Rope cleats and Boat cleats

Types of Boat Cleats

Our Boat Cleats and Rope Cleats category offers a comprehensive range of solutions designed to meet the various needs of sailors, whether for sail control or mooring lines. Selecting the right boat cleat is critical for secure line management, and this introduction will walk you through the different types and their applications.

Cam Cleats

Cam cleats are a popular choice for applications where quick adjustments and releases are essential, such as trimming sheets or control lines. The cleat features two spring-loaded cams that grip the rope firmly when tension is applied but allow for easy release when needed. Cam cleats are especially useful in high-load areas and are commonly found on dinghies and sports boats for jib sheets and on all size boats for control lines. Swiveling cam cleats offer additional versatility, allowing for easier rope alignment, particularly on applications like mainsheets on dinghies and small keel boats.

When selecting a cam cleat, consider the rope diameter you’ll be using and the expected load. It's important to match these specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity. For high-load applications, cleats with metal or ceramic cams are recommended for improved durability and grip.

Horn Cleats

Horn cleats are the classic all-purpose cleat design, often used for securing dock lines, fenders, or halyards. These cleats have a simple, open design that allows lines to be wrapped securely around the cleat's "horns." Horn cleats come in a variety of sizes and materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, and nylon, making them suitable for all types and sizes of sailing yachts.

Choosing the correct horn cleat involves assessing the rope diameter and the load it will need to hold. Larger cleats are better suited for thicker ropes used in mooring or heavy-duty applications, while smaller cleats work well for control lines or smaller boats.

V Cleats

V cleats function similarly to cam cleats but are a more basic and cost-effective solution. They grip the line by wedging it into a V-shaped groove. These are ideal for lighter loads or low-use lines, such as on small dinghies or as secondary cleats on larger yachts. While not as quick or reliable as cam cleats for high-load applications, they are an excellent choice for their simplicity and ease of use.

Choosing the Right Size of Rope Cleats

When selecting the right boat cleat for your application, always match the cleat's size with the rope diameter and the load requirements. Smaller boat cleats may be perfect for control lines or halyards, but mooring lines and high-load sheets will require larger rope cleats with higher holding capacities.

With a variety of options, including top-quality brands Harken, Ronstan, Allen Brothers, Antal, Spinlock and others, our Boat Cleats and Rope Cleats category provides everything you need for secure and reliable line management on your boat.