Hotfoot 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hotfoot 20 is frequently described by its owners and regional sailing commentators as a "light air specialist" that transforms into a planing machine when the breeze freshens. Its performance is driven by a high sail area-to-displacement ratio, a hallmark of Doug Hemphill’s design philosophy. The boat features a fractional rig and a relatively deep fin keel, which provides the necessary lift and stability to support its generous sail plan.

Handling is characterized by extreme responsiveness; the boat reacts instantly to trim changes and weight distribution. In light air, the Hotfoot 20’s narrow waterline and low wetted surface area allow it to ghost past much larger cruiser-racers. However, it is in reaching and running conditions where the boat truly shines. Once the wind exceeds 15 knots, the hull is capable of breaking free from its bow wave and planing. Because it lacks the heavy ballast of a dedicated cruiser, the Hotfoot 20 requires an active crew to manage heel and keep the boat flat. Handling anecdotes from Pacific Northwest racing archives suggest that while the boat is forgiving in moderate conditions, it demands technical skill and quick reflexes when pushed in heavy air, often compared to a "scaled-down Moore 24" in terms of its lively feel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Consistent with its "sportboat" designation, the interior of the Hotfoot 20 is minimalist and prioritized for weight savings. The cabin provides a "sit-up" level of headroom and is primarily designed for overnighting in a "camping-style" fashion rather than long-term habitation. The layout typically consists of a simple V-berth forward and two quarter berths extending aft under the cockpit seats.

Materials used in the interior are utilitarian, often featuring exposed fiberglass liners and basic teak trim to save on weight. There is no dedicated galley or enclosed head; most owners utilize a portable stove and a chemical toilet tucked under the V-berth. While the interior is sparse, it serves as an excellent dry storage area for racing sails and gear. Regarding variations, the Hotfoot 20 hull remained largely consistent throughout its production run, though some "Grand Prix" versions were outfitted with upgraded deck hardware and carbon fiber reinforcements by individual owners to enhance its competitive edge. The Hotfoot 27 serves as the primary "big sibling," utilizing a similar design language but offering full standing headroom and a more complete interior for cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For those looking to acquire a Hotfoot 20 on the used market, several age-related technical areas require close inspection:

• Deck and Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era built in the Pacific Northwest, the Hotfoot 20 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step. Water intrusion in these areas can lead to core rot, necessitating expensive repairs.
• Rudder and Pintles: The rudder on the Hotfoot 20 is under significant load when the boat is planing. Inspect the rudder blade for signs of delamination or "wicking" at the leading edge, and check the gudgeons and pintles for excessive play or stress cracks in the transom.
• Keel Attachment: While the keel is a solid lead casting, the area where it meets the hull (the "smile") should be inspected for signs of movement or impact damage. High-performance racing can put stress on the keel bolts, so verifying their torque and the condition of the surrounding fiberglass is essential.
• Trailer Condition: Since the Hotfoot 20 is a trailerable boat, the condition of the custom trailer is often as important as the boat itself. Check for axle corrosion and the integrity of the bunk supports, as these boats have often spent decades being moved between racing venues.

Community & Resources

The Hotfoot 20 benefits from a dedicated, albeit regional, following. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer-backed association, the boat is a frequent topic of technical discussion within the Pacific Northwest Sailing community. Owners often share tuning guides and repair tips through informal local networks in British Columbia and Washington State. Technical specifications and historical context are occasionally documented by the Maritime Museum of British Columbia, which tracks the history of local builders like Doug Hemphill.

The Verdict

The Hotfoot 20 remains a premier choice for sailors who prioritize speed, agility, and the tactical challenge of a sportboat over the comforts of a traditional cruiser. It is a testament to 1980s Canadian marine engineering, offering a pure sailing experience that is difficult to find in modern, heavier production boats.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance in light to moderate air.
• Capable of high-speed planing in a breeze.
• Easily trailerable, allowing for diverse cruising and racing locations.
• Strong, active secondary market in the Pacific Northwest.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior with limited headroom and amenities.
• Requires an active and skilled crew to handle in heavy weather.
• Susceptible to deck core issues if maintenance has been neglected.
• Relatively small production numbers make finding specific replacement parts a challenge.