The traveller is the unsung hero of mainsail trim - moving the boom without changing leech tension, depowering in gusts and adding power in light air. This collection covers mainsheet track and traveller systems, traveller cars, end stops and control blocks, plus genoa track and cars, from Harken, Lewmar, Barton and other leading hardware brands.
Systems are sized by track section and expected load: small-section track suits dinghies and small keelboats, with progressively larger ball-bearing cars for cruisers and performance yachts. When replacing parts, the track section is the critical dimension - cars and stops must match the profile exactly, so check the existing track's width and brand before ordering. Upgrading tired plain-bearing cars to ball-bearing versions transforms how easily a traveller adjusts under load.
Frequently asked questions
What does a mainsheet traveller actually do?
It moves the mainsheet attachment point across the boat, letting you control the boom's angle independently of leech tension - ease it down in gusts to depower without ruining sail shape.
How do I know which traveller car fits my track?
Match the track section exactly - measure the track width and profile and identify the brand, as cars only run on their matching track. Mixing brands or sizes rarely works.
Is upgrading to a ball-bearing traveller worth it?
Yes on any boat where the traveller is adjusted under load - ball-bearing cars move freely with the mainsheet loaded, where plain bearings bind and need the sheet eased first.
