The Rooster Blog

What I love about Rooster is our team’s passion for technical development, a passion that consistently results in products that truly make sense for the sailing and watersports world. Steve has always been and continues to be a driving force in this process. Alongside Kate, our Head of Product and Marketing, and the wider team, we remain focused on creating products that are thoughtfully engineered, genuinely useful, and represent outstanding value for money. This summer brings some exciting new additions to our range. So whether you're a dinghy sailor, keelboater, or simply someone who loves getting out on the water, there's something here for you. Whatever you choose to invest in this season, we’re confident you won’t be disappointed. All we ask is that you share your thoughts, either by leaving a review or, if you’d prefer a more in-depth chat, feel free to email me directly at luke@roostersailing.com This season, we’re proud to: Launch the new SB1 Dry Smock, designed for sailors demanding reliable inshore protection Evolve our much-loved Technical Shorts, now available in both men’s and women’s fits Introduce our first-ever trainer with the SB2 Deck Trainer - a lightweight, flexible shoe with non-marking soles, designed for comfort and performance both on and off the boat. And expand our technical casual range with the Shoreline Jacket and Polartec® Fleece, both now also available in women’s styles.   Here’s what’s launching: SB1 Dry Smock Designed to perform where it counts, this latest addition to our trusted SB1 Inshore Range combines advanced waterproofing, breathability, and freedom of movement in a lightweight, high-performance package. Ideal for both dinghy and keelboat sailors, the SB1 Dry Smock is engineered for comfort, durability, and serious use on the water. Coastal Hi-Fits Cost-effective without compromise – our new coastal hi-fits deliver great protection and performance at a sensible price. Tough, breathable and cut for comfort, they’re ideal for coastal cruising and general watersports. Now available in junior and adult sizing. SB2 Deck Trainer Our first footwear product – the SB2 Deck Trainer is lightweight, flexible and secure. With excellent grip and a non-marking sole, it’s designed for confidence on wet decks and all-day comfort ashore. A perfect blend of performance and versatility. Changing Mat Bag A practical essential – our upgraded changing mat doubles as a tie-up bag. Ideal for changing out of kit on rough or wet ground, then cinching everything neatly away. Simple, clean and effective. Technical Shorts 2.0 – Reimagined A fresh evolution of our much-loved technical shorts. Featuring tougher, more comfortable fabrics, improved cut, and smarter detailing. Designed to hold their shape and keep up with long summer sessions on or off the water – and now available in tailored fits for both men and women. Shoreline Jacket A lightweight, waterproof outer layer ideal for everyday use on and off the water. With taped seams, windproof fabric and a structured hood, it offers reliable protection when you need it. Smart enough to wear ashore, functional enough for rigging, RIB rides or coastal days – now also available in a women’s fit. Polartec® Fleece A warm and breathable fleece made from 100% recycled Polartec® fabric. Designed for layering or wearing alone, it combines technical performance with casual comfort. Durable, easy to wear and ideal for cooler summer mornings or breezy evenings – also now in a women's-specific cut. What Our Customers Are Saying "The SB1 Dry Smock is a game-changer! Keeps me completely dry and comfortable during races."— Verified Rooster customer   "Perfect for coastal cruising. Lightweight yet durable, and the fit is excellent."— On the Coastal Hi-Fits   "These trainers offer fantastic grip on wet decks and are super comfortable for all-day wear."— On the SB2 Deck Trainer   "A must-have for sailors. Makes changing out of wet gear easy and keeps everything tidy."— On the Changing Mat Bag   "The new design is spot on. Comfortable, durable, and the added pockets are very practical."— On the Technical Shorts   "Stylish and functional. Keeps me dry and looks great both on and off the boat."— On the Shoreline Jacket   "Warm without being bulky. Ideal for layering and very breathable."— On the Polartec® Fleece   We hope you enjoy discovering and using these new additions as much as we’ve enjoyed developing them. We’re proud of what this season brings – and we’re always listening, so your feedback is always welcome, it’s what helps us keep improving. Wishing you a happy and fun-filled season on the water, hopefully with a Rooster product or two by your side. EXPLORE THE FULL RANGE    

We’re thrilled to kick off the 2025 season with a bold new chapter in performance sailing by announcing our official partnership with the Magenta Foiling Team. As their exclusive clothing partner for the clinic team leaders and the participants who sign up to experience the thrill of the world of foiling, we'll be joining them on their mission to a sustainable female foiling talent pathway.  Being pioneers in both high-performance gear and supporting excellence in sailing, teaming up with the Magenta Foiling Team is a natural fit. Known for their fierce determination on the water, the Magenta Foiling Team embodies the very spirit of innovation and empowerment that Rooster stands for. A Shared Vision for Performance and Progress At Rooster, our mission has always been to support sailors at every level with gear that’s been tried, tested, and trusted in the toughest conditions. The Magenta Foiling Team, with their dynamic presence in the foiling circuit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the sport, represents the future of sailing and matches Rooster's commitment to facilitating access to participation at all levels.   Empowering the Next Generation The Magenta Foiling Team is known for their advocacy in growing diversity and inclusion in sailing. Rooster is honoured to support their broader mission of making the sport more accessible and inspiring the next generation of water sports enthusiasts.   As 2025 unfolds, we’ll be working closely with the team not only on ensuring they have the right gear to take them to their limits, but also on outreach initiatives that encourage more young women — especially in underrepresented groups — to get involved in foiling and competitive sailing.  What’s Next? Collaboratively, we'll be bringing you behind-the-scenes content and exclusive team insights from around the world as the clinics unfold over the course of 2025. Follow the journey through social media as we enter an exciting season with our new teammates.

We’re kicking off the 2025 season with some exciting news — Rooster is partnering with a fantastic line-up of classes, clubs, and teams across the globe to support the sailors and events that make our sport so special. Some of these partnerships are long-standing collaborations we’re proud to continue. Others are brand new for 2025, marking fresh connections with organisations doing brilliant work in their communities. Whether it’s powering young Optimist sailors or backing world-class racing fleets, we’re here to support performance, progression, and fun on the water. Here’s who we’ll be working with this season: 🌎 International Youth Teams 🇺🇸 USODA National & Development TeamsOur continued partnership with the United States Optimist Dinghy Association helps support junior sailors at every level of the Optimist pathway in the US. 🇺🇾 AUDO Uruguayan Optimist National TeamNew for 2025! We're thrilled to be backing Uruguay’s top young Optimist sailors as they take on regional and global competition. EU EURILCA Solidarity ProgrammeInvolving every nation—igniting the next wave of young sailors. 🇬🇧 UK Class Partnerships RS Tera UK ClassSupporting the next generation as they learn the ropes, build confidence, and discover the thrill of racing. RS Feva UK ClassOne of the UK’s most vibrant youth fleets — we’re proud to keep supporting this fun, fast, and friendly class. ITCA UK (Topper Class)A class close to Rooster’s roots, and still one of the best starting points for young racers. ILCA UK ClassFrom youth to Masters, the ILCA fleet is one of the most competitive in the world — and we’re excited to continue our support. RS Aero UK ClassLight, fast, and full of energy — the RS Aero class continues to grow, and we’re proud to be part of that momentum. J-70 UK ClassNow in our third year of partnership, the J-70 fleet continues to deliver top-tier keelboat racing across the UK and Europe. RS Class AssociationAn ongoing collaboration with the RS Class Association who support a wide range of RS fleets. Through initiatives like the RS National Tour and major class events, the association drives competitive yet friendly racing across the UK — and we’re proud to be along for the ride in 2025. 🌊 Expanding Across Watersports GBSUPNew for 2025! We’re excited to partner with Great Britain Stand Up Paddleboarding as the sport continues to grow across the UK. Magenta Foiling TeamAlso new this year, we’re proud to support this pioneering project empowering women in high-performance and foiling sailing. ⛵ Club Partnerships Hayling Island Sailing Club (UK)A legendary venue on the UK circuit — we’re looking forward to a big year of racing and community at HISC. Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron (Canada)One of Canada’s most historic sailing clubs, now part of the Rooster family for 2025. Why It Matters Luke Morrison, CEO at Rooster explains: "These class and club partnerships are the heartbeat of Rooster’s approach to supporting the watersports community. Whether we’re kitting out a national team or backing the growth of club racing, we’re proud to provide the gear that helps sailors push their limits and enjoy the sport to the fullest."   We’ll be sharing updates, behind-the-scenes content, and sailor stories from our partners throughout the season — so keep an eye on our socials and tag us when you’re out there racing in Rooster gear! @Roosterkit     #RoosterKit #InYourElement  

As the breeze begins to warm and the days stretch a little longer, there's that unmistakable energy amongst the team - It’s the buzz of boats back on the water, spring sessions, and plans for the season ahead. This Easter, we want to take a moment to wish all of our customers, community, and partners a very Happy Easter from everyone at Rooster. Over the past few months, we’ve been hard at work behind the scenes, preparing for what’s shaping up to be an exciting and full-throttle season on the water. Here’s a quick look at what we’ve been up to: 🌊 New Kit, Built for AdventureWe’re gearing up to launch our new season collection, with a selection of styles already live in the Coming Soon section of our website. This expanded range has been carefully developed for coastal and inshore sailors, and also includes a few fun new essentials. Among the highlights: the SB1 Inshore Smock, Shoreline Jacket, Women’s Technical Shorts 2.0, SB2 Deck Trainers, and our all-new Coastal Hi-Fits. The SB2 Deck Trainers, in particular, have already been turning heads - not just on deck, but also among the SUP community, thanks to their lightweight design and excellent grip on wet surfaces. Whether you're coaching, racing, paddleboarding, or simply out exploring, this collection is built to handle real conditions - created for real sailors and watersports enthusiasts who love what they do. ⛵ Supporting the Future of SailingFrom junior regattas to international championships, we’re proud to support a wide range of events — not only at the grassroots level, but right up to the highest levels of performance. Our 2025 calendar includes sponsorship of top-tier sailing regattas, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) events, and coastal rowing beach sprints, reflecting our commitment to the broader watersports community. Whether it’s inspiring the next generation or backing athletes at the peak of their game, we’re invested in helping the sport grow — and we can’t wait to share more from the water as the season unfolds. 🤝 Growing the Rooster FamilyWe’ve welcomed a new wave of ambassadors, riders, coaches, and team members into the Rooster fold - all united by a shared passion for performance, adventure, and life on the water. This season, you can expect plenty of behind-the-scenes stories, product favourites, and expert insights from across the Rooster community. 🇺🇸 Looking Ahead: US Developments As our international presence continues to grow, we're currently taking time to carefully review our operations in the United States in light of recent changes, including updated tariffs and other regulatory shifts. The US remains a key market for us, and we’re committed to making well-considered decisions that allow us to continue supporting American sailors with the same care, quality, and passion that define the Rooster brand. We’ll keep you updated as our plans take shape - and in the meantime, thank you for your continued support, trust, and patience. This time of year is all about fresh starts - so whether you're clearing out your kit bag, upgrading your sailing wardrobe, or just itching to get back on the water, we’re here to help make it a season to remember. Thank you for being part of the Rooster journey — for choosing our kit, wearing it with pride, and sharing our love for life on the water. Wishing you a Happy Easter, plenty of breeze, and maybe just a bit of chocolate too. The Rooster Team🐥🧡

At Rooster, we’re proud to support the sailing community by helping events not only take place but also thrive. As a clothing partner, we provide high-quality gear that ensures sailors feel comfortable, prepared, and part of a wider community. But our support goes beyond just apparel - we work to enhance the overall event experience, making sure participants can focus on what they love most: being on the water. From grassroots youth events to international regattas, we’re committed to helping sailors of all levels enjoy, compete, and make lasting memories. We’ve put together a calendar of the events we’ve partnered up with this year, we hope to see you there! CHECK OUT THE 2025 LINE UP BELOW: Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here: Website tbc   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here. Find out more or register your place here.   Find out more or register your place here.   At Rooster, supporting the sailing community isn’t just something we do - it’s who we are. Through our sponsorships, we’re proud to help grow the sport we love, giving sailors the support they need to chase their goals, whether they’re just starting out or competing at the highest level. We can’t wait to see what this season brings and to cheer on all the incredible sailors pushing their limits on the water!  

