Best Sailing Rigging Shackles of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Sailing rigging shackles are an essential component for any sailor. These small but sturdy metal fasteners are used to connect various parts of a sailboat's rigging system, such as the mast, boom, and sails. They come in various sizes and shapes, including D-shackles, bow shackles, and snap shackles. Most are made of stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the harsh marine environment. Sailing rigging shackles are easy to use and provide a secure, reliable connection that is vital for the safe operation of a sailboat.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Better Boat 3/8" Stainless Steel D Ring Shackles Cover #TOP 1
Better Boat 3/8" Stainless Steel D Ring Shackles
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SHONAN 5/16" Stainless Steel Bow Shackles Cover #TOP 2
SHONAN 5/16" Stainless Steel Bow Shackles
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SHONAN 2.75" Quick Release Snap Shackles Cover #TOP 3
SHONAN 2.75" Quick Release Snap Shackles
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sailing Rigging Shackles

#TOP 1

Better Boat 3/8" Stainless Steel D Ring Shackles

Silver
Better Boat 3/8" Stainless Steel D Ring Shackles Cover
Premium Stainless Steel D Ring Shackles 3/8 inch 1/2, 5/16 or 1/4 Mini Small Bow Shackle or Clevis Anchor Shackle Marine Grade Boat Sailboat Chain Shackel U Bolt Rigging Clasp - 4 PCs 3/8"

The Better Boat Stainless Shackles are crafted from premium 316 Grade stainless steel, making them perfect for heavy-duty applications like anchor chains and sailboat rigging. Their durable design allows you to rely on them in tough conditions, with a working load of 2500lbs and a breaking load of 12000lbs. Additionally, their marine-grade corrosion resistance ensures they withstand outdoor and saltwater environments without rusting. With a pack of four high-quality shackles, you can count on these reliable tools to secure your equipment for years to come.

What We Like
High corrosion resistance
Durable and strong
Versatile for various applications
Pack of four included
#TOP 2

SHONAN 5/16" Stainless Steel Bow Shackles

SNAS02-316-
SHONAN 5/16" Stainless Steel Bow Shackles Cover
SHONAN 5/16" Bow Shackles, Heavy Duty D Ring Shackle Marine Grade, 4 Pcs Stainless Steel Boat Anchor Kit Screw Shackles for Chain or Strap, 880 Lbs Capacity

The SHONAN Bow Shackles are crafted from marine-grade stainless steel 316, ensuring exceptional resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor use. With a robust load capacity of 880 pounds, these shackles provide strong and reliable connections for various applications, from boating to industrial lifting. Their smooth finish and well-designed screw pin allow for easy and efficient operation, enabling you to quickly secure your equipment. Whether you're using them for tow straps or anchor ropes, these shackles deliver convenience and peace of mind in every task.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
High load capacity
Easy to operate screw pin
Versatile applications
#TOP 3

SHONAN 2.75" Quick Release Snap Shackles

SNAS05-316
silver
2.75 Inch, 2 Pack
SHONAN 2.75" Quick Release Snap Shackles Cover
SHONAN 2.75" Quick Release Snap Shackle, 2 Pack Marine SCBA Mask Quick Release Clips Swivel Eye Snap Shackles, Stainless Steel Sailing Shackles Rigging Clips for Sailboat Halyard

The SHONAN Snap Shackles are made from high-quality stainless steel 316, ensuring they resist rust and corrosion, making them ideal for marine use. You can utilize these 2.75-inch shackles for various purposes, such as securing a kayak or attaching a dog leash, adding versatility to your outdoor activities. Their user-friendly design allows for easy operation, so you can quickly release your load when needed. With a robust spring mechanism, you can rely on smooth opening and closing every time, enhancing your overall experience.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Versatile applications
Easy to operate
Corrosion-resistant
#TOP 4

Necmetu Snap Shackle Sailing Halyard

NECMETU
silvery
Necmetu Snap Shackle Sailing Halyard Cover
NECMETU Snap Shackle Sailing Halyard, 316 Stainless Steel Clevis Swivel Jaw Swivel Shackle, Quick Release Snap Hook for Sailing Rigging Shackles (2-3/4 Inch - 2Pcs)

The Necmetu Snap Shackle is a high-quality sailing rigging shackle designed for durability and strength in the marine environment. Made from AISI 316 stainless steel, this snap shackle offers increased strength and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for sailing applications. The swivel eye snap shackle ensures easy attachment and detachment of lines, perfect for situations where frequent removal of the shackle is required. With a quick release snap hook and a swivel eye, this shackle provides convenience and ease of use, even under load. The stainless steel construction of the body and plunger pin, containing molybdenum for added corrosion resistance, makes it suitable for both marine and industrial applications. The Necmetu Snap Shackle is a reliable and versatile choice for all your sailing rigging needs.

