WOMEN'S TECHNICAL SAILING TOPS

Written by Dani Anglada Pich Who I Am   My name is Dani Anglada Pich. I was born in Barcelona in 1986, and the sea has been part of me for as long as I can remember. I first set sail at the age of six in dinghies, and from that very moment I knew: this was where I felt alive. The sound of the wind, the balance of the boat, the salt on my skin—it was home.   At twenty, I was already skippering the ex-Fortuna Light, Spain’s entry in the 1986 Whitbread Round the World Race. That boat carried the spirit of ocean adventure, and being at her helm pushed me to dream even bigger.   Later I studied at the Nautical Faculty of Barcelona, Polytechnic University of Catalogne, becoming a merchant marine officer. My life was all about the sea. And then, in 2018, everything collapsed. An accident on board a merchant vessel left me totally blind.   The first years were brutal. I’ll be honest—I felt like I had lost myself as well as my sight. But slowly, step by step, the sea pulled me back. With rehabilitation, with my family and friends beside me, with professionals and foundations who believed in me, I rebuilt myself. I learned to live again. And more than that—I chose to keep sailing.   In 2024, I founded Yes We Sail, both an association and a start-up, to prove that the sea belongs to everyone, especially those who are told they “can’t.” Sailing became my way of life again, but also my mission: to show that limits are not walls, they are just horizons waiting to be crossed. Why I Took on the Challenge Less than a year before the challenge, I said out loud: “I want to sail solo around the Isle of Wight.” At the time it sounded crazy—even to me. But I knew it had to mean something more than just sailing. During the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona, I had the support of the organisation and the unconditional encouragement of Grant Dalton. Grant embodies what the Cup is about: perseverance, effort, resilience. I wanted to honour that support. And where better than the Isle of Wight—the very waters where the Hundred Guineas Cup was sailed in 1851, the race that would later become the America’s Cup, and the stage for regattas like the Admiral’s Cup and Cowes Week. To attempt this circumnavigation blind, in a Patí a Vela—a boat with no rudder, no centreboard, no boom—was my way of tying history to the present. A way to say: the sea is for everyone. And a call: bring sailing back to the Paralympic Games in Brisbane 2032. Preparation: From Dream to Voyage To make this real, every detail had to change. My boat, Lady, a Patí a Vela, was built with tactile textures on deck so I could “read” her with my feet and hands. Every rope had a unique feel, so I knew it instantly. I wore a haptic vest that pulsed vibrations for waypoints and wind direction. I studied 3D maps of the island until I could imagine the tides and currents in my head as clearly as if I had seen them with my eyes. Training in Cowes was intense. The East Cowes Sailing Club opened their doors to me—their slipway, their trust, even their friendship. Magnus Wheatley gave tactical advice, and engineers, volunteers, and sponsors all turned a fragile idea into something seaworthy. And   Lady, built two years earlier with a master boatbuilder and myself, became more than a boat: she was my voice, my balance, my partner. The Odyssey Around the Island 24 July 2025, 08:01. The cannon of the Royal Yacht Squadron fired. I set off. The first stretch to The Needles was pure joy—12 knots of speed, wind NNW 10–15, and I could feel Lady fly.   Then, silence. At Freshwater Bay the wind dropped, and I had to push eight miles offshore into the Channel to find a breath of air. It took over five hours to reach St Catherine’s Point, sailing downwind with under 10 knots and rolling waves. The Patí doesn’t like that course—it felt unstable, restless under me.   Past the lighthouse, the sea flattened, a NE breeze came in at 12 knots with gusts to 18. For a moment, I thought finally, easier. I was wrong.   After nine hours at sea, past Ventnor and Sandown Bay, came the real trial. The tide turned at low water. Chaos. Gusts slammed up to 28 knots. The hull creaked, the mast groaned, and I thought: What am I doing here, risking everything?   But I stayed. I listened. I focused. I trusted the protocol I’d spent four years building. The Patí speaks if you pay attention—through vibrations, through the surge of the hull, through whispers in the rig. Step by step, I fought on. Thirteen tacks. Twice I was thrown to the deck, struggling to get her steady again. But I carried on.   By sunset, I was spent. Exhaustion, cold, pain. The last miles to Cowes weren’t a fight with the sea—they were a fight with myself. I trimmed the sail, so I didn’t have to move, and locked my focus on the wind, the tide, the rhythm of the boat. The Finish Line Finally, the tide lifted me, a soft breeze carried me home. Crossing the line wasn’t the victory I had imagined—it was survival. It was release. It was rebirth.   I collapsed on deck, overwhelmed, and kissed Lady for all she had endured, for bringing me back safe. Two years earlier, with a master boatbuilder, I had begun shaping her. Now, whole and unbroken, she had carried me to harbour. In that moment, I felt nothing but honour. She wasn’t just a boat—she was my companion, my sight, speaking to me mile after mile until we made it home together. Reflections: What the Sea Taught Me That day I lived everything: calm and storm, fear and joy, despair and triumph. Times when I doubted. Times when I felt free beyond words. By the end, it all exploded inside me—sadness, pride, exhaustion, happiness, strength.   I realised this: what we call limits are often just perceptions. The sea strips you down until only truth remains. And with preparation, courage, and passion, you can go further than anyone ever thought possible. Gratitude None of this would have been possible without those who believed. My deepest thanks to the East Cowes Sailing Club, to Magnus Wheatley, to every volunteer, to my sponsors, and especially to Rooster. The technical clothing and equipment they provided protected me to the very last wave. But more than gear, they gave me something priceless: belief. Belief in people, in dreams, and in the idea that sailing belongs to everyone. And a very special mention to my main sponsor, Port Masnou and Club Nàutic El Masnou. They’ve been with me from the very start—not only supporting this challenge but building the future of inclusive sailing. They opened their facilities, shared their coaching, and stood behind Yes We Sail with trust and commitment. Without them, this dream would never have left the shore. Closing Message To anyone who doubts themselves: remember this. Disabilities are not limits. They are different abilities, different perspectives, different strengths.   If I, without sight, could sail solo around the Isle of Wight, then you too can face your seas—whatever form they take.   This was more than a challenge. It was the beginning of a new horizon: a call for inclusive sailing, for courage, and for the will to believe again.    

