Campaigning Blogs

“When I am sailing, I never think about my lack of sight.” These words, spoken by Lucy Hodges MBE, encapsulate the true spirit of Blind Sailing — a world where limitations are left ashore, and the wind becomes their guide. 

Have you ever wondered what it may be like to sail with no hearing and having to rely on your other senses? For many deaf sailors, sailing may seem virtually impossible due to a multitude of barriers; from everyday sailing to races.    However, through the work of the deaf sailing community, deaf people have gathered together to work through these challenges and obstacles and with GBR Deaf Sailing, we work to influence change amongst local sailing clubs and to build accessible pathways; enabling deaf people to be treated as equal sailors.   You may often wonder, how do deaf people communicate when sailing, or perhaps what can clubs do to be more inclusive?   For deaf people, like any other sensory losses, your other senses are heightened which can be seen as an advantage, a tool within our armour. Deaf people typically have heightened senses with their eyes, therefore when it comes to sailing, they tend to be more observant to their surroundings and may pick out on the smallest of visible changes quicker than others.   When it comes to sailing amongst crews, communication is vital. Many deaf sailors do not sail for obvious reasons with their hearing aid or implants. When sailing in a group of deaf people, there isn’t the ability to speak/shout whilst under sail or in race mode, this can make it extremely more challenging especially if deaf crews use sign language to communicate or perhaps lip read one another. This often means there are times whereby hands need to be freed to sign and you may see the odd rope in the most strangest of places!    As crews, we come up with effective forms of communication that takes some time to learn and to master, for example should crews not be able to gauge a sense of action through the natural art of sailing, there are certain hand-signals or types of taps to the hull used. However each helm, will have different ways of communicating, based on my own helming style, my typical communication methods are;   To obtain an immediate action would be a series of hard bangs to the hull in order to act fast or to get everyone’s attention.  When it comes to a marker and a tack/gybe, a series of three bangs to the hull in a timed sequence; 1 - ready about, 2 - close to mark, 3 - action Hand signals; A circular motions up in the air with the index finger - to signify the movement of upwards or downwards actions and also the speed of the motion signifies the speed. For example releasing or taking down the spinnaker, a fast clockwise motion would signify a quick release, anticlockwise would mean to take down (opposite direction). When racing, using numbered signs is key for timed sequences, for example a count down of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 using your fingers. Racing for deaf crews can be challenging, however Rooster’s shop enabled deaf crews to purchase limited edition optimum watches which has vibration settings - this is a life saver for deaf sailors.   As you can see there are a number of ways of communicating on board without the use of speech, this list could be endless, however summaries some of the examples when it comes to sailing. What could clubs do to be more inclusive?   When it comes to races and events, we ask for a time-pace keeper to assist with the time sequence, this enables deaf crews to follow the sequence of a klaxon / horn. This is where someone would signal a 3, 2, 1 before a klaxon / horn in order for the crew to set their timers in line with the sequence.    We also ask for clubs to give considerations to use of flags and communication tools - thinking about the effective uses of these - not all clubs use flags in this way. Clubs are encouraged to work with deaf sailors to make minor tweaks and adaptions - for example a warning signal in order to get ready, using a pre-agreed flag that is waved at the same time as the signal is sounded.   Clubs have opted to use strobe lights as well as klaxon / horns, however the colour and size of the strobe is key in order to aid in the visibility of this.   GBR Deaf Sailing welcome clubs or individuals who want to know more about how to be more inclusive. For more information or tips please contact daniel14clements@gmail.com   Article written by Daniel Clements GBR Deaf Sailing - Sailor and Committee member

