Optimist

Rooster Sailing heads to the 2026 ILCA World Championships. For us, this partnership is about much more than supplying clothing. It’s about being there with the sailors, coaches, volunteers and event teams who make an event like this happen – both on and off the water.

It’s a busy summer ahead here for the team at Rooster as we tour around the UK and European 2026 events. From the ILCA World Championship in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, to HISC Youth Week on the South Coast of the UK, and everything in between, we’re excited to get back on the road with a van full of kit, catch up with the sailing community, and get hands-on once again. The Rooster team will be on hand to help you find the right layers, whether it’s a rash vest and cap for the sunshine or, more appropriately for this week’s biblical weather, an Aquafleece and beanie, the team will make sure you’re ready to hit the water. At some events we'll also be armed with a selection of chandlery and performance gear to keep you sailing at your best. Expect a great selection of kit and accessories, a bean bag or two to relax on, expert technical advice, and plenty of fluttering feather flags to set the scene. We’ve also bolstered our fleet with a shiny new van. It’s huge and proudly branded with our Rooster Riders, complete with the iconic Rooster logo across the bonnet. Give the team a toot if you spot them on the road! Even with the new van, we can’t bring the entire warehouse with us, so if you’ve got your heart set on a particular piece of kit or you know you need a niche bit of chandlery, we recommend ordering online in advance.  Buckle up for the van shop tour, check out the events below; ILCA Masters National Championship3 – 5 July 2026 | Parkstone Yacht Club J Cup17 – 19 July 2026 | Royal Southern Yacht Club IOCA Girls Weekend11 – 12 July 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy ILCA UK Nationals23 – 28 July 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy WASZP UK National Championship30 July – 2 August 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy IOCA UK Nationals2 – 7 August 2026 | Largs Sailing Club HISC Youth Week29 July – 3 August 2026 | Hayling Island Sailing club Parkstone Youth Week1 – 7 August 2026 | Parkstone Yacht Club Topper National Championship9 – 14 August 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy ILCA Skills Week 15 – 19 August 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy ILCA 7 Men's World Championship23 – 30 August 2026 | Dun Laoghaire RS Aero National Championship28 – 31 August 2026 | Eastbourne Sailing Club ILCA 6 Women's World Championship5 - 12 September 2026 | Dun Laoghaire IOCA End of Seasons 3 – 4 October 2026 | Poole Yacht Club RS Tera End of Season Championship24 – 25 October 2026 | Draycote Water Sailing Club ILCA Autumn National Open24 – 25 October 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy Topper European Championship27 – 29 October 2026 | Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy

We are delighted to welcome IOCA, the UK Optimist Class Association, as a new partnership for Rooster, joining a strong network of long-standing UK class partnerships at the heart of what we do. We are committed to supporting grassroots sailing at all levels and making the sport accessible to all, ensuring opportunity is driven by passion and participation, not circumstance. At Rooster, we have always believed that sailing starts with strong foundations, and the Optimist class is where many sailors first discover their passion, develop resilience, and build the skills that carry them through their sailing journey. We are also proud to support the IOCA UK sailors representing the class at international events. Each team will be equipped with a range of custom Rooster kit, including jackets, t-shirts and rash vests— all designed specifically for IOCA UK. This ensures sailors feel part of a unified team on and off the water, while performing in kit built for the demands of competition.   The wider fleet will also benefit from a bespoke range of IOCA-branded Rooster clothing, allowing sailors, families and supporters to represent the class both on and off the water.  We also recognise the vital role that parents, coaches, and volunteers play in shaping these young sailors. Through this partnership, we aim to support the wider network around the sailors — helping to create a positive, well-equipped, and inspiring environment at every event. For us, this is a natural fit. Many of today’s top sailors started in the Optimist class, and we’re passionate about helping the next generation follow in their footsteps. By working alongside IOCA, we hope to contribute to a pathway that is accessible, enjoyable, and performance-driven. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to see where this partnership goes. We look forward to being part of the Optimist journey — on and off the water — and supporting the sailors who represent the future of sailing. Stay tuned for more from Rooster x IOCA as the season unfolds.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Baltic Sail, based in Tallinn, Estonia, as our official distributor for the Baltic region. Under this new partnership, Baltic Sail will supply retail shops across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, increasing the accessibility of Rooster products throughout the region. The new distribution structure removes the need for individual dealers to negotiate import procedures or manage duty payments, significantly simplifying the purchasing process for retail partners. By working with a dedicated regional distributor, Rooster Sailing Ltd is streamlining logistics and improving supply consistency across the Baltics. This approach enables retailers to focus on sales and customer service, while benefiting from a more efficient and reliable supply chain. We are confident that this partnership will make trade easier and support the continued growth of the Rooster Sailing Ltd brand in the Baltic region, in a way that benefits all partners involved.