We are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Performans Yelken, now the official Rooster distributor in Turkey. This collaboration marks an exciting milestone as Rooster continues to expand its global presence and strengthen its commitment to sailors and watersports enthusiasts worldwide.   Based in Turkey, Performans Yelken brings a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for the sport. The partnership ensures that Turkish sailors and watersports enthusiasts will have better access to Rooster’s innovative and high-quality product range, renowned for combining functionality, comfort, and performance.   “We are very pleased and excited to welcome Performans Yelken to the Rooster family as our new main distributor in Turkey,” said Luke Morrison, CEO of Rooster. “This partnership is a key step in our mission to deliver exceptional service, representation, and accessibility to the Rooster brand across the globe. We are confident that Performans Yelken’s knowledge and dedication will represent Rooster in the best possible way.”   Barış and İsmail, co-founders of Performans Yelken, added: “We are establishing ourselves as a reliable provider of great watersports brands into the Turkish market, and Rooster is a natural fit for us. Their innovative products and passion for supporting sailors at all levels perfectly align with our mission. We are excited to bring the Rooster range to Turkey and help grow its presence within our vibrant sailing community.”   Performans Yelken will now offer a full range of Rooster products, from technical sailing apparel to performance equipment, supporting sailors of all levels in achieving their goals. Together, Rooster and Performans Yelken aim to empower the Turkish sailing community with cutting-edge gear that meets the demands of both recreational and competitive watersports.   Rooster looks forward to collaborating closely with Performans Yelken to grow the brand’s footprint in Turkey while continuing to support and inspire the next generation of watersports enthusiasts.   Performans Yelken can be contacted directly at: info@performansyelken.com    

What is the Rooster Big Weekend? Is Rooster Big Weekend just another Black Friday event? Sure, there’s a sale involved - but for us, it’s more than that. At Rooster, we want this weekend to mean something. It’s an opportunity to connect with our community, make our quality gear more accessible, and stay true to our values. Why We Do It We get it - prices are rising everywhere. As a brand dedicated to quality and sustainability, we work hard to keep our products available while holding firm on fair manufacturing practices and responsible sourcing. We know that means some of our products may feel out of reach for some, which is why we created Rooster Big Weekend in the first place: to make it easier for everyone to access the gear they need. By offering special prices for a few days, we’re able to open up our range to a wider audience, so you can keep doing what you love without breaking the bank. How Rooster Big Weekend Is Different Rooster Big Weekend isn’t just about clearing out stock or pushing deals for the sake of it. Instead, we’re committed to offering thoughtful, genuine value. Each year, we focus on making our high-quality, durable products more attainable—without compromising on what makes them last. By creating bundles, exclusive deals, and even a chance to win a €250 Gift Card, we’re hoping to offer something extra for our community. Our Commitment to Thoughtful Shopping We all know that seasonal sales can lead to quick purchases and, sometimes, quick returns. As a brand dedicated to sustainability, we encourage shopping with intention. Choosing durable, well-crafted products not only keeps you geared up longer but reduces unnecessary consumption. This aligns with our mission to minimise waste, conserve resources, and keep our environmental footprint as low as possible.  Rooster Big Weekend gives us the opportunity to share these values and provide gear that fits your needs, all while offering a little extra incentive. As part of our commitment to giving something back during this busy sales period, the Rooster HQ team will be collecting a piece of rubbish for every product sold over the weekend. We’re working alongside our friends and partners at The Final Straw Foundation to make a meaningful impact on the environment we all share. Join Us This Weekend Rooster Big Weekend is more than a sale; it’s our way of saying thank you to the community that supports us. We’re a small team, passionate about inspiring, educating, and making quality sailing and watersports gear accessible to everyone. This weekend, we hope you’ll find the gear that’s right for you, that keeps you in your element… So mark your calendar, explore what’s new, and enjoy the weekend with us. Happy Rooster Big Weekend!  

We're really excited to share some big news from Rooster – we’re taking a major step forward by expanding our operations and bringing our European warehousing back to the UK! This move has been a long time coming, and it’s all part of our strategy to streamline logistics, improve stock availability, and ensure even faster delivery times for our amazing partners and customers throughout Europe. For the past couple of years, we’ve been working with a fantastic team in Germany to help us manage warehouse fulfillment during the Brexit transition. They’ve been great, but with the improvements in courier and freight forwarding processes, we knew it was the right time to consolidate everything back to the UK. ​   This isn’t just about simplifying things – it’s about increasing our capacity to meet growing demand across Europe. Sure, we expect there might be a few bumps in the road as we get everything running smoothly, but our priority is making sure our partners receive their gear promptly so they can continue delivering a high level service to their customers. By fulfilling orders directly from its expanded UK warehouse and factory, We will be able to offer more reliable deliveries and improved stock availability throughout Europe. Bulk winter orders will continue to be shipped directly from the factory, optimising efficiency and ensuring that Rooster’s high-performance gear reaches customers swiftly. This expansion underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting small boat dinghy sailing and racing, while growing its presence in the keelboat market. In 2025, Rooster will introduce new, cutting-edge products under its SB2 and SB3 ranges, reinforcing its leadership in providing innovative equipment for both dinghy and keelboat sailors. We also remains dedicated to meeting the needs of watersports enthusiasts across various disciplines. As we continue to grow, building strong partnerships and maintaining those close relationships with our customers is our top priority. The marine industry presents its challenges, but we’re committed to staying at the forefront with innovation, performance, and customer satisfaction at the heart of everything we do. This is just the beginning of some incredible things to come for Rooster!  

When Rooster first set sail 25 years ago, its mission was simple: to make high-quality sailing gear accessible to everyone, from novices to seasoned sailors. Over the years, this mission has been upheld by not just a company but a family, both literally and metaphorically. As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the journey that has made Rooster more than just a brand—it's a legacy built on passion, dedication, and a sense of community.  A Family Company at Heart  Rooster was founded out of passion and love for the sport, which pushed me to create products that enhance sailing to a wider audience. From the beginning, I envisioned Rooster as a family-oriented company. This vision has been a cornerstone of our success, fostering an environment where values such as trust, integrity, and mutual support are paramount.  Many of our current staff members have grown up with Rooster, literally wearing the brand through their youth sailing adventures. It's common to find stories of team members who started as young sailors, donned in Rooster gear, and are now integral parts of our workforce. This continuity and connection have created a unique team spirit where the staff are not just employees—they are family.  Commitment to Quality and Innovation  At Rooster, our commitment to quality and innovation is unwavering. Over the past 25 years, we have continually pushed the boundaries of what sailing gear can be. Our products are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, durability, and performance, ensuring that sailors can focus on what they love most—being on the water.  Our team, bring a wealth of experience and passion to their roles. This connection to the brand's roots ensures that every product we release is crafted with the same care and attention to detail that I envisioned from the start of the journey.  Building a Community  Rooster is more than just a business; it's a community. Our commitment to supporting sailors of all levels has fostered a loyal customer base that spans generations. We are proud to see young sailors, like the children of our early customers, now competing in regattas wearing Rooster gear.  We regularly sponsor events to support and engage with the sailing community which is reflected in the strong bonds we have formed with sailing clubs, schools, and organisations around the world.  Looking to the Future  As we celebrate 25 years of Rooster, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who has been part of this journey.  Our dedicated hard-working staff have been pivotal in Rooster’s development, but nothing compares to our loyal customer base who have backed us from the beginning.    The future looks bright for Rooster so if you are new to Rooster, we will continue innovating, expanding our product range and supporting the next generation of sailors.      Here's to the next 25 years of Rooster Sailing—may our ‘sales’ remain full 😊 , and our course true.   

We're proud to share the launch of our newest innovation, the SB1 Inshore Jacket and Hi-fits. The range has been engineered specifically for active sportsboat sailors and racers, offering unmatched performance, comfort, and freedom of movement on the water. The SB1 Inshore range represents a natural evolution for us here at Rooster. As we extend our presence into the growing sportsboat market, we're building upon our established reputation for innovative performance gear in the dinghy sector. Developed alongside our dedicated team of Rooster ambassadors and riders, the SB1 Inshore Jacket and Hi-fits combine performance with sleek, sustainable style, reflecting our commitment to both the sport and the environment.   "At Rooster, we're always looking for ways to innovate and evolve to better serve our customers," says Luke Morrison, our CEO. "The SB1 range is a testament to our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of sailors. By combining advanced fabric technology with ergonomic design, we've created gear that allows sailors to push their limits and perform at their best."   So, what makes the SB1 Inshore range stand out? It's all in the fabric technology. Our Jacket and Hi-fits incorporate 85% recycled content throughout their fabrics and trims. They utilise a lightweight 3-layer laminate fabric, featuring a 100% recycled polyester shell with a TPU membrane, along with a polyester microlayer on the inside and a PFC-free DWR treatment on the outer surface. This innovative fabric provides stretch for maximum performance without sacrificing comfort.   But wait, there's more! The streamlined design of our products is available in two colourways, catering to different tastes while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic focused on key features. Some highlights include Cordura® N66 500 denier reinforcements for enhanced durability, fully taped seams for complete waterproofing, and reflective accents for increased visibility and safety. You can find out more about the Jacket and Hi-fits in the SB1 range on the product pages, where we also have videos describing the products in more detail.   We've also taken inclusivity seriously through the range. Our Jacket and Hi-fits have been deliberately developed in a unisex fit and rigorously tested on individuals of different shapes and sizes to ensure maximum comfort and versatility. Take a read of our other blog for a more comprehensive explanation of this.   Our aim with the SB1 range goes beyond just supporting existing customers transitioning into sportsboat racing. We're also excited to introduce new enthusiasts to the Rooster brand and inspire more people to embrace sailing. After all, it's not just about the gear – it's about fostering a passion for the water and its elements.   Ready to experience the SB1 Inshore Jacket and Hi-fits for yourself? Head over to the range to get your hands on them today!  

At Rooster, we take pride in our commitment to providing high-quality, practical, and sustainable sailing gear. Our latest offering, the SB1 Inshore Jacket and Hi-fits range, is no exception. You may have noticed that we've chosen to produce this range in a unisex fit, and we’d like to share the thoughtful reasoning behind this decision.    COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND INCLUSIVITY We understand that fit and comfort are paramount, especially in sailing gear. Our design team has worked diligently to create a unisex fit that provides excellent functionality and comfort for a wide range of body types. We've included numerous adjustment points to ensure our unisex gear fits everyone as well as possible. However, it’s important to us that the development of women’s gear remains a key part of our mission. We are passionate about offering high-quality, women-specific sailing gear. If our unisex range proves popular, we are fully prepared to develop a dedicated women's line. We are committed to supporting all our sailors and continuously improving our offerings based on your needs.   UNDERSTANDING DEMAND AND FACTORY MOQS As a small business, we face the challenge of meeting the minimum order quantities (MOQs) set by our manufacturing partners. These MOQs are crucial for cost-effective production but require careful decisions about the variety of products we offer. When considering a gender-specific line, forecasted demand is a critical factor. Our research indicated that separate lines for men and women wouldn't align with our current demand levels. Specifically, the anticipated volume for women's-specific gear would result in inventory lasting over five years in our warehouse. This extended holding period is less than ideal for several reasons.   STOCK MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY Efficient stock management is vital for any business, especially a small one like ours. Excessive inventory ties up capital that could be better used elsewhere, affecting our cash flow and overall financial health. Additionally, overstocking products that don’t move quickly creates stock size gaps, making it difficult to maintain a balanced and responsive inventory. Unnecessary overproduction also conflicts with our sustainability goals. Holding excess stock that we eventually need to clear out at discounted prices undermines our efforts to operate sustainably. It leads to waste and inefficiency, which are detrimental to our environmental and economic objectives.   THE UNISEX SOLUTION By offering the SB1 Inshore Jacket and Hi-fits range in a unisex fit, we address these challenges head-on. This approach allows us to streamline our production process, ensuring we meet MOQs without overcommitting to unpredictable gender-specific demand. It also helps us maintain a healthier cash flow, as we avoid tying up resources in slow-moving stock. Additionally, a unisex range simplifies our stock management. With a single line of products, we can better monitor and manage inventory levels, reducing the risk of stock gaps and in turn supporting our dealer network. This streamlined approach also means we can respond more quickly to market demands and trends, keeping our product offerings fresh and relevant.    At Rooster, our goal is to provide you with top-quality gear while staying true to our values of sustainability and smart business practices. We believe that the unisex SB1 range achieves just that, offering you the best of both worlds: exceptional sailing apparel and a commitment to a sustainable future.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our latest wetsuit range at Rooster®. This new collection sets a benchmark in comfort, performance, and durability, catering primarily to dinghy sailing while also considering other sports such as Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Wingfoiling, and Kayaking, ensuring versatility across various disciplines. With over 22 years of expertise in supplying premium sailing and watersports gear, Rooster® continues to innovate and redefine industry standards. Our latest range is the result of extensive research, customer feedback, and over two years of rigorous testing by Rooster® athletes and riders, aimed at delivering unparalleled comfort and performance on the water. In accordance with the familiar styles of our core wetsuit collections, we have upheld the Thermaflex 1.5mm and Supertherm 4mm ranges. However, these ranges have undergone enhancements in design, featuring upgraded features, materials, and improvements in performance and durability. Our latest neoprene range is a testament to our commitment and passion for watersports. Every piece in this range has been thoughtfully redesigned and redeveloped to meet the evolving needs of our customers, while staying true to our core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Tailored specifically for dinghy sailors, the new range boasts advanced features and fabrics that offer improved flexibility, heat regulation, and durability. These enhancements ensure maximum comfort and performance during water activities, with specialised features designed to optimise hiking and skiff sailing experiences. For instance, the women’s long johns have been refined with a more supportive and secure fit around the upper body, ideal for the demands of hike pads when hiking. Developed by a team of passionate watersports enthusiasts at Rooster®, this range embodies our dedication to getting people on the water in style and comfort. At Rooster®, we are more than just a brand; we are a community of passionate individuals who love the water. This new range reflects our shared love for the water and our commitment to providing our customers with the best possible gear to enhance their on-water experiences. The new wetsuit range is now available for purchase on our website where you can expect the same exceptional quality and service that Rooster® has been renowned for over the past two decades.

