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Sailing a Laser or ILCA well is a physical business, and the right clothing is what lets you hike hard, stay warm and keep racing when the weather turns. Because it is a single handed hiking boat, the kit that matters most is a bit different from other classes, so we have pulled together the clothing and gear our Laser and ILCA sailors come back for rather than making you sift the whole clothing range.
This collection brings together the pieces that suit the boat, including Zhik and Rooster hiking kit and padded shorts, warm tops and spray layers like the Superwarm X and Rooster Pro Lite Aquafleece, rash vests and a neck gaiter, sailing gloves, boots and insoles, buoyancy aids, and the smaller bits like a cap, dry bag and water bottle holder that make a day on the water easier. It spans summer through winter, so you can build up a kit that keeps you going whatever the season.
As dinghy sailors ourselves, we know how much good hiking kit and a warm top matter when you are grinding out a long beat, and that being cold or sore ends a session early. If you are not sure what to prioritise or how to layer for your conditions, call us on 01268 222912 and we will talk it through. Order before 2pm Monday to Friday and we will ship in stock items the same day.
Some frequently asked questions that other customers have asked us about Laser and ILCA Sailing Clothing Recommendations.
What should I wear to sail a Laser or ILCA?
To sail a Laser or ILCA you need kit built for hiking and getting wet. The core items are hikers or a wetsuit with hiking pads, a rash vest or thermal top, a spray top or smock, hiking boots, sailing gloves and a low profile buoyancy aid. Zhik and Rooster both make clothing designed around the demands of single handed hiking boats.
What are hikers and do I need them for an ILCA?
Hikers are wetsuit long johns with built in pads behind the thighs, which spread the load of the deck edge when you hike. In an ILCA you spend most of every beat hiking, so they make a real difference to comfort and how long you can hike hard. Zhik Microfleece Hikers suit milder conditions, with Zhik Superwarm Hikers for cold water.
What are the best boots for hiking in a Laser?
The best boots for hiking in a Laser have firm ankle support and a grippy upper that locks under the toe strap. Zhik Hiking X boots are designed for this, and they pair with the ZhikGrip II hiking strap for extra hold. Adding the Zhik Hiking X carbon insole stiffens the boot further, which reduces the strain on your feet.
What is the best buoyancy aid for Laser and ILCA sailing?
The best buoyancy aid for Laser and ILCA sailing is a low profile design that sits close to the body. The boom is low and the mainsheet can catch on bulky kit as you tack, so a slim fit matters. The Zhik Performance Racecut PFD is a popular choice, with a short cut that leaves room to move while hiking.
What should I wear for winter Laser sailing?
For winter Laser sailing, layer up from a warm wetsuit base. Zhik Superwarm Hikers with a Superwarm X top keep your core and legs warm, and a Rooster Pro Lite Aquafleece or Zhik Performance Smock over the top blocks wind and spray. Finish with Rooster AquaPro gloves and an Aquafleece neck gaiter to protect your hands and neck.