Winter sailing can be some of the most rewarding time on the water — crisp mornings, steady breezes, quieter waters. But with colder conditions comes one big challenge: staying warm. Your wetsuit is your first line of defence, and choosing the right thickness is critical. Here’s why upgrading to a Supertherm 4mm wetsuit can transform your cold-weather sailing experience. Quick Look: 1. How Neoprene Keeps You Warm Neoprene works by trapping a thin layer of water between your body and the suit. Your body heats this water, creating an insulating barrier. The thicker the neoprene, the more insulation it provides — making it much harder for heat to escape. 2. Why Thickness Matters 1.5mm neoprene (like our Thermaflex) offers flexibility and comfort for mild to warm conditions. 4mm neoprene (like the Supertherm) adds serious insulation for cold-weather training, helping you retain heat for longer sessions. Think of it like the difference between a light jacket and a winter coat — both have their place, but when the cold bites, you’ll want the thicker layer. 3. Advanced Linings for Extra Warmth The Supertherm 4mm range isn’t just thicker — it’s smarter. Enhanced linings wick moisture away from your skin, add thermal comfort, and dry faster between sessions. That means less of the “chill factor” when you put your wetsuit back on for the afternoon race. 4. The Role of Stitching: Flatlock vs GBS Not all seams are created equal. Flatlock stitching (used in thinner suits like Thermaflex) is breathable but allows small amounts of water through — fine for warmer sailing. GBS (Glued and Blind Stitched) seams, used in all our Supertherm range, are sealed to minimise water entry. This keeps the insulating layer of water more stable and your body much warmer. 5. Designed for Winter Performance Sailors often assume thicker neoprene means restricted movement — not with Supertherm. Our panels are engineered for stretch and flexibility where you need it most, so you stay agile and comfortable while still benefiting from maximum warmth. 6. Pairing with Other Layers The Supertherm range is built to be part of your complete winter system. Layer it up with: ·       Thermal base layers like our Polypro or Hot tops & leggings — not only do they help manage moisture, but they also add an extra insulating layer, trapping air and boosting warmth. ·       Spray protection such as the Aquafleece® or SB1 Inshore Dry Smock — your outer defence against wind and water. Together, these layers create a system that locks in heat, keeps you dry, and stands up to whatever winter sailing throws at you. Read more about layering by visiting our Layering Guide. Don’t let the cold hold you back. With the right wetsuit, winter sailing can be just as enjoyable — if not more — than the summer season. Our Supertherm 4mm range is designed to give you the warmth, comfort, and performance you need to sail on through the colder months.

