NORTH SAILS BLOG

From sailmaking to performance apparel: an evolving partnership geared up for future challenges. North Sails and the Yacht Club Italiano are proud to announce the formal expansion of their long-standing relationship into a comprehensive long-term partnership. This agreement officially designates North Sails as the Official Technical Partner for both sailmaking and performance apparel, marking a new chapter in a collaboration built on decades of mutual respect and shared maritime values. The partnership, which extends through 2030, is not a beginning, but rather an evolution of the existing bond between the two organizations. By formalizing this alliance, North Sails and Yacht Club Italiano aim to align their goals ahead of the Club’s historic 150th Anniversary, creating a robust technical ecosystem that serves the Club’s members, elite athletes, and international racing calendar. Alessio Razeto, North Sails Sales Director, emphasized the organic nature of this development: "Our relationship with the Yacht Club Italiano goes beyond a simple collaboration; it is built on years of friendship, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to promoting sailing among young sailors. Today, this partnership is further strengthened with the addition of North Sails Apparel, expanding opportunities forcollaboration and mutual growth. We look ahead with great enthusiasm to the upcoming season, which promises a calendar of high-profile events that will best showcase and enhance this shared journey." This consolidated partnership reinforces North Sails' position at the heart of the Italian racing scene. By expanding its role to include technical apparel alongside its world-leading sail technology, North Sails will provide comprehensive support as the technical partner to the Yacht Club Italiano, organizer of iconic regattas such as the Loro Piana Giraglia, Genova Sailing Week, Bombola d’Oro, and Millevele IREN. “North Sails has been a valued partner of Yacht Club Italiano for many years through its sailmaking division, supporting our sporting activities and sharing our commitment to excellence in sailing,” said Carlo Cameli, President of Yacht Club Italiano. “We are very pleased to welcome North Sails Apparel into this collaboration, further strengthening the relationship between our two organizations. This new agreement represents an important opportunity to enhance the experience of our members, athletes and events, while continuing to promote the values, tradition and innovation that define both North Sails and Yacht Club Italiano.” The core of this extended union is the seamless integration of advanced sail aerodynamics with ergonomic apparel design. This "360-degree" approach ensures that the technical requirements of the modern sailor are met both on and off the water. "Formalizing our partnership with the Yacht Club Italiano is a natural step forward in our shared history," stated Cedric Georges, CEO of North Sails Apparel. "Moving beyond our established rapport, this agreement allows us to work even more closely on innovation and performance. We are proud to support the Club as it navigates toward its 150th anniversary and beyond." With a shared history as their foundation and innovation as their compass, North Sails and the Yacht Club Italiano are united by a unified vision. As preparations begin for the upcoming racing season and the milestone celebrations ahead, this partnership stands as a testament to their enduring dedication to the sport of sailing and the global yachting community. READ MORE

Discover how Tara Ocean Foundation uses plankton data to map dynamic marine protected areas and guide high seas conservation under the 30x30 goal. READ MORE

After a 14-year hiatus, the multi-disciplinary sailing event, combining inshore and offshore racing, is a welcomed sight as it rejoins the IRC racing calendar. READ MORE

Discover the essence of nautical style clothing. Explore key wardrobe essentials and nautical chic outfits for men and women with North Sails. READ MORE

Cowes Week, the world’s oldest and largest annual sailing regatta of its kind, has unveiled an exciting new title partnership with North Sails, the world’s leading sailmaker. READ MORE

North Sails Apparel announces its role as the Official Technical Clothing Partner of the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM), one of the leading institutions driving innovation and excellence in international yachting. READ MORE

Mankind’s greatest innovations are often borne from a simple question. For the scientists and engineers operating deep inside the Emirates Team New Zealand America’s Cup matrix, the question posited three years ago was indeed a rudimentary one that spawned the most important sail development of the 37th America’s Cup cycle. READ MORE

North Sails Apparel has today announced a brand-new partnership with GB1 – Britain’s America’s Cup team, representing the Challenger of Record, Royal Yacht Squadron Racing Ltd, for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup. READ MORE

