yacht rigging cleat

10% Off Hobie Parts / 15% Off Rigging / 10-15% Off Select Kayaks - SHOP NOW

• Call Us +1-503-285-5536
• Sign in & Register
• Recently Viewed
• General Parts

Sailboat Cleats provide holding power for mainsheets, jibs, halyards, and more on small sailboats. Shop our vast selection of cleat types, including cam cleats, horn cleats, clam cleats, and jam cleats. We stock cleats from reliable brands such as Ronstan, Harken, SeaDog, and more. Whether it is tweaking your control lines, or wanting a free hand while sailing, having the right cleat makes all the difference. 

• Qty in Cart

Ronstan Horn Cleat 6-1/2 Inch

Ronstan Horn Cleat 5 Inch

Ronstan Horn Cleat 4 Inch

Clam Cleat with Becket

Cleat Support Wedge with Fairlead

Cleat Support Wedge

Allen Pump Action Cleat

Ronstan Horn Cleat 8 Inch

Ronstan Horn Cleat 3 Inch

Ronstan Cam Cleat Fairlead Small Black

Ronstan Cam Cleat Saddle Stainless Large

Ronstan Cam Cleat Fairlead Medium Grey

Ronstan Cam Cleat Saddle Stainless Medium

Ronstan Cam Cleat Saddle Stainless Small

Ronstan Cam Cleat Large C-Cleat Grey

Ronstan Cam Cleat Medium T-Cleat Red

• Total: items /
• Add all to cart

Adding your products to cart

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive discounts, new product announcements, and upcoming sales.

Currency: GBP

• Worldwide Delivery

Mooring Warps and Mooring Lines

• LIROS 3 Strand Polyester Mooring Warps
• LIROS Green Wave 3 Strand Mooring Warps
• LIROS Braided Dockline Mooring Warps
• LIROS Handy Elastic Mooring Warps
• Marlow Blue Ocean Dockline
• LIROS Super Yacht Mooring Polyester Docklines
• 50 metre / 100 metre Rates - Mooring

Mooring Accessories

• Mooring Compensators

Mooring Strops and Bridles

• V shape Mooring Bridles
• Y shape Mooring Bridles
• Small Boat and RIB Mooring Strops
• Mooring Strops
• Mooring Strops with Chain Centre Section

Mooring Assistance

• Coastline Bow Thruster Accessories
• Max Power Bow Thrusters
• Bonomi Mooring Cleats
• Majoni Fenders
• Polyform Norway Fenders
• Ocean Inflatable Fenders
• Dock Fenders
• Fender Ropes and Accessories

Mooring Components

• Mooring Swivels
• Mooring Shackles
• Mooring Cleats and Fairleads
• Mooring Buoys

Mooring Information

• Mooring Warps Size Guide
• Mooring Lines - LIROS Recommended Diameters
• Mooring Rope Selection Guide
• Mooring Warp Length and Configuration Guide
• How to estimate the length of a single line Mooring Strop
• Mooring Ropes - Break Load Chart
• Mooring Compensator Advisory
• Rope Cockling Information
• Fender Size Guide
• Majoni Fender Guide
• Polyform Norway Fender Inflation Guide
• More Article and Guides >

Anchor Warps Spliced to Chain

• LIROS 3 Strand Nylon Spliced to Chain
• LIROS Anchorplait Nylon Spliced to Chain

Anchor Warps

• LIROS Anchorplait Nylon Anchor Warps
• LIROS 3 Strand Nylon Anchor Warps
• Leaded Anchor Warp
• Drogue Warps and Bridles
• 50 / 100 metre Rates - Anchoring
• Aluminium Anchors
• Galvanised Anchors
• Stainless Steel Anchors

Calibrated Anchor Chain

• Cromox G6 Stainless Steel Chain
• G4 Calibrated Stainless Steel Anchor Chain
• Lofrans Grade 40
• MF DAMS Grade 70
• MF Grade 40
• Titan Grade 43
• Lewmar Windlasses
• Lofrans Windlasses
• Maxwell Windlasses
• Quick Windlasses
• Windlass Accessories and Spares

Chain Snubbers

• Chain Hooks, Grabs and Grippers
• Chain Snubbing Bridles
• Chain Snubbing Strops

Anchoring Accessories

• Anchor Connectors
• Anchor Trip Hooks and Rings
• Anchoring Shackles
• Bow Rollers and Fittings
• Chain and Anchor Stoppers
• Chain Links and Markers

Anchoring Information

• How To Choose A Main Anchor
• Anchoring System Assessment
• Anchor Chain and Rope Size Guide
• The Jimmy Green Guide to the Best Anchor Ropes
• What Size Anchor Do I Need?
• Anchor to Chain Connection Guide
• How to Choose Your Anchor Chain
• How to Establish the Correct Anchor Chain Calibration?
• Calibrated Anchor Chain - General Information
• Calibrated Anchor Chain Quality Control
• Calibrated Chain - Break Load and Weight Guide
• Galvanising - Managing Performance and Endurance expectation
• Can Galvanised Steel be used with Stainless Steel?
• Windlass Selection Guide
• More Articles and Guides

Stainless Steel Wire Rigging and Wire Rope

• 1x19 Wire Rigging
• 50 / 100 metre Rates - Wire and Fibre
• 7x19 Flexible Wire Rigging
• Compacted Strand Wire Rigging

Dinghy Rigging

• Stainless Steel Dinghy Rigging
• Dinghy Rigging Fittings

Fibre Rigging

• LIROS D-Pro Static Rigging
• LIROS D-Pro-XTR Fibre Rigging
• DynIce Dux Fibre Rigging
• Fibre Rigging Fittings

