Quote:
Originally Posted by nolatom
For whoever asked, Google says ocean water freezes at 28F.
I remember frostbiting in Interclubs up East, we kept rock salt in the bilge and dunked the mainsheet in the brine. Then it would stay flexible down to about 15F, at which point it would make "square corners" at each turning block if you didn't ease and trim frequently. Also it got slushy and slippery.
Besides, we didn't really want to race when it was colder than 15 anyway. Although bailing snow, and sailing in the stuff, was pretty cool.
I was younger then, as was my crew.
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However, there is a better way in the 21st century.
Ice climbers water proof climbing ropes by treating them every 1-2 years with wash-in water replant treatment, as sold in outdoor stores for water replant treatment of coats. Both are polyester, and it prevents the rope from absorbing enough water to freeze. There is also a special-purpose product called "rope-proof".
The treatments make the rope a bit softer, a bit slipperier (no too much, or climbers couldn't use it!) and do not reduce the strength. MUCH better, even for summer use than the myth of using fabric softener to treat and older rope. Try it! I do my ice climbing ropes every fall.