Leech battens, also known as short battens, represent the basic version of all sail battens.
Depending on the sail size, 2, 3, or 4 battens are used. They are usually arranged at right angles to the leech chord and divide the leech into equal segments. The length of the battens is determined by the amount of roach they are intended to support and by the foot length of the sail.
Leech battens are still widely used in Dacron cruising sails, as well as in many one‑design racing classes where class rules require their use. In some racing classes, leech battens are also used—if permitted—in the leech of jibs (e.g., Star, Folkboat, H‑Boat). Here too, the battens help increase sail area, improve aerodynamics, and prevent the leech from flogging. Owners of classic yachts with wooden masts who do not use mast slides should always choose leech‑batten sails to protect their mast from chafing caused by full‑length battens.
Depending on the sail size, 2, 3, or 4 battens are used. They are usually arranged at right angles to the leech chord and divide the leech into equal segments. The length of the battens is determined by the amount of roach they are intended to support and by the foot length of the sail.
Leech battens are still widely used in Dacron cruising sails, as well as in many one‑design racing classes where class rules require their use. In some racing classes, leech battens are also used—if permitted—in the leech of jibs (e.g., Star, Folkboat, H‑Boat). Here too, the battens help increase sail area, improve aerodynamics, and prevent the leech from flogging. Owners of classic yachts with wooden masts who do not use mast slides should always choose leech‑batten sails to protect their mast from chafing caused by full‑length battens.
Advantages:
- Since the battens do not extend all the way to the mast and do not brace against it, you can avoid expensive mast‑slide systems. Simple PVC mast slides ensure easy hoisting and lowering of the mainsail.
- Depending on rig, sailing area, and sailor preferences, sails with leech battens can be designed fuller and with more twist, especially for light‑wind conditions. This makes the mainsail more efficient and easier to trim in such conditions.
- A leech‑batten mainsail can be stowed in a space‑saving manner.
- The purchase of a leech‑batten mainsail is cost‑effective.