North Sails, the world’s leading sailmaker and ocean lifestyle brand, has today announced it will be the Official Technical Apparel Sponsor of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, the world’s oldest, continually contested, international sporting trophy. READ MORE

An expert-led youth programme, the RORC Griffin Offshore Pathway gives 18–30 year olds access, coaching and North Sails equipment, culminating in the Round Britain and Ireland Race to develop elite offshore sailors READ MORE

Find out how Gore-Tex works, explore the best gear for every activity, and get easy maintenance tips to keep it performing at its best. READ MORE

North Sails Performance apparel is designed around the same principle as our sails: the right materials, used in the right way, make a real difference on the water. READ MORE

As the International Moth class continues to push the limits of speed and innovation, North Sails introduces the next generation of Helix™ Moth sails, representing the most significant advancement in North’s Moth sail design since the launch of Helix technology in 2022. READ MORE

After fifty years in the sailmaking business, Geoff Meek and his partners at North Sails Cape Town, are taking a well-earned retirement and handing over the leadership of this storied sail loft to a new generation. READ MORE

Matija Succi wins the Richmond Award, honoring young talent at North Sails for leadership, innovation, and passion for sail design and elite sailing. READ MORE

Team Francesca Clapcich reveals a striking new IMOCA livery by Van Orton Design following a winter refit, bringing Believe, Belong, Achieve to life ahead of 2026 racing. READ MORE

Every competitive sailor knows the rush of crossing a finish line. The speed. The noise. And if your boat nudges that line first, the satisfaction that comes after everything goes right. But for most of us, that moment isn’t why we started sailing.   READ MORE

Bellino, a Sun Fast 3600 raced by Rob Craigie and Deb Fish, showcases how expert preparation, teamwork, and advanced North Sails technology drive consistent offshore racing success. READ MORE

This International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting a few of the women within our North Sails and North Actionsports communities who are raising the bar – and the teams that stand with them. READ MORE

North Advanced Materials, the innovation engine of North Sails, pushes the boundaries of material science to create lighter, stronger, and more durable sails. Rooted in Lowell North’s scientific legacy, the team combines deep chemical understanding, advanced testing, and cross‑industry inspiration to drive breakthroughs in modern sailmaking. READ MORE

North Sails combines digital modeling, advanced engineering, and expert craftsmanship to create high‑performance sails, all built through a refined, vertically integrated manufacturing process. READ MORE

The 104-foot (32 meter) Gitana 18 Maxi Edmond de Rothschild was officially unveiled to the public. Innovation abounds in this next generation maxi trimaran pushing boundaries to the next level.  READ MORE

North Sails brings Dave Hughes onboard as the new North American One Design Manager. A multi-time Olympian, World Champion, and longtime North Sails collaborator, Hughes brings unmatched experience and passion to the role. His journey with North began at the San Diego loft over 20 years ago, and now, after decades of racing and coaching at the highest levels, he’s back to help shape the future of One Design sailing.  READ MORE

A defining offshore racing moment: Comanche secures Sydney Hobart line honors with North Sails performance driving their 2025 victory. READ MORE

North Sails capped a landmark 2025 Grand Prix season with wins across the Admiral’s Cup, Maxi, TP52, and offshore fleets. Advanced design tools, Helix engineering, and global on-water support defined its evolution from sailmaker to true performance partner. READ MORE

An expert preview of the milestone Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, featuring insights from North Sails veterans on the big boat showdown, the technology behind winning and what makes this year unique.  READ MORE

Beginning in 2026, North Sails will have two hugely experienced leaders at the helm of the Gosport loft in the UK. Dave Lenz and Jeremy Smart are furthering their decades-long relationship with the world’s leading sailmaker by stepping into the role of General Manager and Sales Manager, respectively.  READ MORE

A free-flying furling sail, like a cruising code zero or furling gennaker, adds convenient light-wind power to a cruising inventory, but should be handled within certain parameters to enjoy stress-free sailing.    READ MORE

North Sails has officially opened its latest flagship loft in the dynamic Port of Genoa, Italy. The stunning new building designed by architect Mattia Villani will function as a critical focal point for North Sails, Italy and North Sails clients visiting the region and represents a landmark addition to the global network of purpose-built lofts from the world’s leading sailmaker.   READ MORE

