null

Zim ISCA Lift Test - Hull Construction Improvements

Zim ISCA Lift Test - Hull Construction Improvements

When we were selected to be the ISCA builder, we asked the class for a list of issues that they’ve seen with previous builders. From leaking boats, to torn mast steps, to cracking gelcoat around the nonskid.. to halyard and traveler fairleads that pull out – we got a LONG list of issues from past boats. The team at Zim methodically reviewed the list, and came up with internal and manufacturing improvements to address each one. 

We can’t tell you about all the improvements, but two of the most common complaints we were asked to address were main halyard fairlead failures and bridle fairlead failures. On older boats, it is not uncommon for either of both of these fittings to pull out of the deck over time. 

Our team resolved both of these issues by putting in aluminum backing plates with machine tapped screws. These backing plates are also fully encased in fiberglass, a small but clever improvement we did not see when studying boats from any previous builders. 

The result is the elimination of these common failures, and what we believe will be the strongest, most durable ISCA sailboats for years to come. 

But don’t just take our word for it. To prove the point, we picked up an ISCA by *just* those fittings (main halyard fairlead and the two aft bridle wire fairleads). Here are the pictures. 

13th May 2025 Philip Krug | Head of Digital

Advice & articles

Stay Informed