Whether you’re heading out for a training session, coaching from a RIB, or a full day of racing, you’ve probably noticed this universal truth: It ALWAYS feels colder on the water, But WHY? And how should you dress to stay warm, dry, and focused out there? At Rooster, we believe that understanding the science behind air temperature on land vs. sea can help you make smarter kit choices - and in turn have a much better time on the water. The Science: Air Temperature on Land vs. Sea The main reason it feels colder at sea than on land is down to three key factors: water’s thermal properties, wind chill, and humidity. 1. Water Holds Cold Better Than Land Water has a much higher specific heat capacity than land, meaning it takes longer to heat up—and cool down. So even on a warm spring or autumn day, the sea may still be holding onto winter temperatures. That colder surface cools the air directly above it. ✅ Example: According to the UK Met Office, in spring, sea surface temperatures around the UK are often 5–8°C colder than the average daytime air temperature on land. ✅ More science? The National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) explains that during winter, the ocean tends to warm the air above it more effectively than cold land surfaces, leading to noticeable differences in temperature. 2. Wind Chill is Stronger Over Water Open water spaces offer less shelter, so wind speeds are typically higher. This increases convective heat loss, making it feel much colder than the thermometer says—especially if you're wet or moving fast. 💨 Fact: A 10°C air temperature with a 20-knot breeze can feel like 3–4°C once wind chill is accounted for. (Source: National Weather Service Wind Chill Calculator) 🌧️ And when you add water into the mix—whether from spray, rain, or full immersion—the cooling effect intensifies. This is known as wet wind chill, and it can dramatically drop your perceived temperature. Check out this live Wet Wind Chill Chart from Southampton Weather to see just how cold it can feel. 3. Humidity and Evaporation Cool You Down When you’re surrounded by water, evaporation plays a major role in how cold you feel. Wet kit (or spray from waves and wind) speeds up heat loss from your body through evaporation—especially in technical fabrics. 🌊 Even on sunny days, this combo of wind + water = cold. What This Means for Your Kit Bag The difference in perceived temperature between land and sea can be 5–10°C or more. That’s a big deal if you’re dressing based on the weather you felt in the car park! At Rooster, we always recommend preparing for the real conditions you’ll experience on the water—not just what your phone’s weather app says. Here’s how to layer like a pro: 1. Base Layer Start with moisture-wicking thermal layers. Our PolyPro™ Leggings and PolyPro™ Top regulate body temperature and stay warm even when damp. 2. Insulating Mid-Layer In colder months or early mornings, add an insulating layer like our 4mm Supertherm Neoprene (for temperatures under 12°C) or 1.5mm Thermaflex Neoprene (for when its a bit warmer) for extra warmth without bulk. 3. Waterproof / Windproof Outer Layer Seal it all in with a windproof, waterproof shell. Our Aquafleece® Spray Top range is a great top-layer addition for dinghy sailing, offering insulation without the bulk. For sportsboat and keelboat sailors or coaches needing protection without sacrificing movement, the SB1 Inshore Jacket or Coastal Hi-Fits are ideal. Final Thought: Be One Step Ahead It’s easy to underestimate how cold it’ll feel on the water—especially when the sun is shining. But staying warm means staying sharp, enjoying your session, and avoiding early exits due to the chill. So next time you’re packing kit for a day afloat, remember: it’s not just about air temperature—it’s about where you are. Layer smart, and you’ll be ready for anything. Explore our full layering range and gear up for comfort, confidence, and performance—whatever the forecast says. 📚 Learn more about temperature science from NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center and their detailed explanation of air-water temperature differences.