Blog submitted by Rooster Rider Scarlett Hadley from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Competing in the 2023 Pan American Games in Chile was something I never imagined would be possible so early in my sailing career. Here I was at 16 years old, representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines on one of the biggest stages in the sport. It was also my very first international competition which is crazy to look back on.    Coming from a small Caribbean Island where sailing is not as competitive or recognized, stepping into the competitive sailing world was surreal and inspirational. I was racing against Olympians that I had previously only seen online and looked up to. Suddenly, I was no longer watching them, I was racing against them.      It meant the world to be able to represent my country. To have our flag on my sail and to know I was opening doors for other young sailors at home was what really made every challenge worth it. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone but also showed me how far passion, hard work, and belief can take you.    This experience would've been impossible without the support of Rooster, whose gear made it possible for me to compete at the top level, where before our sailors had little knowledge about the gear needed to perform at the best, especially in the cold conditions in Chile. The support has kept me prepared, whether racing in tropical heat or chilly winds and I’m incredibly grateful. As I anticipate the Junior Pan American Games in August and the Youth World Championships in Portugal this coming December, I'm hoping to be ready with the right equipment, especially a jacket to help with those freezing temperatures between races!      The PanAm Games, which would usually be a later goal for most, was just the beginning for me. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and hopefully inspiring the next generation of sailors in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

Get an inside look at our keelboat & sports boat teams thrilling 2024 season - packed with intense racing, unforgettable moment, some import lessons and rigorous testing of our new gear. Sam Mabey The 2024 sailing season has been busy, full of learning, challenges, and plenty of fun. My two main focuses were the Cape 31 circuit and getting back into dinghy sailing with the Aero 6 after almost six years away from a boat! Alongside those, I took a trip to the south of France for some classic racing with Varuna, started match racing with the Cowes Match Racing Academy and headed to Greece/Valencia to deliver FINN an N53 trimaran.    In the Cape 31 fleet, I raced as bowman with Jiraffe. We had a solid season, achieving consistent results and finishing 4th in the standings, despite an eventful final race where a kite trawl at the last leeward mark dropped us from first to 15th sending the season out with a bang! My Aero journey was more of a learning curve. I began training in March and quickly realised it would be tougher than expected. I dedicated as much time as I could ahead of my first event in June, the RS 30th regatta, where I performed well in light conditions. However, I struggled at the European Championships in heavier winds, yet still finished with a result I felt good about and headed into the worlds more confident. Although the first few days were challenging with a few capsizes and some amateur hour moments, I found my rhythm later in the week, leaving with valuable experience and a smile, despite the result.   This season, I also had the opportunity to test Rooster’s upcoming yachting gear, including the inshore smock, SB1 gear, and new deck trainers. I typically prefer running shoes or gym trainers over sailing brand trainers for their grip, so I was pleasantly surprised by the Rooster trainers—they kept their grip throughout the season and endured the demands of bow. Testing the SB1 smock in wet and windy conditions on the Cape was a highlight and can't wait to get my hands on the final version. Having a hand in the development of these products was rewarding, especially as I've been hoping for a Rooster dry smock, a key item in my inshore sailing kit. It’s been a busy but fulfilling season, with the Cape Europeans and more match racing still ahead. I’m looking forward to building on all I’ve learned next season.   Liam Willis - RS21 Team Dark & Stormy As the 2024 season comes to a close I thought I would reflect on a fantastic season of sailing, flying the flag at the events and helping with product development, in particular the SB1 range. I have had a set of SB1 Inshore kit for a year or so and have been putting it through its paces and it has performed brilliant in every application. We started the season with a photoshoot with the Rooster team, sailing RS21s from Hamble, despite the lack of wind it was a fun day out and great to get some nice photos of us all in our kit. My racing season kick off in big style with my first regatta of the year being Antigua Classics week on board a Spirit 65 as tactician, we had a fantastic week of sailing in the warm weather and came away with a good result. Back in the UK with the RS21, the first event for us was Round 2 of the RS21 UK and Ireland Cup which was also the RS Sailing 30th Anniversary regatta held at Hayling Island. It was amazing to see so many boats out and such a large RS21 fleet, we were excited to crack out our new team kit for the year at this event. It was a tricky weekend with the light winds, but we were delighted to come away with the win. Next up was RS21 Cup Round 4 in our home town of Lymington, fantastic conditions all event with sunshine and big winds so was a lot of fun blasting around the Solent. Hard fort racing but bagged ourselves the win. I then hopped out to Guernsey for another regatta on the spirit were the SB1s were the perfect items of clothing for the week with it being chillier than it maybe should have been in June but warm enough that heavy weather waterproofs were too much. Another fun week of racing and socialising with the team. With the RS21 we then teamed up with fellow Rooster riders Team Rolfe to head to Ireland for the iconic Cork Week regatta. The event lived up to its reputation and put on an epic event both on and off the water. Despite the full range of conditions over the week, the team were on form and we managed to take 11 race wins out of the 12 races to win the class. The event we were leading up to all year was the RS21 Nationals which were held in Dartmouth, having had a great start to the year we were determined to continue. Despite the lower turnout for the event than hoped the racing so still incredibly close and we had to work very hard. We were very pleased to pull it of with a race to spare and become the national champions. The following week we began our European tour, again joining forces with Team Rolfe we packed up and made the drive south to Lake Garda for the RS21 Italian nationals. With a larger fleet of 40 boats and far higher standard of full professional sailors, we were unsure how we would fair. The fleet was very tight and mistakes were punished but Garda delivered and we had amazing conditions to enjoy. Not to mention the lovely scenary, food and drink off the water too. With some good results and some not so good, we took 10th place. Next up was the world championships in Spain, in L’Escala, with a similar high quality fleet from all around the world we knew we had a tough time to be near the front of the fleet, however day 1 couldn’t have been better as we took the race win in race 2, our first international race win in the RS21. A couple of not so good races over the next couple of days in harsh big winds and big waves drops a few places to finish 13th overall. It has for sure been a busy year of sailing, with some downs but that just makes the ups feel even better. Looking forward to the next one!   Nigel Rolfe - RS21 Team 5'o Clock Somewhere 2024 has been a standout year, with our focus on the UK series laying a strong foundation for future success. We saw new sailors join the ranks and seasoned veterans return, making for competitive and exhilarating races. We kicked off with midweek training in Hamble to shake off the winter rust. The first event was a breezy, cool regatta in Hamble, requiring full Rooster gear to keep warm. Lymington followed with intense competition, though we were reminded of the importance of tides a bit too late, costing us some results. We tested our new, lighter SB1 kit here—it was perfect for the warmer, wet conditions. Next up was Cork, where the opening day brought heavy winds and waves, even challenging the local mark layers! Racing was tight, especially among the top five boats, with rain gracing us only while sailing. Cork also topped the social calendar with lively club activities and reunions with old friends.   All this was great preparation for our big challenges—the Italian Nationals and the 2024 Worlds in Spain. Italy’s Lake Garda proved hot, teaching us not to skimp on accommodation without air conditioning. Doh! With early morning starts in breezy conditions, we debuted the new Vakaros compass, which added a strategic edge to our race starts with precise distance-to-line readings. The grand finale was the World Championships in L'Escala, Spain. With high winds and waves, it was a true test for both our gear and our teamwork. The conditions exposed the narrow margins for error, making it a humbling experience despite a year of progress together.   Reflecting on an unforgettable season, we’re ready for a winter break to reset and return even stronger next year. We’ll be back!

As one of the biggest sporting events of the year is right around the corner, we're excited to introduce to you our athletes heading to the Games, who have worked so hard to get there. Please join us in wishing our athletes all the best over the next few weeks! Monika Mikkola  ILCA 6 (Women's Dinghy) Finland We have been working with Monika for the last six years and have been proud to watch her grow and support her on her journey to the Games. It's been amazing to see her establish herself at the pointy end of the ILCA 6 fleet. Hernán Umpierre & Fernando Diz  49er (Men's Skiff) Uruguay New to the Rooster Team this year, with some very impressive results in the lead up to the games, we can't wait to cheer these guys on!  Elena Vorobeva ILCA 6 (Women's Dinghy) Croatia A long time Team Member of Rooster and heading for her third Games this year. She'll be one of the most experienced sailors on the start line - wishing her all the best for the competition. Ebru Bolat ILCA 6 (Women's Dinghy) Romania Another new Team Member and friend of Rooster heading to the Games, qualifying in style by taking the top spot at the Last Chance Regatta in April.  

I started my sailing journey at the age of 8, where I joined my local club, Felpham sailing club, after trying sailing on an open day. Over the next two years, I got involved in many training sessions in order to learn how to helm a boat, and sail with others who were a similar age to me. I joined in on Friday night youth sessions to build my skills and confidence more, quickly progressing on to taking other new sailors out and helming for them.  In 2018, during our youth week, I raced for the first time and haven’t looked back since. I started off racing my pico, however quickly realised that I loved racing and to continue this, I needed to leave my pico behind. With some help and advice, I moved into the RS Tera and completed my first event – the Regionals at Queen Mary sailing club.   In 2020, as I continued to learn about the Tera and progress with my racing knowledge, I joined the Rooster team and one of their ambassadors. Through this, I was supported with many opportunities to do new things, and was encouraged to sail at my best and enjoy the sport, wherever that may take me. I have continued to be part of the Rooster team as both an ambassador and a Rider since 2020, and I am proud to say that I am still part of the team now. Over the pandemic, I left the Tera class and moved onto Lasers, where I have been competing across the country for the last 4 years. I sailed mostly in the 4.7 fleet, due to my size and weight, joining the London and South East regional training group for two years, before moving onto different training events as I progressed. Throughout this time, I have continuously used kit from Rooster, including sails and ‘boat bits’, their 6mm Polilite mainsheet being a particular favourite of mine. Just recently, I have started to make my transition into the RS Aero class, where I hope to become more competitive in the 5 rig, with a good line up of events coming up over the summer. As always, I will be looking to improve the set-up of my boat with new Rooster parts, and the advice from the team.

