ONBOARD WITH 3 WINNING ROLEX FASTNET RACE TEAMS

A Conversation with North Sails UK

📸 Carlo Borlenghi/Rolex

Finishing the 690 nm Rolex Fastnet Race is an achievement in itself, but racing with just one other crew member takes bravery to the next level. North Sails designer Kelvin Matthews joined Tim Goodhew on the SunFast 3200 Cora, and the pair claimed the UK Doublehanded Offshore Series overall season win. "It is daunting to know you will be sailing a large part of the race alone on deck, but we were excited more than anything," explains Kelvin. "We have been sailing well together this season, and we knew this race was the big one, both in terms of our overall season and the legendary race itself. Our priority was Class 4; you can only really focus on similar-sized boats sailing a similar race to you. Of course, we kept a close eye on our rivals in the doublehanded class, especially those in the running for the overall season trophies, which can be won or lost in a big race like the Fastnet.'' "We used our new 3Di RAW 360 mainsail reef for the first time,” he continues, “which was exceptionally tough and fast in the strong conditions at the start. It is quite a shallow reef which meant we still had to trim the sails correctly and be very active on the helm, but it worked perfectly under 28 knots, producing plenty of power to get over the steep waves. Although, admittedly, we had too much sail up through the Hurst Narrows with gusts of 35 knots!" The finish was pretty intense, he says. “We lost a lot of places at the Isles of Scilly when the wind died, and we were determined to make back the losses. We are fast downwind and got ourselves back into the race by Alderney. Gybing around the south side of Alderney as the sun was rising was a special moment.” The pair are now looking forward to the Castle Rock Race in September, and hoping for light airs “which have been good for us so far this year.” The race marks the final race in the RORC Class 4 series.

📸 Solent Sail Photography

The TP52 Tala, owned by David Collins, won IRC Zero and finished 8th in IRC Overall. Main trimmer and North expert Pete Redmond says he’s drawn to offshore racing because a longer race presents more opportunity to make tactical moves—and, where conditions allow, really "let loose and send it.’’ He says the highlight of the race was "rounding the Fastnet Rock in bright sunshine and light winds, allowing us to get the closest we've ever been as all other times I've been around the rock it has been horrendous weather." In contrast, Pete adds, "the first 24 hours were the hardest; huge sea state created by a strong wind against tide. We knew it would be like that, so we were mentally prepared and just had to deal with it for a while. Our sails handled the conditions excellently, and we didn't have any sail damage all race." Pete says the team’s first priority was to win their class and then see what happened with IRC Overall. "Oystercatcher, a new 52-footer, was just behind us, and she kept us pushing. Up next for us is the Rolex Middle Sea Race in October, followed by the RORC Transatlantic Race in January 2022."

📸 RORC/Paul Wyeth

North expert, tactician, and watch leader Mike Henning raced onboard James Neville's INO XXX, which won IRC One but lost the IRC Overall top spot to Tom Kneen’s North-powered Sunrise. Despite an after-dark arrival into Cherbourg, a crowd of locals came out to congratulate the crew on finishing—and holding the overall lead at the time. Without very many boats close to their ratting, Mike said they had to trust themselves and focus on their own race. "We knew we needed to sail our own game plan, utilizing what the wind and tide were doing at the time," he says. "Rounding the Scilly Isles and setting the MHO with a jib and GS was the highlight of the race, very much needed after so many days slogging upwind. We surfed up to 20 knots and knew we could be finishing that day, so pushed 110% to the end. With 0-35 knots, we used every sail on board at some point in the race. We started on a reefed mainsail and a J4, and the mainsail performed excellently across the wind range." Mike says he loves the endurance challenge of offshore racing. "You can't win the race on the first day, but you can certainly lose it. Teamwork and understanding between everyone on board is key, and really rewarding when everyone gels better than you could have anticipated. We are looking forward to coming together again for the Rolex Middle Sea Race."

📸 RORC/Paul Wyeth

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14 August

events

NORTH SAILS COWES WEEK SHINES BRIGHT

More than 600 yachts racing across 37 classes over 6 days on The Solent in blazing sunshine is quite the spectacle. As North Sails Cowes Week celebrated its 200th anniversary, there was a sense on the water and on the pontoons that the event was back at its prime as the world’s largest and best-known annual regatta.

