Light Sailing Gear

More and more of us are drawn to the ocean, so light sailing gear can become essential to fully enjoy your sailing trips. This vast expanse of saltwater offers us a playground with an immense range of varied activities. And yes, it’s not just about sailboat navigation!

To support these modern adventurers, Sailiz offers a range of products to be ready and practice their favorite sport. Even your light sailing gear can be complemented at SAILIZ with waterproof dungarees, base layers, and other accessories.

What is light sailing? Light Sailing Gear

Also known as sport sailing, light sailing refers to another form of navigation. It is simply the practice of sailing on lighter craft.

Unlike large traditional sailboats, light sailing craft are smaller, more maneuverable, and often designed for speed and agility rather than comfort or cargo capacity.

The goal is more oriented towards feel and performance rather than exploration and travel.

We use the term “sailing,” qualified as light or sport, because the variety of activities it refers to is not limited to boat-type craft, but rather all wind-propelled devices. Of course, dinghies and catamarans are at the top of the list as preferred platforms, but windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wingfoiling are also part of this family. As you can see, light sailing offers many platforms and options for navigation, so there is just as much light sailing gear. That’s why we’re helping you find your way in this article.

Light sailing, a first step to becoming tomorrow’s sailor!

The distinctive characteristics of light sailing include its lightness, simplicity, and ability to navigate in shallow waters, allowing it to be used in a variety of environments, from inland lakes to marine coasts.

To learn the basics of navigation, choosing one of these light craft is THE ideal solution. Many of today’s great female sailors made their first tack on an Optimist (small dinghy).

Light sailing is appreciated for its accessibility, its fun aspect, and its continuous learning potential, making it a popular activity among sailors of all ages and experience levels.

All About Light Sailing Gear

Before you start, it’s essential to have the right light sailing gear to ensure your safety, comfort, and performance on the water.

Sailiz offers you basic personal gear adapted to weather conditions and navigation requirements. This will also depend on the light sailing platform you have chosen, which will influence your light sailing gear choices.

1. Life Vest

Make sure to wear a life vest approved by maritime authorities, suitable for your size and weight. It must be comfortable and well-fitted to ensure adequate buoyancy in case of falling into the water.

2. Sailing Apparel:

• Insulated suit or wetsuit: Depending on the water temperature, an insulated suit or a neoprene wetsuit is necessary to keep you warm and protect your body.

• Sailing shoes or neoprene boots: Shoes that offer good grip on the deck, hull, or board, and are comfortable even when wet.

• Waterproof jacket: For colder sessions, to protect you from splashes and bad weather. And yes, we can go out on the water all year round!

Sailing dungarees can also be essential light sailing gear if you’re day sailing on a J80 or other semi-habitable boats.

3. Sun Protection:

• Polarized sunglasses: To protect your eyes from UV rays and glare on the water. Don’t forget to add a safety strap so you don’t lose your favorite glasses.

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen: Make sure to apply high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.

• Sun hat or cap: Protect your head and face from the sun’s rays with a wide-brimmed hat or a cap.

4. Personal Accessories:

• Sailing gloves: To protect your hands from friction and blisters when handling ropes.

• Multi-tool knife: Useful for cutting ropes in case of emergency or need.

• Distress whistle: A small waterproof whistle can be attached to your life vest to signal in an emergency.

5. The Little Extra:

Dry bag: If you opt for an onboard platform, such as a dinghy or catamaran, there’s nothing better than bringing a dry bag with you.

You can store safety and comfort gear in it, to be prepared for any eventuality.

For example: Rope (cordage) of different diameters and lengths for emergency repairs, some spare shackles, tape, a phone or communication device, your tube of sunscreen, a water bottle…

Now you’re well-equipped to go sailing!

Make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out to sea and adapt your gear accordingly. With this basic equipment, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy your light sailing experience safely.