Wire Terminals

• Cones, Formers, Wedges, Ferrules, Rigging Spares
• Hi-Mod Swageless Terminals
• Sta-Lok Swageless Terminals
• Swage Terminals

Wire Rigging Fittings

• Turnbuckle Components

Rigging Accessories

• Rigging Chafe Protection
• Headsail Reefing Furlers
• Plastimo Jib Reefing
• Selden Furlex Reefing Gear

Furling Systems

• Anti-torsion Stays
• Straight Luff Furlers
• Top Down Furlers

Guard Wires, Rails and Fittings

• Guard Rail Fittings
• Guard Rails in Fibre and Webbing
• Guard Wire Accessories
• Guard Wires

Standing Rigging Assistance

• Replacing your Furling Line
• Fibre Rigging Break Load Comparison Guide
• More Articles and Guides >
• Cruising Halyards
• Performance Halyards
• Dinghy Halyards

Rigging Shackles

• Captive and Key Pin Shackles
• hamma™ Snap Shackles
• Soft Shackles
• Standard Snap Shackles
• Wichard Snap Shackles

Classic Ropes

• Classic Control Lines
• Classic Halyards
• Classic Sheets
• Cruising Sheets
• Performance Sheets
• Dinghy Sheets

Sail Handling

• Boom Brakes and Preventers
• Lazy Jack Sail Handling
• Rodkickers, Boomstruts
• Sail Handling Accessories

50 / 100 metre Rates - Running Rigging

• 50 / 100 metres - Cruising Ropes
• 50 / 100 metres - Dinghy Ropes
• 50 / 100 metres - Performance Ropes

Control Lines

• Cruising Control Lines
• Performance Control Lines
• Dinghy Control Lines
• Continuous Control Lines

Running Rigging Accessories

• Anti-Chafe Rope Protection
• Lashing, Lacing and Lanyards
• Mast and Boom Fittings
• Rope Stowage
• Sail Ties and Sail Stowage
• Shock Cord and Fittings
• LIROS Ropes
• Marlow Ropes

Running Rigging Resources

• Running Rigging Rope Fibres and Construction Explained
• How to Select a Suitable Halyard Rope
• How to select Sheets and Guys
• Dyneema Rope - Cruising and Racing Comparison
• Dinghy Rope Selection Guide
• Rope Measurement Information
• Running Rigging - LIROS Recommended Line Diameters
• Running Rigging Break Load Comparison Chart
• Colour Coding for Running Rigging
• Selecting the right type of block, plain, roller or ball bearing
• Recycling Rope
• Running Rigging Glossary

Plain Bearing Blocks

• Barton Blocks
• Harken Element Blocks
• Low Friction Rings
• Selden Yacht Blocks
• Wichard MXEvo Blocks
• Wooden Yacht Blocks

Control Systems

• Ratchet Blocks
• Stanchion Blocks and Fairleads
• Snatch Blocks
• Genoa Car Systems
• Traveller Systems
• Block and Tackle Purchase Systems

Ball Bearing Blocks

• Harken Ball Bearing Blocks
• Selden Ball Bearing Blocks

Roller Bearing Blocks

• Harken Black Magic Blocks
• Selden Roller Bearing Blocks

Deck Fittings

• Bungs and Hatches
• Bushes and Fairleads
• Deck Eyes, Straps and Hooks
• Pad Eyes, U Bolts and Eye Bolts
• Pintles and Gudgeons
• Tiller Extensions and Joints
• Harken Winches, Handles and Accessories
• Barton Winches, Snubbers and Winchers
• Lewmar Winches, Handles and Accessories
• Winch Servicing and Accessories

Clutches and Organisers

• Barton Clutches and Organisers
• Spinlock Clutches and Organisers
• Lewmar Clutches
• Harken Ball Bearing Cam Cleats

Barton K Cam Cleats

Deck hardware support.

• Blocks and Pulleys Selection Guide
• Barton High Load Eyes
• Dyneema Low Friction Rings Comparison
• Seldén Block Selection Guide
• Barton Track Selection Guide
• Barton Traveller Systems Selection Guide
• Harken Winch Selection Guide
• Karver Winch Comparison Chart
• Lewmar Winch Selection Guide - PDF
• Winch Servicing Guide

Sailing Flags

• Courtesy Flags
• Red Ensigns
• Blue Ensigns
• Signal Code Flags
• Flag Staffs and Sockets
• Flag Accessories
• Flag Making and Repair
• Webbing only
• Webbing Soft Shackles
• Webbing Restraint Straps
• Webbing Sail Ties
• Sail Sewing
• PROtect Tape

Fixings and Fastenings

• Screws, Bolts, Nuts and Washers
• Monel Rivets

Hatches and Portlights

• Lewmar Hatches
• Lewmar Portlights
• Fids and Tools
• Knives and Scissors

General Chandlery

• Carabiners and Hooks
• Antifouling

Flag Articles

• Flag Size Guide
• Bending and Hoisting Methods for Sailing Flags
• Courtesy Flags Identification, Labelling and Stowage
• Courtesy Flag Map
• Flag Etiquette and Information
• Glossary of Flag Terms and Parts of a Flag
• Making and Repairing Flags
• Signal Code Message Definitions

Other Chandlery Articles

• Anchorplait Splicing Instructions
• Antifoul Coverage Information
• Hawk Wind Indicator Selection Guide
• Petersen Stainless - Upset Forging Information
• Speedy Stitcher Sewing Instructions
• Thimble Dimensions and Compatible Shackles

Jackstays and Jacklines

• Webbing Jackstays
• Stainless Steel Wire Jackstay Lifelines
• Fibre Jackstay Lifelines
• Jackstay and Lifeline Accessories

Lifejackets

• Crewsaver Lifejackets
• Seago Lifejackets
• Spinlock Lifejackets
• Children's Life Jackets
• Buoyancy Aids

Floating Rope

• LIROS Multifilament Polypropylene
• LIROS Yellow Floating Safety Rope

Guard Wires, Guardrails and Guardrail Webbing

Lifejacket accessories.

