Ray Greene Slipper Information, Review, Specs

As a pioneer in the industry, Ray Greene utilized the Slipper to demonstrate that fiberglass was not merely for high-end cruisers like the New Horizons 26, but also for the "everyman" daysailer. The hull typically features a rounded bilge and a relatively wide beam for its length, providing a stable platform for lake and protected-water sailing. Because the Slipper shares its hull mold with the Nipper, owners of that era often viewed the two as a single model line differentiated only by the rig—a common manufacturing strategy that Greene used to maximize the utility of his molds.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Slipper are defined by its lightness and its fractional sloop rig. With a 12-foot length overall, the boat is highly responsive to weight shifts, requiring active hiking in breezes above 10 knots. The addition of the jib in the Slipper configuration moves the center of effort slightly aft compared to the cat-rigged Nipper, which generally provides the Slipper with better balance and less "weather helm" in moderate air.

Handling is straightforward, making it an ideal trainer for junior programs or adult beginners. The boat utilizes a weighted steel centerboard—a design element Greene favored for its durability and low-center-of-gravity stability—which allows the Slipper to point reasonably well upwind for a boat of its vintage. According to historical technical descriptions from Ray Greene & Co., the Slipper was intended to be "lively yet forgiving," a trait verified by its popularity in early midwestern sailing clubs. Its shallow draft with the board up (often less than 6 inches) makes it exceptionally well-suited for beaching and easy trailering, though the hull’s weight—heavy by modern dinghy standards due to the thick laminates of early fiberglass—means it tracks with more momentum than a contemporary performance skiff.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a vintage Ray Greene Slipper, the primary concern is the integrity of the early fiberglass laminate. While Greene was a pioneer, the resins used in the 1950s and 60s were prone to osmotic blistering and "star crazing" in the gelcoat if left in the water or exposed to extreme temperature cycles.

• Centerboard Trunk: The junction where the centerboard trunk meets the hull is a common stress point. Inspect for weeping or hairline cracks, which indicate the trunk has flexed under the load of the heavy steel board.
• Steel Centerboard Corrosion: The 110-pound steel centerboards (similar to those used in the Rebel 16) are prone to heavy scaling and rust. If the board has swollen due to corrosion, it may become jammed in the trunk.
• Transom Stress: Because many Slippers were used with small outboard motors, the transom should be checked for "oil-canning" or delamination, particularly around the motor mount area.
• Wood Trim Decay: Most Slippers featured mahogany or teak rub rails and coamings. These are often the first components to fail; check for "soft spots" where the wood meets the fiberglass, as water can migrate into the laminate through unsealed screw holes.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for Slipper owners is the broader community of Ray Greene enthusiasts. While there is no longer a standalone national class association for the Slipper, owners often congregate within the Rebel Class Association, as many Rebel fleets also maintained Slippers and Nippers as junior trainers. Technical documents and original brochures are occasionally curated by the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, which maintains archives on the maritime history of Ray Greene & Co. in the Great Lakes region.

The Verdict

The Ray Greene Slipper is a charming piece of maritime history that remains a functional and rugged daysailer for those who appreciate the origins of fiberglass construction. While it lacks the speed of modern racing dinghies, its durability and classic lines make it an excellent choice for nostalgic sailors or those seeking a sturdy, low-cost "beach boat."

Pros:

• Extremely durable hull construction typical of early fiberglass pioneers.
• Highly portable and easy to launch from a trailer or beach.
• Balanced handling thanks to the sloop rig and weighted centerboard.
• Low maintenance requirements compared to wooden boats of the same era.

Cons:

• Heavy for its size, making it difficult to manhandle on land without a dolly.
• Vulnerable to centerboard corrosion and trunk leaks.
• Limited performance potential compared to modern 12-footers like the Laser or RS Quest.