Padeyes

Pad eyes are essential hardware used in sailing and marine applications for securing lines, blocks, or other components to the deck, mast, or bulkheads. They provide a solid anchor point and are widely used for a variety of tasks, from attaching running rigging to securing equipment. In this category, you’ll find an extensive range of padeyes designed to meet different needs and preferences, including fixed, folding, soft attachment, and removable padeyes. Each type has specific applications, making it important to choose the right one for your yacht or sailing system.

Types of Padeyes

Fixed Pad eyes:

   These are the most common type of padeye and are permanently installed onto the deck or other surfaces. They are typically used where high loads are expected, such as attaching jib sheets, halyard leads, or securing safety equipment. Fixed padeyes are made from durable materials like stainless steel to withstand significant forces over time. They offer great strength but are immovable, making them ideal for applications where flexibility is not required.

Folding Pad eyes:

   Folding padeyes provide versatility by allowing the eye to fold down when not in use, reducing trip hazards on deck and minimizing snagging risks. They are useful for applications where the padeye isn't required constantly, such as securing dinghies or lifelines. When folded down, they present a flat profile, making them suitable for areas of the deck with regular foot traffic.

Soft Attachment Pad eyes:

   These padeyes are specifically designed for use with soft shackles or other soft attachment methods. They are becoming increasingly popular in modern sailing setups because they are lightweight and reduce metal-to-metal contact, which can help to prevent damage to deck hardware and lines. Soft attachment padeyes are often used in performance sailing setups where weight savings and reduced friction are essential.

Removable Pad eyes:

   Removable padeyes are designed for temporary installations. They are typically used in applications where the padeye may need to be relocated or removed entirely, such as for adjusting anchor points for running rigging or when needing temporary mooring options. These padeyes offer the flexibility to set up your rigging according to changing conditions. They are also often used on superyachts where a “flush deck” aesthetic is required, when not sailing

Key Considerations When Choosing Padeyes

When selecting the right pad eyes for your sailing application, consider the following factors:

- Material: Stainless steel is the most common choice for high load padeyes due to its corrosion resistance and strength, particularly in marine environments. However hard anodized aluminium is becoming increasingly popular for connection with soft attachments. In very low load applications stick-on padeyes, made from composite materials and Dyneema, can also be used.

- Load Capacity: Ensure the padeye you choose can handle the load it will be subjected to. Each padeye will have a specified Safe Working Load (SWL), so it’s important to choose one rated for the forces it will need to withstand.

- Size: Pad eyes come in various sizes, and it’s crucial to choose the correct one based on the intended application. The diameter of the eye and the base size should fit the hardware and line sizes you are using.

Our selection of pad eyes includes top-quality options from leading brands like Harken, Ronstan, Antal, and Wichard, known for their strength and reliability in marine hardware. Use our online filters to narrow your search by Style and Safe working load, ensuring you find the perfect padeye for your sailing needs.