North Sails is pleased to announce a new leadership structure: Thomas Normand takes on the role of Global Sales and Service Director while Marine Derrien becomes Managing Director of North Sails France. READ MORE

North Sails Apparel partners with sailor Francesca Clapcich and 11th Hour Racing, providing performance gear for her 2028 Vendée Globe campaign. READ MORE

Officially launched in January 2025, the latest boat from X-Yachts has had an extraordinary year. Skippered by Jesper Radich – with many up-and-coming Danish crew onboard – the North-powered, XR 41 Formula X had a stellar season.  READ MORE

North Sails Zenda is the hub for Melges expertise, product innovation, and hands-on support for One-Design sailors. READ MORE

After more than four decades with North Sails, Tom Pease is setting his course toward retirement. His journey with the company has been marked by dedication, innovation, and—most importantly—lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike. READ MORE

Honored, humbled and still at full speed. The Sailing Hall of Fame recognizes his lifetime of achievement—but Ken’s story is still being written. READ MORE

The Cap Sud-Est Collection draws inspiration from two locations that Alessandro Squarzi and Martin Brucker hold close to their hearts—Milan and Saint-Tropez. Milan brings structure and sharpness; Saint-Tropez brings ease and light—and Allesandro and Martin have created a capsule that moves effortlessly between the two. READ MORE

North Sails joins forces with Ferrari Hypersail as Technical Partner, supplying cutting-edge sails, spars, and apparel. This multi-year collaboration pushes the boundaries of offshore performance, innovation, and design—on the water and beyond. READ MORE

We're excited to share that the North Sails New Zealand team has relocated and expanded into three new sites, each tailored to deliver specialized service and support to the sailing community. READ MORE

After decades of dedicated service to the Pacific Northwest sailing community, long-time North Sails expert Jack Christiansen is passing the torch.  North Sails Seattle will transition to the capable hands of Tim Scanlon and Alyosha Strum-Palerm, marking an exciting new chapter for the loft.  READ MORE

We’ve teamed up with artist Sophie Scott on a limited-edition Rolex Fastnet Race 2025 t-shirt, capturing the spirit of this iconic offshore race. Available at the North Sails stand in the Cherbourg-en-Cotentin race village—and online soon. Discover the story behind the design in our Q&A with Sophie. READ MORE

Allen’s journey through recovery, racing, and rediscovery leads him to the 2.4mR World Championship.  READ MORE

If you're lucky enough to be visiting San Fransisco and the Bay Area, here are our top suggestions for experiencing it—the North Sails way. READ MORE

Insights from North Sails experts on preparation, teamwork, and mastering the local game at one of sailing's most iconic regattas.   READ MORE

Get race-ready for the Newport Bermuda Race—start with a sail inventory audit and expert tips from North Sails to ensure safety, speed, and success. READ MORE

North Sails proudly names Simone Ricci as Optimist Class Leader, bringing global coaching expertise and a deep commitment to youth sailing development. READ MORE

If you're looking for a place to live la dolce vita, you'll find it here. Stretching from the French border to the azure crescent of La Spezia, the Ligurian Riviera offers a diverse mix of activities, scenic spots, and iconic beach clubs. From sipping spritzes under striped umbrellas to cruising the coastline on a classic sailboat—this place is all about slowing down and soaking it all in.   READ MORE

The Regatta Refresh initiative is an ambitious, forward-thinking program aimed at reimagining what a regatta can and should be. READ MORE

North Sails, the global leader in sailmaking, announces the launch of 3Di ENDURANCE EDGE, a new addition to the 3Di ENDURANCE family. Explicitly designed for crossover sailors and small to midsize boats, ENDURANCE EDGE delivers power on the racecourse and raises the standard for crossover sailing.  READ MORE

Anaïs, Elliot, and their dog North, also known as The Salty Cruisers, recount stories from their recent journey between Annapolis and the British Virgin Islands. READ MORE

On June 2nd, 26-year-old Jazz Turner set off to become the first disabled sailor to complete a solo, non-stop, and unassisted circumnavigation of Britain.  READ MORE