Boom vang

A boom vang is a tool that helps control a sailboat's boom (which is basically a big stick that holds up the sail). Think of it like a giant rubber band that connects the bottom of the mast (the tall pole in the middle of the boat) and the boom. By pulling on the vang, it tightens up the rubber band and helps keep the boom from bouncing up and down too much in the wind. It's kind of like how your parents might hold your hand when you're walking along a bumpy road so you don't trip or fall. This makes sailing smoother and safer because it keeps the sails stable and prevents the boat from tipping over.