Whisker Poles are used to "wing-out" the jib when sailing downwind. They extend between the mast and jib sheet at the clew to hold the jib out on the opposite side of the main in clean air, producing a greater degree of control and efficiency than you could possibly achieve without a whisker pole. Sailors who have attempted downwind sailing without a whisker pole can appreciate the value of being able to stabilize the jib, enabling the sail to work more efficiently.

Whisker poles are not to be confused with spinnaker poles that are of fixed length and sized to the boat's "J" dimension. The basic length of a whisker pole should be 100% of the foot length of the sail it is to be used on. For boats carrying a variety of head sail sizes or incorporate roller reefing for the jib, an adjustable whisker pole is ideal.

With most racing classes, maximum whisker pole length may be dictated by class rules (percentage of "J" dimension). If you are racing in a non-spinnaker class, you should check your class rules for the maximum whisker pole lengths allowed. For general cruising however, the 100% of the sail foot is a safe measurement to give you maximum projection of the sail area.

Whisker poles are designed to operate under higher compressive forces than spinnaker poles and tube diameter as well as wall thickness is a major function of strength. For example, a 2" pole can be more than twice as strong as an 1-1/2" pole and the strength ratio varies with wall thickness. The size requirement of the whisker pole depends on boat length, type of sail used and general wind conditions. Additional variables include displacement and if the boat has a bow sprit that extends the basic fore-triangle.

Working Jib

Genoa

ADJ and HD refer to Twist-Lock Whisker Poles below.
LC refers to Line Control Whisker Poles below.

Please call about Custom Poles.

Selden's telescopic pole can be extended to 150% of normal spinnaker pole length which is key while pulling out a large genoa or a gennaker. It can be telescoped down for easier stowage.

Part #

Description

Displacement

Section Dia. Inner

Section Dia. Outer

Minimum Length for Stowage

Spinnaker Pole Position

Whisker Pole Position: Heavy Conditions

Whisker Pole Position: Light Conditions

lb

ton

in

mm

in

mm

in

mm

in

mm

in

mm

in

mm

SLD06006058

7200

3.6

1.88

48

2.36

60

25

2530

99.60

118.11

3000

141.73

3600

177.16

4500

These telescoping, twist-lock poles can be adjusted to any desired length in their range and securely locked into position with an effortless twist of the inner tube. All small poles include strong, corrosion-free Lexan end fittings and a Forespar PE-1 Mast Pad Eye (FP404011) with stainless steel screws.

	Oversized Shipping:
Due to the overall dimensions of Whisker Poles over 60", our carriers classify them as "oversized". Please click here for more information.

These telescoping whisker poles are heavy duty two section and three section aluminum which can be extended and securely locked into position by an internal twist lock device. Poles feature Ultra Series fittings on both ends. Recommended for use with FP40001 (PE-3SF) or FP40002 (PE-3SC) mast pad eyes.

	Oversized Shipping:
Due to the overall dimensions of Whisker Poles over 60", our carriers classify them as "oversized". Please click here for more information.

Forespar's Line Control Whisker poles are designed for boats in the approximately 25' to 55' range. The system is simple and makes the extension and retraction of poles quick and easy; the entire operation can be executed while positioned at the mast. You no longer need to go forward to adjust buttons of any kind. Simply uncleat the line to extend or retract (never attempt to adjust while under load). Topping lift attachment points are on all poles. Attachment to outer end is with jaw end fitting facing down.

	Oversized Shipping:
Due to the overall dimensions of Whisker Poles over 60", our carriers classify them as "oversized". Please click here for more information.

To recondition any Forespar twist-lock telescoping poles. Complete instructions and all necessary parts are provided.