There is a home-built alternative to
buying the Winchers. Just take some 1/2" ID (or larger) vinyl
water hose and cut it to the circumference of the winch drum. Make it into a coit (sew 1/2"
rope inside to joint the ends), soften it in hot
water and slip it over the top of the winch.
I used this arrangement for several years on a 29'
boat and it held the sheet while I cranked the winch. Just like the Wincher, it is a snubber not a tailer. When tacking it was of little value, but when adjusting the sheet under load it allowed me crank in a few inches until the sail trim looked right then take up the tail slack on the cleat.
After a couple of seasons the sun got to the vinyl hose and I cut them off. Although they worked I didn't bother to replace them. The Winchers would probably hold up in the sun much better. Back then (1970s) they wanted about $50 for a pair of Winchers, my alternative came out of my spare
parts bin.
John