Which sailing maneuver is used to gain height against the wind?

The correct answer is tacking, which refers to the maneuver where a sailing vessel changes direction by turning the bow of the boat through the wind. This is particularly important when sailing upwind, as it allows the vessel to make progress against the wind's direction.

When a sailboat is beating, it cannot sail directly into the wind, so it sails at an angle to the wind, executing a series of tacks. Each time the boat tacks, it gains height by creating a zigzag pattern. This allows the vessel to move forward even when the wind is not favorable.

In contrast, running involves sailing directly with the wind behind the boat, which does not facilitate gaining height. Jibing, on the other hand, involves turning the stern of the boat through the wind while sailing downwind, which similarly does not assist in progressing upwind. Thus, tacking is the only maneuver specifically aimed at making progress against the wind.