Howmar Designers Choice Information, Review, Specs

The boat was conceived during a period when fiberglass construction was reaching maturity, allowing Howmar to produce a hull that was both lightweight and durable. At 14 feet 8 inches, the Designers Choice was marketed as a versatile family boat that could be handled by a single sailor or raced competitively with a crew of two. Its lineage is closely tied to the "Shadow," a sibling variant that utilized the same hull form but featured an elongated 10.5-foot cockpit and a deeper footwell to accommodate larger crews or more gear. While the Designers Choice focused on a balanced layout, the Shadow prioritized cockpit volume, though both shared the same S&S-designed underwater profile.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Designers Choice is characterized by a fractional sloop rig and a high-aspect centerboard that provides significant lift when sailing upwind. Because it was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, the hull features a degree of "sea-kindliness" rarely found in 15-foot dinghies; it tracks well and resists the nervous, twitchy behavior common in lighter racing shells like the Laser or 420. The boat’s beam of 5 feet 1 inch provides a stable platform, making it a preferred choice for older sailors or families transitioning from smaller beach-launched craft.

In terms of handling, the boat is known for its balanced helm. Technical analysis of the S&S design suggests a hull form that maintains its trim even as it heels, reducing the tendency to round up in puffs. While not a "planing" hull in the modern high-performance sense, the Designers Choice is capable of reaching respectable speeds on a plane in 15+ knots of wind. Owners frequently note that the boat feels "bigger" than its 15 feet would suggest, largely due to the dry ride provided by its relatively high freeboard and flared bow.

Popular Mentions & Media

The primary cultural footprint of the Designers Choice lies in its connection to the Sparkman & Stephens portfolio. It is frequently cited in design retrospectives as an example of the firm’s ability to scale down their "big boat" philosophy to a recreational dinghy level. While it did not achieve the massive production numbers of the Sunfish or the O’Day Daysailer, it maintains a dedicated following among S&S enthusiasts who appreciate its refined lines. Technical details of its design remain preserved within the Sparkman & Stephens design archives, where it stands as a testament to the era’s demand for high-quality, small-scale fiberglass sailboats.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Howmar Designers Choice should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the fiberglass, as these boats are now several decades old.

1. Centerboard Trunk: Like many boats of this era, the centerboard trunk is a common point of failure. Check for stress cracks around the base of the trunk or signs of leaking where the trunk meets the hull.
2. Mast Step Reinforcement: The mast step takes considerable load on a fractional rig. Inspect the deck area around the step for "crazing" or soft spots, which may indicate that the underlying core has been compromised by moisture.
3. Rudder Hardware: The original gudgeons and pintles were robust, but decades of use in salt water can lead to galvanic corrosion. Ensure the rudder head is firm and that there is no excessive play in the steering system.
4. Cockpit Drainage: In the Shadow variant specifically, the larger cockpit can collect a significant amount of water. Verify that the scuppers and drains are clear and that the through-hull fittings are secure.

Community & Resources

While Howmar Boats Inc. ceased operations in 1983, the Designers Choice continues to be supported by a niche community of classic dinghy sailors. The most significant resource for technical data and original specifications is the Sparkman & Stephens association and their historical database. While there is no formal "Howmar Owners Association," the boat is a frequent topic of discussion on generalist sailing forums where owners share rig tuning tips and restoration projects.

The Verdict

The Howmar Designers Choice remains one of the most elegantly designed daysailers of the 1970s and 80s, offering a level of sophistication rarely seen in the 15-foot category. It is an ideal boat for the sailor who values pedigree and stability over raw, athletic performance.

Pros

• Renowned Pedigree: Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, ensuring excellent hull balance and aesthetics.
• Stability: A wide beam and forgiving hull shape make it suitable for beginners and families.
• Versatility: Capable of being trailered easily behind a small car and launched by one person.

Cons

• Builder Support: As Howmar is long defunct, replacement of proprietary parts (like specific mast extrusions) may require custom fabrication.
• Weight: It is heavier than modern high-performance dinghies, making it less suitable for "beach dragging" without a dolly.
• Age: Most units will require some level of fiberglass or hardware refurbishment.