rig is the part of a boat’s rig that remains fixed in place, rather than being adjustable while the boat is underway to compensate for weather conditions, winds, and changing needs. Many types of cables and lines are available for use in stand up rigs, with wire rope tending to be the most popular due to weight, tensile strength, and durability. Tackle supply stores and catalogs carry materials to repair and replace all foot rigging components and can often make custom products for specific situations.
An example of standing rigging can be seen around the masts, where lines known as shrouds hold the masts in tension to keep them upright. Each mast has multiple lines at different heights that are pulled against each other to stabilize the mast and keep it in place. Without this rig, the mast would not be able to support the weight of the sails and other rigging, especially in difficult conditions such as storms. The mortises do not move, as they need to support the neck.
This is in contrast to race rigs, which are meant to be adjustable. The sails and their components are underway, allowing sailors to raise and lower them to take advantage of the prevailing winds. It is also possible to adjust them by changing their positions, so that as the wind changes direction, sailors can compensate to keep the boat moving and on the correct course. Adjustments to the running rig occur constantly while the boats are underway.
Standing rigging can include a number of components, including rigging for lifelines used by sailors for safety while on deck. Sailors should regularly inspect the rig along with all attachment points for signs of wear and damage. Cracks, frays and hairline tears can become a serious problem as the rig is under stress and can be further stressed in bad weather and rough seas. A rigging failure could result in serious injury as well as damage to the ship. In particularly bad conditions, the ship could sink.
There are several ways to organize rigging on a boat, depending on the size and type. Individual captains and sailors may also have preferences based on their experiences. Sailors new to a ship typically walk the deck to familiarize themselves with all the rigging and take note of any special circumstances or safety concerns, such as coils of rope left on the deck instead of being carefully stowed away.
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