Written by Lynne Hawthorne @lynne_sup_fitness    A little bit about me:  I found myself in a rough place a few years ago, my kids were getting older and no longer depended on me as much as they had when younger. I suddenly had all this time again that I’d not planned. I also felt I didn’t know what my purpose was and felt I’d lost my identity and myself. Nothing had changed in my husbands life, he was still doing what he’s always done but I felt – is this it, what now?   Menopause: My moods were all over the place, I was bursting out crying while walking the dogs for no reason then felt bad about why I was crying. I have a stable homelife, family and secure job so I felt guilty as to why I was sad and felt I had no right to be sad as others had it worse and then I'd cry again. Each day was like an act, I'd go to work, smile and portray this happy person, but inside I was screaming and everything was a fog I felt I was battling with daily. With all the extra time I had I did things around the home, garden, but that wasn’t enough – I felt that I was missing the point, but I didn’t know what. I'd always been into water sports and my sports and hobbies had taken a bit of a back seat while the kids were young. I had a paddleboard in the garage that we used on family holidays, so I started to take it out alone. I loved it, loved the freedom it gave me and would often listen to audiobooks and podcasts staying out sometimes for a whole day. Not being social media savvy at the time I didn’t know there were Paddleboarding clubs and although I’d pass lots of people out paddling and paddled in the place where my current club trained I didn’t think to ask if this was a club. It wasn’t until I mentioned to a friend that I was lonely and often sad and spent so much time alone she suggested I join a SUP Club, giving me names I could search on Facebook. I had no idea that there were clubs over FB and that was the start of a change of lifestyle for me. I registered for my local club, went along and was surprised that I'd spotted a few of the faces out. Had I been a beginner I feel it would have been easier for me to find a club as that’s the natural progression from lessons to club paddling, but as I'd been paddling years before the sport was popular I had no idea the clubs existed.   Through Paddling it gave me something to plan, a weekly meet-up, a purpose, something for me. Meeting friends and getting out, stopping at cafes for lunch or a coffee, having a picnic on the board etc…. all took on a whole new meaning and with that my mood lifted. My family noticed that I was happier and more content, I was more productive at work – to me paddleboarding changed everything.   I then got into racing and regardless how far you take paddling it’s a place where you can meet others or simply solo paddle to get away from it all.  For me its my little piece of solace and time away from home/ work out in the nature. – Through paddling I’ve found not only myself but made alot of friends along the way. For me it was my saviour when I didn’t know what was SUP!   As for menopause…. What’s that? 😊

At Rooster, junior sailing isn’t just part of what we do – it’s at the core of who we are. Through strategic partnerships, ambassador programs, and dedicated support initiatives, we’re dedicated to inspiring, educating, and equipping young sailors for success on the water. Here are a few ways we promote and encourage Junior sailing and participation: CLASSES WE WORK WITH AND SUPPORT ITCA GBR We are proud to have supported ITCA GBR for over 20 years. This longstanding collaboration highlights our deep commitment to developing young sailing talent in the UK. RS Tera & RS FevaFrom grassroots to grand prix, we’ve supported the RS Tera and RS Feva circuits for over 6 years, ensuring young sailors have the best racing experience possible, whilst celebrating the fun that define RS sailing classes. ILCA UK  An important class for us, and where we started from with our Polilite Mainsheets and Classic Hikers. In recent years, we've re-partnered with ILCA UK to support this great class, which serves as a key stepping stone into the Olympic pathway and offers top-tier racing. US Optimist National TeamA relatively new partnership for us, 2024 saw us team up with the US Optimist National Team, aligning with our shared values of excellence and youth participation in sailing in the USA.  ROOSTER RIDERS & AMBASSADORS Our Rider & Ambassador Schemes supports passionate sailors who embody our values - dedication, humility, and inspiration. Rooster Riders push performance across multiple classes, representing Rooster with skill and sportsmanship. Rooster Ambassadors are standout sailors who inspire the next generation through their achievements and attitude. Both receive support, top-tier gear, and a strong community to help them thrive on and off the water.  Junior Ambassadors: Leading the way for 2025 Our junior ambassadors live and breathe the Rooster spirit—driven, humble, and inspiring. From Topper success to ILCA 4, Harry’s dedication and infectious enthusiasm make him one to watch on the Olympic pathway. A multi-title champion and YJA Yachtsman of the Year, Jess is as impressive off the water as she is on it. We’ve been with her for five years and can’t wait to see what’s next! Rooster 2025 Riders: The future of sailing Our Rooster Riders are a dynamic group of talented sailors whom push the limits of performance across multiple classes. In 2025, 50% of our team are junior sailors, competing in Opti, RS Tera, RS Feva, ILCA 4, WASZP, 29er, and ITCA.   SUPPORTING JUNIORS THROUGH QUALITY GEAR Understanding the unique needs of junior sailors, we offer specialised equipment to enhance their on-water experience. We recognise that junior sailors are at a crucial stage of their sailing journey, so we aim to provide them with the tools and support they need to feel confident, comfortable, and capable on the water, helping them to achieve their full potential.  Size Matters: Our junior range covers everything from base layers to wetsuits in Junior Small to Large, plus gloves, boots, and accessories down to 3XS. Rooster is your one-stop shop for young sailors. LOOKING AHEAD: OUR CONTINUED COMMITMENT For over 25 years, we’ve championed junior sailing, and we’re not stopping now. We’ll keep driving innovation, forging partnerships, and supporting young talent to ensure the future of sailing is brighter than ever. At Rooster, we believe that by investing in youth development today, we are securing the future of sailing for generations to come.  