• Lifejacket Lights
• Lifejacket Rearming Kits
• Lifejacket Spray Hoods
• Safety Lines

Seago Liferafts

• Grab Bag Contents
• Grab Bags and Polybottles
• Liferaft Accessories
• Danbuoy Accessories
• Jimmy Green Danbuoys
• Jonbuoy Danbuoys
• Seago Danbuoys

Overboard Recovery

• Lifebuoy Accessories
• Purchase Systems
• Slings and Throwlines

Safety Accessories

• Fire Safety
• Sea Anchors and Drogues

Safety Resources

• Guard Wires - Inspection and Replacement Guidance
• Guard Wire Stud Terminal Dimensions
• Webbing Jackstays Guidance
• Webbing Jackstays - Custom Build Instructions
• Danbuoy Selection Guide
• Danbuoy Instructions - 3 piece Telescopic - Offshore
• Liferaft Selection Guide
• Liferaft Servicing
• Man Overboard Equipment - World Sailing Compliance
• Marine Safety Information Links
• Safety Marine Equipment List for UK Pleasure Vessels

Sailing Clothing

• Sailing Jackets
• Sailing Trousers
• Thermal Layers

Leisure Wear

• Accessories
• Rain Jackets
• Sweatshirts

Sailing Footwear

• Dinghy Boots and Shoes
• Sailing Wellies

Leisure Footwear

• Walking Shoes

Sailing Accessories

• Sailing Bags and Holdalls
• Sailing Gloves
• Sailing Kneepads

Clothing Clearance

Clothing guide.

• What to wear Sailing
• Helly Hansen Mens Jacket and Pant Size Guide
• Helly Hansen Womens Sailing Jacket and Pant Size Guide
• Lazy Jacks Mens and Womens Size Charts
• Musto Men's and Women's Size Charts
• Old Guys Rule Size Guide
• Sailing Gloves Size Guides
• Weird Fish Clothing Size Charts

The Jimmy Green Clothing Store

Lower Fore St, Beer, East Devon, EX12 3EG

• Adria Bandiere
• Anchor Marine
• Anchor Right
• August Race
• Barton Marine
• Blue Performance
• Brierley Lifting
• Brook International
• Brookes & Adams
• Captain Currey
• Chaineries Limousines
• Coastline Technology
• Colligo Marine
• Cyclops Marine
• Douglas Marine
• Ecoworks Marine
• Exposure OLAS
• Fire Safety Stick
• Fortress Marine Anchors
• Hawk Marine Products
• Helly Hansen
• International
• Jimmy Green Marine
• Maillon Rapide
• Mantus Marine
• Marling Leek
• Meridian Zero
• MF Catenificio
• Ocean Fenders
• Ocean Safety
• Old Guys Rule
• Petersen Stainless
• Polyform Norway
• PSP Marine Tape
• Sidermarine
• Stewart Manufacturing Inc
• Team McLube
• Technical Marine Supplies
• Titan Marine (CMP)
• Ultramarine
• Waterline Design
• William Hackett

Clearance LIROS Racer Dyneema £55.08

Clearance Folding Stock Anchor £123.25

Clearance Sarca Excel Anchors £294.00

Clearance LIROS Herkules £0.00

Clearance Barton Size 0 Ball Bearing Blocks - 5mm £0.00

Clearance Marlow Blue Ocean® Doublebraid £18.48

Mooring Clearance

Anchoring clearance, standing rigging clearance, running rigging clearance, deck hardware clearance, chandlery clearance, safety clearance.

The term 'Cleats' covers a multitude of different configurations designed to grip, restrain and secure the load on a rope. This category covers those cleats that are used for quick grip and release in running rigging applications plus traditional shaped cleats for securing a line where adjustment is not the priority.

There are three main designs or concepts for Running Rigging Cleats:

Cam Cleats - This design is based on a pair of ribbed, spring-loaded cams that pinch together and won't let the rope through one way while allowing free movement in the opposite direction. The line can be tightened by pulling through the cleat and released when under load with a firm upward jerk.

Jam C leats - This design is based on a V shaped slot with fluted ribs to provide the grip. There are no moving parts. The jamming element secures the line in one direction and allows release by taking the tension off the cleat and lifting the line clear of the jaws. Clamcleats produce a wide range of jamming cleats for dinghy applications, but also for adjustable fender lanyards.

Roller Cam Cleats - This design works in a similar way to a rope clutch with vertical pressure applied via a single internal cam to grip the rope. The Spinlock version is very compact, efficient and ergonomic.

There is also the traditional shape and design: T or Horn Shape Cleats - These are typically used for e.g. flag halyard cleats, mast base halyard cleats positioned below a winch or clutch.

Cleats for Mooring or Anchoring feature separately.

Please note that Rope Clutches perform a similar function to jam and cam cleats.

• Barton Marine (9) Clamcleat (14) Harken (7) Holt (6) Petersen Stainless (1) Seldén (10) Spinlock (4)

Stainless Steel Quick Cleat

Barton quick cleat, petersen halyard cleats, spinlock pxr cleat - fixed, spinlock pxr cleat - swivel, spinlock pxr cleat - retro fit, spinlock pxr cleat - vertical pivot.

