Bridle vane

which one did you get? I use the red Coffey bridal fly.

Especially in shifty conditions I find it helps me keep the right angles and sail trim.

While looking for a picture I found the original US Patent for that vane, thought it was interesting.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CEMQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fpatents%2F%3Fvid%3DUSPATD254430%26output%3Dpdf&ei=uziyUe_9BO7q0QHvsoGoBg&usg=AFQjCNGZ40aNR_vZePqUfF6IywcchKKi3A&sig2=bIlmPSZgJpaD2GX41HLDMQ&bvm=bv.47534661,d.dmQ

It is essential. Keep it perpendicular to hull going downwind & jibe when it heads you away from mark (or point you're heading for) Pete

it's in your site line...it's realtime, you don't have to look up at the top of the mast. hate to sail without one...lost the red flag, made more...lost the rubber cap/retainer and used wire nut...lost ssrod, made another. that and teltales.

2 pieces of yarn or cassette tape work just as well