Spinlock

Overview

Spinlock designs and manufactures rope holding equipment, deck hardware, and personal safety gear for sailing boats from dinghies to superyachts.¹³⁶ The company is recognized for innovations in rope control devices leveraging high tensile fiber ropes and has expanded into lifejackets and PFDs, including the DURO range for industrial maritime use.²⁴ Based in Cowes, UK, it operates independently with a focus on marine sector products.¹³

History

Spinlock originated as Offshore Instruments in 1968 in London, distributing marine products before moving to Cowes in 1976.¹⁵ In the late 1970s, founder Rodney Hogg developed a snap-shackle that 'spun and locked,' leading to the Spinlock name in the 1980s as it shifted to manufacturing rope control devices.¹⁵ Key milestones include branching into lifejackets in 2005 and maintaining leadership in rope holding and personal safety equipment.⁴⁶

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are designed and manufactured at its facility in Cowes, UK, on the Isle of Wight.¹³ The original site in Birmingham Road housed production and offices.¹

Notable Products

• Deckvest - Award-winning lifejacket harness for sailing safety.
• DURO Lifejacket - Flotation device for industrial maritime users with improved comfort and fit.
• XC Series Clutches - Rope clutches handling up to 12,000kg loads for superyachts.
• Snap Shackle - Original product that inspired the Spinlock name, a cast rotating shackle.

Reputation

Spinlock is regarded as a world expert in rope holding by sailing professionals, with products used from dinghies to superyachts.⁶ Enthusiasts value its innovations from yacht racing environments applied to safety gear like Deckvest and DURO.²⁵ It holds B Corporation certification since 2022, reflecting commitment to quality manufacturing.³ No major criticisms noted in available sources.