07 August

What to Pack for a Vacation: The Ultimate Packing Guide, from Beach to City

Packing your suitcase is one of those moments that really marks the start of a trip. Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway, a week at the beach, or a mountain escape, knowing what to pack for a vacation lets you travel lighter and enjoy every destination with a lot more peace of mind. Every trip is an invitation to explore, just like the sea teaches us to do. For North Sails, the spirit of the ocean means facing every experience with freedom, ease, and respect for what surrounds us. It's a philosophy shaped into clothing and accessories designed to follow you everywhere, from a quick weekend away to your longest vacations. Before You Pack Your Suitcase: Where to Start Before you even think about what to bring on vacation, start with three things: length of trip, destination, and planned activities. A suitcase for a 2-day getaway won't be packed the same way as one for a 10-day trip, and a beach vacation calls for a very different wardrobe than a city break or a stay in the mountains. Remember to always check in advance: the forecast any baggage restrictions; whether you'll have access to laundry during the trip; your itinerary for any changes in climate or setting. Once you've covered those basics, putting together a packing list for vacation is the easiest way to stay organized and avoid last-minute scrambling. Beyond clothes and shoes, make sure you've also got the essentials covered: documents, reservations, your toiletry bag, tech devices with chargers, and a small kit of must-have medications. What to Pack for a Vacation, by Destination Every destination calls for its own approach to packing, but one rule holds true no matter where you're headed: choose clothing that adapts to different moments of the day, mixes and matches easily, and strikes the right balance between comfort, practicality, and style. That way, you can pack fewer outfit changes without leaving anything essential behind, whether you're planning a weekend away or a longer vacation. This focus on functional design drives the North Sails line, where technical fabrics and sleek styling come together naturally for any environment, from city streets to the great outdoors. The kids', women's and men's collections offer versatile pieces built to move with you, delivering comfort on the go and an understated style inspired by the spirit of the ocean. What to Pack for a Beach Vacation If you're wondering what to pack for a beach vacation, the trick is to keep it simple: a handful of versatile pieces in cool, breathable fabrics that can take you effortlessly from the shoreline to a stroll along the boardwalk. Drawing on nautical style with clean lines, timeless tones, and maritime-inspired details, you can build a wardrobe that's both practical and polished, easy to mix and match for any part of the day. Your beach packing list should include: swimsuits; UV-protective rash guards; lightweight shorts and pants; hat or bucket hat; sunglasses; beach towel; sandals or slides; sunscreen and after-sun care; beach bag or waterproof backpack; light jacket for the evening. It's at sea that North Sails truly comes into its own: pieces and accessories rooted in nautical tradition, designed for every moment of the day, from sun to wind to water. From cover-ups to beach towels, bags, hats, and swimwear, North Sails collections have everything you need to build looks that are as functional as they are current, moving effortlessly from the deck of a boat to the sand. What to Pack for a Cruise A cruise packing list has to cover a lot of ground: relaxing on deck, shore excursions, evenings out, and days in the sun. Beyond swimsuits and beach essentials, it's worth packing a few extra items to handle shifting conditions, from ocean breezes to heavily air-conditioned interiors. Don't forget the following: one or two evening outfits for dinners or special events; light, elegant jacket, like the Sailor Jacket; lightweight sweater or hoodie for cooler hours; comfortable shoes for excursions, plus a polished pair for evenings; compact backpack or bag for shore trips. What to Pack for a Sailing Vacation A sailing vacation calls for an even more streamlined packing list than a typical beach trip. Space on board is tight, so a soft duffel bag or backpack is a better choice than a hard-shell suitcase: it's much easier to stow in a cabin. Stick to lightweight, quick-drying clothing, favoring technical fabrics like Gore-Tex that hold up against wind, sea spray, and shifting temperatures while you're underway. A few essentials for your sailing packing list: deck shoes with light, non-slip soles; brimmed hat and sunglasses with a retainer strap; high-SPF sunscreen; waterproof bag to protect documents and electronics; reusable water bottle; personal medications and, if needed, seasickness remedies; sailing gloves, if you'll be handling the lines. Since you'll spend long hours exposed to sun, wind, and glare off the water, garments with UPF protection