Skip Novak, Ullman Sails Brand Ambassador

While sailing in the tropics, you can be more or less cavalier about sail changes and maneuvers leaving decisions late to throw in a reef or roll up a sail.  Reaction times can be quick once you have made the decision.

The level of anticipation though, must be increased as a function of higher latitudes. The colder it gets the longer it takes to not only get kitted up, but to deal with a change. Every movement takes longer, not only because more clothing is restrictive, but also as the temperature drops while sailing in the tropics. Levels of anxiety naturally increase and more methodical methods automatically kick in. When you reach the ‘gloves are no good’ stage and mittens are de rigueur, count on an added time factor of  four or five for putting in reefs and changing sail.

Simply tying a knot, or putting a line around a cleat can be ridiculously slow. Often, I go barehanded knowing I can do things quicker and then scuttle back to shelter and warm my hands. This also keeps the gloves or mittens dry!

PHOTO CREDIT: The Barba Crew