What We Like
Durable
Easy to attach and detach
Quick release mechanism
#TOP 5

Baieasy 4 Pack Stainless Steel Shackles

Baieasy
B003
Baieasy 4 Pack Stainless Steel Shackles Cover
Baieasy 4 Pack Swivel Eye Snap Shackle, Marine Sailboat Shackles Quick Release 316 Stainless Steel for Sailing Rigging SCBA Mask Halyard Panic Snap Spinnaker Clip

The Baieasy Stainless Steel Shackles are made from high-quality 316 stainless steel, ensuring they withstand wear and corrosion in tough marine settings. You can use these versatile quick-release shackles for various applications, from sailboat rigging to securing dog leashes and kayak anchors. Measuring 2-3/4" in length and capable of holding up to 800 pounds, they provide dependable strength for your tasks. Plus, their user-friendly design allows for easy opening and closing, making your work simpler and more efficient.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Versatile for multiple uses
High weight capacity
Easy to operate
#TOP 6

Necmetu Snap Shackle 316 Stainless Steel Swivel Shackle Sailing Halyard

NECMETU
silvery
Necmetu Snap Shackle 316 Stainless Steel Swivel Shackle Sailing Halyard Cover
NECMETU Snap Shackle 316 Stainless Steel Swivel Shackle Sailing Halyard, Quick Release Snap Hook Boat Shackles Sailboat Hardware for Sailing Rigging Shackles (2-3/4 Inch - 2Pcs)

Necmetu Swivel Snap Shackle is a sailing rigging shackle made of AISI 316 stainless steel. Its toggle snap shackle has a length of 2-3/4" and a working load of 880LBS. The swivel shackle allows for connection with dynamically moving parts, making it ideal for sailing halyard, spinnaker halyards, and sailboat hardware. The quick-release snap shackle with swivel eye can be easily opened under load, even at a distance. The shackle body and plunger pin are made of stainless steel type 316, which contains molybdenum for added corrosion resistance, making it ideal for marine and industrial applications. With its increased strength and durability in harsh marine environments, Necmetu Swivel Snap Shackle is a reliable and convenient tool for sailing enthusiasts.

What We Like
Durable AISI 316 stainless steel
Swivel shackle for dynamic connections
Quick-release snap hook with swivel eye
#TOP 7

Extreme Max BoatTector D Shackle

3006.8225
Silver
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Extreme Max BoatTector D Shackle Cover
Extreme Max 3006.8225 BoatTector Stainless Steel Wide D Shackle - 1/4"

The Extreme Max D Shackle is crafted from marine-grade 316 stainless steel, ensuring exceptional strength and longevity, even in the toughest marine conditions. This durable construction means you can rely on it for various sailing applications, knowing it will withstand wear and tear. With a size of 1/4" and a working load limit of 750 lbs., this shackle is perfect for securing your gear without worry. However, it's important to note that this shackle is not designed for overhead lifting. Overall, this product offers peace of mind while you enjoy your time on the water.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Suitable for harsh marine conditions
High working load limit
Reliable for sailing applications
#TOP 8

YUSOVE 316 Stainless Steel Snap Shackle

YUSOVE
Black
YUSOVE 316 Stainless Steel Snap Shackle Cover
YUSOVE Black Snap Shackle 316 Stainless Steel Swivel Eye Snap Shackle,High Strength Quick Release Snap Hook for Sailing Rigging Shackles,Pack of 2

The YUSOVE Snap Shackle is crafted from high-quality 316 stainless steel, ensuring maximum durability and resistance to corrosion, especially in saltwater environments. With a compact length of 2-3/4 inches and a robust working load limit of 880 pounds, this snap shackle is perfect for various applications, including sailing and rigging. Its user-friendly spring draw pin design allows for quick and easy operation, while the tail ring rotates 360 degrees, helping to prevent tangling of ropes. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient solution for their boating and outdoor needs.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
High working load limit
Easy to use design
360-degree rotating tail ring
#TOP 9

