From the nimble currents of whitewater rivers to the expansive embrace of open waters, Windrider Sailing Trimarans has carved a unique niche in the marine industry. Born from a pioneering spirit of innovation and a commitment to making sailing accessible, Windrider's journey from a kayak manufacturer to a renowned trimaran builder is a testament to its enduring vision.
The Genesis of Innovation
The story of Windrider begins not with sails, but with paddles. In 1985, Andy Zimmerman and John Sheppard, both with backgrounds in the furniture industry, founded Wilderness Systems. Initially, they ventured into building high-end whitewater and creek kayaks. Recognizing an unmet demand, they soon found a niche in touring kayaks, a segment largely overlooked by other companies at the time.
The early hand-made boats, while high-performance, proved too costly to produce for a broader market. This challenge spurred a pivotal shift in 1991 when Wilderness Systems embraced rotational molding for their most popular touring kayak, the Sealution. This innovative manufacturing process drastically reduced production costs, making high-performance kayaks nearly half the price of their composite counterparts. The company's in-house research and development team further democratized kayaking with the introduction of new lines of stable, inexpensive, and easy-to-paddle kayaks for the masses. The Rascal, launched in 1993, became an instant hit, cementing Wilderness Systems' reputation for accessible, quality watercraft.
From Kayaks to Trimarans: A New Horizon
Having successfully transitioned to mass-produced, user-friendly kayaks, Wilderness Systems began exploring sailing kayaks, offering several versions over the years. The true revolution, however, came with a bold venture into the world of multihulls. In a transformative collaboration, Andy Zimmerman and John Sheppard teamed up with the legendary multihull designer Jim Brown, widely known for his SeaRunner 31 and 37 trimarans.
This partnership marked the birth of the Windrider trimaran and established "Windrider Sailing Trimarans" as a new division within Wilderness Systems. In 1996, the first roto-molded, wave-piercing trimaran, a groundbreaking concept in sailboat design, emerged from the factory, followed by hundreds more. This move underscored Windrider's commitment to leveraging durable, cost-effective rotational molding for a broader audience, just as they had done with kayaks.
Signature Designs and Pioneering Technology
Windrider's reputation in the sailing world is built upon its dedication to creating stable, user-friendly, and highly enjoyable trimarans. They are particularly known for making performance sailing accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced sailors seeking a fun and forgiving platform. A hallmark of Windrider's design philosophy is the utilization of rotational molding (roto-molding) for their hulls, which results in incredibly durable and low-maintenance boats that are more affordable than traditional composite construction.
Jim Brown, a prominent figure in multihull design, played a crucial role in shaping the early Windrider trimarans, including the Windrider 16 and 17. The collaboration integrated Brown's expertise in multihull stability and performance with Windrider's innovative manufacturing techniques. A distinctive feature of many Windrider models is the foot pedal steering, which allows for hands-free control, enhancing the sailing experience. The use of anodized aircraft aluminum for structural reinforcements ensures a robust yet lightweight construction.
Fleet of Fun: Iconic Windrider Models
Windrider has produced several iconic trimaran models that have left a significant mark on the recreational sailing community:
- Windrider 16 (WR16): Introduced around 1995, the WR16 quickly became a popular choice for its simplicity, ease of rigging, and sporty performance. It's known for being quick to set up, often in 20 minutes or less, making it ideal for casual sailing and beach launching.
- Windrider 17 (WR17): Launched around 2002, the WR17 is a slightly larger, versatile trimaran designed for up to four people. It maintains the brand's commitment to stability and ease of use while offering more space and capability for extended outings, even allowing for onboard sleeping possibilities. Like its smaller sibling, the WR17 is rotomolded polyethylene, keeping it affordable.
- Windrider Rave: The Rave stands out as Windrider's hydrofoil-assisted trimaran, designed to offer exhilarating speeds and a unique sailing experience. It represents an adventurous step into higher-performance sailing while still aiming for relative affordability and ease of handling within the hydrofoil category.
- Windrider 10 (WR10): A more compact offering, the WR10 was introduced around 2002, providing a very accessible entry point into trimaran sailing.
These models, alongside others like the WRTango, cater to a diverse range of sailing preferences, from leisurely coastal cruises to more adventurous, speed-oriented endeavors.
The Legacy Continues
In 2015, Windrider International merged with Nickels Boat Works, a Michigan-based builder with over 60 years of experience. This strategic merger aimed to create a more comprehensive product and service lineup for the sailing community. Following the merger, Nickels Boat Works became the manufacturing division of Windrider International, and Windrider's manufacturing operations were consolidated in Burton, Michigan.
Today, Windrider Sailing Trimarans continues to operate under this structure, with Windrider.com serving as the exclusive supplier for Nickels Boat Works parts and also distributing models from other trimaran builders like Astus in France. The modern Windrider boats, primarily the WR16 and WR17, appeal to individuals and families seeking stable, unsinkable, and easy-to-sail multihulls that offer both performance and recreational enjoyment. The brand continues to foster a community of enthusiastic owners who value the simplicity, durability, and sheer fun that Windrider trimarans provide.