Two years ago, we teamed up with Sandy Point — a small local business just down the road from Rooster HQ — to launch a limited-edition run of repurposed sailcloth bags for Christmas 2023. What started as a one-off festive collaboration quickly became something much bigger.  You loved the bags, you loved the story, and the idea of giving sails a second life. So instead of ending with the holiday season, the Sandy Point Collection kept sailing on. And now, for the 2025 gifting season, we’re excited to share that the range has grown again, with four brand-new bag styles and new colour options added to the original favourites.   Why repurposed sails? Sails lead hard-working lives. They’re exposed to sun, salt, strain, and endless days on the water. Once they’ve reached the end of their performance life, they’re notoriously difficult to recycle and often end up with no real afterlife. That’s where Sandy Point comes in.  Together, we’ve created a way to turn these materials into practical, long-lasting bags — each one with a story stitched into the fabric.  Every Sandy Point bag includes a small internal label telling you exactly which sail it was made from. It’s a nod to where the material came from and a reminder that nothing goes to waste.   Meet Rory from Sandy Point   Rory is the hands-on sailor and between him and his team at Sandy Point Chandlery, they are the makers behind every bag. He’s the guy who knows his way around knotted lines, splicing, and the finer details of ropework — and he’s as laid-back as they come.  Here’s what he had to say about the latest collection: “Working with Rooster has been a really natural fit for us. These sails have already spent a lifetime doing what they were built for, so giving them a second purpose feels spot on. Every bag still carries a bit of that history in the cloth, and that’s something I love about the process — nothing goes to waste, and the story doesn’t stop. Seeing the collection grow just shows that people appreciate gear that’s made properly and built to last.”     What’s new this season? We’ve added four new styles to the Sandy Point line-up — designed for everyday life, whether you’re heading to the boat park, commuting, travelling, or spending the day on the coast:   A5 Sailcloth Wallet – perfect for travel documents, small tech, and daily essentials. A4 Sailcloth Wallet – ideal for notebooks, tablets, and keeping things organised on the go. Sailcloth Coin Purse – small, tough, and sized for cards, cash, keys, or pocket items. Premium Beach Bag – a roomy, hard-wearing beach companion with rope handles, stainless hardware, a water-resistant base, and a zipped internal pocket.   You’ll also find fresh colour variations across the original styles — inspired by Rooster’s coastal heritage. The Sandy Point Collection has always been about more than bags. It’s about supporting local craft, reducing waste, and making better use of materials that still have plenty of life left in them. By working with a local maker and giving retired sails a new purpose, it’s good to show how technical materials can become durable, everyday gear without compromising on practicality or design.    

Autumn is a season of change — cooler mornings, shorter days, and crisp conditions on and off the water. It’s also the time when the right layers and reliable kit make all the difference. For the Autumn 2025, we’ve launched a brand-new line-up designed to keep you ready for whatever the season throws your way: the 50L Semi-Dry Duffel Bag, the Shoreline Jacket, the Polartec® Fleece, and Polarised Sunglasses. Whether you’re heading to training, commuting, or escaping to the coast, these new arrivals are built to perform across every part of your lifestyle. NEW IN: When it comes to transporting kit, durability and reliability are key. The new 50L Semi-Dry Duffel Bag has been designed to handle the demands of everyday use and weekend adventures. 50-litre capacity: spacious enough for sailing kit, gym gear, or a weekend away. Semi-dry construction: water-resistant materials keep contents protected from spray and showers. Built to last: rugged fabrics and reinforced details ensure long-term reliability. It’s the ideal bag for the sailor, coach, or anyone who wants one solution for their kit, wherever they’re headed. 👉 [Shop the Duffel] The Shoreline Jacket brings together performance and versatility. Designed to bridge the gap between watersports protection and everyday practicality, it’s a lightweight, breathable jacket you can wear almost anywhere. Water-resistant and breathable for comfort in unpredictable conditions. Lightweight design makes it easy to wear on its own or over a fleece. Everyday style that looks just as good on a coastal walk as it does on the daily commute. It’s the kind of jacket you’ll keep by the door, ready for whatever the day brings. 👉 [Shop the Shoreline Jacket] A dependable fleece is a year-round essential, but it really comes into its own in autumn. Our new Polartec® Fleece delivers premium warmth without bulk, making it perfect as a standalone piece or a layering option under waterproofs. Made with Polartec® fabric for trusted quality and performance. Warm yet lightweight, so you stay comfortable without overheating. Versatile fit that works on the water, at the club, or in everyday use. It’s practical, comfortable, and built to last — everything you need from a mid-layer. 👉 [Shop the Polartec Fleece] Autumn brings low sun and dazzling glare, especially around the water. Our Polarised Sunglasses are designed to protect your eyes and improve visibility in these conditions. Polarised lenses cut through glare and sharpen detail. Lightweight and durable frames for all-day comfort. Essential protection for training, coaching, or time outdoors. They’re a small piece of kit that makes a big difference to comfort and performance. 👉 [Shop Sunglasses] Ready for Autumn Adventures From the tough new duffel bag to versatile layers and glare-cutting sunglasses, this 2025 collection has been designed with durability, comfort, and practicality at its core. Whether you’re preparing for time on the water, long coaching days, or simply making the most of crisp autumn weekends, this kit is built to move with you. 👉 [Explore all New 2025 Collection]  