can also come in handy for extra shielding from UV rays. What to Pack for a City Vacation A city getaway calls for a wardrobe that can keep up with long days on your feet. Whether you’re browsing museums, exploring distinct neighborhoods, or heading out for evening drinks, every piece should balance comfort and style. Focus on versatile, easy-to-layer fabrics that adapt seamlessly to shifting weather and whatever your itinerary holds. City vacation essentials: tailored pants or chinos; t-shirts and lightweight shirts; hoodie or sweater; packable jacket; comfortable shoes; a roomy backpack or bag; belt; lightweight hat; power bank and chargers. In an urban setting, accessories are just as essential as your clothes. The right daypack keeps your belongings organized while leaving your hands free to explore. For a short weekend break, a spacious, well-designed pack can even replace a suitcase entirely. North Sails' bags and backpacks collection is built specifically for life in transit: minimalist designs, durable materials, and functional details that transition effortlessly from travel days to everyday street style. What to Pack for the Mountains When heading to the mountains for a vacation, layering is the name of the game. Even in summer, mountain weather changes rapidly, making breathable, weather-resistant fabrics essential. Mountain Essentials: moisture-wicking technical tees; cozy fleece or lightweight sweater; windproof, water-resistant jacket; durable, flexible hiking pants or trail shorts; supportive trail shoes with comfortable moisture-wicking socks; brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle; compact backpack for trail supplies; High-performance materials make long days outdoors far more comfortable through sudden temperature swings. For an effortless option you can keep on hand at all times, men's packable jackets offer wind and rain protection while taking up virtually no space in your bag. How to Pack a Suitcase to Save Space Knowing how to pack efficiently matters just as much as deciding what to bring. A well-organized bag doesn't just maximize every inch of interior space, but it also makes transit seamless and helps you find gear instantly without unpacking your entire load at every stop. With a few smart tricks, you can eliminate bulk, prevent wrinkles, and stay organized from departure to return. The Capsule Wardrobe Method for a Smarter Suitcase One of the best ways to master packing is building a versatile capsule wardrobe: a tight selection of items designed to interlock. Instead of planning single-use outfits, choose neutral colors, adaptable fabrics, and garments that transition easily between different settings. Here is a quick breakdown based on trip duration: What to pack for a weekend or 2-day trip: 2 daytime looks, 1 evening outfit, 1 extra top, 1 light jacket, and 1 pair of versatile shoes. What to pack for 3 to 5 days: Add just a few interchangeable items, like a button-down that works for both casual daytime and dinners, a sleek belt, and a multi-purpose bag. What to pack for a week: Stick strictly to a cohesive color palette so every top matches every bottom, giving you dozens of options with minimal weight. How to pack a suitcase for 7 days or 2 weeks: Schedule a mid-trip laundry stop. Washing a small bundle halfway through lets you travel light without sacrificing clean clothes. How to Pack Clothes and Accessories in a Suitcase Once you've curated your wardrobe, it's time to figure out the most practical way to fit everything in. A well-thought-out layout helps you make the most of your space and keeps your clothes in better shape throughout the trip. Follow this loading order: Place shoes and heavy items at the bottom (near the wheels). Pack clothing rolled or folded compactly in the center. Tuck accessories, socks, and belts into empty gaps and inside shoes. Keep toiletries and tech pouches near the opening for quick access at security. Store travel documents and valuables in your daypack. Using small packing cubes is another simple hack to compress clothing and group items by category. The real secret to properly packing a suitcase isn't cramming in extra items, but rather eliminating non-essentials. Before adding one last piece, ask yourself if you'll wear it at least twice. It's usually the "just in case" garments that take up the most room and end up unworn. Your Complete Travel Packing List documents, cards, tickets, and reservations; smartphone, charger, and power bank; underwear and pajamas; t-shirts, shirts, or tops; pants, shorts, or skirts; lightweight sweater or hoodie; rain or windproof jacket; comfortable shoes; swimsuit, if needed; hat and sunglasses; extra backpack or bag; toiletry bag; essential medications; accessories to complete your outfits; Ultimately, the goal isn't just packing less, it's packing smarter. When every item serves a distinct purpose, your luggage stops being a burden and becomes the launchpad for a seamless, stress-free journey. 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04 August

