A boomkicker [1][2] is a modern mechanical device on boats that pushes the boom up by one or more glassfiber rods. If the boom is sheeted in, the rods will bend and produce a force upwards.
This provides several beneficial effects for the sailor. In light air, a boomkicker provides better sail shape by lifting the boom and opening the leech. No topping lift is required when using the boomkicker. As a consequence, reefing is safer and easier with better boom control, and when dropping the mainsail the boom will not hit the deck.
A boomkicker may be installed alongside a traditional block and tackle boom vang, and will work in close collaboration with it. It is not used with a hydraulic, or rigid vang, as that type of vang already performs the function of supporting the boom.
The boomkicker is, among others, widely used on the International Dragon Class.[3]
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