Sailing has undergone remarkable evolution since the era when Keith Musto, adorned in a hand-knitted jumper by his wife in 1964, graced the waters. This sentimental recollection stands in sharp contrast to the sophisticated and innovative sailing equipment currently utilized by the British Sailing Team.
Back in 1964, Musto and crew member Tony Morgan encountered a formidable predicament within the lightweight Flying Dutchman dinghy class. To gain a competitive edge, they took to dousing their attire with water to increase weight. While effective at the time, Musto was intent on finding a more sustainable solution, leading to the establishment of Musto Clothing. Since 2009, the company has been a provider of top-tier sailing gear to the British Sailing Team.
As the British sailors prepare for the upcoming Games in Marseille, they are now equipped with the latest in sailing gear technology. The new Flexlite Cooling range incorporates a revolutionary ingredient more commonly found in chewing gum – Xylitol, a sugar alcohol. This innovative addition to the nylon fabric enhances the cooling effect of the garments, allowing the sailors to perform at their best even in the most challenging conditions. Additionally, the incorporation of gussets under each arm with mesh ventilation and flatlock seams contributes to the overall breathability and comfort of the attire.
British Sailing Team members, John Gimson and Anna Burnet, who recently set a world record in a state-of-the-art electric vessel, have been collaborating with Musto in the development of specific kits for the NACRA 17. Burnet expressed her satisfaction with Musto’s attentive approach to their feedback, allowing them to focus wholeheartedly on their sailing endeavours.
Looking ahead to the Olympics, the determined duo aims to upgrade their silver medal from the Tokyo 2020 Games to a gold in Paris 2024. Similarly, Micky Beckett, a promising member of the British sailing squad, is gearing up for his Olympic debut and has been benefitting from the innovative sailing gear provided by Musto.
With a recent victory at the Princess Sofia Regatta under his belt, Beckett remains grounded and highlights the importance of managing his form and fitness as he prepares for the upcoming challenge.
The strategic partnership between Musto and the British Sailing Team has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the team’s performance and preparedness for the upcoming Olympic Games. As the legacy of Musto’s pioneering work continues, it is clear that the spirit of innovation and excellence is alive and well in the realm of sailing attire.
For those interested in exploring the full product information on the Flexlite Cooling Range, the details can be found here.
The British Sailing Team is evidently poised for success, armed with the latest advancements in sailing gear technology and a relentless determination to claim victory on the Olympic stage.