RS Aero Class adds new rig

The RS Aero Class, which has three rig sizes (5, 7, and 9) for different weight sailors, has now added a fourth with the 6 rig specifically designed for small adults. The goal of the new rig is to remove barriers for women and smaller men who have previously found themselves between rig sizes.

“The time is now right within the Class’ evolvement and international support for the proposal,” explained RS Aero Class Manager Peter Barton. “The RS Aero 6 size fits a highly populated space between the RS Aero 5 and 7 rig sizes with a large number of current and future RS Aero owners eager to have one.”

Development of the new rig began back in 2019 which now includes a 6.3m² mainsail manufactured by North Sails. The radial cut sail is in line with the existing characteristics of the RS Aero 7 mainsail but with a slightly flatter head. The 6 rig uses a new carbon fibre bottom mast section which is combined with the common top-mast section and boom used for the other rig sizes.

The UK RS Aero Class agreed at its 2021 AGM to propose the adoption of the RS Aero 6 rig to the International RS Aero Class which resulted in its approval.