Harken Cam-Matic Cleats

Selden cam cleats - composite.

Selden Cam Cleats - Aluminium

Harken carbo cam cleats.

Ex-Display & Sample Sale

• Search for:

No products in the basket.

• Base Layers
• Technical T-Shirts
• Sailing Jackets
• Sailing Trousers
• Dinghy Footwear
• Sweatshirts
• Holebrook Samples
• Pelle Samples
• Changing Robes
• Cleaners & Proofers
• Scarves / Snood
• Dinghy Equipment
• Hi-fits / Trousers
• Hiking Equipment
• Hiking Shorts
• Spray Tops / Smocks
• Full Wetsuits
• Shorty Wetsuits
• Long John Wetsuits
• Wetsuit Tops
• Wetsuit Shorts & Trousers
• Summer Wetsuits
• Winter Wetsuits
• Children’s Wetsuits
• Men’s Wetsuits
• Women's Wetsuits
• Wetsuit Sale
• Technical Clothing
• Casual Clothing
• Hats, Gloves, Socks & Scarves
• Watersports
• Accessories Sale
• Amazing Bundle Deals
• Cables & Accessories
• Fixed GPS/plotters
• GPS Antennas
• Handheld GPS/Plotters
• Marine Cameras
• Mounting/Brackets
• Radar Scanners
• Sailing Watches
• Thermal Cameras
• Waterproof Cases
• Accessories
• Fish Finder Sonar
• Depth Instruments
• Multifunction Systems
• Speed Instruments
• Weather Instruments
• Wind Instruments
• Autopilot Accessories
• Cockpit Autopilots
• Onboard Autopilots
• Navigation Charts
• Plotting Aids
• Entertainment Accessories
• Entertainment Systems
• Speakers & Subs
• Electronics
• 4G and WIFI
• Handheld VHF Radio
• Mounted VHF Radio
• VHF Antennas
• Walkie Talkies
• Buoyancy Aids
• Lifejackets
• Children’s Life Jackets
• Commercial Lifejackets
• Harnesses/Bosuns Chair
• Lifejacket Accessories
• Safety Knives
• Safety Lights
• Safety Lines
• PLB & AIS
• Satellite Communicators
• Fire Safety Stick
• Fire Extinguishers
• GPS Tracker
• Liferaft Accessories
• Recovery Devices
• Survival Suit
• Cones & Balls
• Dye Markers
• Horns & Whistles
• RADAR Reflectors
• Bungs & Bailers
• Battery Management
• Chargers & Alternators
• Electrical Other
• Leisure Batteries
• Plugs & Connectors
• Shore Power
• Wind Generator
• USB & Phone Chargers
• Blocks & Terminals
• Circuit Breakers
• Seals / Outlets / Plugs
• Switches & Panels
• Wires & Cables
• Deck Lights
• Interior Lighting
• Navigation Lights
• Searchlights
• Head Torches
• Freshwater Pumps
• Macerator Pumps
• Service Kits
• Toilets/Waste
• Spray Guns & Connectors
• Toilet Accessories
• Toilet Parts
• Waste Tanks
• Ball Valves
• Inlet & Skin Fittings
• Metal Plumbing Fittings
• Plastic Plumbing Fittings
• Diverter Valves
• Non Return Valves
• Deionised Water
• Filters & Purification
• Taps & Sinks
• Water Heaters
• Water Tanks
• Gas Connectors
• Gas Fittings
• Bow Thruster
• Bungs And Self Bailers
• Cleats and Fairleads
• Deck Filler
• Deck Flooring & Protection
• Eye Bolts & U Bolts
• Grab Rail / Handles
• Hooks and Clips
• Latches & Catches
• Shackles & Swivels
• Tiller Extenders & Joints
• Track & Cars
• Winch Handles
• Fans & Windscoops
• Hatch & Inspection Covers
• Hatch Shades
• Hatches & Portlights
• Plastic Hatches
• Yacht / Keelboat Rope
• Dinghy Rope
• Dockline / Mooring Rope
• General Purpose Rope
• Watersports Rope
• Fender Rope
• Rope Accessories
• Furling & Reefing
• Mast, Spars & Sails
• Pins & Rings
• Rigging Screws, Adjusters & Tensioners
• Splicing & Whipping
• Thimbles & Stoppers
• Galvanising Paints
• Thinners & Solvents
• Paint Brushes
• Glue & Adhesives
• Mixing Pots & Accessories
• Resins & Epoxy
• Sealants & Caulking
• Boat Cleaner
• Cleaning Equipment
• Fabric Cleaners & Proofers
• General Cleaners
• Metal Cleaners
• Onboard Cleaner
• Polishes & Waxes
• Vinyl Cleaner
• Teak Cleaner
• All Zinc Anodes
• Zinc Shaft / Prop
• Zinc Engine / Outdrive
• All Aluminium Anodes
• Aluminium Hull
• Aluminium Shaft / Prop
• Aluminium Engine / Outdrive
• All Magnesium Anodes
• Magnesium Hull
• Magnesium Shaft / Prop
• Magnesium Engine / Outdrive
• Bow Thruster Anodes
• Hanging Anodes
• Bolts & Fixings
• Backing Pads
• Lubricants & Grease
• Power Tools
• Marine Prepacks
• Dehumidifiers
• Blowers & Exhaust
• Engine Oil & Additives
• Oil Extractors & Filters
• Shaft Bearings
• Pumps & Inflation
• Tender Accessories
• Petrol Engines
• Boat Fender
• Dock Fender
• Edging Strip
• Hooks & Pumps
• Mooring Buoy
• Step Fenders
• Anchor Bags
• Anchor Connectors
• Anchor Lines
• Anchor Windlass
• Compensators
• Personal Craft
• Engine Covers
• Fuel Tanks & Lines
• Fuel Connectors
• Kill Switches
• Propeller Bags
• Straps & Ratchets
• Flag Staff & Holder
• Lighters & Matches
• Cabinet Fridges
• Cooling Kits
• Portable Fridge/freezers
• Chandlery Misc
• Cup Holders
• Sail Knives
• Seats & Cushions
• Games & Toys
• Gift Vouchers
• Nautical Gifts
• Novelty Hats
• Anemometers
• Clocks & Barometers
• Teak Fittings
• Weather Stations
• Galley Equipment
• Tumblers & Glasses
• Water Bottles & Flask
• Inflatable Paddleboards
• Hard Paddleboards
• Inflatable Kayaks
• Handles / Bridles
• Throw Lines
• Swim Accessories
• Sea Scooter
• Free Delivery on UK mainland orders over £100 excl. Highlands / rural areas