I am currently transitioning from sailing a Topper to a 29er, and it's been an exciting and challenging journey so far. One of the biggest adjustments has been adapting to sailing with a crew and learning to manage two additional sails effectively. Sailing a double-handed boat requires coordination and teamwork, which has pushed me to become more organised. Additionally, we've joined a new sailing club, so I've had to familiarise myself with new race schedules and unfamiliar waters.  Communication has proven to be crucial for our success on the water. I've also discovered that 29ers are significantly more sensitive to weight distribution, which has led to a few unplanned swims as we refine our technique. Transitioning from handling a single sail to managing two or sometimes three sails has been a steep learning curve. Despite these challenges, I am thoroughly enjoying the process of mastering the 29er and navigating new waters. The experience has been both rewarding and educational, and I look forward to continuing to improve and grow as a sailor.  

The Middle Sea Race is the final big offshore of the season with a stunning 600nm course that starts in Malta, goes through the Messina Straights, round an active volcano and back to Valetta. This year we did it on a Banuls 53 trimaran called FINN, a custom GRP/Carbon multi hull with a canting/rotating mast but also a fairly comfortable interior, hydraulic winches and a strange looking but very cushy doghouse that fully protects anyone inside from the elements. Half our team flew in from the US and the other half were British and Swiss French (we quickly learnt how much Americans love to cheers at dinner much to the horror of us Europeans). After 5 intense days of training together, debriefing and race prep we felt we had bonded as a team and were ready to take on the race.   There was an area of light wind in-between 2 systems that had a lot of wind forecast for the start, unfortunately it was over Valetta for our start. Being the heaviest multihull in the fleet we struggled getting out of the harbour in the light airs but once we were clear, we could stretch our legs and make our way to the media mark. Almost immediately after rounding the mark the wind filled in and started clocking right putting us onto a windy reach, sending it towards Sicily at 20-26kts. When going this fast the 10 tonne bus becomes a dinghy and is amazingly fun to drive, unfortunately it was short lived as the wind kept clocking right and dropping leading to a number of peels during the evening until the wind built again to 25-30kts on the nose. Then it was time make some ground, the boat loves a windy upwind and can happily do 15-16kts. We were doing quick rotations on the helm to keep everyone fresh as we don’t have windshields so driving involves getting hosed by salt water traveling at 40mph for 45 mins. Well into the night I noticed Etienne tasting something off the floor and saying “its not olive oil” which meant it was hydraulic oil! He quickly took everything apart and found our hydraulics were leaking quite rapidly due to pressure build up causing the seals to fail on the filters. After a long discussion we decided to continue racing under manual power, this involved centring the mast and installing a make shift mainsheet leading to one of the cockpit winches. After 2-3 hours we were back on track.   The morning after in the Messina Straights it was flat calm and very light airs. We clawed our way long the East side trying to stay out of the strong tide. Once clear we were able to open up a bit and head straight for Stromboli with the gennaker up. This was a great time to rest as we had hardly slept the night before. The net offers many great places to nap on deck, we also brought bean bags which were a hit amongst the crew (sometimes too much so). I was down below about to go to sleep when I heard a huge bang followed by shouting. I ran up to find our gennaker in the water, after recovering it and unfurling the solent jib we inspected the damage and found that the actual bullet had sheared in half and half of it was still in the lock at the top of the mast. After lots of thinking and planning we came to the conclusion it was impossible to change out the gennaker lock for the staysail lock which is much bigger and again we considered retiring. I made the point that the rest of the race could be upwind we will be fine (I was reminded of that comment for the remainder of the race).   After Stromboli it was mostly light airs down wind until the end of Sicily which was extremely slow and frustrating. The hooded tech tops were a hit amongst the team, providing not only comfort but also excellent protection against UV during those extended hours under the sun. After Sicily we got about 6 hours of wind until it died and then after that it was just patchy spots under clouds pretty much all the way to Lampedusa. Just after Lampedusa the breeze started to fill in and we were reaching again at speed and finally we could use the boat how it was designed to be! It was too late though, we had cemented our place in the multihull fleet after missing multiple weather systems and spending hours and hours hardly moving. The goal now was to have as much fun as possible. We finished late in the evening crossing the line in darkness feeling broken by a 4 day race that was meant to take 2.5 days! We quickly got the boat fixed again and had a fantastic, fast and fun delivery all the way back to Valencia the following week.   In summary it was a fantastic adventure with an amazing and dedicated crew which allowed us to persevere when things got tough! Hopefully next season we can come back stronger without any breakages! Sam Mabey & team

Being Average, But Doing Amazing! I guess I regularly pinch myself and wonder, how did I get here? As a late in life sailor (I didn’t start sailing until I was 44), how did I just get nominated in the British Yachting Awards for “Sailor of the Year”? The strange journey to this moment in time started back in 2015 when I sailed my Laser dinghy around the Isle of Wight for 12 hours to raise money for Cancer Research and Oakhaven Hospice in Lymington. Having lost my father, mother-in-law and multiple other family members to the disease I wanted to help others facing cancer. Incredibly we raised £4000, and people immediately started asking me “What’s your next adventure?” – with sailing around the UK being the most touted suggestion. A full time job and family meant there was no way I could make that happen, but after some detailed research I came up with “Race To Scotland” – the challenge to sail my RS Aero from Lands End to John O Groats in 31 days – because that’s all the leave I could get from work! Being a far bigger challenge than the Isle of Wight sail, we set ourselves a massive fundraising target of £50,000. A challenge like this is not to be lightly undertaken and it took 17 months of physical, mental and logistical preparation before we were able to set sail from Lands End in 2017.  This epic adventure along the British coastline involved long open sea crossings, being becalmed in a fog bank for hours, unwittingly sailing into a nuclear submarine exercise areas plus some occasional assistance from the fabulous RNLI! That intense month of sailing took everything from me physically and mentally, but delivered the most wonderful memories packed with stunning places and fantastic people. Thanks to the most humbling generosity we raised £37,000. An amazing total, but still short of our target; we needed a new challenge to raise the missing £13,000. Inspired by all the islands I’d sailed past in Scotland and never seen the other side of, I wondered if I could sail around every island in England and Wales. This was something that no-one had done before and I soon realised why! After months of research I’d identified well over 200 islands and the Yodare (named after my RS Aero “Yoda”) adventure was born. The adventure took me from the wild Farne islands in the far North to the Caribbean azure waters of the Isles of Scilly in the South. From the largest island of Anglesey (103 nm) to the smallest 1nm sail around Ynys Y Castell. In total we rounded 262 islands, carried Yoda over roads, capsized it under bridges and had a few hectic surf beach landings! We sailed more than 20 nm off shore, navigated overfalls and sailed past a walrus, all in a 4m long dinghy! The most scary moments? Definitely disappearing in to a fog bank for 5 hours with ship fog horns sounding eerily all around you and capsizing in 8ft standing waves off Ramsey Island! Both events made me feel very small and vulnerable. The most wonderful moments? The unbelievable privilege of being able to sailing amongst the stunning wildlife that call our coastline home and stepping off my RS Aero after 13 hours and 113km of bottom numbing sailing, having finally rounded my 262nd and LAST island – The Isle of Wight. I’ve been very fortunate to have the support of Rooster throughout my adventures and I can safely say I’ve tested a lot of their kit to destruction in some very challenging locations! Their clothing layering system has been key to dealing with the varying conditions of long days on the water. Of all the great kit I most love my Pro Aquafleece. It’s comfort and warmth on long 13 hour days is irreplaceable and pulling that neck draw string tight feels like you are snuggling down in to a cosy sleeping bag ready to face the challenges of the day ahead.   So what have I learnt from all these adventures? Preparation is probably the biggest thing for me. Research the sailing conditions, get local’s advice, always have a safety plan and learn to bend with the conditions – sometimes the only right decision is not to sail! If people know where you are and what you are doing you are more likely to be rescued if things happen go wrong, so I always carry a means of communication such as a VHF radio, phone, emergency locator beacon and use the RYA SafeTrx or another form of tracker. Having completed these adventures I’m still trying to get my head around the fact that we’ve sailed a colossal 1336 nm around the islands of England and Wales. Add that to the 865nm of Race To Scotland and this 4m dinghy has now sailed the equivalent of a transatlantic crossing! The aim of all these adventures has always been to make a difference by using sailing to raise funds for two incredible charities. None of the challenges were long held personal desires, they just materialised and now have somehow resulted in me being nominated for “Sailor of the Year” in the British Yachting Awards. I doubt that I’ll win, but just being nominated feels a wonderful accolade for someone who is distinctly “average” – but being average doesn’t mean you can’t achieve incredible things! So never pigeon hole yourself as “average”, whatever sport or activity you are undertaking. Within us all there is the potential to achieve amazing things, be they small or large.  They are out there, you just need to go and look for them and enjoy where they will lead you to! Cheers Ken You can donate to the charities at www.yodare.co.uk And you can vote for “an average sailor” here https://www.britishyachtingawards.com/vote-now/

Hi, my name is Hannah. I’m a disabled competitive sailor and have been sailing now for about four years. I sail with Bolton Sailability Group at Bolton Sailing Club and compete in an access 303 double handed dingy sailing boat. I have severe Cerebral Palsy affecting all of my body and use a wheelchair full time and require 24-hour care support. My disability has also left me visually impaired. I have recently participated in the RYA Sailability Multi-Class Regatta. The event was held at the Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy and was facilitated by the Chesil Beach Sailability Group. I am a sailor through and through. Sailing makes my heart sing, it’s what makes me happy! I’ve always loved sailing. I especially enjoy the challenge, speed and the adrenaline rush that I experience during competitions. This year was no exception! Usually, I sail in Belmont Reservoir at Bolton.....A relatively calm area of water. It is occasionally a challenge but after four years and many sails, I feel I can cope with everything Belmont has to throw at me. Being in Weymouth for the Multi-Class meant sailing in the much more open water of Weymouth Harbour. The Lead Up... To give a general overview let me explain the lead up prior to each event. My crew and I had to navigate out of the sailing academy, through the narrow channel and into the waters of Weymouth Harbour. It is approximately a two-mile sail before the competitions even began. It seems like I have been sailing forever just to get to the start line. Sailing on a harbour meant at times the water was very choppy. This is something I rarely experience, and being visually impaired I particularly enjoyed the sensation of being in these conditions. The motion of the boat, hearing the sound of the water, and the smell of the fresh salty sea air. I loved the wind blowing on my face and through my hair. On these occasions, it was just a good job I don't have a big breakfast. Thankfully I’m not a big breakfast person. Up and down and side to side went me and my crew in our little boat. The Event So, there I was giggling away while my crew was giving me auditory instructions to enable me to helm the boat. It was imperative those instructions were clear and concise and we both had to communicate really well. Once on the water, I have no idea of where I’m going, of course, direction or the positioning of the other boats. My crew tried his utmost to foresee what tactics and course the other sailors would take. He would have to use his very quick judgement to make split-second decisions and give me instructions. This can be very tricky as he had to account for the time delay between him giving the instructions and me carrying them out. Friday afternoon... ...and the first event was team racing. A reasonable course distance to sail and the winds were ideal for me. I came second in this event overall, and I was so happy with this result, especially as I had never experienced team racing before. Saturday was a much different story. The morning’s pursuit race was a long and hard sail. The weather was hot and sunny and the race took about two hours, so I struggled to keep my concentration. All boats from all classes competed in the pursuit race. My boat being a 303 was considerably slower than the other classes of boats that I was competing against. It would have been nearly impossible for my boat to outsail the many faster boats even with their handicap, like comparing a hare and a tortoise. I didn't come right at the bottom of the race but as expected ranked lower than most. I still feel I sailed well in this event. Saturday afternoon was the beginning of the fleet racing event. The wind speeds had picked up massively! The boat began to heel right over, and with the water being super choppy it started to gush in. I've had water in my boat many times before, but on this occasion, it became stronger and stronger. The more wind, the more water came splashing over the side of the boat. My crew asked the safety boat crew if they had a spare baler. By now I was just absolutely crying with laughter and squealing with excitement. The safety crew did not have a spare baler, so I was laughing more at the thought I may float off, thankful I had my trusty Rooster buoyancy aid on. My crew and I collectively decided it might be a good idea to retire from that afternoon's events. Aftermath Although I came in very wet, I thoroughly enjoyed the sail. I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie and like to push myself and my sailing abilities to the absolute limit. My poor care support workers had to remove my trainers and turn them upside down to drain all the water out. And there was lots of it! My bedroom and my wet clothes absolutely hummed of salty sea water. The fresh salty sea air didn't smell so fresh anymore. Never mind, let’s get showered, warm and changed ready for the event dinner. As a sailor, I have to work with the weather conditions as that's the nature of the sport. I am out in the natural elements, I rely on fair winds to power my boat and that's the challenge in itself. As a Rooster ambassador, I think it's fair to say that competing in the RYA Multiclass Regatta I was 'in my element'. Follow Hannah's Adventure's on Facebook