Summer Office Outfits: Smart Casual Ideas for Men and Women

When temperatures soar, nailing your summer office outfits isn't about wearing less, but rather about balancing impeccable tailoring with heat-resilient comfort. Whether you're at your desk, anchoring a client presentation, or heading out for post-work drinks, the real challenge is staying cool without looking dressed down. To achieve this, opting for breathable fabrics, comfortable silhouettes, and functional accessories is essential. The North Sails Lifestyle collection handles this balancing act by pairing smart tailoring with high-performance fabrics. Featuring clean lines and a highly versatile color palette, these pieces offer total freedom of movement and a refined finish that carries you smoothly from the boardroom to the weekend. It’s a modern take on seasonal elegance: uncomplicated, sharp, and built for the contemporary workplace. How to Dress for the Office in Summer Navigating a strict dress code as the mercury rises doesn't require a complicated wardrobe. Selecting a few interchangeable, high-quality pieces makes transitioning through a busy day effortless. The perfect balance lies in choosing garments that merge freshness with professionalism: lightweight fabrics, relaxed tailored shapes, and functional details ensure you stay sharp even during a heatwave. Sharp hot weather summer work outfits have to navigate three distinct realities: the freezing air-conditioned office, the sticky city commute, and dinner plans afterward. By focusing on fluid lines, wide-leg trousers, and crisp cotton, even casual summer work outfits retain a polished, intentional look without the stifling weight. Lightweight and High-Performance Fabrics Choosing the right textiles is key to beating the heat without losing structure or polish. Linen remains a premier natural choice for the warmer months, ideal for unstructured blazers, breathable shirts, and relaxed trousers. Cotton ensures everyday versatility and coolness, while viscose and crepe create fluid, lightweight silhouettes that easily adapt to active days. For those seeking a technical advantage, performance jersey provides a practical solution: it stretches, breathes, and actively resists wrinkles, ensuring you stay sharp through a packed schedule without feeling restricted. Conversely, it is wise to skip heavy or non-breathable options like standard polyester, traditional nylon, corduroy, or dense wools, which lock in heat and cause discomfort during peak afternoon hours. Versatile and Easy-to-Pair Colors A strategic summer color palette serves a dual purpose: it simplifies daily coordination and visually projects a crisp, collected presence. Off-white, sand, beige, light gray, and navy offer sophisticated, luminous tones that blend harmoniously. These shades mirror the classic nautical style, long celebrated for its relaxed, timeless elegance inspired by seafaring traditions. Because these neutrals naturally complement one another, a concise selection of garments yields a high volume of sharp, interchangeable summer work outfits. While black remains a timeless staple, it should be restricted to evening wear. During the day, dark fabrics absorb maximum solar heat, rapidly increasing physical discomfort during a city commute. Try swapping it for lighter, softer tones to give your summer office looks a seasonal refresh. Subtle patterns can also elevate your work wardrobe. Fine pinstripes, especially vertical ones, offer a refined, business-ready aesthetic for shirts, trousers, and light dresses. Tone-on-tone micro-prints or understated geometric motifs work beautifully, whereas oversized prints, overly loud neon tones, or high-contrast patterns should be avoided to preserve a professional workplace atmosphere. Relaxed Silhouettes and Clean Lines At peak temperatures, swap restrictive fits and rigid structures for silhouettes that are breezy yet structured. Focus on wide-leg trousers, relaxed-fit shirts, unlined blazers, and fluid midi lengths. The goal is a look that gives you room to breathe while maintaining a sharp, intentional profile. How you care for your clothes also dictates how polished you look. While a freshly ironed garment always elevates an outfit, heavy ironing in the summer heat is a losing battle. A smarter, more contemporary approach is to lean into fabrics that naturally hold a soft shape and accept the inevitable creases of premium linen. Rather than looking messy, these natural textures convey a contemporary elegance that defines modern style. Elevating Casual Pieces into Professional Summer Outfits with North Sails A demanding summer schedule requires clothing that adapts to your