Winter doesn’t mean your sailing or training has to stop – it just means you need to prepare your kit properly. The right layering system will keep you warm, dry, and able to focus on performance instead of the cold. At Rooster, we’ve refined our layering philosophy so every piece works together, giving you flexibility whether you’re racing, coaching, or training ashore. You can check out our full layering guide for tips throughout the year, but for Autumn/Winter specific keep reading below:   The Golden Rule: Layer Like an Onion Layering is about trapping warm air close to your body while managing moisture and protecting against wind and spray. Each layer has a job to do, and when combined, they deliver comfort and performance in even the harshest conditions.      Think of this as your second skin. Its job is to regulate body temperature and wick moisture away, keeping you dry even when you’re working hard. Technical base layers: Soft, quick-drying fabrics prevent chills caused by sweat. Close-fitting design: Ensures no cold gaps and allows easy layering on top.   Rooster Pick: Hot Top & Leggings – the winter sailor’s secret weapon. Top tip: Skip rash vests or Lycra layers as insulation – they won’t add warmth and can actually make you feel cooler. When it comes to layering, sometimes less really is more.   This is where you add warmth. Choose pieces that are flexible, breathable, and easy to peel off when conditions change. Flexible layering: Adjust your neoprene thickness to match the forecast. When the temperature drops below 15°C, reach for your Supertherm® 4mm Top and Longjohn for maximum warmth. In milder conditions, your Thermaflex® 1.5mm layers may be all you need – and if you’re someone who feels the cold, add extra base layers for comfort. When it is really really cold, you could double up on neoprene!   Check out our blog on what the forecast says vs the actual temperatures.   Your shell is the barrier against wind, spray, and rain. Look for waterproofing, breathability, and freedom of movement. Aquafleece Spray tops or SB1 Inshore Smock: Great for dinghy sailing. SB1 Jacket or Pro Rigging Jacket: Added protection when conditions are rougher.   Your hands, feet, and head lose heat fastest, so finishing your system with quality accessories is vital. Neoprene gloves & mitts for grip and warmth. Neoprene socks layered under boots for warm, dry feet. Hats, beanies, neck gaiters & balaclavas to prevent heat loss from your head and neck.   💡 Did you know? Research published in the British Medical Journal found that if your head is the only part of your body uncovered, you can lose around 7–10% of your body heat through it. A simple hat or hood can make a huge difference to your comfort and endurance on the water.   Customer Favourite Pick for Autumn/Winter Training: AquaPro Gloves, Hot Socks, Supertherm Beanie & Aquafleece Neck Gaiters.   One of the toughest parts of winter training is when the day is split into two sessions with downtime in between. That mid-day break can be when the cold really creeps in, leaving you feeling flat, sluggish, and unmotivated for round two. The good news? With a few smart habits, you can stay warm, recover properly, and head back out ready to perform.   Top tips for staying warm between sessions:  Layer up quickly: Throw on a warm, windproof outer layer such as our Pro Aquafleece® Rigging Coat or Aquafleece® Robe to trap heat and stop the chill setting in. Swap your kit: Take a spare pair of socks and gloves to change into during the break – dry, warm hands and feet make a huge difference. Don’t forget your head: A simple beanie helps keep body heat in and makes you feel instantly warmer. Refuel smartly: Pack proper food and a hot drink to top up energy levels and keep your core temperature steady. Keep moving: Light activity between sessions helps circulation and stops you from cooling down too much.     Avoid rash/lycra layers – they hold water and makes you cold. Stay flexible – pack an extra mid-layer, socks and gloves in your kit bag so you can adapt. Check your fit – layers should sit comfortably without restricting movement. Look after your gear – rinse saltwater off regularly and let items dry fully.   Final Thought: Winter sailing and training are all about preparation. Get your layering right, and you’ll be warm, comfortable, and ready to perform – whatever the weather throws at you.   Our full layering guide and more information on layering for different conditions can be found here

My favourite training routine for small to medium sized groups is a ‘Follow-On’.

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]  

This summer, I was lucky enough to win the Tera Sport World Championships, surprisingly making me the first person to be a double World Champion in both a Topper and a Tera.

