Sailing has undergone a significant transformation since Keith Musto secured an Olympic silver medal in 1964 while donning a jumper knitted by his wife. In those days, Musto and his team had to saturate their clothing to increase weight for improved performance, a stark contrast to the advanced equipment available to athletes today.
Motivated by his own challenges, Musto went on to establish Musto Clothing, which has been collaborating closely with the British Sailing Team since 2009. The most recent addition to their range is the Flexlite Cooling line, specifically crafted to enhance both comfort and performance. This pioneering collection incorporates Xylitol, a sugar alcohol, to intensify the cooling properties of the attire. Moreover, the inclusion of gussets under each arm with mesh ventilation and flatlock seams contributes to the breathability and comfort of the apparel.
Sailors John Gimson and Anna Burnet, who recently established a world record for the fastest journey from Belfast Ballyholme to Port Patrick, have also been instrumental in the development of sailing apparel with Musto. The pair, preparing for the upcoming Olympic games, are determined to surpass the silver medal they achieved in Tokyo 2020.
Similarly, Micky Beckett, a member of the British sailing squad, has emphasized the significance of managing form and fitness in the lead-up to the Olympics. Following a recent victory at the Princess Sofia Regatta, Beckett acknowledges the importance of sustaining peak performance when it matters most.
The impact of Musto’s ground-breaking sailing apparel is evident, with Beckett recognizing their pioneering role in technical sailing clothing. The influence of Musto’s innovative apparel continues to be felt, with Beckett asserting that it maintains its position at the forefront of the industry even after six decades.
As the British Sailing Team prepares for the Olympics, the integration of cutting-edge technology into their apparel is poised to provide them with a competitive advantage. The evolution of sailing attire from soaked jumpers to high-tech, performance-enhancing garments mirrors the unwavering pursuit of excellence in the sport.