Product Overview
Harken is a renowned manufacturer of marine hardware and equipment, specializing in sailboat, safety, and rescue gear. Harken products are designed to enhance the performance, safety, and efficiency of sailboats and other marine vessels. The company, founded by Peter and Olaf Harken in 1967, has evolved from a small boat-building venture in Wisconsin to a global leader in marine hardware.
Key Product Categories
Blocks and Pulleys
Harken offers a wide range of blocks and pulleys that act as essential pulley systems for sail control. These include:
- Small Boat Blocks: Designed for dinghies, daysailers, and smaller vessels, these blocks are strong, dependable, and feature ball bearing sheaves for smooth operation. They are available in various sizes and configurations.
- Element Blocks: Introduced to cater to all sailors, these blocks are robust, durable, and price-conscious. They feature strong journal bearings and are made from forged aluminum and fiber-reinforced composite materials.
Travelers and Genoa Leads
Harken’s travelers and genoa leads are crucial for optimizing sail trim and performance:
- Travelers: These systems control the mainsail’s inboard-outboard position and are known for their smooth operation, durability, and customization options. They include tracks, cars, and end controls.
- Genoa Leads: Designed to control the inboard-outboard position of the jib or genoa, these leads ensure precise and reliable control. The Adjustable Genoa Lead Car allows for fine-tuning without additional deck holes.
Headsail Handling Systems
Harken provides various systems to streamline headsail management:
- Furling Systems: Enable effortless deployment and stowage of sails from the cockpit.
- Tracks and Cars: For precise headsail control.
- Reefing Systems: For efficient sail reduction in strong winds.
- Spinnaker Handling: Includes pole systems, sheet systems, and accessories.
Winches and Hydraulics
- Winches: Known for their innovative designs, including carbon-fiber drums, which are lighter and more efficient. Harken winches have been instrumental in major sailing events like the America’s Cup.
- Hydraulic Systems: These systems provide the power to control various boat functions with ease and precision. They include hydraulic power units, cylinders, control systems, and custom-designed systems for specific boat requirements.
Safety and Rescue Equipment
In addition to sailboat hardware, Harken also produces safety and rescue equipment:
- CMC Harken Clutch: This device is designed for ascending and descending in demanding environments. It features integrated friction control, ergonomic design, durable construction, and anti-panic functionality to prevent uncontrolled descents. It is ideal for rescue, rope access, and hauling systems.
Key Features and Functionality
- Durability and Strength: Harken products are built with high-quality materials such as forged aluminum, stainless steel, and fiber-reinforced composites to ensure robustness and long-lasting performance.
- Innovative Designs: Products like the Element blocks and CMC Harken Clutch showcase Harken’s commitment to innovation, combining multiple functions into single, compact devices.
- Customization and Versatility: Harken offers a wide range of options and configurations to suit different boat sizes and sailing conditions, ensuring that sailors can find the right equipment for their needs.
- Safety and Performance: Harken’s products are designed with safety and performance in mind, featuring smooth rope flow, controlled stops, and anti-panic functionalities to ensure reliable operation under various conditions.
In summary, Harken products are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, durability, and safety, making them a trusted choice for sailors and marine professionals worldwide.