Hold on hoss... I wouldn't recommend using them for either a hand hold
or for bring the boat closer. Too easy to damage them. Nor would I use
them for tying off any sheet that is under load, nor would I use them for
a backrest or fenders. (For fenders, if they're not positioned properly,
they could pull the lifelines right off if they get caught, e.g., like when
one
ties up on a non-floating dock and the tide changes.)

A hand hold is fine combined with proper weight distribution and balance.
Splash guards are fine as well as netting. Drink holders are fine, but I
believe
they make some that fit over a winch, and to keep from stepping off by
accident seems to be the best use.

"Thom Stewart" wrote in message
...
What are lifelines for?

A hand hold to get on the boat, A place to grab to bring the boat closer
to the dock, something to hold onto when you're rail meat. A place to
tie off sheets when the furler is furled, a place to tie off the boom
tent, a back rest when a foam roll is added, a tie off for fenders, a
cloth line, a hand hold when going forward from the cockpit and coming
back, a place to rig splash guards, a place to hang drink holder for
beer cans, a barracade to keep from stepping off the boat by accident,
etc

They might even keep you from going in the drink if you lose your
balance. they might even help you maintain yourself on the high side
when heeling (?)

They are neat to have but aren't really necessary.

I like mine!

Ole Thom