Loads generated by the crew (mainsheet, vang, outhaul, Cunningham etc.) are transferred to the mainsail and on to the mast. As the mainsail is designed according to the expected curve of the mast, a longitudinally stiff mast allows for less luff curve of the sail. Instead, this sail area can be added to the roach of the sail, where it is subjected to the wind and more efficient. The longitudinal rigidity of the mast section makes for higher forestay load created by tensioning the backstay. Running backstays can often be avoided. The risk of mast pumping is also reduced.