The Mast Mate is a flexible, alternating-step mast ladder designed for sailboats. Constructed from 2-inch-wide heavy-duty nylon webbing, it ensures durability and safety. The ladder features alternating steps, each double-reinforced with the same webbing material. Unlike lower quality ladders, Mast Mate's steps are formed by two continuous parallel straps of webbing, creating a robust and seamless unit.

The traditional Mast Mate has alternating steps every 16 inches. To make climbing easier for those with smaller inseams, the short-step version has steps every 12 inches.  There are stainless steel grommets between each step for the attachment of the appropriate mast slide to fit your boat.  A stout, stainless steel D-ring at the top of the ladder attaches to your halyard and you simply haul the ladder up the mast just like you raise your mainsail.  

Key Features

• Grommets and Attachments: Equipped with No. 3 stainless steel spur grommets between each step and a stout welded stainless steel D ring at the top for halyard connection. Nylon retainer shackles are included for attaching step grommets to the slides or slugs.
• Double Step: A double step is located 3 feet below the halyard connection, offering secure footing for mast work. This step can be positioned anywhere along the mast.
• Gear Attachment: A No. 3 grommet between the halyard connection and the double step is provided for attaching gear, a bosun’s chair, tool bag, or safety harness.
• Top Step Stiffeners: a stiffener for the top double steps is included with every Mast Mate ladder. The stiffener is made from sturdy sail batten stock with rubber cap ends and fits securely into a pocket formed by the double webbing reinforcer. This creates a firm base for the top steps, preventing them from collapsing around your feet for enhanced comfort and stability while you work aloft.

Usage

Mast Mate is designed to be hoisted only when needed, much like a mainsail. If the track or slot system includes a gate, the Mast Mate is fed in above the lowered main. Otherwise, the main must be removed from the track or slot. While a downhaul is recommended, the climber's weight typically ensures the system remains taut.

Versatility

• Halyard Retrieval: For main halyard retrieval, Mast Mate can utilize the jib halyard (for masthead rigs) or an adjustable topping lift. With a spare halyard, it helps reduce the load on the winch when using a bosun’s chair.
• Emergency Ladder: In emergencies, Mast Mate can serve as a boarding ladder by looping a step over a winch and casting the rest overboard.

Storage and Specifications

When not in use, Mast Mate rolls compactly for storage in the provided nylon bag. The 35-foot version weighs 8 pounds and measures 14" x 2" when rolled, while the 50-foot version weighs 11.5 pounds and measures 16" x 2" rolled.

Manufacturing and Innovation

Proudly made in the United States, Mast Mate combines traditional ideas with modern materials to create a simple yet highly effective tool. It is widely praised at boat shows and by private users for its practicality, often eliciting the reaction: “Why didn’t I think of that?”