FREE Next Working Day / Saturday Delivery on orders over £150 - choose option in the basket (UK mainland, excludes Highlands rural areas, order before 3pm)

Boat Cleats and Fairleads

Explore our comprehensive selection of boat cleats and fairleads. Whether you require mooring cleats for stable docking, auto-release cleats for hassle-free adjustments, loop cleats for versatile rigging, or specific materials like aluminium, nylon, or steel cleats to suit your boat’s requirements, we’ve got you covered. Our open cleats provide reliable tie-off points for your lines, ensuring safety and peace of mind while out on the water. Trust in quality, durability, and a wide range of options with Marine Super Store.

Showing 1–36 of 97 results

YS Cleat Spring Toe Rail Mount

Selden Fairlead Double

Barton ‘K’ Cam Cleat

Spinlock PXR Race Cleats

Barton Sliding Track Mounting Cleats

Barton Open Nylon Cleat

Spinlock SUA Mini Jammer

Barton ‘K’ Cam Cleat inc Fairlead

Harken Cleat Alum Ball Bearing

Cleatboot Cleat Cover

Allen Fairleads

Barton Shroud Cleat 463

Fairlead/Chocks Stainless Steel – Pair

Marine Bollard

Clam Cleat Trapeze and Vang CL253/R

Waveline Hollow Base Cleat

Clam Cleat Junior 6mm C211

Barton Shroud Cleat with Eye

Harken Micro Carbo-Cam Cleat

Clam Cleat Major CL205/R

Wichard Profurl Stainless Steel Double Fairlead

Barton Stanchion Cleat

Seasure Control Line Cleats

Wichard ProFurl Articulated Fairlead Stainless Steel

ClamCleat Racing Mini Hard Anodised

Selden Valley Cleat Open Standard

RWO Open Cleat

Barton Budget Cam Cleats

Base Mounted Aluminium Cleats

Clam Cleat Auto Release

Selden Valley Cleat Open CL201

Selden Cleat

Lewmar Small Composite Cleat

Selden Valley Cleat Open CL222

Harken Fairlead Black

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Email address  *

A password will be sent to your email address.

• standing rigging
• rope and line
• cams, cleats and clutches
• head sail gear
• roller furling
• main sail control
• mast hardware
• eye straps and pad eyes
• fairleads and bulls eyes
• anchor and docking
• miscellaneous hardware
• Alexander Roberts
• My Wishlist

• Customer Service
• Order Tracking
• Your Account
• Store Policies & Info
• Privacy Policy
• Helpful Links
• Payment Methods

Shopping Cart: 0 Items

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter

Ericson 41 Used Boat Review

Mason 33 Used Boat Review

Beneteau 311, Catalina 310 and Hunter 326 Used Boat Comparison

Maine Cat 41 Used Boat Review

Tips From A First “Sail” on the ICW

Tillerpilot Tips and Safety Cautions

Best Crimpers and Strippers for Fixing Marine Electrical Connectors

Thinking Through a Solar Power Installation

Getting the Most Out of Older Sails

How (Not) to Tie Your Boat to a Dock

Stopping Mainsheet Twist

Working with High-Tech Ropes

Fuel Lift Pump: Easy DIY Diesel Fuel System Diagnostic and Repair

Ensuring Safe Shorepower

Sinking? Check Your Stuffing Box

The Rain Catcher’s Guide

Boat Repairs for the Technically Illiterate

Boat Maintenance for the Technically Illiterate: Part 1

Whats the Best Way to Restore Clear Plastic Windows?

Mastering Precision Drilling: How to Use Drill Guides

Giving Bugs the Big Goodbye

Galley Gadgets for the Cruising Sailor

Those Extras you Don’t Need But Love to Have

UV Clothing: Is It Worth the Hype?

Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing

How to Select Crew for a Passage or Delivery

Preparing A Boat to Sail Solo

On Watch: This 60-Year-Old Hinckley Pilot 35 is Also a Working…

On Watch: America’s Cup

On Watch: All Eyes on Europe Sail Racing

Dear Readers

Chafe Protection for Dock Lines

• Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear

Most well-made cleats fit the bill, but beware.

In the 90s, the Boat US Foundation performed a study of deck cleat strength. Testing was performed using 6-inch cleats of a number of materials and designs, which were pulled from several directions. The standard vendor recommendation is 1/16-inch of line size for each inch of cleat, so these cleats are recommended for use with 3/8-inch line (breaking strength 4,200 pounds, working load limit 525 pounds). All but the nylon cleat had working load limits (assume 4:1 safety factor for metals) greater than nylon rope. Most were nearly as strong as the rope, but only two were stronger than the rope in all directions. We can expect strength to go up roughly as the square of size, roughly matching rope strength as we go. Only a few broken cleats were noted among the boats damaged by Hurricane Irma. More commonly, the cleats pulled out of the deck.

