Whether you’re rigging a sunshade, attaching a halyard bag, or preparing a storm jib, snap hooks are one of the most useful and versatile components in a sailor’s hardware kit. Sometimes referred to as carbines, carabiners or even snap shackles in less technical contexts, these spring-loaded connectors are a simple but essential tool on any boat.
At Upffront, our snap hook category features a wide range of high-quality options, with leading products from Ronstan and Wichard—two manufacturers with long-standing reputations in the sailing hardware space.
What is a Snap Hook?
A snap hook is a fast-action connector, typically featuring a spring-loaded gate that opens under thumb pressure and automatically closes when released. This design allows for quick one-handed operation, making it ideal for tasks that require frequent connection and disconnection.
Although seemingly simple, snap hooks are used in a variety of configurations—some are load-rated for critical rigging roles, while others are lightweight and intended for non-structural attachments.
Common Onboard Uses for Snap Hooks
Snap hooks have a wide range of onboard applications. Below are some of the most common:
- Jib Hanks: Knock-on snap hooks can be fitted directly to the luff of a sail, offering a removable and reusable solution for attaching headsails to forestays—particularly useful on boats without furling systems.
- Crew Safety: Used with harnesses and tethers, especially on offshore yachts, to enable quick attachment to jacklines or fixed padeyes.
- Canvas and Covers: Snap hook is often used to rig biminis, sprayhoods, and other deck canvas, making setup and removal efficient.
- Rigging Accessories: Great for temporary setups like boom preventers, barber haulers, or snatch block positioning where quick adjustability is key.
- Storage and Deck Organisation: Ideal for securing halyard bags, tools, or other loose gear that needs to be stowed but accessed quickly.
Their strength lies in simplicity: quick, reliable connection with no knots and minimal fuss.
Stainless Steel vs Plastic Snap Hook
The material you choose for your snap hook affects both performance and longevity—especially in a saltwater environment.
Most marine-grade snap hooks, including those from Wichard and Ronstan, are manufactured in AISI 316 stainless steel. This offers excellent corrosion resistance and high load capacity, making it ideal for rigging and safety-critical applications.
Wichard Stainless Steel Snap Hooks
Wichard, in particular, is known for its hot-forged stainless steel hooks, which offer superior grain alignment and strength consistency.
Ronstan provides a range of stainless snap hooks, including compact and lightweight designs, which are popular for performance applications.
These are the go-to choice when reliability under load is non-negotiable.
Plastic / Composite Snap Hooks
Plastic snap hook is lighter and often more economical. They're not designed for load-bearing tasks but are very useful for attaching non-structural gear like cockpit bags, sunshade fittings, or instrument covers.
Ronstan Plastic Snap Hook
Ronstan offers a range of composite or nylon snap hooks, often favoured in dinghy and sportsboat contexts, where weight and corrosion-resistance take priority over tensile strength.
Featured Brands: Ronstan and Wichard
An Australian company with a deep pedigree in performance sailing, Ronstan offers a broad range of snap hooks in both stainless steel and high-strength composites. Their designs are popular across everything from dinghies to superyachts and offer a good balance of strength, weight, and ergonomic handling.
Key features of Ronstan snap hooks include:
- Low-profile gate designs
- Lightweight polymer models
- Simple, corrosion-resistant construction
Ronstan Stainless Steel Snap Hooks
French manufacturer Wichard is renowned for its forged stainless steel hardware. Their snap hooks are built to exacting tolerances and are typically chosen for demanding applications such as offshore safety tethers, high-load rigging points, or knock-on sail attachments.
Wichard snap hooks are characterised by:
- Precision forging for consistent mechanical strength
- Marine-grade 316L stainless steel
- Compact models designed for direct sail integration
Final Thoughts about Snap Hook
Snap hooks may be small, but they play a big role in keeping things efficient and secure onboard. Whether you're clipping on a sail bag, setting a storm jib, or rigging a quick preventer, choosing the right snap hook—in the right material and configuration—can make all the difference.
At Upffront, we carry a carefully selected range of snap hooks from Ronstan and Wichard, offering both performance and peace of mind. Explore our full collection here and upgrade your deck hardware with confidence.
and then Add to Home Screen.
Snap Hooks on Board: Versatile Connectors for Every Sailor