KARVER ACQUIRES ALPHALOCK AND ACCELERATES THE DEVELOPMENT OF ERIC HALL'S INNOVATIONS
Press Release - November 11, 2026
Karver and Alphalock announce an agreement regarding the acquisition of Alphalock’s business and the development of its sail lock solutions. The agreement combines Karver’s expertise in deck equipment with innovations designed in the United States by Eric Hall.
A Strategic Move for Karver
This move is part of Karver’s strategy to strengthen and expand its line of cleats by adding reliable and innovative “bullet” cleats and automatic mainsail cleats. It also further enhances the synergy with Antal’s solutions.
Eric Hall, a sailing legend
An engineer and entrepreneur, Eric Hall has dedicated his career to advancing marine equipment. After working in aerospace composites at Grumman, he applied that expertise to the Intrepid program for the 1970 America’s Cup. In 1980, he founded Hall Spars, which has become a global leader in carbon fiber masts for racing and large yachts.
In 2024, Eric Hall was inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame, the American institution that honors individuals who have left their mark on the history of sailing. This recognition highlights, in particular, his technical contributions to the sport.
Simple and Reliable Magnetic Technology
With Alphalock, Eric Hall tackled a key challenge on board: locking and releasing a halyard in a simple and reliable way. His patented technology uses magnetic assistance to control the lock’s movement. The mechanism has only one moving part, with no springs or release lines. This reduction in the number of parts simplifies the system, its maintenance, and crew maneuvers.
The same design can be adapted for a wide range of uses: systems installed in the mast or on the outside, headsail halyards, reefing points, tack points, and other applications on the rigging or deck. Karver plans to gradually integrate these solutions into its line of cleats and continue developing them for racing, recreational sailing, and large yachts.
Karver's Ambitions
Through this acquisition, Karver intends to:
Expand its existing line of locks: internal (KMH), external (KHL), furling locks (KFH), reef hooks (KHR), and mainsail locks (KMS);
Adapt these products to Antal’s product line, including its range of mast tracks and cars;
Accelerate the development of innovative technical solutions incorporating magnetic technology under the “Powered by Alphalock” brand;
Offer shipyards, sailmakers, and system integrators a comprehensive, consistent, and proven product portfolio, ranging from offshore racing to superyachts.
Continuity for Customers and Partners
Alphalock products will be gradually integrated into the Karver catalog. We will ensure the continuity of supply, technical support, and sales assistance, with the goal of a smooth transition for all customers and partners.
Words from Leaders
“Eric founded Hall Spars and helped make it a global benchmark for carbon masts. With Alphalock, he has taken the same approach: starting from a real need on board to create a simpler, more versatile and easy-to-use solution. We are delighted to take this technology to a new level with him.” — Tanguy de Larminat, COO of Karver
Eric Hall, founder of Alphalock, adds: “I have followed Karver since its creation and have always admired the combination of modern design, elegance and strong innovation that characterizes its products. I am delighted to see the Alphalock business taken over by Karver, a company with the vision, expertise and credibility needed to ensure its future development.”
The Terms of the Agreement
The agreement sets forth the rights necessary for the use of Alphalock’s patents and know-how, as well as the transfer of technical knowledge, product documentation, and business relationships. Karver and Alphalock will work together to ensure continuity for the brand’s long-standing customers and partners.
About Karver and Alphalock