Which component is used for the lead of the towing gear?

The towing chock is an essential component used for managing the lead of the towing gear. A towing chock serves as a guide or fairlead for the towing line as it leads from the vessel to the tow itself. This component helps to ensure that the towing line is properly aligned and can move freely without running the risk of chafing or damaging the line, which can occur if the line were to come into contact with rough or sharp surfaces.

The towing chock's design and placement are critical for safe and efficient towing operations, as it reduces friction and allows the line to be pulled at optimal angles, which can facilitate smoother pulling motion and minimize wear on the towing gear.

In contrast, while anchors are used for securing a vessel in place, fenders protect the vessel from contact damage during docking, and bowline knots are useful for creating secure loops in lines, none of these directly pertain to the lead of the towing gear in the same way a towing chock does. Thus, the towing chock is the correct component to use for the lead in towing operations.