Something we deeply value and make time for, are dedicated individuals who take on remarkable challenges for meaningful causes. For the last few years we have supported some extraordinary teams taking part in the Worlds Toughest Row across the Atlantic Ocean. 3000 miles of non stop ever changing ocean, extreme weather, marlin strikes and of course the rowing, hear from some of our past current and future teams taking on this epic challenge! Introducing our team for this year: 2Stroke Longtime friends Karl Austen and Ed Shaw, share a passion for adventures and sports. Inspired by watching a family member row the World’s Toughest Row in 2020, they formed team ‘2Stroke’ to take on the challenge despite being novice ocean rowers. Their journey is about family, adventure, and giving back, with the belief that anything is possible with determination and support. They have been raising awareness and funds for Dementia UK and Prostate Cancer UK - charities close to their heart that they care deeply about!  Meet the team:   We can’t wait to watch them take on this challenge! Hear from the team as the the race start draws closer: “As the race start draws nearer we are making final preparations for food packing, equipment checks, kit and clothing and of course the ongoing physical training.  We’ve prepared very well, having spent over 200 hours on our boat Pegasus in UK coastal waters. We now have our eyes on the end goal and visualising the race and everything it will bring. All we can do now is hope that our discipline and determination will see us through. Support from our sponsors has been fabulous.  This campaign has certainly not just been the work of the 2 man crew but of a whole host of people who share our passion and vision. Rooster certainly have all of that in bucketloads.” A tale from last year through the lens of Team Vibe the Wave     Highs: The stars, watching weather come in, experiencing it all, making the most of the little things, the unknown...the list is endless... We chose to “live the adventure” it was our team ethos, and we totally bought into this idea and embodied in. For example we have “Funday Friday” which entailed a treat each (extra snacks and a fizzy drink, or in my case champagne!) and a team surprise (we took it in turns to organise it). These became massive highlights. “The World’s Most Remote Cocktail Party” was a massive high, closely followed by our last Friday at sea where we enjoyed Full Moon Friday Party (neon face paint, usb disco balls, lei necklaces, beers, cocktail buckets and 90’s tunes banging out loud). Lows: Being absolutely soaked by a rouge wave having just got into fresh dry clothes – every. Time. Two words: bum sores. Enough said. Swollen and blistered hands. We had days when we could barely grips the oars, and once you’d managed to wrap your paws around them, it was two hours of trying to ignore the agony. The main message we have for the lows is: every single member of the crew will have at least one moment of feeling low physically, emotionally or mentally (sometimes one at a time, sometimes all at once), and rallying as a team to help each other through them really is the only way to manage them. And the reminder that they will pass (although, maybe don’t say that in the moment as it isn’t always that helpful to hear!). Embrace your challenges as opportunities and celebrate every nautical milestone, no matter how small. Pre race message: The crossing is a truly unique environment and more than anything, a gift. Embrace it, for everything that it is; The good, the bad, the fun, the misery, the pain, the fatigue, the hunger, the scenery, the scary moments, the hilarious moments, the mundane moments, the routine, the closeness, the team, the bucket… everything. As you row across thousands of waves, remember the journey is not about conquering distance, it is testament to the power of team work, perseverance and unwavering dedication. The ocean may seem vast and overwhelming at times,  but your spirit, and collective strength will propel you forward through every crest and trough. Whether you’re in it to win it, or for the experience, cherish it. There is no certainty, no guarantees. You are at the mercy of the weather and the sea. But there is true beauty in the simplicity of “boat life” and it will be with you forever. So, we wish you the very best of luck with fair winds and following seas! Looking to the future: Team Offshoare Looking to the 2025-26 edition of the Worlds Toughest Row our team of four: Offshoare have been busy getting the practice in already. Hear what they have to say a year out from when they will line up on the start line: "Preparing for a