Reverso Air Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Reverso Air performs with the agility of a Laser but with significantly more stability due to its flat-bottomed, scow-inspired hull shape. The boat is designed to plane early; in a moderate breeze of 10 to 12 knots, the hull lifts effortlessly, capable of reaching speeds in excess of 15 knots. Its handling is characterized by high responsiveness to hiker input and mainsheet trim. Because the boat utilizes a high-aspect carbon fiber mast from Seldén, the center of gravity remains low, which reduces pitching in choppy water.

The "Air" model specifically benefits from a refined rocker line that allows it to track better than its predecessors. When Sailing World named the Reverso Air its 2022 Boat of the Year, testers highlighted the boat’s surprising stiffness, noting that the tensioning system effectively eliminates the "flex" often associated with modular or folding craft. While it is a high-performance machine, it remains accessible to intermediate sailors, though its light weight means it can be sensitive to aggressive weight shifts during tacks.

Sibling Models & Variations

The Reverso Air is the evolution of the original "Reverso" prototype. While the hull geometry remains largely consistent across the brand, the "Air" designation refers to the lightest construction tier. There is also a "Small Rig" variant intended for junior sailors or high-wind environments, which utilizes a shorter mast and a 5.5 square meter sail compared to the standard 7.0 square meter performance sail. Additionally, a "Black Edition" has been produced, featuring aesthetic upgrades and premium EVA deck padding. All versions utilize the same four-part hull sections, ensuring that parts and accessories are interchangeable across the model range.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Reverso Air gained significant international attention after winning the 2022 Sailing World Boat of the Year award in the dinghy category. It was also a recipient of the Red Dot Design Award, a rare feat for a small sailing craft, which recognized its innovative approach to "trunk-to-water" logistics. The boat has been featured extensively by Yachting World, where reviewers praised its ability to bridge the gap between a technical racing dinghy and a lifestyle "toy" for yacht owners.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Reverso Air is built to high standards, its modular nature requires specific maintenance routines that traditional dinghies do not. Potential buyers should focus on the following areas:

• Tensioning System Integrity: The stainless steel ratchet and the straps that hold the four sections together are the most critical components. Inspect the straps for any signs of fraying or UV degradation, as a failure here can cause the hull sections to separate during a capsize.
• Gasket Seals: Each hull section is lined with a specialized seal to prevent water ingress into the "nest." Check these for compression sets or tears. While the boat is designed with independent buoyancy in each section, leaky seals will lead to a heavy, sluggish boat.
• Carbon Mast Ferrules: Ensure the joints of the three-piece carbon mast are clean and free of grit. Sand or salt buildup in these joints can cause the sections to "lock" together permanently or lead to stress fractures under load.
• Hull Connection Points: Examine the male/female nesting points on the gelcoat. Frequent assembly and disassembly can lead to spider cracking or chipping if the sections are not aligned perfectly before tensioning.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the manufacturer's own "Reverso Project" portal, which provides detailed assembly guides and part replacements. While there is no formal international class association for racing yet, a growing community of owners interacts through regional "Reverso Owners" groups on social media to organize "pop-up" regattas and share tips on transportation and tuning.

The Verdict

The Reverso Air is a masterclass in modern marine engineering, successfully proving that a "portable" boat does not have to be a compromise in performance.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Portability: Can be transported in a car trunk, eliminating the need for a trailer or storage yard.
• Elite Construction: Use of Seldén carbon spars and high-end sailcloth provides a premium feel.
• High Performance: Planes easily and offers a genuine 15-knot speed potential.

Cons:

• Price Point: Significantly more expensive than traditional one-design dinghies of similar length.
• Assembly Time: While fast, the 10-15 minute setup requires more effort than simply pulling a boat off a trailer.
• Delicate Components: The lightweight hull and carbon rig require more careful handling on shore than a rotomolded or heavy fiberglass boat.