“Baggywrinkle” is a term used in marine and sailing contexts to refer to a protective covering made of soft material, such as rope or canvas, that is used to prevent chafing or damage to sails and rigging.
Baggywrinkle is typically constructed by tightly wrapping lengths of soft material, often old or discarded rope, around standing rigging wires or other areas where chafing may occur. The purpose of baggywrinkle is to create a cushioning effect, reducing friction and wear caused by the movement of sails or rigging against the wires.
Baggywrinkle is commonly installed on shrouds (vertical rigging wires that support the mast) or backstays (rigging wires that provide support to the mast from the stern of the vessel). The wrapping of baggywrinkle helps to protect the sails from rubbing against the wires during maneuvers, such as tacking or gybing, and prevents the sails from getting damaged.
In addition to its protective function, baggywrinkle can also act as a deterrent for birds, as they tend to avoid perching on the soft and uneven surface created by the wrapping.
The name “baggywrinkle” originates from the appearance of the wrapped material, which can resemble wrinkled or baggy sleeves. It is a practical and time-tested solution to protect and extend the lifespan of sails and rigging, particularly on traditional sailing vessels.