challenge as immense as rowing the Atlantic demands more than physical strength - it requires meticulous planning and a commitment to refining every detail. We began our training this summer and are now working our way through the gear, the boat, and various drills to find out what works best for us. We are excited to see how much we will grow and learn over the next year leading up to the start of the race, and of course, during the crossing itself. The journey will take us around 40-50 days, which will really put our kit to the test. With Rooster’s support, we are focused on selecting gear we truly trust, knowing that we can only bring a limited number of essential items. Having reliable gear is about more than just functionality and safety - it is about peace of mind and knowing that our equipment will not fail us when we need it most. Additionally, having team gear enhances our sense of unity, keeping our spirits high as we face the challenges ahead."

At Rooster, we’re all about creating the best possible gear for people who, like us, can’t get enough of life on the water. While our HQ team includes plenty of sailors, paddleboarders, wingfoilers, windsurfers, and all-around watersports enthusiasts, we know our own experience is just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why we work closely with our network of riders and ambassadors - true experts who test our products in real time, in real conditions. With their feedback, we fine-tune every piece of kit to deliver top quality performance, comfort, and fit. Here’s how their input helps us take our gear to the next level and make our products even better for everyone on the water. Testing: Where the Magic Happens When it comes to watersports, the true test of any product is on the water. Our riders and ambassadors put our kit to the test in real conditions, from intense training sessions in strong winds to calm, glassy waters, giving us feedback we can’t get any other way. “Very busy week at the RS21 worlds in Sardinia… The jacket, I love it, really nice, comfortable and practical. Struggling to find anything to feedback on with it. The downwards bungees for the hood are maybe 50mm ish too long” – Liam Willis, Rider This kind of feedback helps us address the smallest details before products reach our customers, ensuring they’re durable, tested, and ready for anything. Honest Feedback That Drives Real Improvement One of the biggest benefits of working with our rider and ambassador network is that we get direct, honest feedback that helps us fine-tune every design. Whether it’s small details like seam placements or major aspects like fabric choices, our testers let us know what works, what doesn’t, and what could make each piece even better. “I was out this morning testing the smock in 15-18kts and torrential rain! Firstly it was great I was very impressed with the salopettes and the smock which kept me very dry! The fit was good and is just a nice product. I think you should keep the pockets and make them waterproof inside as you always need pockets especially for yacht and keel boat.” – Sam Mabey, Rooster Ambassador. Real-time feedback like this shapes our next round of adjustments, ensuring that each product meets our community’s standards in comfort, protection, and function. Creating Gear That Fits Every Body and Style When it comes to fit, watersports gear has to hit the mark - not only in sizing but in allowing for freedom of movement across a variety of sports. Our riders and ambassadors represent a range of body types and disciplines, making them ideal testers for this aspect of design, where we can target different riders based on what we are developing. Their insights help us refine our fits so they feel custom-made, no matter what watersport our customers enjoy. Rider, Dylan Collingbourne, a sailor and coach, who tested our new trainers noted, “Having recently tried and tested the Rooster trainers in different environments over the course of ~9 months, I am happy to say they are the comfiest water activity trainers I have worn. The cushioning in the heel provides great support for sailing as I often get some pain in heels when doing activity and only when I wear shoes with a decent heel, I do not get this pain. So this was really appreciated.”  