11th August 2025   We’re proud to announce our new partnership with the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron (RNSYS)—the oldest yacht club in the Americas—marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Rooster in Canada. After beginning our support earlier this season, we’re now officially the Squadron’s technical clothing provider for 2025 and beyond, supplying high-performance apparel for sailors, staff, and major events both on and off the water.   Kicking Off with a Major Youth Sailing Event   Our first supported event under this partnership will be the Canadian Optimist Nationals, hosted at RNSYS from August 16–22, 2025. This premier youth sailing event will welcome some of the most promising young sailors from across Canada, and we’re looking forward to providing technical gear designed to keep them comfortable and performing at their best.   Looking Ahead – Foiling and High-Performance Sailing   Following the Opti Nationals, our partnership continues in October with the CANFOIL Cup—a key event on the Canadian foiling calendar. The regatta also incorporates the WASZP Nationals and Foiling Provincials, showcasing some of the most exciting and progressive aspects of modern sailing.   A Shared Vision for the Future   "We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron—a club with deep heritage and a bold vision for the future of sailing in Canada," says Kate Morrison, Head of Marketing & Product at Rooster. "This is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a shared commitment to supporting all levels of sailing and foiling, from youth development to cutting-edge performance."   This partnership marks Rooster’s first major club collaboration in Canada, reinforcing our growing presence in North America and our dedication to supporting sailors at every level. Together with RNSYS, we look forward to building a strong future for the sport in 2025 and beyond.     Next up: Canadian Optimist Nationals – August 16–22, 2025Where: Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron, Halifax, NS   Follow the action and event updates on our social @RoosterKit.

This September, Rooster is returning to the Southampton International Boat Show – and we've moved! Our stand is now in a fresh new location with even more space to showcase the latest 2025 gear - including some of this years most exciting launches. You’ll find us right in the heart of the action – check out the map below to plan your visit.   What’s New? We’ve been busy designing, testing, and launching innovative new gear for sailors and watersports lovers. Here's what's new at the stand: Rooster Sunglasses – high-quality lenses, built for performance on and off the water. SB1 Inshore Dry Smock – reliable and breathable outer layer, perfect for inshore conditions. Coastal Hi-Fits – durable protection for coastal cruising without unnecessary bulk.  Waterproof Socks – because dry feet are happy feet.  SB2 Deck Trainers – designed for optimal performance in any environment, with unbeatable grip and comfort.  Microfibre Polartec Fleece – lightweight warmth, ideal for layering.  Upgraded Tech Shorts & New Women’s Tech Shorts – improved fit and function and now in a women's fit. Swing by to try them on, check out the quality up close, and chat with our team – we’re always keen to talk all things kit.     Win Your Way In – 5 pairs of tickets up for grabs! We’re giving 5 lucky Rooster fans a chances to win a pair of tickets to attend the show for free. To enter, simply: Follow us on social media Like the competition post (check it out on Facebook and Instagram) Share it on your story and tag @roosterkit Tag the friend you’d bring along in the comments Winners will be announced via DM from the Rooster official Instagram and Facebook pages – so make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop and enter your name in the draw.   Save £10 – Tell all your friends! Want a discount on your ticket? Use code ROOSTERSAIL at checkout when booking your tickets to get £10 off via the Southampton International Boat Show Website. Share the code with your Yacht club, Sailing Club and all your friends to spread the word!       Rooster x Rockley Giveaway – Scan to Win This year, we’ve teamed up with Rockley for an exclusive giveaway. Keep an eye out for Rooster x Rockley signs around the lake – Scan the QR code to sign up for your chance to win a £1000 bundle from Rockley and Rooster – the perfect way to stock up on essentials and book that sailing course or activity you’ve been dreaming of! (Terms and conditions apply).   We can’t wait to see you at the show. You'll find our exclusive show-only deals and our much-loved Outlet steals (get there early - they don't last long!)