Obviously, cleats need a firm backing. A strong, well-engineered deck helps, but backing plates are essential (see How Big Does a Backing Plate Need to Be? PS August 2016).

Watch the angle formed when the line goes through the chock. You may not be able reduce the downward angle, but any pressure against sharp edges will weaken the line by 20 to 50 percent. Avoid sharp turns, which forces fibers on the outside of the turn to carry most of the load. Try to keep the runs straight, and pad the turns with heavy chafe gear.

Bottom line. Cleats and chocks must be sized for the required line size, which for storm-mooring a 35-foot yacht requires 7/8-inch line and 14-inch cleats. However, it is a rare 35-foot boat that has cleats over 10 inches. This is a challenge.

For the full report on cleat strength from the BoatUS Foundation, see https://www.boatus.org/findings/16/ .

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

What’s the Best Sailboats for Beginners?

Why Does A Sailboat Keel Fall Off?

The Perfect Family Sailboat! Hunter 27-2 – Boat Review

Pettit EZ-Poxy – How to Paint a Boat

Latest sailboat review.

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Cleats, Clutches & Jammers

Cleats  |  Cam Cleats  |  Clam Cleats  |  Rope Clutches  |  Jammers

Cleats appear in all shapes and sizes, all used in various locations on boat with the same purpose, securing the load on a rope.

Cleats ​Sometimes referred to a T cleats or Bollard Cleats. These are the traditional shaped cleat. Generally used for a flag halyard or for larger ropes when mooring up.

Cam Cleats Spring loaded cams pinch together, allowing rope to move freely one way and prevent it moving in the opposite direction. Allows for quick easy cleating, adjustments and a simple relase as well.

Clam Cleats Simple V shaped design with no moving parts. The V shaped slot has a ribbed finish to lock the rope in place when under load. A more compact option than a Cam Cleat they are popular fittings on Sailing Dinghys.

Rope Clutches & Jammers Both are generally operated with a lever arm, engaging or releasing a cam and gripping the rope. Like Cam Cleats they allow the rope to be pulled through in one direction, even when the lever is down and the clutch is activated.

• Anchoring & Mooring
• Anti-Chafe Materials
• Blocks & Sail Handling
• Chandlery Above Deck
• Clam Cleats
• Cleats & Bollards
• Deck Hardware
• Deck Organisers & Mast Base
• Fairleads & Bushes
• Fairleads, Bullseyes & Bushes
• Furling, Reefing & Lazyjacks
• Handrails & Stanchions
• Inflatables & Tenders
• Locks & Security
• Repair Kits, Valves & Accessories
• Rudder Fittings
• Rudders & Centreboard
• Trapeze & Hiking Equipment
• Windlasses & Accessories
• £1.00 - £61.00
• £61.00 - £121.00
• £121.00 - £181.00
• £181.00 - £241.00
• £241.00 - £301.00
• £301.00 - £390.00

Types of Cleats On A Sailboat

• July 18, 2023

Table of Contents

Cleats are essential fixtures on a sailboat used to secure lines (ropes) and control sail trim. They come in various designs and are strategically placed throughout the boat to provide convenient and secure attachment points. Here, I will describe the different types of cleats found on a sailboat in detail:

Sailboat Cleat Types

The horn cleat is the most common and recognizable type of cleat. It features one or more protruding horns or arms that provide multiple options for securing lines. The line is wrapped around the horns in a figure-eight pattern to create a secure hold. Horn cleats come in different sizes and are used for various applications throughout the boat, including halyards, sheets, and control lines.

Recommended Horn Cleats:

Ronstan Horn Cleat Nylon 76MM (3″)

Schaefer Mid-Rail Chock and Cleat Mounts on 1-1/4 x 3/16-Inch T-Track fits Up to 5/8-Inch/16mm Line

Cam cleats are designed with a spring-loaded cam mechanism that clamps down on the line when it is under tension. The cam grips the line securely and holds it in place until released. Cam cleats are popular for applications where quick and easy adjustment is required, such as controlling jib or spinnaker sheets. They are commonly found on sailboats with high-performance or racing-oriented setups.

Recommended Cam Cleats:

Jam cleats, also known as jamming cleats or rope clutches, are designed to hold a line firmly under load. They feature a set of ridges or teeth that grip the line when it is tensioned. Jam cleats provide a secure hold and are often used for halyards, control lines, and other high-load applications. To release the line, it needs to be pulled at a specific angle to disengage the teeth.

Recommended Jam Cleats:

Clam cleats consist of two interlocking jaws that close around the line. As the line is pulled, the jaws grip it tightly, creating a secure hold. Clam cleats are often used for smaller lines, such as control lines on dinghies or small sailboats. They provide quick and easy adjustment and are commonly found on boats where weight and simplicity are crucial.

Recommended Clam Cleats:

Osculati Clamcleat

V cleats, as the name suggests, have a V-shaped groove that runs along the top surface of the cleat. The line is inserted into the groove, and the V-shaped design holds it securely in place. V cleats are primarily used for smaller-diameter lines or control lines. They are commonly found on dinghies and small sailboats where space and weight are at a premium.

Recommended V Cleats:

Nautos 91061 – V Jam Cleat – Sailboat Hardware

Jammers are similar to jam cleats but offer a more sophisticated and mechanical gripping mechanism. They consist of one or more jaws that grip the line under tension using a cam or lever system. Jammers provide a strong and secure hold and are commonly used for halyards, control lines, and sheets on larger sailboats or racing-oriented setups.