The SB1 Inshore Dry Smock is built to keep you dry and protected in a wide range of sailing conditions. At the heart of its performance is the neoprene neck seal, which provides a near-dry seal for inshore and coastal sailing. But comfort is key too — and we know that not everyone has the same neck length or preferences when it comes to feel. That's why we’ve designed the neck to be fully customisable. Below is an easy step-by-step guide to adjusting the neck seal for a personalised fit. Rooster founder, Steve Cockerill also explains via video why you might want to trim the neoprene neck seal and explains an alternative method if you don’t need a fully dry seal and want a softer feel next to your skin. Watch the video below or head to our youtube channel for more videos: Why the Neck Seal Is Made This Way The SB1’s neoprene neck is intentionally manufactured at its longest setting — suitable for those with longer necks or those seeking maximum protection. But we know that for many sailors, this can feel a little high. Fortunately, it’s easy to customise. Option 1: Trim to Your Neck Length If you want a more tailored fit, you can trim the neoprene down at the front. Here’s how: How to Trim the Neck Seal: Try It On FirstPut the smock on and assess how much material you’d like to remove for comfort. Start conservatively — it’s better to take a little off at a time. Mark the Cut LineUse a soft pencil or tailor’s chalk to draw a shallow curve at the front of the neck. Most people choose to take off a small crescent from the centre front, tapering off at the sides. Use Sharp ScissorsCut slowly and cleanly along your marked line. A sharp pair of fabric or neoprene scissors works best. Avoid jagged edges. Test and AdjustTry the smock on again. You can always take a little more off if needed — but you can’t put it back! Note: Cutting the neck will compromise the original dry-seal design slightly, but many sailors find this trade-off worth it for improved comfort in moderate conditions. Option 2: Roll the Neck Inward If you'd rather not cut the neck — or want to keep the dry-seal option for future sessions — there’s another simple trick. How to Roll the Neck for Comfort: Fold the top of the neoprene neck in on itself, so the sticky glideskin layer (which provides the dry seal) is no longer touching your skin. This results in a softer feel and slightly looser fit — ideal for warmer days or when you don’t need full waterproofing. This method gives you the flexibility to adjust the seal depending on conditions, without permanently altering the smock. At Rooster, we believe kit should work with you. Whether you choose to trim the neoprene or roll it in, the SB1 Inshore Smock is designed to give you control over your comfort and performance on the water.

At Rooster, we believe technical clothing should work with you, not stand in your way. That’s why the development of our Women’s Technical Shorts 2.0 has been a carefully considered process - over three years of dedicated development, shaped by feedback, expertise, and a clear vision for performance. These aren’t just another pair of shorts -they’re the result of listening to women, testing with women, and designing for real bodies and real sailing conditions.  Built to Fit Real Women From the very start, our mission was clear: to create a pair of technical sailing shorts that actually fit women — of all shapes, sizes, and heights — while still offering a clean look that could blend into everyday wear. We didn’t want a “pink it and shrink it” version of our men’s shorts. We wanted something that worked because it was built for women, not in spite of it. Luckily, we have the perfect team to help. Our office is full of active women — sailors, runners, climbers, rowers — all passionate about outdoor sport and technical performance. Their honest, practical feedback helped us fine-tune the cut, waistband height, dial in the leg length, and perfect the stretch and movement across sizes. When we were closer to what felt like a final product, we brought in a small focus group of female sailors and outdoor enthusiasts to test a full size set — from the smallest to the largest. These weren’t models or marketing faces — they were real women, with valuable insights. We built this group through an open call on our social media channels inviting keen sailors to give their feedback and help us refine the final design. Their feedback? Invaluable. From tweaks in the waistband construction, to how the fabric felt, to thoughts on the colourway and styling — they shaped what you now see as the final product.   I am impressed with the fact that Rooster is trying to find improved fitting women’s clothing . It was interesting to be part of this process and see the effort that goes into choosing the design. - Sam Norton (part of our focus group)   Why It Took Over 3 Years In truth, launching a women’s-only technical product is a big decision for us. The market for female sailing gear is smaller, and factory minimum order quantities (MOQs) don’t always make it easy. But this project mattered, not just for the product itself, but because we know how valuable good kit is for women who are active in the sport.  Over the past decade, Rooster’s range has evolved to include female alternatives to most of our key products. When we can, we create female-specific options. And when that’s not viable, we always consider women’s fit when designing unisex products, making sure they’re as versatile and inclusive as possible.  We understand that introducing a women’s-specific short meant getting every detail right, and doing it when the brand was in a strong position to deliver it well. This isn’t just about launching a new product — it’s part of a bigger commitment. At Rooster, we’re proud to support women at every level of sailing, from grassroots participation to high-performance racing. Our involvement in initiatives like the Women’s Open Keelboat Championship (WOKC), the Magenta Foiling Project, and our continued support across sportsboat classes, including the J/70s, reflects just the start of where we’re heading. Women still make up a smaller share of active sailors — estimated at just 20–25% globally, and often less in technical classes like sportsboats and keelboats. But that number is growing, and we’re proud to be part of that progress. For us, inclusivity and innovation in women’s technical gear isn’t an add-on — it’s a core part of what we do.  Where Function Meets Purpose We’re excited to launch our Women’s Technical Shorts 2.0 and can’t wait to share the product we have been working on, they combine:  A flattering, technical cut designed for active movement. Optimised waist height for support and comfort. Stretch and flexibility where it matters most. Ideal leg length for both comfort and coverage. Reinforced, durable fabric at the seat — built to handle high-wear areas and long hours on deck. Smart, functional features right where you need them — including leg pockets, belt loops for a safety knife, internal compartments for optional deck pads, a secure waist closure, and more. And of course — they’re built from the same trusted technical foundations as our much-loved men’s shorts, which have seen five years of proven performance on the water. We can't wait for you to try them, find out some more on our video below:  

When it comes to sailing, what you wear can make or break your time on the water. Whether you're out racing, cruising or training, the right outfit ensures comfort, performance, and safety. Different boat classes demand different gear — from technical clothing designed to keep you dry and warm to lightweight, breathable layers perfect for racing hard in Spring conditions. In this guide, with the help of some of our Riders, we’ll break down the best sailing outfit ideas tailored to each class, helping you gear up with confidence in a temperature range of 10-15 degrees, no matter what kind of sailing you’re into.   RS AERO Sammy Base Layer - Rash Top-Long Sleeved Mid Layer - Pro Hikers 4/3mm (Fixed Battens) Top Layer - SuperTherm 4mm Top Extras - Custom Race Bib, Rooster Cap (Structured), Supertherm 4mm Wet Socks,  Pro Laced Boots and Race Armour Buoyancy Aid RS21 Liam Base Layer - Tech Shorts and Long-Sleeve UV Top and/or Poly Pro's Mid Layer -  Hybrid Jacket or a Fleece Top Layer - Light Weight Spray Top and/or SB1's Extras - Hat, Deck Shoes 49erFX Emilie and Julie Base Layer - Women's PolyPro Top Mid Layer - Women's SuperTherm 4mm Long John Top Layer - Classic ThermaFlex 1.5mm Top – Unisex and Women's Classic Aquafleece Top  Extras: Buoyancy Aid, Race Bib, Gloves, Boots, Trapeze Harness   OPTIMIST  Amélie   Base Layers - Poly Pro Top and Leggings  Mid Layer - Thermaflex 1.5mm Long John’s   Top Layer - Classic Aquafleece Top  Extras - All Purpose Boots, Rooster Cap and Poly Pro Gloves   ILCA 4 Eva Base Layer: Supertherm Top Mid Layer: Pro Hikers and Wear Protection Shorts Top Layer: Pro Lite Aquafleece Top Extras: Race Armour Buoyancy Aid and Hot Socks   ILCA 6 Jake Base Layer: Rash Top Mid Layer: Thermaflex 1.5mm Long-John Top Layer: Race Armour Buoyancy Aid & Race Bib Extras: Pro Laced Ankle Strap Boots, 3/4 Classic Hikers 4/3mm & Structured Cap TOPPER Meg Base Layer: Rash Top and Hot Legs Mid Layer: Supertherm Long John and Top Top Layer: Pro Aquafleece Top Extras: Structured Cap, Pro Laced Boots    29er Henry and Finn Base Layer - Poly Pro Top and Legs and Supertherm Socks Mid Layer - Supertherm Long John  Top Layer - Pro Lite Aquafleece Top  Extras - Pro Race Gloves 5, Pro Lace Boots and Diamond Over Head Buoyancy Aid Thanks to the insights from our supported sailors, it’s clear that comfort, functionality, and adaptability are key when dressing for 10-15 degrees on the water. From technical base layers to waterproof outerwear, thoughtful choices help you stay safe, warm, and focused on the important stuff. So next time you head out, take a cue from the pros! For any additional advice on what to wear, our friendly Customer Service Team are always on hand to help for your personal preference, just give us a call!

If watersports are more than just a hobby for you (no doubt), then maintaining your gear is essential so it performs on the water. ⁠⁠Here are some simple tips from our friends over at C-Monsta for keeping your  gear in peak condition:⁠⁠ 1. Rinse After Every Session 💦💧⁠ Saltwater and sand can be tough on your gear. Always rinse your wetsuit, board/boat, and sails with fresh water after each session. This prevents salt and sand buildup, which can cause wear and tear.⁠⁠ 2. Use the Right Tools 🛠️⁠ Drying your wetsuit properly is crucial. The C-Monsta hanger is designed to help your wetsuit dry faster and more evenly, preventing mildew and bad odours. Plus, it's tough enough to handle all your gear without breaking. 💪⁠ ⁠ 3. Store Properly ✅⁠ Keep your gear out of direct sunlight when not in use. UV rays can weaken the material over time. Use a shaded area or indoor space to store your board and sails. For your wetsuit, the C-Monsta hanger ensures it hangs correctly, reducing the risk of stretching and damage.⁠ ⁠ 4. Regular Inspections 👀⁠ Check your gear regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Look for small tears in your wetsuit, frayed lines, or dings on your boat/board. Addressing these issues early can prevent bigger problems down the line.⁠⁠ 5. Keep It Clean 🧼 🧽⁠ Use a wetsuit shampoo occasionally to clean your wetsuit thoroughly. This removes any bacteria and keeps it smelling fresh. For your board and sails, a gentle wipe-down with a mild soap solution works wonders.⁠⁠ By following these simple steps, you can prolong the life of your gear and ensure it performs at its best every time you hit the water. 🌊⁠⁠Share your gear care tips with us on social media and tag both #RoosterKit and #CMonstaGearCare for a chance to be featured!⁠   Rooster® has partnered with C-Monsta and is now stocking C-Monsta hangers online. Made from 100% Recycled Plastic, the C-Monsta hanger is specifically designed to hold wetsuits, boots, gloves, and other gear in one compact place, making it easy to dry and store everything together. This is especially valuable for sailors and watersports enthusiasts who participate in back-to-back events, ensuring their gear is dry, organised, and ready to go without any hassle.

