RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show – Zhik reveal new Robert Scheidt wetsuit hikers
by Charlotte Stollmann - Zhik on 4 Mar 2016
Olympic Gold medalist Robert Scheidt has worked with Zhik to develop new hikers for the Laser and other classes SW
Zhik will reveal new wetsuit hikers developed in exclusive collaboration with Laser sailing legend Robert Scheidt at this year’s RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show 5-6 March 2016 – stand G6.
The Scheidt™ Hikers combine Zhik’s superior high stretch wetsuit fabrics, Microfleece and Superwarm, with Zhik’s PowerPad™ technology. Four built-in, slim profile, fiberglass battens support and mold to fit the back of your leg, so you can keep hiking hard and are free to move easily in and out of the boat.
The optional EVA hike pads can be removed or inserted into an internal pocket allowing you to adjust your hiking height from the side deck. When conditions are light, remove the pads so you can get your weight in the boat. Both models have adjustable shoulder straps and full leg length for complete protection.
Robert Scheidt, five times Olympic medallist, said “I have been wearing Zhik gear for the last decade, in both the Laser and Star classes. It has been my gear of choice due to its superior performance and design. In recent years, on my return to the Laser class, I have been working with the Zhik R&D team on a new set of hikers, in both Superwarm and Microfleece styles. These are to my particular specification.”
The Superwarm® Scheidt™ hikers are “just great for those cold European weather days,” according to Scheidt. Made from 3mm superstretch, water repellent neoprene they have a fast drying inner lining and are glued and blind stitched at the seams. The seat and knees are reinforced with highly abrasion resistant Zhiktex™II panels to reduce wear from extended use.
Ideal for warmer waters, Microfleece Scheidt™ hikers come in a 1mm superstretch neoprene, also with a fast drying inner lining and Zhiktex™II reinforcement. Scheidt says, “this model gives you the strong protection of great battens, whilst the excellent Microfleece neoprene makes you feel light and flexible.”
Drue Kerr, the product designer in charge of the project explains, “we are extremely proud of these new hikers, we believe we’ve set the industry standard for non-trapeze sailors. In particular the unique streamlined way that the pads blend into the leg. This means there is no “bump' as the sailor moves in and out of the boat!”
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