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Zhik named as Official Team Supplier for Olympic Sailors in Marseille
Published Fri 03 May 2024
Australian Sailing was thrilled with the announcement from the Australian Olympic Committee for Zhik to be the official supplier for Australian Olympic Team sailors at the Paris Olympics.
Crafted from sustainable, plant-based Yulex® rubber, the range sets a new standard for elite eco-friendly water sports apparel. It offers superior thermal insulation, comfort, and durability, generating 80 percent fewer CO2 emissions than conventional neoprene wetsuits.
The wetsuit’s fabric is also infused with graphene - this advanced nanoscale 2D material can return up to 20 percent more body heat, keeping wearers warmer for longer, regulating temperatures during low-intensity activities, and aiding the drying process.
Australia’s most successful Olympic sailor Mat Belcher is continuing his commitment to sailing high performance as CEO of Zhik.
“Zhik was first named an Olympic supplier for the Australian sailing team for the Tokyo Games, and Will Ryan and I won gold wearing Zhik gear,” he said.
“Since then, it’s evolved even more, and the current range sets a new standard the bar for elite eco-conscious water sports attire.
“It’s an incredibly proud moment for Zhik to have such a close connection to the Australian sailing team, the second time we can support the Olympic Team coming into Paris.
“We have a deep understanding of the technical requirements. It’s bespoke gear - we can make sure the athletes can get their best performance, while being as warm and comfortable as possible.”
Evie Haseldine and Grae Morris CREDIT Andrea Gottardo / Zhik
49erFX crew Evie Haseldine, who has been selected to make her Olympic debut in Paris, was thrilled to try on the Zhik Olympic kit.
“It’s the first time Zhik has a 100% recycled wetsuit, we’re both in the new range for high performance sailing,” Haseldine said. “They have this graphene warmth part on the inside; it’s quick-dry which is great for Marseille, which is windy but can also get hot.
“It feels great, I can’t wait to wear it in July!”