Blog written by Kirsten Pollock, SKUD18 Sailor   Hansa are the largest manufacturer in the world of sail boats used by people with disabilities. The boats are designed to a Universal principle, with weighted keels, that allows anyone, whether young, old, able or with a disability to sail easily and safely, making sailing a very equal and inclusive sport. Every two years the five Hansa Classes come together for an International and World Championships. The boats are named by metric size, the smallest is the 2.3, then 303 divided into one and two-person fleets, the larger Liberty and finally the fast and powerful Paralympic SKUD18. The 2025 Hansa Worlds took place at Pittwater, near Sydney, Australia. Sixteen nations, with competitors from Australia, Chile, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Spain and USA took part and, representing Great Britain in the SKUD Class, was me, crewed with top local sailor Brett Pearce who was Australian Reserve Crew for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio. Other illustrious names in the fleet were Dan Fitzgibbon, three times Paralympic Medallist, plus Asia Pacific SKUD Champion Neil Rowsthorne. The Rooster clothing was brilliant, especially the long sleeved UV top, neck sleeve and cap helped protect me and my crew from the sun. I have fair skin and burn very easily so having the right clothing especially in strong UV conditions makes all the difference. I could focus on sailing rather than having to contend with sunburn etc. After the regatta I went travelling and Rooster were with me every step or wheel of the way. I spent a few days in central Sydney. I then went to Uluru, from there I went to Port Douglas and went to the Barrier Reef, I wore Rooster kit in the water to protect me from the UV rays. I then went to Melbourne. My Rooster kit proved to be the ultimate travel companion — keeping me protected, comfortable, and ready for whatever came next. Whether I was sailing in high-performance conditions or exploring some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, having reliable gear made all the difference. I genuinely wouldn’t travel — or sail — without it.

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!)

Blog submitted by Richard Westlake, West Lancashire Yacht Club   At West Lancashire Yacht Club, we believe sailing should be for everyone — regardless of background or income. That’s why, over the past few years, we’ve worked hard to grow our Outreach Programme, making sailing more accessible to young people in our local community.   In 2024, we were honoured to receive the RYA Sunsail “Funding the Future” Award — national recognition for our grassroots outreach work. It’s a programme built in partnership with local primary schools, including Norwood and Larkfield, right here in Southport.   Through this initiative, we’ve introduced nearly 200 Year 5 pupils to the water — many of whom had never even considered sailing before. With the help of our fantastic volunteers and the enthusiastic support of the schools, every child has been able to take part, regardless of experience or financial circumstance. Teachers have joined in too, showing how sailing can connect people of all ages and abilities.   But this is about more than just one day on the marine lake in the heart of the children's hometown. For us, it’s about building confidence, sparking ambition, and creating real opportunities for young people to progress — whether that’s continuing at club level or one day racing competitively. As a newly recognised British Sailing Pathway Club, we’re committed to helping those journeys continue.   We’re also proud to work closely with Southport schools and with West Lancashire Yacht Club members who give their time, expertise, and passion to support these young sailors. It’s a real community effort — and we’re only just getting started.   This year, we’re excited to be running a raffle alongside our famous 24 Hour Race, helping raise vital funds to support and expand the Outreach Programme, with great prizes from several sponsors. Thanks to the generous support from Rooster, prizes include high-performance kit from their SB1 and Shoreline ranges.   With Rooster’s backing, we’re not just celebrating endurance on the water — we’re investing in a future where more young people can experience the thrill of sailing, no matter their starting point.   Because for us, real endurance isn’t just about sailing non-stop for 24 hours — it’s about building a sport, a club, and a community that lasts a lifetime.   To find out more and follow what West Lancashire Yacht Club are doing, head to their Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok or Website.

Blog submitted by Laszlo Drummond, Rooster Rider - 6659 Optimist GBR Team  - 3rd August 2025   Hi, I am Laszlo, and I am thrilled to be a Rooster Rider, sailing optimists for Great Britian. In recent months I have been training in UK, Venice, Lake Garda, Valencia, Palamos and Portoroz in Slovenia, where I competed in the Optimist World Championship. My most recent competition was the British National Championships in Weymouth, a good but tough event, and I am now packing up for Hayling Island Youth Week in a RS Feva for some fun.  Some of the most recent major events I have attended include The World Championships in Slovenia; it was really challenging sailing with lots of wind shifts and light conditions which was very tough as the wind often move 20 degrees each way without warning. The level was also super high, with very short start lines so the races were often won and lost on the line. There were almost 300 boats with 4 flights which is very different to England as there are never so many boats. The great thing about all of these international events is they are great for learning and improving your skills, as so many of the sailors are of very high standard.   Going back to the British Nationals in Weymouth we had steady wind of 8- 17 knots every day, it would be light in the morning and build throughout the day there was also a lot of shifts, but I managed to stay on top of them and found it a lot better than at the Worlds.   I finished up with Podium as 3rd Senior and 4th Overall, despite having a UFD and a DSQ which I was luckily able to discard but I had to count a 32! My favourite moment was in the last race, which I led all the way, and I won by 50ms - It was windy which are my favourite conditions, and I love sailing and am looking forward to another great year with Rooster. Rooster has really helped me to push my sailing to new levels by supplying me with excellent kit and great advice from their team. One of my favourite items of kit is their Thermaflex 1.5 mm long john and top as they are super comfortable, durable and warm with lots of movement. Due to its amazing quality this is the only wetsuit I wear but when it gets too cold, I wear the Supertherm 4mm long john as it is very thick. I have been wearing these wetsuits as a Rooster Rider for the past 3 years alongside with the Pro Aquafleece spray-top, the kit is so dependable and high quality it allows me to really focus on my sailing and not worry about my kit.

