Sailboats.co.uk

Lost your vang key... again? Harken's got your back (and your block) with their new 25mm Fly block featuring an angled pin that'll keep it in place.

If your current block runs smoothly and your key stays put, it's probably not worth upgrading yet. The old one is still class legal and now discounted. Have a read of our full breakdown of the new top block.

What's New on the Harken ILCA High Load Top Block? The new Harken 25mm Fly is the top block in the redesigned 2026 ILCA kicker system. Here's what's changed and whether it's worth upgrading.

Don't wait until your boots are literally falling apart.

We've rounded up our picks for the best sailing boots and shoes for dinghy sailing, whether you're buying your first pair or replacing a set that's done three seasons. If you're not ready to upgrade just yet, save this and come back to it when you are.

Best Sailing Boots and Shoes for Dinghy Sailing in 2026 Our picks for the best sailing boots and shoes for dinghy sailing, from hiking boots to deck shoes. Honest advice on grip, fit and sizing for the 2026 season.

Good luck to everyone on the water for the ILCA Nationals. Whether you're in the 7, the 6 or the 4, you'll have spent the last few weeks fussing over the same things.

Whether it's wondering if your outhaul line makes it through the week or if you've packed enough kit for whatever the forecast decides to do - if something does give way between races, our ILCA hardware is all here: https://sailboats.co.uk/collections/ilca-laser

Buying a buoyancy aid looks simple until you're stood in front of the rack and they all say 50N. Racing cut or zip entry? Will it ride up when you're in the water? How snug is too snug on a kid?

We've answered all of it in one guide: https://sailboats.co.uk/blogs/guides-and-blogs/buoyancy-aid-buying-guide-sailing-kayaking-sup

Harken's redesigned its ILCA vang base unit for the first time in over 20 years. If you've heard about it but not sure if it's worth switching, we've broken down what's changed and who should upgrade: https://sailboats.co.uk/blogs/guides-and-blogs/whats-been-upgraded-n-new-harken-ilca-kicker-base

And if the old stainless unit still does the job for you, it's discounted while stocks last 👀 https://sailboats.co.uk/products/harken-vang-kicker-base-for-ilca-dinghy-laser-1-class-legal

The redesigned Mk2 ILCA 4 sail becomes class legal on 1st August. If you're running a squad targeting major events in the second half of 2026, five weeks isn't long.

The Mk2 uses heavier cloth and a bi-radial cut, and places more emphasis on active Cunningham use than the Mk1. We've put a full guide together covering what's changed and whether to make the switch: https://sailboats.co.uk/blogs/guides-and-blogs/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-mk2-ilca-4-sail

Are your sailors already on the Mk2?

New Zhik boots this season? All four boots in the 2026 range are available as a bundle with the Carbon Insole, saving you up to £38 on buying both separately.

The insole flexes when you're walking around but stiffens under load, so whatever your discipline you're getting more out of the boot without a rigid sole underfoot all day.

One thing to watch is Zhik's 2026 range is now sized in US sizes, so if you're a UK 5 you'll need to order a US 6. : https://sailboats.co.uk/collections/sailboats-clothing-accessories-footwear

If you've been putting off replacing your wetsuit, now's a good time to sort it.

We've just added Zhik's new 2026 bundle deals to the site. Buy your top and skiff suit together and save up to 16% compared to buying separately!

We've got four combinations available, from the lightweight Microfleece range through to the Superwarm X Yulex for colder conditions and year-round racing 🥶

Head to our Wetsuits and Steamers collection to customise your bundle and see what's included: https://sailboats.co.uk/collections/sailboats-clothing-clothing-wetsuits-steamers

Racing is underway at the ILCA 6 Masters Worlds in Athens, with 156 competitors from 24 nations battling it out on the water this week.

If you're following the event or stocking up for your own racing this season, we carry the full range of class-legal ILCA 6 kit, from sails and hardware to deck equipment and ropes.

👉 https://sailboats.co.uk/collections/ilca-laser

Who's watching the results this week?

The excitement is building! Who's heading to the RYA Dinghy Show this weekend? 🤩
The energy and passion at the show are infectious! It's a great spot to catch up on the latest marine tech, check out new innovations, and fuel your motivation for the upcoming season.
What are you most looking forward to seeing at the show?