Recommended Jammers:

Spinlock Mobile Jammer for securing Loaded Lines 10-14mm

Rope Clutch

Rope clutches are heavy-duty cleats often used on larger sailboats. They consist of multiple jaws or disks that can be engaged or disengaged to secure or release a line. Rope clutches are designed to handle high loads and are commonly used for controlling halyards, sheets, and other lines that require precise adjustment and secure holding power.

Recommended Rope Clutches:

Deck cleats, also known as mooring cleats, are larger cleats that are permanently mounted to the deck or cockpit of a sailboat. They provide a secure attachment point for dock lines, fenders, and other lines used for docking or securing the boat. Deck cleats are usually made of durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum and are designed to handle significant loads.

Recommended Deck Cleats:

Fairlead Cleat

Fairlead cleats combine the functionality of a cleat with that of a fairlead, which helps guide lines to the appropriate cleating position. They feature an integrated fairlead or a combination of a fairlead and a cleat. Fairlead cleats are commonly used for jib or genoa sheet control lines, where it is important to guide the line for optimal sail trim and secure it quickly.

Recommended Fairlead Cleats:

HARKEN Micro Carbo-Cam Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead

Jamming Block with Cleat

This type of cleat is a combination of a jammer or a cam cleat with a pulley or block. It allows the line to be redirected and creates a mechanical advantage when trimming sails. Jamming blocks with cleats are commonly used for applications that require increased purchase or control, such as mainsheet systems or complex control line setups.

Recommended Jamming Block Cleats:

It’s important to note that the specific cleat types and their placement on a sailboat can vary depending on the boat’s design, rigging setup, and intended use. Sailboat owners and manufacturers may also develop unique variations or combinations of cleats to suit their specific needs. Proper installation, sizing, and maintenance of cleats are essential for safe and efficient sail handling.

The Sailor’s Marketplace for Sailboats and Sails.

Sell Your Sailboat

Sailboats for sale.

• New Sailboats
• Used Sailboats
• Cruising Sailboats
• Racing Sailboats

Sell Your Sails

Sails for sail, sail manufacturers.

• North Sails
• Quantum Sails
• Doyle Sails
• UK Sailmakers

Sailing Reviews

• Sailing Line
• Safety Equipment
• Sailing Accesories

As an Amazon Associate SailTrader earns from qualifying purchases.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. 

~ Back to Cleats Main Page ~

~ Back to Hardware Main Page ~

Please verify you are a human

Access to this page has been denied because we believe you are using automation tools to browse the website.

This may happen as a result of the following:

• Javascript is disabled or blocked by an extension (ad blockers for example)
• Your browser does not support cookies

Please make sure that Javascript and cookies are enabled on your browser and that you are not blocking them from loading.

Reference ID: 935feca7-650b-11ef-aa55-88b7fcaa5454

Powered by PerimeterX , Inc.

• --> Login   or   Sign Up
• Login   or   Sign Up -->

• B&B Annual Messabout
• Capsize Camp
• All Kayaks and Canoes
• Diva 15'8" Kayak
• Grand Diva 17'6" Kayak
• Moccasin 12' Canoe
• Flyfisher 13' Canoe
• Moccasin 14' Canoe
• Moccasin Double 15'6" Canoe
• Birder Decked Canoe 13' and 15'8
• Expedition Sailing Canoe
• All Dinghies and Tenders
• Catspaw Pram
• Spindrift Dinghy
• All Sailboats
• Core Sound 15
• Core Sound 17
• Core Sound 17 Mark 3
• Core Sound 20
• Core Sound 20 Mark 3
• Bay River Skiff 17
• Belhaven 19
• Mini Trimaran
• Class Globe 5.80 Kit
• Princess Sharpie 22'
• Princess Sharpie 26'
• All Powerboats
• All Jessy Skiffs 12-17'
• Jessy 12'
• Jessy 15'
• Jessy 17'
• All Outer Banks Cruisers
• Outer Banks 20
• Outer Banks 24
• Outer Banks 26
• All Ocracoke Center Consoles
• Ocracoke 20
• Ocracoke 20-B
• Ocracoke 24
• Ocracoke 256
• Cape Lookout 28
• Wing Foil Kits
• All Other Kits and Plans
• "Tractor" Canoe Seat
• Mast Head Floats
• Windvane Self Steering
• All Building Supplies and Tools
• Marine Plywood
• All B&B Epoxy
• Temperature Control for Epoxy
• Epoxy Additives
• All Hardware and Rigging
• All Rigging
• Eyestraps and Fairleads
• Shackles, Hooks and Pins
• All Rudder Hardware
• Pintles and Gudgeons
• Tillers and Accessories
• Hardware kits
• All Masts, Track and More
• 6061-T6 Aluminum Tubing
• Sailtrack and Accessories
• Starboard Mast Plugs
• Wind indicators
• All Electrical
• Battery Monitors
• Solar Power System
• Boarding Ladders
• Beach Rollers
• All Apparel
• B&B Approved Products and Tools

Shop by Brand

• B&B Yacht Designs

Amarine Made

• View all Brands

Shop by Category

• Rudder Hardware
• Building Supplies and Tools
• Hardware and Rigging

Amarine Made Stainless Steel Open Base Cleat - 6 Inch - 9995S6 (6" : 2Pcs)

Amarine Made 4pcs Stainless Steel Open Base Cleat - 8"

Amarine Made 6" Stainless Folding Cleat, Flip-up Dock Cleat (1-Pack)

Auto-release Clamcleat

Small Clamcleat

Mini ClamCleat (no fairlead)

Clamcleat cover

Plastic ClamCleat

Medium Cam Cleat Wedge Kit

Medium Cam Cleat Fairlead

Medium Cam Cleat

Small cam cleat

Swiveling Cam Cleat

[email protected]

07446433013

Selden Winch Pads and Cleats

Selden Mast Cleats can be identified by the the part no; that is embossed on the body of the fitting . This will be a series of numbers for e.g. for a sheave 504-333

511-025-01 CLEAT 195/AL (RIVET FIX)

511-015-01 cleat 165/al (rivet fix), 511-016-01 cleat 145/comp (rivet fix).