The most important aspect of a good pair of hiking shorts is positioning of the battens and the lift they provide. The options we do for hiking are: Pro Hikers  Classic hikers ¾ Pro Hikers No Pads Race Armour Lite Shorts Thermaflex Longjohns & Legs Supertherm Longjohns Pro Rash Legs Now that list might be overwhelming so here is a quick summary of the different options. A lot of the time the choice of which hiking system to go for is down to personal preference but hopefully this guide will give a bit of insight into our hikers. Pro Hikers  Full length with fixed battens, the pads tend to fit longer legged and pro sailors better. With longer legged sailors and super fit sailors, they are able to extend their legs further from the toestrap in a more comfortable manner, so they manage to get the hike pad over the side deck. My lack of ILCA training would have meant that I would have only managed to place the pro hike pad on the side deck. At 4/3mm and full length Pro hikers are ideal for cooler temperatures and winter sailing paired with hot or polypro legs. Then great by themselves all summer! Classic hikers ¾  ¾ length so just below the knee with knee reinforcements. These are also fixed pads that are slightly higher up the leg which tends to fit the less fit senior sailors and fitter younger sailors as well. A particular favourite for Topper sailors and younger sailors. Pro Hikers No Pads  Full length 4/3mm neoprene with the same construction as the standard Pro Hikers, just without the fixed pads. Compatible with our ProHike Pads so you can choose the size of pad you would like and also the position of where works best for you. I recently used them at the UK ILCA Masters Qualifier which was a brutal weekend of gusts in the area of 37 knots, although the RO thought it never reached over 27 on his committee boat (whilst holding his wind indicator under his jacket perhaps?)   Fitting the pads is easy, just turn the pro hikers inside out and place the hike pads about 3 inches from the knee seam.  The top of the hike pads are shaped to protect your delicate parts. The top of the hikers ended up being well into my bum cheeks.   I was not embarrassed as I can still remember seeing Paige Railey (World #1 Radial Sailor),waddling like a Penguin whilst walking on the shore.  Our Prohike pads are pre shaped to your leg, which gives you additional lift off the side deck.  This gives the sailor the ability to sail the boat much flatter without hitting the water, which is fast!   For me it also makes for a slightly nicer hiking position - gives my legs a slight bend, which having not sailed the ILCA much this year was a godsend. Having fitted the pads to where felt best, the pads were central to the deck edge, and I was in the lap of luxury.   Race Armour Lite Shorts  Our most versatile option, these neoprene and spandex shorts have the capability to add Prohike pads into the seat through our standard hook and loop attachment. These shorts can then be worn by themselves for summer sailing or over the top of any other wetsuit or drysuit. At the ILCA Qualifier my wife Sarah wore the shorts over her Supertherm Longjohn which she thought was a game changer. They never dropped or moved. Happy wife is a happy life! LongJohns and Legs  Similar to the shorts, our longjohns and legs are compatible with the Prohike pads. Meaning you can use your longjohns and legs for hiking but also for a large variety of watersports such as Stand Up Paddleboarding, Surfing or Kayak Hopefully this guide has been helpful in explaining our different hiking options. If you are still feeling overwhelmed or confused, contact our customer service team on hello@roostersailing.com or +44 (0) 1243 389997  

Knowing what to wear when paddling can be tricky, especially at the different times of year when air and water temperatures can vary massively, and you don’t know for certain whether you’re going to stay dry or be getting wet. Whatever time of year you’re paddling you want your clothing to be comfy and unrestrictive, whether wet or dry. And also practical, offering you some protection from the elements, which during the Spring & Summer months can be anything!… sun, wind, or rain! We've teamed up with SUPBoarder Mag, who are very experienced in knowing the best clothing options and to bring you some top tips for what to wear through the warmer months on you SUP. Watch the full video below:  

Get yourself ready for the season by making sure you have a buoyancy aid that is the right fit for you and ensures you are comfortable on the water. Here is some of our best advice when it comes to buoyancy aids. Does it fit properly? Your buoyancy aid should be snug to your body when fully tightened. If you can't get it close to your body through tightening the straps then it is probably too large. Your buoyancy aid, adjustable or not, shouldn't rise up to your mouth/ears when pulled up as otherwise it will do this when you're in the water, making swimming difficult. Is it still safe? Your buoyancy aid should be certified for your weight and without any obvious signs of reduced buoyancy. Conduct a basic visual inspection to check all the obvious things: That the foam has not clearly deteriorated Make sure that there are no rips or tears that will affect its performance If there are any buckles, check they are all still working If you want to check the buoyancy of a CE certified buoyancy aid there is a simple test you can perform to make sure it is still safe* Check it out here: *Rooster takes no responsibility for inaccuracies during your own test. Still not sure? Contact our customer service for any advice you may need :)  hello@roostersailing.com

  It’s that time of year when the winds get crisper, the water turns colder and the seasoned watersports enthusiasts prepare to stay warm so they can continue to enjoy their time on the water. From team to Rooster riders, we’ve found some great tips to keep you toasty this season. Tip 1: Layers, layers, layers Layering is key, we recommend in the winter a thermal base layer : Either PolyPro™ or Hot Stuff and depending on how cold you get can be worn as a combination with the top, leggings, socks and glove liners. Next up is Neoprene, we firmly believe in the wetsuit layering system where you have a longjohn and top - if you combine our thickest range you get 8mm thickness on your core then 4mm on your arms and legs where you need to move. The cherry on top of your Rooster layering is then an  Aquafleece® spray top, these come in a large variety of styles, thickness and colours so the choice is really up to you, and how you feel the cold on the water. For the full layering guide click here Tip 2: Look after your extremities We all know you lose the most heat out of your head, hands and feet - so why not look after them and keep them as warm as possible! For your hands wear both a glove liner (Hot or  PolyPro™) plus a normal grip glove over the top. On your feet you can wear a combination of socks from the liners (again Hot or  PolyPro™) with the wetsuit socks over the top that come in a 2.5mm thickness or a 4mm thickness. Lastly your head, it's pretty obvious but many people forget about it, so put a beanie on either a wetsuit one, a merino wool beanie, or a waterproof fleece beanie. Other accessories such as the neck gaiter and headband can also help keep those important parts of your body warm. Tip 3: Take a warm drink onboard Invest in a flask or chilly bottle that keeps drinks warm on the go. There’s not much that beats a hot drink on an icy day. It will help you heat up but also give you a bit of a morale boost when it's one of those really cold days. Tip 4: Stay active when you’re on the water The sea might be calm,  but that doesn’t mean you have to be. Regular moving on your boat / board will generate body heat, keeping you warm and making sure your muscles are ready for any movement. A great trick if you’ve lost the feeling in your hands is to do this movement to get the blood flowing back into your hands. It’s simple yet an effective way to tackle numbness in your fingers! Tip 5: The sock strategy Put your socks on before your wetsuit or longjohn which can save the struggle of getting a thicker wetsuit on over your feet. Also ensure your base layer leggings are tucked inside of your sock so these do not ride up when you pull your wetsuit on. Another good trick with socks is if you are using them for consecutive days and you haven’t managed to fully dry them, then turn them inside out so you have a dry inside sock. We hope that armed with these invaluable tips you can embrace the changing weather with open arms and know that you are prepared to be snug and warm whatever the Autumn seas might throw at you. Fair winds and warm layers!

It’s inevitable…the seasons are changing. Summer is pretty much over and Autumn/Fall are very much on the way. Do not fear, you can continue to enjoy the water sailing, supping, winging, kayaking with just a few key changes to your kit bag. Check out below the best ways to keep your gear going through the seasons. Base Layers Swap this:  For that:  Changing your base layers can have a massive effect on your warmth on the water. Our PolyPro layers are a great choice that can be used throughout Autumn and Winter with more layers, but can also be used by themselves as a layer during Spring and Summer. If you’re planning on continuing to go on the water through the depths of Winter, or you just get very cold then the Hot Stuff range will be more suited to layering with your current wetsuits.   Spray Tops Swap this: For that:  The Lightweight Spray Top is a brilliant option for the warmer months, when you’re still going to get splashed but the water and air temperature aren’t too cool. When the weather starts to cool down switching to the fleecy Aquafleece will keep you toasty. With so many options to choose from they are perfect for many sports. Hats Swap this:  For that: It’s no secret that you loose a lot of heat through your head, so its important to keep your head warm. These hats are easy swaps to make and not too expensive that can really elevate your experience on the water during the Autumn.   Extra layers honourable mentions A few HANDY extras for additional heat that you can add to your kit instead of having to swap out gear. Aquafleece Neck Gaiter - now in eight colours, this combination of Aquafleece and PolyPro material provides excellent protection from the elements keeping your neck warm and dry with its fleece inner layer and water resistant outer layer. Hot hands - add that extra bit of heat to your hands with these 0.5mm neoprene glove liners that go underneath any gloves you already own, for an extra heat boost. Hot socks - works the same as the glove liners, the 0.5mm titanium neoprene will give your feet a heat boost as they reflect the heat back into your body. Can be worn under any sock or boot. If 0.5mm titanium neoprene isn’t your style then check out our PolyPro glove liners and socks that also provide a great extra base layer to your hands and feet. If you need any further help with kit guidance get in touch with our friendly customer service team by phone  01243 389997 (Monday-Friday 9am-4.30pm GMT) or via email sales@roostersailing.com

With the blazing sun on the rise, it's time to talk about the essential topic of UV protection: protecting our precious skin from those sneaky UV rays. At Rooster, we know the importance of shielding ourselves from the sun, which is why we have a full range of UV protective clothing, ranging from leggings/tops to hats. Our tight-fitting rash vest range is limited to long sleeve only, as we strongly believe that protection is the key to longevity in both your health and the time you can spend doing the sports you love. So, read on to see why UV protective clothing is so important.     The Sneaky Threat of UV Radiation   UV radiation are the invisible troublemakers that the sun sends our way. There are 3 types or UV rays, UVA, UVB and UVC that can seriously mess up our skin. While the Earth's atmosphere absorbs most UVC, UVA and UVB rays still pose a significant risk to our skin. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various health issues, including sunburns, premature aging, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer. That's why we need to take UV protection seriously. Suncream is the number one thing most people think of when they think ‘sun protection’, but, wearing the wrong clothes can lead to unexpected sunburn and damage through your clothing – That’s why It’s important to get your kit right, but that is easy because we have done the hard bit for you! Check out our UV offering here:   Why Long Sleeve Rash Vests Are a Must-Have   Enhanced Sun Protection: Long sleeve rash vests offer coverage, ensuring that your arms remain shielded from the sun's harmful rays. By minimizing exposure, these garments significantly reduce the risk of sunburns, skin damage, and potential long-term health consequences. You can soak up the fun without soaking up the UV! Versatile Style: Our long sleeve rash vests are designed with versatility in mind. They're made for action! Whether you're sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or any other water activity, these versatile garments have your back (and your arms). They're the perfect combo of protection and comfort, so you can enjoy every moment of your aquatic adventures. Breathable and Comfy: We get it. No one wants to feel like they're wrapped in a hot, sweaty sauna suit. That's why we offer both the tight-fitting long sleeve rash vests and our UV long sleeved T-shirts, which are made with lightweight, moisture-wicking materials. Working to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable, even when you're working up a sweat out there. Durability: We pride ourselves in delivering high-quality products, where our rash vests, longsleeved UVF tops and leggings are no exception. Constructed with durable materials, these garments are built to withstand the elements and get you on the water in your element.     So, in conclusion, protecting your skin from those harmful UV rays is no joke, especially when you're out on the water. By choosing UV protective garments, you can enjoy the water with peace of mind, knowing that your skin is shielded against harmful UV radiation. Embrace the world of UV protection and prioritize your health and well-being on your next adventure.

