As we count down to the season-opening showcase, RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show, at Farnborough International (22-23 February), we spotlight some of exhibitors’ recommended products and services for the coming season, from what to wear, boats and sails, rigs and hardware to boardsports equipment, holidays and courses.
New season neoprene
Stay warm even in cold water adventures with Musto’s Flexlite Dynamic 4/3mm Steamer, available in men’s and women’s sizing. Designed with precision and the active sailor in mind, this wetsuit combines cutting-edge technology with unparalleled comfort. Developed alongside the British Sailing Team, it delivers warmth, flexibility, and durability. So whether you’re kite surfing, IQFoiling, or out on the board in brisk conditions, the FlexLite Dynamic ensures peak performance and complete freedom of movement.
Gill’s men’s and women’s Dynamic Long John is crafted for performance across a variety of watersports. Built with 3mm Neoprene and four-way stretch fabric, it delivers a snug, insulating fit with impressive flexibility for unrestricted movement. Whether you’re sailing, kayaking or paddleboarding, the Dynamic Long John offers versatile protection and comfort.
Musto’s Flexlite Alumin Long John is engineered for high-energy inshore racing. It combines advanced materials with ergonomic design for unmatched comfort and performance. Available in men’s and women’s fits, this essential layer offers warmth, flexibility and protection, making it the go-to choice for competitive sailors looking to push their limits on the water.
The Women’s Flexlite Dynamic 2mm Long John from Musto also offers a highly breathable construction which is ideal for use during high energy inshore activities.
For the hiking sailor, the Flexlite Alumin Hikers from Musto deliver superior comfort and functionality. Whether you’re racing at the highest level or improving your technique, their innovative construction helps you push harder, hike longer, and sail faster.
Engineered for both long-distance touring and high-intensity racing, the Zhik Performance Padded paddle shorts deliver ultimate comfort and breathability. Developed from extensive testing during ocean crossings, these shorts feature a seamless, 1mm neoprene seat for reduced chafing and added support. Perfect for any paddler, they complement Zhik base layer tops and come in both padded and unpadded versions to suit your needs.
Musto, Gill and Zhik products will be available via the Goat Marinex P&B stand at the show (stand 4) with the Musto team also on hand for kit advice (stand 84).
Safety solutions
Whether paddling or sailing, the Podium 50 Buoyancy Aid from Mustang Survival (stand 82) maximizes agility and enhances performance with its low profile foam. It’s available for wide range of users in adult sizes, small to XL, and junior (JR) for kids weighing 29.9kg—39.9kg.
Zhik’s Performance Racecut PFD (available via Goat Marine, stand 4) features a cutting-edge, low-profile design. Refined over decades of innovation, this PFD delivers versatility, performance, and a tailored fit that meets the demands of modern racing sailors.
The ALTO Belt Pack is a key pick from Spinlock (Hurricane 5.9SX / Spinlock, stand 5), and is a compact, lightweight waist-worn inflatable flotation device for watersports like paddleboarding, rowing, kayaking, fishing, and boating. Discreet and user-friendly, ALTO inflates manually, releasing a ring that supports the user around the chest. It provides reliable safety without bulk, offering comfort and invisibility until needed in emergencies.
For high-speed sailors and riders, Zhik’s Kolliton Helmet (available via Goat Marine, stand 4) pushes performance and comfort to the next level. This lightweight, low-profile helmet enhances breathability and protection and is ideal for those intense conditions.
Fantastic footwear
Keep your toes toasty this winter with the help of Rooster’s fully waterproof socks (stand 102). With advanced waterproof technology and featuring a triple-layer construction, these socks offer a close, comfortable fit that prevents water ingress without sacrificing breathability and yet are thin enough to wear inside boots or trainers. They’re ideal for sailors, paddlers, and watersports enthusiasts alike!
For performance both on and off the water, check out the SB2 Trainers, also from Rooster. These lightweight shoes are your go-to for keelboat sailing, paddling, or even leisurely strolls. Enhanced by a super grippy, high-traction outsole, you can navigate wet surfaces with ease, ensuring swift and secure movement.
The Gill Aero Boot (via P&B on stand 4) is ideal for both dinghy sailors and watersports enthusiasts, and offers the perfect blend of comfort, support and durability on the water. This versatile boot offers all-day comfort, with a grip designed to keep you steady in the most demanding conditions, with a lightweight construction that doesn’t sacrifice performance for warmth.
Outstanding outerwear
Rooster’s iconic Aquafleece® Robe (stand 102) is an oversized, warm and versatile jacket with removeable quick drying teddy fleece lining – the perfect jacket for warming up after a day on the water. Waterproof, windproof and durable due to Rooster’s iconic Aquafleece® fabric outer shell, the soft and fluffy teddy lining at the inside of the robe can be fully removed from the jacket, giving you the ability to wash it and keep it fresh, and as a bonus it is made from recycled polyester!
The Torrens Hooded Thermal Jacket from Mustang Survival (stand 82) is a versatile essential for your kit bag – ideal as an outer layer for easy summer cruising or a vital mid-layer for cold, wet winter trips – while their Callan Waterproof Jacket is designed for active days on the water, offering lightweight, breathable protection from the elements.
Rooster’s Shoreline Jacket has been developed to be your all-year-round go to waterproof jacket. Constructed from Ripstop Nylon with a free-flowing lining, it’s billed as the ideal jacket for any activity, whether that be walking, on the rib, day sailing on a cruiser, team wear, school coat, work jacket… the list of uses is endless.
Drysuit designs
Drysuits are also a great way to help make on-water activities viable all year round, and our show exhibitors have you covered.
The Hudson CCS Drysuit from Mustang Survival (stand 82) offers a highly versatile solution for any in-water adventure. Its neoprene wrist cuffs and CCS adjustable neck seal are customisable for fit and comfort.
Gill’s Pro Drysuit (available via P&B on stand 4) is designed for sailors who face the most challenging conditions, offering superior waterproof protection, comfort and durability. Its advanced four-layer construction makes it a dependable companion for extreme weather on the water, keeping you dry and focused on your performance.
Tickets are on sale now, and RYA Members can access a complimentary ticket worth £21 for one or both days of the event, while kids aged 15 and under go free!
Book your tickets at dinghyshow.org.uk and follow on socials @RYADinghyShow
