Samson Introduces Innovative Running Rigging Lines; Shift in Specification Focus

Jan 03, 2019

FERNDALE, WA (January 3, 2019) —Samson, the worldwide leader in high-performance rope, is pleased to introduce a breakthrough in engineering and design, with three new double-braid running rigging lines for sailors. Upgrading the XLS and MLX franchises, Samson presents XLS3 ^TM and MLX3 ^TM, plus a brand new line for the elite racer, GPX ^TM. These new sailing lines have all been built on a unified framework, and tailor-made with the best materials for sailors’ unique demands. This is Samson, continuing to introduce innovation in sailing; with lines that are stronger, easier to splice, and highly responsive. 

Samson is also changing the way recreational marine lines are discussed, adding focus on a more relevant specification for sailors, Elastic Stiffness. Up until now, much focus has been on the strength of a line. While strength is important, it is not representative of the sailor's experience using a particular line.  Since Samson’s rope is already stronger than sailors need, they took their cue from professional racers, who look at elastic stiffness (resistance to stretch under load) as the most meaningful measurement of responsiveness to a particular command or action. Each of Samson’s new running rigging lines has an elastic stiffness measurement: 

GPX^TM
GPX is Samson’s grand prix racer: Samson’s highest performing racing line, built with a special blended core of Dyneema^® SK99 and DM20, which will result in almost zero stretch under constant load (also known as ‘creep’).  This means that its elastic stiffness is extremely low – the line will do what you want it to do, when you want it to.  The cherry on top: Samson GPX is a blend of polyester and Technora^® UV-protected fiber, providing heat resistance and superior grip.

MLX3^TM
MLX3 is a club racer’s dream – super light and amazingly strong to keep you in the lead during those club races.  Built with a blended-HMPE and polyester core, with a 24-strand polyester cover, MLX3 offers the best line for the recreational racer who is just as competitive as the pros, without getting paid.

XLS3^TM
Built for the weekend cruiser who desires optimal performance, XLS3 is a super strong polyester/polyester-double-braid rope.  Samson made XLS3 stronger and more responsive than its XLS, resulting in a high-performing, reliable line. 

MEASUREMENTS MATTER
For the 2019 Running Rigging collection, Samson sized its new lines using metric sizing, to improve their compatibility with a broad range of rigging hardware. These new products are designed to be closely anchored to the nominal diameter value in millimeters. As a result, fitting will be greatly improved and customers should find greater dimensional consistency across product ranges.

INSPIRATIONS
Along with making the lines stronger and lighter, Samson updated the look of these new products. GPX has a black carbon base to match the elite carbon fiber racing boats tearing up the seas today.  MLX3 has a slate color scheme to match the high-tech hardware used on racing boats, and XLS3 is built around classic white. Samson took their love for the water and designed color schemes around some of their favorite themes: sunset (red), daybreak (yellow), ocean (green) and midnight (blue).  These color schemes are splashed across each of the new lines to give the collection an up-to-date, cohesive look.

TESTING
Seattle-based Crossfire (www.crossfireracing.com) tested prototypes of the new running rigging lines during the 2018 racing season to ensure Samson’s lines performed under the harshest conditions.  They did. Using Samson lines, Crossfire dominated the 2018 Swiftsure Lightship Classic, taking Line Honors, First in Division 1 ORC, First Overall PHRF, and First to Round Swiftsure Bank.

For more about the 2019 Running Rigging Collection, Samson’s partnership with Crossfire, or their study of Elastic Stiffness, see our Running Rigging Showcase.

About Samson
For 140 years, Samson has been recognized as a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of high-performance ropes. Today, Samson engineers continue to pioneer the use of new fiber technology and the development of innovative coatings and constructions to produce ropes with unprecedented performance characteristics. Samson is part of Wind River Holdings^® portfolio of operating companies. For more information about Wind River Holdings^®, visit www.windriverholdings.com.