From a first glance, you may not notice too much difference between our Aquafleece® Robe and the Aquafleece® Rigging Jacket. And that’s totally understandable, after all they’re made from the same iconic Aquafleece® material, are available in the same colourways and just look like two long coats. But we’ve been listening to our customers as we’ve been meeting them at shows in the UK this year, and we feel as though they deserve a comparison spotlight so you can make the right choice. Similar they may seem, but let’s take a closer look at what makes these two coats completely different, and find out which one is the best match for you and your lifestyle. We’ll compare the fit, the price and the technical features and function of the two to help you decide. Size Getting the right size for your equipment and gear is essential for experiencing the ultimate enjoyment from your day. Learning the difference between the sizing options of our Aquafleece® Robe and Aquafleece® Rigging Jacket could be the difference between why you purchase one from the other. Robe: One size fits all (Junior available). This gives everyone room to have the option to use the robe as a changing tool. Wear the robe over your wetsuit, zip yourself in and remove your arms to comfortably get changed wherever you need. Adjust the cuffs to suit your arm length when worn as normal. Rigging Jacket: Comes in sizes; Junior, XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL and XXXL/XXXXL and is designed to be ever so slightly oversized, so you can fit your buoyancy aid under when transitioning from rigging to sailing. If you’re looking for more of a day-to-day style, this one might be a better option for you. The Rigging Jacket should come to your mid-thigh and the adjustable cuffs allow you to tailor the wrists to your arm length. Length & Shape We’ve thought very carefully into the shapes of our Aquafleece® Robe and our Aquafleece® Rigging Jacket. Their unique functions and uses mean the lengths are slightly different and here’s why. Robe: The ‘one-size for all’ fit means the robe is much longer in the body than the Rigging Jacket. The robe will come to your mid-calf, or your ankle at the very most. The length is designed to allow you to feel comfortable getting changed, and for keeping the elements off from your whole body after you have been fully submerged in the water. The Aquafleece® outer shell will keep the wind off you whilst getting changed too. Rigging Jacket: The coat should come to your mid-thigh at the front, and it has been designed with a lower tiered back to protect you and your clothing from wet surfaces when you sit down or lean. The longer back also allows for rain and spray to run away from your core, keeping you warm and dry for the rest of the day. Lining It’s the inside that counts the most, and that is certainly true if you’re comparing these two garments. It’s the lining of these coats that truly set them apart in design and purpose, and ultimately complete preference to the customer. Robe: The robe includes a fleece terry lining, which is fully removable. The lining is extremely warm and cosy in very cold weather and exposed elements, but acts double as a soft towelling material to dry you as you change. The lining can be removed completely, including the arms and hood, to allow you to wash the inside of your jacket, so you can freshen up your robe for your next adventure. This is the first changing robe on the market to have this ability. Rigging Jacket: Like our other Aquafleece® range, the Rigging Jacket has a soft and smooth ‘short’ fleece lining throughout, including the pockets. This makes the jacket more lightweight, but with the Aquafleece® windproof shell, this is still a great option for you if you’re prone to feeling the cold, but manoeuvrability is required.  Hoods Not the most obvious comparison to make on coats, especially when made by the same manufacturer, but the hood could be the reason you pick one coat over the other if you’re looking at costs and technicality. Robe: The robe has a spacious hood. Just like the rest of the robe lining, the inside of the hood has a terry lining to aid drying your head and hair. The hood has a soft Aquafleece® shell which keeps the wind off your head. Rigging Jacket: The hood of the rigging jacket is much more structured than the robe, and includes a peaked cap to protect your face from elements such as rain and spray or as a block shield from the sun.* The Rigging Jacket also has a reflective patch on the top of the hood, which is visible when you wear it down, a great safety feature for off-shore sailing and walking in low visibility.  Cost Comparing the cost between the two is an important part of piecing together the aesthetically set apart differences. The features listed indicate that the Rigging Jacket is in fact a more technical product and this is reflected fairly in the price point. Robe: £165 A competitive price for a high tech changing robe, the first on the market with the ability to remove the lining for the purpose of keeping your robe hygienic. The Aquafleece® material has a Polyurethane coating on the outside for water resistance, durability and flexibility. The Aquafleece® Robe being our largest Aquafleece® product, you would assume that it would be the most expensive in the range.  Rigging Jacket: £172.50 The Rigging Jacket price attracts plenty of questions when we compare the two coats. If the Rigging Jacket is smaller in size and length, then why does it cost more over the heavier and larger Robe? The Rigging Jacket may have lighter properties at first glance, but when we take a closer look at the structured hood, this explains the slight price increase as the hood is much more technical than the Aquafleece® Robe’s.  Use Depending on what it is you’re most likely to be doing, taking a closer look at how these coats were designed to serve the customer, the ergonomics that have gone into the process are fit for purpose. But depending on what that purpose is will be the decider.  Robe: Primarily designed for the on-the-go, quick changing, watersports mad individual, the concept of the changing robe has stretched beyond the boat park in the UK. Customers are tending to use them for day-to-day errands such as commuting, walking the dog and even going to the shops. It’s hardly a surprise whilst our winters seem to get colder every year. The robe was created to give the option to change in the most convenient way, and giving the ability to wash this after use, but you can use it how you wish! Rigging Jacket: Rigging by name, rigging by nature. The rigging jacket was created to keep you warm and dry whilst you get ready for your day out on the water. It's also perfect for coaches out on the rib all day long. But like the robe it has transferring powers taking you from the boat park and beyond into everyday activities due to its lightweight feel but weather battling qualities.   photo credit: AASailing We hope that looking into more detail, we've have helped you understand the differences between the two, and have given you food for thought when choosing which one is better suited to you. If you’re still struggling to decide, then please feel free to get in touch with our friendly customer service team if you’re still not sure. *Please don’t use the peak of the Rigging Jacket to protect your eyes from the sun alone, we advise you use proper UVA/UVB protection sunglasses

Extract from book, to be the published "Maintenance and Recommissioning of Racing Dinghies” 1. Storage Wooden Boats.  There is only one place for an all wood or composite racing dinghy to be stored, and that is undercover in a dry storage garage, workshop or shed.  Even with modern varnishes (1 and 2 pot) and epoxy coatings, there is still a chance for water, ice & frost to penetrate the surface & joints and damage the wood. Expensive to repair once damaged, and water damage often ends up being painted over due to discoloration. Plastic boats. All glass and FRP boats will survive the UK winter climate outside but invest in a good breathable cover with a deep skirt as seen in the photo 1 - on a Solo dinghy. It will also prevent UV fading of the gelcoat as seen on this blue 2000 - See photo 2 below. Photo 1 Photo 2 - Shows typical UV fading if left unprotected, the gelcoat is slowly degraded by UV radiation causing the surface to become yellowy / white and powdery as the gelcoat is oxidized. – Can be expensive to correct. Also, I have seen ILCA/Lasers hulls that have been dry stored (and with non-breathable PVC covers - both with top and undercovers) being stored inside with damp or wet surfaces and can suffer over time from osmosis.  Make sure the carpet or protection used on the trolley cradle is dry before storing, as this will hold water and damage the hull (both wood and plastic hulls) surface over time.  2. Sail Care Remove the sails from your boat. Boats both stored outside and inside are a target for rodents to hibernate in and eat your sails and sail bags. The damage can be extensive. Give them a thorough rinse with fresh water from a hose. I hang mine up to dry on the washing line (use the mainsheet rope) and then store indoors/garage/workshop. Check for any damage around the batten pockets and headboard/luff rope area and get any repairs at your local sailmaker.   3. Spars Remove the spars from your boat, wash, dry down and then dry store if possible. Galvanic corrosion (see below photo 3 example of a RS400 s/s block mounted on the boom) can occur between the stainless-steel fittings and your aluminium mast. Note: Carbon fibre masts will not suffer from galvanic corrosion but metals in electric contact (and the presence of an electrolyte such as salt water) with carbon can cause issues.   Photo 3 - Above (red arrow) shows typical galvanic corrosion that occur between the stainless-steel fittings and your aluminium spar. If you find an issue, then remove the stainless fitting, and clean the area behind them thoroughly.  Bed the fittings down with Duralac paste applied to the entire surface when putting them back, taking care that there are no voids between fitting and mast wall where water can get in and stand. Duralac also provides corrosion protection. Also, add a smear Durlac on the screws or rivets when affixing the fitting. Duralac paste (photo 4) is a chromate containing jointing compound designed to inhibit electrolytic decomposition between dissimilar metals – often called galvanic corrosion. It is a single pack, air setting product. Used correctly, Duralac prevents anodic decomposition. Photo 4 4. Hull Upkeep Wash and polish the hull.  Many sailing areas around the coast suffer from the issue of sewage discharge into the sea and harbours.  This is especially noticeable on the light breeze days, when a light brown scum line can be seen on the waterline of your dinghy. Wash down every time you exit the water and sponge off the hull.  The discharge is stubborn to remove and will stain especially FRP/Glass boats as seen in photo 5 and can be difficult to remove without a good deal elbow grease and a product like the Facecla G3 Fine Finishing Compound to remove the staining.  Finish off with a good quality polish such as the McLube polish. Photo 5 – Pollution staining 5. Ropes and control lines  Remove and wash the control lines and sheets (remove all non-continuous control lines).  You can put the control lines in a bucket of warm water with a mild detergent to soak. The mainsheet, jib and kite sheets in a pillowcase, tie off the opening and put in a washing machine on a cool temp wash with some suitable conditioner. When the cycle is complete remove from the machine and allow to dry off before storage. 6. Security If the boat is stored - especially in the winter months in the local dinghy compound or park, make sure that the boat is tied down well, the cover is undamaged and that the securing clips are locked in place and tightened. It is important to check that your insurance covers you for winter outdoor storage. Make you own ground concrete tie down anchorage fixings if needed. (Photo 6) Photo 6 - Build your own concrete tie downs - if permissible by your club.  Use wheel clamps & hitch locks, plus padlocks and chain (photo 7) for added security. Photo 7 - A substantial wheel clamp and padlock. 7. Maintenance Deck fittings I recommend slightly loosening off the tops off your cam cleats and giving them a thorough clean with mild detergent and fresh water. When dry, apply a dab of Harken McLube OneDrop Ball Bearing Conditioner. Do not use grease or oil as this will attract salt particles next season. Damaged cam springs can be replaced, and you may need new cams/cleats if you have signs of wear on the cam teeth. Ball bearing mainsheet block systems and traveller cars need particular attention, flush through with fresh water.  It’s a good time to check traveller cars are running freely and replace if necessary. Check all rudder fitting both for galvanic corrosion between the alloy fitting and the screws/bolts. Check for tightness of all fixings. Toestraps One the most used items on the boat and take considerable amount of stress and strain during the season. They generally start to wear at the edges, around the pressed in eyelets and the mounting points (if they are screwed down via the gripper plates) check the fixing points and tighten any screws and replace any adjustment ropes as necessary toestraps should be given a good clean and thoroughly washed with freshwater. Toestraps are easily replaced and are relatively inexpensive and can smarted up an otherwise tatty hull. Check your gripper plate screws for tightness as seen in photo 8. Photo 8 - A typical toestrap gripper plate. Foils.  Rudder and daggerboards/centreboards are easy to work on indoors. Check the leading and trailing edges for signs of damage before storing away. Any gelcoat work should be done at this time in a warm (indoor) environment.   Bailers leaking? Now is the time to replace those internal rubber seals with a service kit. Otherwise, if not leaking, then just putting the bailer down and then smearing a small amount of Vaseline along the sides and back of the wedge that protrudes below the boat to keep it in good shape. Then put the bailer up and wipe off any excess.   Trailers and Trolleys. Trailers: Grease the bearings (or replace the entire hub if corroded (photo 9) or you have worn bearings - and they become noisy or stiff when rotated). Locate the grease fitting—it is the nipple (photo 10 - see the red arrow) that fits into the female end of a grease gun. Squeeze grease from the gun until bearings are well lubricated (but not too full). Photo 9 - A trailer wheel & hub in poor condition. Photo 10 - Location of the hub grease nipple. 'Milky grease' in the bearing is a sign that it has been compromised by water. If this happens, repack all bearings or replace. Lubricate your wheel nuts. Doing so will help you to loosen them when changing wheels. This is especially important if you are fixing a flat by the side of the road. Wheel nuts tend to rust easily. Use Copper Ease grease to lubricate the threads to stop them seizing. Check your tyre pressures. Check the tyre sidewall (also for sidewall perishing) for the correct pressure and ensure the tread depth is not below the legal limit. 1.6mm is the legal minimum tyre tread depth for all vehicle tyres, including trailers, a minimum of 3mm is recommended, as this ensures the safest driving - and towing - experience across all road and weather conditions. Below this level, handling can be compromised.   Trolleys Check you glass fibre cradle(s) for cracks or damaged, and repair. Replace the any damaged foam covering or use the Astro Turf matting – (See photo 11). Get any metal/welding repairs done now rather than in the middle of the sailing season.  Repairs will almost always be cheaper than the cost of a new trolley. Consider replacing your pneumatic wheels with puncture proof wheels/tyres if your boat is launched from a hard surface. (Not recommended for sandy foreshores). Photo 11 - Astro Turf matting. Astro Turf matting (photo 11) as used on the trolley cradle. Reduces water retention and possible scratching of the hull from any grit and sand held on the cradle. Consider a set of puncture proof wheels as seen in photo 12 - ideal for launching from hard surfaces. Photo 12 – A puncture proof trolley wheel Photo 13 - A wide 'beach wheel' used on for launching on sandy and soft launching areas.  If you leave you boat outside, use a decent prop, so if any water that does get in - it can drain out. -Photo 14 Photo 14 - Use a prop to support your dinghy. Final bit of advice! Investing time now to prepare your dinghy for winter will pay dividends when the warmer weather comes around, enabling you to get sailing quickly again without any fuss. You will also have helped to protect your investment for the longer term.

