The RS Aero: A Decade of Innovation and Excellence
The RS Aero – 10 Years In Review
RS Aero sailing © RS Sailing
The RS Aero celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. Over the past decade, this iconic British-built single-hander has become a key player in creating a vibrant community around single-handed sailing.
The Boat
The RS Aero features a lightweight, 33kg hull complemented by a durable carbon rig and four different rig sizes. This combination ensures that the RS Aero continues to provide pure exhilaration and delightful simplicity in sailing, just as it did a decade ago.
Jo Richards and the RS Development team have truly perfected the design of the RS Aero. Evidence of its high performance can be seen in the 2024 Olympic Trials, where the RS Aero was recognized for being fun, fast, and appealing. The Evaluation Panel noted its sensitive handling, suitability for a variety of sailors, and modern engineering techniques that contribute to its low weight and compact design for transportation.
The RS Aero has remained mostly unchanged over the years, with only minor adjustments, such as flipping control lines for easier tweaking and introducing a new rig size, the RS Aero 6, to accommodate middleweight sailors. This steadfast commitment to one-design racing means sailors can invest in a class where performance consistency is upheld, allowing even older boats to compete confidently.
The Class & Community
With 3,600 RS Aeros sold across over 60 countries, the community around this class thrives on its Corinthian spirit and shared passion for racing and camaraderie on shore. The RS Aero is open to sailors of all ages, sizes, and skill levels, from juniors transitioning into single-handed sailing to adults seeking new challenges.
Flexibility within the class allows seamless rig transitions during events, while the lightweight hull enables small sailors to perform effectively, regardless of wind conditions. The RS Aero is designed for not just racing; it has also inspired sailors like Ken Fowler and Magne Klann to embark on incredible adventures, showcasing its versatility and durability.
Beyond the water, the RS community embodies a lively social scene with friendly gatherings, lively socials, and memorable events that create strong bonds among sailors.
The Future
After ten years of production by MTAG, the manufacturing of the RS Aero is now moving in-house with the RS Marine Group’s skilled team in Cowes, Isle of Wight. This transition will enhance quality control and reduce costs, ensuring that customers receive a superior product. New hulls are set to enter production in late 2023, with deliveries scheduled for early 2025.
Looking ahead to 2025, a robust winter training program is planned, specifically aimed at developing youth sailors in the UK with multiple weekends of coaching and online sessions, supported by the Class Association.
The 7th RS Aero World Championship and Youth World Championship is scheduled for July 28 to August 2, 2025, in France at the Quiberon peninsula, followed by the UK National Championship from August 28 to 31 at Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy.
Let’s Celebrate
Join RS Sailing in celebrating 10 years of the RS Aero at their stand E045 during the Southampton International Boat Show on Saturday, September 14. Experience the excitement as the RS Aero showcases its impressive capabilities during the event.
Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.