day, rather than forcing a compromise between style and comfort. When you are constantly shifting between intense outdoor heat and over-cooled meeting rooms, your wardrobe has to be both resilient and refined. North Sails’ apparel collection bridges this gap between active city life and the corporate dress code, focusing on clean lines, neutral tones, and technical fabrics to ensure your casual summer work outfits always maintain a distinct edge. Whether you are managing back-to-back client meetings, traveling, or heading straight out for dinner, these pieces hold their shape and keep you cool. It is a highly practical approach to building professional summer outfits, giving you a streamlined wardrobe that works as hard as you do. Elegance Meets Comfort: Women's Summer Office Outfits The standards for women's summer office wear are rarely uniform. The ideal look depends on your industry, daily schedule, and the required level of formality. By anchoring your wardrobe with a few versatile, high-quality staples, you can build complete summer office outfits that keep you looking polished and professional from morning coffee to evening networking events. For a day at headquarters: Light, fluid blouses paired with wide-leg trousers offer an elegant yet relaxed aesthetic. Alternatively, a sharp shirt dress provides a practical option, beautifully completed with loafers, ballet flats, or sleek, smart sneakers. For meetings and presentations: A lightweight blazer over tailored trousers, a midi skirt paired with a crisp shirt, or a minimalist sheath dress communicates authority without adding bulk. For business lunches and corporate events: A lightweight suit in neutral tones, a sophisticated midi dress, or a refined top with fluid trousers are perfect choices for networking opportunities. For smart casual settings: A minimalist tee under an unstructured blazer, a tailored polo with elegant bermuda shorts, or a linen shirt with dark-wash denim offers excellent inspiration for women's casual office outfits that balance comfort and professionalism. Men's Office Outfits for Summer: The Must Have Combinations For sharp men's office outfits, the golden rule is shedding unnecessary weight without sacrificing a professional edge. A successful summer wardrobe stays crisp and practical by prioritizing lightweight fabrics, unlined tailoring, and a cooler, seasonal color palette. For a day at headquarters: Formal yet lightweight combinations allow you to handle the heat with ease. Linen button-downs and lightweight cotton polos paired with tailored chinos or light dress pants offer a simple yet sophisticated everyday look. For meetings and presentations: Unstructured jackets over light-colored shirts, paired with flexible trousers and minimalist sneakers, offer a modern professional look. For a contemporary spin, swap the traditional dress shirt for a solid-colored polo. For business lunches and corporate events: A deconstructed suit or separates remain highly versatile. A soft blazer, tailored chinos, and an open-collar shirt strike the perfect balance between refinement and ease. For smart casual settings: A crewneck tee under a lightweight jacket, an unbuttoned linen shirt with chinos, or a technical polo with loafers are brilliant examples of men's casual office outfits that look effortlessly put together. Accessories and Footwear to Complete Your Summer Office Looks Summer accessories should serve a clear purpose, bridging the gap between style and utility. The focus should be on clean, functional pieces that handle a daily commute without adding unnecessary weight. Clean-lined tote bags, briefcases, and backpacks keep your tech and documents organized while maintaining a professional profile. Subtle details, like a woven fabric belt, add sophisticated character. Additionally, lightweight scarves are indispensable in air-conditioned offices to shield your shoulders from temperature drops without compromising elegance. Footwear requires a careful balance of structure and breathability. Breathable materials and lightweight constructions prevent overheating, ensuring comfort during long hours away from home. For women, loafers, slingbacks, ballet flats, and smart closed-toe sandals are exceptionally versatile; for men, soft leather loafers, minimalist low-top sneakers, and lightweight derbies maintain a polished presentation while prioritizing everyday utility. To achieve a perfectly balanced summer office look, focus on a single statement piece, such as a premium bag or designer belt, allowing the rest of your ensemble to remain effortlessly minimal and harmonious. READ MORE

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