511-030-01 CLEAT 110/COMP(RIVET FIX)

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

clamcleat.com uses cookies to ensure we give you the best experience on our website. By navigating our site, you agree to allow us to use cookies, in accordance with our Privacy Policy

• Compare ( )

Using and Fitting our Cleats

Q: Why does Clamcleat® not publish safe working loads (SWL) or break loads for its cleats?

Ans: The quality, type and style of the rope or cord plays a major role in the performance of the cleat. Normally the better the quality of the rope the greater holding power, also some cleats are designed to slip once they exceed the desired holding load as a safety feature including securing fabrics such as sunshades or covers.

Q: Do you get a better performance with an Aluminum cleat?

Ans: Aluminum cleats do not improve the performance of the cleat, but they can achieve higher holding loads and they also might improve the lifespan of the cleat especially if the rope will be in contact with the teeth whilst the rope is being pulled through during adjustment.

Q: What different coating are there for the Aluminum cleats?

Ans: The standard coating for the cleat is a Stoving Aluminum silver enamel coating. For extra protection from corrosion and a high-tech appearance the cleats are also available in a dark grey Hard anodized finish. The part no in suffixed with “AN” to identify the hard anodized finish.

Q: What is the best way to fix an aluminum cleat into a carbon fiber spar?

Ans: You need to create a barrier between the aluminum cleat and the carbon fiber surface to stop electrolytic de-composition. The barrier can be created by cutting a thin shim of plastic to the shape of the cleat and drill the fixing holes (the retail card the cleat is sold on is ideal to use as the shim), also use aa inhibitor or anti corrosive jointing compound such as Duralac on the fixing.

Q: Do you need to put a barrier between the Aluminum cleat and the stainless-steel fixing?

Ans: You need to add a inhibitor or barrier compound between the fixings, the Aluminum cleat and the mast or boom. For example, Daralac anti corrosive jointing compound.

Q: How long should a Nylon cleat last?

Ans: This really depends on the usage, the quality and age of the rope used etc. so is very difficult to gauge. The ultraviolet rays will discolor the cleats over time and in very sunny climates may affect the life of the cleat. In extreme climates the life expectancy should be 10 -15 years depending on usage and in more moderate climate 20 + years.

Q: How long should an Aluminum cleat last?

Q: Can I fit my cleats using pop rivets?

Ans: Using pop rivets to fit your cleat is a tidy quick way of securing the cleat. Ensure the pop rivet is at 90 degrees to the cleat when fixing and with certain smaller cleats the head of the pop rivet gun will not sit onto the pop rivet when in place so you will require to add a spacer between the gun and the rivet.    

Q: What type of rope or cord will give the best performance on my cleats?

Ans: In our experience a braided good quality rope gives you the best holding performance.

Q: What is the largest cleat Clamcleat make?

Ans: The CL220 is the largest cleat in the Clamcleat® range and is designed for a rope from 12-16mm 3/8 to 5/8”.

Q: Is there any maintenance required to a cleat to keep it performing well?

Ans: We would recommend flushing the with fresh water as often are you can.

How our cleats work

A deceptively simple ridged 'V' groove holds ropes firmly, yet is devoid of any moving parts to break or seize. It allows the immediate release of the rope by a short upward and backward pull.

Always tension the rope before it enters the cleat. Dragging the rope backwards over the teeth may cause damage, especially to the nylon cleats.

Clamcleat® rope cleats are unsuitable for use with metal ropes.

Most cleats are provided with countersunk fixing holes. Countersunk head screws or bolts of the recommended size should be used; bolts being preferred. If using rivets with a powered fixing gun, make sure the pressure is not set too high.

Fastenings must be entered straight so that the heads do not protrude to snag the rope. Several of the cleats have been designed with a groove in the base enabling them to be fitted to both flat and curved surfaces.

Tapered Pads

As an aid to optimum rope alignment many models can be mounted on Tapered Pads, especially when a fairlead would not be appropriate.

Complementary ranges to satisfy all needs

Marine grade nylon cleats offer very good value for money, for both production builder and sailor alike. They are ideal for most applications where high loads or rope surges are not likely to be encountered. Nylon cleats are corrosion resistant and will last for many years outdoors.

Aluminium cleats are highly successful in providing a complete answer to rope burn. They are unaffected by the heat generated by a rope surging back through a cleat as well as being suitable for sub-zero temperatures. Corrosion resistance is good. Our research into cleat materials over the years has shown aluminium to be far better for high performance cleats than any polymer, irrespective of any fibre reinforcement or additive. These factors make aluminium cleats the best choice for demanding applications.

All alloy cleats are available in our STANDARD SILVER FINISH . Selected cleats are also available in a HARD ANODISED FINISH , which gives a high-tech and fashionable appearance as well as offering superior resistance to sea water corrosion. For military use, alloy cleats can be painted black or supplied hard anodised.

• Remove This Item

Download PDF Clamcleat brochure 9.1MB