Amarine Made 4 Pack Snap Shackle

2-3/4"
Amarine Made 4 Pack Snap Shackle Cover
Amarine Made 4 Pack of Swivel Eye Snap Shackle Quick Release Bail Rigging Sailing Boat Marine 304 Stainless Steel for Sailboat Spinnaker Halyard (2-3/4")

The Amarine Made Snap Shackle offers a reliable solution for your sailing needs. Made from 304 stainless steel, it significantly minimizes wear and corrosion, ensuring durability. The eye bail design is perfect for lines that don’t require frequent shackle removal, providing convenience during your sailing activities. With its quick-release pin feature, you can easily detach the snap bail, even when under tension, which enhances safety and efficiency. Additionally, the swivel bail allows for smooth connections with moving parts like spinnaker halyards, making your rigging process seamless and effective.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Quick-release for convenience
Swivel design for flexibility
Reduces wear and corrosion
#TOP 10

4 Pcs Stainless Steel Anchor Shackle - Heavy Duty Bow Shackle

4x3x2 inchs
4 Pcs Stainless Steel Anchor Shackle - Heavy Duty Bow Shackle Cover
4 Pcs Stainless Steel Anchor Shackle 1/4", Heavy Duty Bow Shackle Lifting Sailing Bracelet Anchor Chain, Screw Pin Hardware Rigging for Chains Wirerope Lifting Paracord Outdoor Camping Survival Rop

This set of 4 stainless steel bow shackles are durable, anti-corrosion and rust-resistant, with a strong load-bearing capacity. The threaded pin makes it easy to remove and secure, and protects the eye of nylon or polyester slings from wear and tear. With a working load limit of 325kg/716lbs and breaking load of 1500kg/3300lbs, these shackles are perfect for coupling, lifting, and conventional towing. They can be used for marine, industrial, agricultural, or household applications, as well as for outdoor activities such as climbing and rescue operations.

What We Like
Durable, anti-corrosion and rust-resistant stainless steel
Threaded pin for easy removal and securing
Great for a variety of applications including marine, industrial, and outdoor activities
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 3 types of shackles?

There are various types of shackles available, but three common types are snap shackles, twist shackles, and headboard shackles. However, in the context of sailing rigging, D-type shackles, also known as chain shackles, are commonly used.

2. What is the shackles rule?

The shackles rule states that when using a shackle with wire rope, the shackle must be equal to or larger than the diameter of the wire rope. This ensures proper compatibility and safety in rigging applications.

3. What is a shackle in rigging?

In rigging, a shackle is a u-shaped, load-bearing connecting device that is used with a removable pin. It is used to connect different types of lifting slings, chain, or rope to an object or to each other in rigging and load securement applications.

4. What is a shackle in sailing?

In sailing, shackles are strong U-shaped pieces of equipment used to connect items together and secure them with a pin, spring, or bolt. Shackles are used in various sailing applications, such as securing an anchor or holding lines in place.

5. What is the difference between a soft shackle and a D shackle?

The main difference between a soft shackle and a D shackle is the material and design. Soft shackles are made from synthetic materials and are lightweight but have a high breaking strength. D shackles are made of steel and are heavier. Soft shackles are often preferred for their strength and safety in recovery applications.

6. What does 4 shackles mean when dropping anchor?

In the context of dropping an anchor, the term '4 shackles' refers to a length measurement. One shackle is equal to 90 feet or 15 fathoms. When '4 shackles' is mentioned, it means that the anchor chain has been released to a length equivalent to four times the standard length of a chain, indicating the depth at which the anchor has been dropped.

7. What does 3 shackles mean in yachting?

In yachting, the term '3 shackles' refers to the length of anchor chain released. One shackle is equal to 90 feet or 15 fathoms. When '3 shackles' is mentioned, it means that three times the standard length of a chain has been released into the water for anchoring purposes.

8. What does 4 shackles mean in yachting?

In yachting, the term '4 shackles' refers to the length measurement of anchor chain released. One shackle is equal to 90 feet or 15 fathoms. When '4 shackles' is mentioned, it means that four times the standard length of a chain has been released into the water for anchoring purposes.

Editor's Notes

During our sailing rigging shackle research, we found 24 sailing rigging shackle products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,579 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sailing rigging shackles list. We found that most customers choose sailing rigging shackles with an average price of $17.02.

The sailing rigging shackles are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sailing rigging shackles, including Better Boat, Shonan.Systems, NECMETU, Baieasy, Extreme Max. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,233 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.