We did it... I was inspired to track down the tape that was used to win the 470 gold at the Olympics. We ended up working closely with 3M to find this solution. Its been on my boat now for 12 months and is super easy to fit and durable. Check out the latest Blog post below. Now available from Rooster in 10mm width rolls and 19mm width rolls for Mylar Slot Gaskets.      

Field application of SpeedSIX HydraPRO SpeedSIX HydraPRO comes if two handy sizes either a 100ml tin (enough for most dinghies) or a 500ml version (suggested for keelboats). The product comes in a quality aluminium screw-top container (the 100ml on test here) which is suitable to cover most dinghy hulls. The boat in question to have the product applied was an FRP Solo (LOA 3.78m). First job before applying the product, is to ensure that the hull is completely clean, degreased and any residue, dirt or grime is removed. Fig 1 Photo of hull before cleaning. To assist with the clean up, I used a bike product called ‘Muc-off’ (a pink cleaner that is biodegradable, free from acids, CFC’s and solvents etc), and this was sprayed on and then washed off with clean water and a sponge. The hull was then completely dried using a microfiber towel. Fig 2 Initial cleaning and drying of the hull. It must be remembered that SpeedSIX HydraPRO will not remove scratches or imperfections in the hulls surface. SpeedSIX HydraPRO is not abrasive, it is simply a top/final coating applied to reduce friction between the hull and the water surface. For best results, it is therefore recommended that the hull is in good condition and any work to remove scratches, marks, dents etc is done beforehand. It is suggested that a product such as G3 is used to remove any small scratches or imperfections beforehand, and then cleaned and polished accordingly Fig 3 Use a clean, dry cotton cloth with SpeedSIX HydraPRO. The day of application was quite an overcast day with an air temperature approx. 12°C and dry. It is suggested that you wear a quality pair of Latex gloves when using any cleaning or polishing product. Shake the container well. The SpeedSIX HydraPRO product is very thin and has an interesting smell! Use a dry clean cotton cloth (lint free) to apply the product in a circular motion. Apply to a small area at a time. A small amount of the liquid goes a long way - you don’t need to use a lot of it, in fact, the 100ml tin would easily cover a Solo, RS Aero, Laser or similar size dinghy, and you would have some left over for the foils etc. Allow the applied coating to dry. As it was a particularly cold day I left the product to dry for about 15-20 mins and then, used another new cotton cloth to polish the dry residue. The result was a good clear, glossy, shiny hull.   Fig 4 The final polished hull & centreboard The boat remained on each side for at least 2 hours before putting back onto its trolley. It was noticeably ‘slippery’ on the cradle when putting it onto the trolley and when slightly moving it around. As a further long-term test, I applied SpeedSIX HydraPRO to a small area on the transom of a small keelboat, in particular, on the waterline area. Keelboats that are kept on some estuary moorings tend to get a brown ‘stain line’ just above the waterline and can be quite difficult to remove at the end of the season. I applied a small amount of SpeedSIX HydraPRO to the waterline area, and it will be interesting to see if this reduces any future staining. Fig 5 SpeedSIX HydraPRO was applied to the waterline area of a keelboat In conclusion, the product is good value, and a little of the liquid goes a long way. It gives a good glossy finish, very easy to apply and to remove any surface residue left. It is quite a thin liquid and should be applied sparingly to your hull. Remember, it does not remove scratches, imperfections or would not rejuvenate a faded gelcoat surface. Any such remedial work would have to be done before applying the SpeedSIX HydraPRO product.  

Ronstan’s latest range of small 20 and 30 mm diameter Orbit blocks are designed to be used on dinghies and keelboats and are versatile enough to be used in most applications where strength, weight and friction-free running are important. The design of the range is based on modern ropes to secure with the elimination of heavy rigid shackles.

I sail at Combs Sailing Club in the Peak District. It's a reservoir surrounded by hills so gusty winds and capsizes are inevitable. I got fed up with righting the boat and finding the burgee staff with no burgee on it.....

I'm now of an age where my memory isn't quite what it once was. At work, I have become highly skilled in feigning a detailed understanding of problems whilst frantically attempting to recall them from memory (it's working, they haven't found me out yet!). And when I came to revarnish my mast last weekend it was apparent that I could not recall the process that gave a glass finish last year. So I thought I'd write a quick article about it as an aide memoire for me next year, and also for anyone else looking at the task. I should point out, I have tendency for perfectionism that is both a strength and an Achilles heel, and find anything less than a glass finish difficult to accept. So the attached instructions may be a little OTT, but perhaps a good start point. The primary reason to varnish a carbon or fibreglass spar is to prevent UV damage to the fibres. If fibres are UV damaged, they become brittle and lose strength, and tend to bed into your hand when you handle the spar which isn't nice. Marine varnish contains UV inhibitors, which protect the spar. But the varnish itself degrades over time and hence needs replacement on a regular basis, for my boat its a job on the annual maintenance list. There are two choices for a varnish coating - single-pack and two-pack varnish - each of which has pro's and con's. Single-pack is an easier coating to apply, easier to get an acceptable finish, and easier to remove when you want to refinish. Two-pack is more difficult to apply, more difficult to get an acceptable finish, more difficult to remove, but lasts longer and so gets refinished less frequently. I've used both in the past, but now settled on single-pack as I'm happy to refinish my spars every year. If you choose to refinish using single-pack, this is what you need: A good quality marine polyurethane varnish (I use Blakes Duragloss) Thinners for the varnish. The best 2" paint brush that you are prepared to buy. If you are at the 'I can't believe that a brush can cost so much' type pricing, that's about right. Some dust free containers to mix your varnish (jam jars etc) Good quality masking tape, again the money seems excessive but it is ultimately worth it. Lots of wet and dry sandpaper from 240 grit to 600 or 800 grit. And a bucket and sponge You also need to hang your spar level, and be able to access the full length of the spar. A set up that allows you to easily turn the spar to varnish is useful:   So the process to refinish: If the existing varnish is not too bad, sand back using 240 grit wet and dry. Take care not to sand back into the fibres of the spar, but be sure to remove all the imperfections and dings that have blighted your spar over the past year. Keep working until you think the preparation is as close to perfect as possible- any defects left at this point just mean more work later. If you are worried about minor 240-grit scratches showing through your varnish, work up through wet and dry grades to 600/800, but again be careful not to sand into the spar. Wash the spar several times with water, until you are confident that it is perfectly clean. Mask fittings etc with your good quality masking tape. Wipe the mast with a tack cloth. Wipe the mast with a cloth moistened with thinners immediately prior to varnishing to get rid of any final traces of dust and 'activate' any old varnish. Wait for the following conditions: 15 degrees C (ish), spar not hot to the touch, preferably no direct sunlight, dry conditions for at least 6 hours (no rain or dew), no wind. Apply a coat of varnish. Irrespective of directions on the tin, I always thin the varnish by 5-15% so that it flows nicely, and go for thin coats. Read the overcoating instructions on the tin, and apply a further coat before the 'max overcoating' time. Stand back from the mast, and start worrying about where all those varnishing defects have come from. Flat back the varnish - if your preparation was near perfect first time round you might be able to flat back with 600 grit, if not you may need coarser grits. You are looking to get to a point where the whole mast is coated with flatted-back varnish, no runs or other defects. If you are not at this point go to (2) and try again. May take several iterations. Time to apply the final top coat. Get obsessive about the conditions outlined in (3). Get everything as clean as possible, accept no defects. Be sure to thin your varnish. Just after the final coat is applied, turn the spar through 90 degrees every minute or so, whilst the solvents flash off. This helps to stop runs forming and makes it easier for the varnish to flow. . Decide whether the finish is good enough, and repeat steps above as necessary. The whole process takes me 4 hours or so, but that's on a spar that is regularly maintained. As soon as this gets down to our club it will be surrounded by 400 and Laser sailors all looking to find little defects, but I shall rise above it!  

Here is my checklist for when the season starts and I lift the cover off the boat - usually too late! Toe straps - I check my toe straps for signs of wear, the toe strap fixings and rope attachments. Spars - Look over your rivetsand fittings for any signs of wear. If there are any wobbly fittings then it's time to change the rivet. You might also like to check the related blog on helpful hints on Riveting. Don't forget to use some Duralac to help stop the corrosion that occurs between dissimilar metals and please use a 4.8mm drill bit not a 5mm drill bit.  We stock a wide range of Holt, Allen, Ronstan, Superspars and Selden spars and fittings. Check your shrouds and halyards for signs of wear and make sure your halyard tails are remade so you don't loose your jib halyard on your first hoist.  If you have a rope halyard - I can't recommend Halitec enough if you want a non stretch, durable 4mm easy cleat halyard.  If you use a 2:1 halyard, you might like to check that the termination at the top of the mast is smooth with no sharp edges and move your knot ready for the season.  We tend to supply Halitec main halyards that are very generous, so you can move the wear position throughout the season - just to be sure.   Sails - simple tears in the body of your sails can be repaired with sail or spinnaker repair tape, but for bolt rope issues and tears in your loaded areas, you will need to take it to your local sailmaker. Rope - you might like to wash your ropes to rejuvenate them, but if you are using Polilite® sheets, remember that the outer braid is the load bearer, so changing them annually on high wear sheets is recommended. If your sheets are not running well, you should ensure that the blocks that they run through are at least 4 times the diameter of the rope. Check over your primary load lines. You might like to get some top tips on how to do some splicing - check out our how to video tips on this. Control lines that have gone flat and are showing signs of wear can either be end for ended to improve their longevity, or changed. If you are keen to do some continuous control lines, we have the video so you know the secrets. Blocks - if they are not working too well, they might just need some soapy water and some lubrication to get them working as good as new, but if they are looking dodgy and need changing, we can help. Cleats - even after some lubrication you might have some issues with your cleat holding lines. They might be over tightened or the return spring may need adjusting. If your jaws are worn flat, a needle file can put the bite back into them, or you might just need to replace them. Trailers - an annual check and service is advisable and we have entire blog post dedicated to the job. Hull - Check over the outside for any nicks that can be easily repaired with your gelcoat/catalyst mix. You should be able to get your colour from the boat manufacturer. The best polishing compound to bring up the finish after you have used wet and dry paper is Farcela, followed by an environmentally friendly hull polish. Foils - the finish on these is much more important than the hull. Check out our blog on an epoxy foil repair. When you have finished your A1 job, don't forget to wrap them up in a decent Foil Bag when travelling. Rudder Stock and Tiller - Your tiller extension joint is likely to be perished - I think we stock every type at Rooster! I tend not to use the rope cored versions as I don't have faith in them.  Once they have see through rubber, my feeling is that the UV degrades the rubber quicker.  I recently changed my RWO black standard joint on my tiller extension that I put on before the 1995 Olympic trials - it was starting to look perished!  If you are confused about how to attach your joint to your tiller, our video should help. Rooster Carbon Tiller extensions make changing the joint a 3 minute job and are a bullet proof option - but we also stock aluminium ones as well if you prefer. Your rudder stock is a vital piece of equipment. I tend to check it for corrosion or cracking. We stock a wide range of rudder accessories from wing nuts, gudgeons and pintles for both the boat and your stock. Feel free to comment below with your boat prep successes and failures! Happy Preparation, Steve Save