Rhumb Lines: Cold Weather Sailing
For the first year since escaping New England to take the helm of Practical Sailor in 2005, I’ll be experiencing a true autumn in Marquette, MI—a...
Testing ‘Waterproof’ Socks
I can endure anything if my feet are warm, and dry is even better. I like winter sailing; not just the shoulder seasons, but...
Slick Whoopie Slings for Sailors
I was first introduced the whoopie sling by a construction rigger nearly 20 years ago. We were using a crane to install irregularly shaped...
Don’t Be Fooled by Warmer Air Temps
As air temperatures in the northern hemisphere warm enough for sailors to start spending time on the water, boating safety experts are reminding sailors...
The Many Faces of Tiller Extensions
Wheel steering is all the rage, even on cruising boats under 30 feet. It looks “shippy,” holds a steady course, and makes fighting weather...
Build Your Own Boot Dryer
The advantage of a home-built boot dryer is that you can make it fit any number of boots and gloves, and add extensions for drying foul weather gear, options that are not available on the retail market
Taking the Stink Out of Dry Suits
I’m a big fan of drysuits for cold weather sailing (see “Soul Drysuit 2-year Update,” PS February 2016). But I’m not a fan of...
Kicking Back in Keeper Pants
Ever since Under Armor convinced us that we couldn’t live without them, base layers have been all the rage in athletics. We’ve reviewed the...
Even 2020 Yielded Some Great Gear
Once more, the bulk of the past year’s testing focused on maintenance products, safety essentials, and do-it-yourself substitutes for higher priced marine gear. Part...
Boxes, Dry Bags, and Tips for a Drier Life
Our staff are not marina hoppers. That leads to the occasional wet dinghy ride or exploration by kayak, and the constant risk of ruining...
Why Sailors Love to Hate the MacGregor 26
The MacGregor 26 might be the most controversial sailboat ever built. Half sailboat. Half powerboat. Water ballast. A 50-horsepower outboard. Capable of sailing… and...
Latest Sailboat Review
Catalina Morgan 440 Used Boat Review
The Catalina Morgan 440 is a massive ocean-capable design from the drafting board of Gerry Douglas, a prolific designer for Catalina Yachts for over...