By gathering feedback from people with unique needs and perspectives, we ensure our gear fits comfortably and moves fluidly with the wearer, whatever their size or sport. Fresh Perspectives Fuelling Innovation The watersports world is always evolving, and our riders and ambassadors help us keep pace with fresh perspectives and ideas. Their firsthand experience, combined with the latest insights from the industry, often leads us to creative changes and updates we might not have considered on our own. These contributions help us innovate with purpose, creating gear that responds to real needs rather than theoretical ones. Our community’s input keeps us on the cutting edge of comfort, performance, and style. Building a Community-Driven Brand What makes Rooster truly special is our connection with the watersports community. By collaborating closely with our riders and ambassadors, we’re building a brand that reflects their real experiences and perspectives. These testers become an essential part of our team, sharing in our vision and helping us refine it through their dedication and insights. Emily Robertson, Rooster partner from WOKC summed it up perfectly: “It’s great to work with a brand that actually listens to what we need and takes it seriously.” This shared passion strengthens our commitment to producing reliable, innovative gear. It also brings us closer to the community, reminding us why we do what we do.   With the expertise and feedback of our riders and ambassadors, we can confidently create products that stand up to the highest standards, by ensuring they’re tested, trusted, and inspired by real watersports enthusiasts. So here’s to the team behind the scenes and the network on the water. Together, we’re making sure every piece of Rooster’s kit is something you can trust, wherever your passion for the water takes you.  

Sailing is a sport that requires precision, skill, and the right gear to ensure comfort and safety on the water. At Rooster, we understand that providing the perfect fit for junior sailors is crucial to their performance and enjoyment. However, junior sizing presents unique challenges because children grow at different rates and have varying proportions. This makes the one-size-fits-all approach nearly impossible. Let’s explore these challenges and how we offer solutions that adapt to young sailors' needs, helping parents find the right size. Understanding the Diversity in Junior Sizes Every parent knows that children come in all shapes and sizes, and this is especially true for junior sailors. We recently had a fit session and photoshoot with a group of junior sailors, and the variety in sizes was clear to see. All the kids were between 9 and 12 years old, yet it was impossible to classify them into a size just by their age. The differences in height, weight, and body proportions highlighted how unique each sailor is, making age-based sizing a real challenge. If we go by age alone, this will likely leave some children with ill-fitting gear, impacting their comfort and performance on the water.  Our Approach to Junior Sizing We recognise these challenges and have dedicated ourselves to developing junior sailing gear that offers a better fit for a wide range of body types. Here’s how we do it: Innovative Materials and thoughtful designs Our gear is made from high-quality materials that provide both stretch and durability. This means that our clothing can accommodate growth spurts and proportional differences, offering a snug and comfortable fit without sacrificing performance. The stretchable fabrics allow for a greater range of motion, essential for active young sailors. Our designs are created with juniors in mind. We use adjustable features and flexible constructions to ensure that our gear can adapt to the changing needs of growing children. Personalised Sizing Recommendations We understand that finding the right size can be tricky, which is why our customer service team and event teams try to take the time to understand the specific measurements and proportions of the child. This personalised approach allows us to recommend the best fit, ensuring that every junior sailor is comfortable and ready to perform their best on the water. Make sure to get in touch with our customer service team if you need help and advice on fit. The importance of comfort in the sustainability of Junior Sailors Comfort goes beyond mere physical ease—it plays a crucial role in fuelling a love for sailing from a young age. Uncomfortable or poorly fitting gear can significantly deter young sailors, potentially discouraging them from pursuing the sport altogether. We believe that no child should be turned away from sailing due to ill-fitting equipment. By offering well-fitting, comfortable gear, we aim to enable young sailors to concentrate on learning and enjoying the sport without the distraction of discomfort.   Whether your child is just starting out or is a seasoned sailor, our range of junior sailing gear is designed to meet their unique needs, ensuring they can sail with confidence and comfort.