Buy Zhik sailing apparel for competition sailors
Zhik sailing apparel is the technical gear of the Australian brand for competition sailors in dinghy and skiff classes, focused on maximum performance in cold water and intensive sessions. At watersportsonline.com you'll find the Zhik sailing apparel range with Superwarm wetsuits in V-Skiff and X-Skiff versions for men and women (2/3mm and 3mm), Microfleece X-Skiff wetsuits (1mm) for lower temperatures under a spraytop, Superwarm V-Top and Superwarm X-Top neoprene tops (3mm and 3/2mm) for combining with long johns, Microfleece X-Top for extra inner insulation, the Hydrophobic Fleece Top for women as water-repellent mid layer, the Low Cut Ankle 170 sailing boots and the Power Pads for knee protection during hiking.
Which Zhik gear do I choose?
| Product | Target group | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Superwarm V Skiff Men / Women 2/3mm | Skiff sailors men+women | Allround skiff wetsuit, Optimist to 49er |
| Superwarm X Skiff Men / Women 3mm | Skiff sailors cold water | Performance suit for colder water |
| Microfleece X Skiff Men / Women 1mm | Skiff sailors with spraytop | Under spraytop for temperature regulation |
| Superwarm V Top Women 3/2mm | Women's variants | Top to complement long john |
| Superwarm X Top Men / Women 3mm | Performance top | Premium top for cold water |
| Microfleece X Top Men 1mm | Men's inner layer | Extra warmth under Superwarm suit |
| Hydrophobic Fleece Top Women | Women's mid layer | Water-repellent fleece, under spraytop |
| Low Cut Ankle 170 sailing boots | Unisex | Low sailing boot for dinghy |
| Power Pads Unisex | Skiff and keelboat hikers | Knee protection during intensive hiking |
The Superwarm line is Zhik's premium cold-water suit with high flex percentage and reinforced wear zones. The V-Skiff version has a trapeze-reinforced front, the X-Skiff is the newer version with improved seams and greater freedom of movement in arms and shoulders. Check the broader Zhik range, the sailing apparel collection from other brands and the sailing suit collection for complete sets and alternatives.
Frequently asked questions about Zhik sailing apparel
What's the difference between Superwarm V Skiff and X Skiff?
The V Skiff is a trapeze-reinforced version for sailors in classes using a trapeze (49er, 470, RS800, Fireball). The reinforced part prevents wear from the trapeze hook. The X Skiff is the newer allround Superwarm version with improved panel layout and greater freedom of movement in arms and shoulders. For classes without trapeze (Laser, Optimist adult, ILCA, Solo) pick X Skiff. For trapeze classes choose V Skiff for durability.
Which thickness Zhik wetsuit for which season?
1mm Microfleece X Skiff for summer and warm spring (water 17-22 °C), 2/3mm Superwarm V Skiff for spring and autumn (12-18 °C) and 3mm Superwarm X Skiff for cold spring, late autumn and winter (8-14 °C). For extremely cold water below 8 degrees combine the Superwarm 3mm with a Microfleece X Top (1mm) as inner layer and a spraytop as outer waterproof layer.
What are Zhik Power Pads and do I need them?
Power Pads are loose knee protectors worn over or in your sailing apparel for extra protection and support during long hiking. In dinghy and skiff classes where you lean for hours with your knees on the deck (Laser, Optimist, 49er, RS classes), Power Pads prevent bruising and impact on the shin and knee. For recreational sailing they're usually not necessary; for competition sailors they're a sensible investment.
How do I fit Zhik wetsuits?
Zhik wetsuits follow Zhik's own sizing chart (XS-XXL) which isn't identical to Magic Marine or other brands. Fit in completely dry condition. The Superwarm X Skiff must fit tight to the torso without air pockets. Bend forward and stretch your arms up: there should be no pinching around neck or shoulders. Men and women have separate cuts. When in doubt between two sizes choose the smaller for competition use.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure about the right size or version? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
