You will want to use a cam cleat anytime you need to release a line under tension. A jam cleat has no moving parts, it jams the line between two ridged walls (sorry - no pic!) and in order to release it, you must pull at least 1/2" toward you to pull the line up out of the cleat. This can be difficult under tension.

A cam cleat, as shown, can be released with a snap of the wrist while under tension. The line slips up out of the cam. Make shure the tail is free if you release it under tension, Ive seen some pretty good hand injuries in sailing because of a knot, or a loop in the tail catching a wrist. If you are worried about it releasing accidentally, put a fairlead about 4" in front of the cleat to hold the line steady.

: Jam cleats would be good for holding lines when sailing.

: Regular cleats in the middle of your chart park bungies are good to use as a
: paddle park.

: For your tow line, you would want a jam cleat so you could disconnect it in a
: hurry. The roller cam cleats clear fast with just an upward tug. (For one
: of the cleats pictured below, the stern of the boat would be to the left
: of the screen. The cleat would be just behind the cockpit)

: Shawn