- Written by Steve Cockerill    When I started the brand, I was so keen to break down the divide between those who knew how to sail a boat and those who didn’t. I was passionate about sharing knowledge — giving people the confidence to enjoy the sport more. It really all started with me being quietly determined to improve the mainsheet on a Laser (now the ILCA). That was my first goal. I’d tried working with some well-known rope manufacturers, but nothing was quite right. Then I had a brainwave and decided to try it myself. I bought a couple of miles of rope based on that idea… and it worked. People loved it. The breakthrough moment came when I shared it with Robert Scheidt — who was the No. 1 Laser sailor in the world at the time — and he faxed me back saying how much he liked it and asking for more. I’ve still got that fax to this day. That was the spark that made me think, maybe I really could do this. It started in a room upstairs in my house… then a spare room and a shed in the garden… then a double garage and the lounge… then a small unit, then two units, and then a bigger unit. Now, we’ve got a warehouse and office in the UK and a distribution unit in the US — and we’re just about keeping up! I’m still amazed when I look outside and see how many cars are there… and how many great people are working at Rooster, helping it grow. It’s taken a long time — and a lot of passion — to build the brand. Friends of mine used to say, “You’ll need at least a million pounds to turn a vision into a brand.” But I thought, no — you just need to make products people really need. Maybe I was a bit naïve. It’s definitely taken more than just money to get Rooster to where it is today. It’s always been a passion project — and it still is. We’re always checking ourselves, asking if we’re being fair to our customers. And it’s still great fun to represent the brand at events, chat to sailors, and see people enjoying the sport. That’s the best bit. Every now and then people think I’ve retired — which is quite funny, because I haven’t! I’ve just changed my outlook. My wife finally retired from a high-pressure job in school senior leadership, and together we’ve managed to share the workload I used to carry — particularly on logistics and factory liaison. We even split my salary, which has given me a better balance… it’s less five or six days a week now and more like two or three. Handing over the day-to-day running of Rooster to Luke Morrison wasn’t hard at all. Luke had grown up with Rooster — he first joined us as maternity cover, but quickly showed himself to be a real force. He’s brilliant at building relationships with our dealers… a total diplomat, to be honest. In fact, I think I was holding him back! Luke’s got so much drive, it made complete sense for him to take the lead. You might think that would be hard as the founder — but I know Luke’s as committed to Rooster and its ethos as I am. So now, I’ve got plenty of time to keep working with our factories, stay close to the logistics, and enough “playtime” to keep me fired and excited for the years ahead.

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    

Rooster is pleased to announce its second year running supporting the Women’s Open Keelboat Championships (WOKC) as the event’s exclusive clothing partner for 2025. This partnership reflects Rooster’s long-standing commitment to supporting women's competitive sailing and promoting inclusivity within the sport. Established as a key fixture in the sailing calendar, WOKC brings together skilled female sailors from across the globe to compete in a spirit of sportsmanship, resilience, and collaboration. The event not only showcases exceptional talent on the water but also continues to serve as a platform for empowering women in sailing. “We are proud to support the Women’s Open Keelboat Championships,” said Kate Morrison, Head of Marketing and Product Development at Rooster. “Our roots are deeply embedded in the sailing community, and this partnership reinforces our dedication to events that celebrate diversity, excellence, and the growth of the sport.”   As part of the sponsorship, Rooster will be providing on-site support throughout the event, ensuring competitors have access to expert advice and the right gear for peak performance. A dedicated pop-up shop will offer the latest Rooster products, giving sailors and attendees the opportunity to explore and purchase high-performance apparel designed specifically for the demands of keelboat racing. To further celebrate the spirit of competition, a selection of exclusive Rooster prizes will be awarded during the regatta, recognising standout achievements on and off the water. In the evening, Rooster will host a dedicated technical clothing workshop designed specifically for women in sailing. This session will offer an insight into the design, functionality, and performance of Rooster’s latest Women's Tech Shorts, highlighting the innovation and thoughtful engineering that goes into creating gear tailored to the unique needs of female sailors. This partnership underscores Rooster’s broader mission to equip sailors of all levels with the tools to succeed, both on and off the water. From grassroots initiatives to global competitions, Rooster continues to invest in the future of sailing through innovation, quality, and community engagement. Join us in celebrating the Women’s Open Keelboat Championships and the remarkable women leading the way in the sport. To learn more about Rooster’s commitment to sailing and explore our latest technical collection, visit our website.  

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.