Blog submitted by Rooster Rider Amelie Ballantyne, Devon UK As a keen dinghy sailor, there is nothing I like better than getting in my (Rooster) wetsuit and jumping on my boat- it’s the best feeling in the world! However, over the past year, I have started to realise the effects that humans are having on the waters we use and the oceans in general. The statistics around pollution, climate change and habitat destruction are quite shocking, and unfortunately, the evidence of these statistics can be seen rather close to home sometimes- I often see dead wildlife/sea creatures, plastic pollution and sewage where I sail, and it’s not pleasant. As someone who loves using the water, this concerned me, and I wanted to help bring about change. However, I am only a 15-year-old dinghy sailor from Devon, so what can I possibly do to change this global environmental problem? So, to start with, I did my research and created a list of the simple things I could promote at my club (Starcross Yacht Club). Then, earlier this year, I became a Clean Sailors Ambassador and joined a community of international sailors who all want to raise awareness of ocean conservation and sustainable practices in the marine industry. I also joined the US SailGP Climate Action Academy that links students with A-list sustainable experts to learn about global matters. Using social media has been a great platform, and I have organised old sails and wetsuit collections, as well as helping to raise awareness about key issues. Thank you, ITCA Topper community, for your kind sail and wetsuit donations at NS5 Paignton. Who are Clean Sailors and what do they do? Clean Sailors is a non-profit organisation that strives to promote awareness around ocean conservation, amongst other things. Set up in 2020 by Holly Manvell, Clean Sailors share stories, research and campaign for environmental change in the marine industry. One of their big areas of focus is demonstrating what to do with old sails. Currently 97% of sails end up in landfills each year, which is approximately 2000 tons. This is a shocking statistic! Clean Sailors help direct people to local/global businesses that will take your old sails for recycling and repurposing to keep them out of landfills. Many innovative things can be done with old sails, from clothing and accessories, community shelters for schools and villages, to deckchair covers for the beach; creating a better great circular economy. What can sailors do to help? As sailors, most of us love the seas and rivers we use and would hate to think we are adding to a large-scale environmental problem, but unfortunately, the reality is that there are things that sailors do that have an impact on the environment around them. When it comes to change, even the small steps can make a difference if we ALL start to do them and work together. Think of the times you may have lost a sweet wrapper while doing a race or dropped your sunnies overboard never to be seen again, or that time you used electrical tape and a bit blows away. Well, if every sailor did this, even by accident, the environmental impact would begin to be a big problem for waterways and communities that use them. Here are my top six very easy tips for being a more environmentally conscious sailor: The obvious one – use a reusable drinking bottle and not a single-use plastic bottle. Rooster sells great bottles, and most venues have refill facilities – easy! Recycle your old kit: Don’t dump sails and wetsuits, and buy second-hand where and when you can. Save water. After a sail, you don’t need to shower for hours, have a water fight or spend eternity washing your boat – turn taps off! Use eco-friendly products. There are great boat cleaning products out there, as well as countless products for your body. Take your rubbish home – use the correct bins – maybe have a snack that is not in a fiddly wrapper -Rule 55 guys!  …use a sunglasses strap/retainer to keep your sunnies on your eyes and not on bottom of the seabed. I am very proud to be a Clean Sailors Ambassador and to be involved in helping with sustainability and change for our future and the longevity of water sports. In my opinion, educating people about the need to be sustainable and the impact each one of us has while doing the sport we love is important; creating new habits and making changes that benefit our whole environment. We all have a role to play; we all live here. It is great to see that even our top sailors in SailGP are getting on board with becoming clean, green sailors and leading the way with sustainability. I am also very proud to be a Rooster Rider, as Rooster is committed to ethical and sustainable business practices, which is important to me.