Every sailcloth we work with comes in a wide range of weights so we can match the material to the boat, the sailing conditions, and the role of the sail in the inventory. The displacement of the boat, expected sailing locations, and whether a sail is intended as a light-air specialist, a heavy-weather sail, or […]
The Cruising divisions for the Chicago to Mackinac Race and the Bayview to Mackinac Race have taken off in recent years, offering a more approachable way to do one of the Great Lakes’ most iconic distance races. These divisions allow the use of autopilots and place limits on sail inventories and equipment, which significantly reduces […]
This article started the same way many great sailing discussions do, as a bit of Yachty Karate in the loft after a race. One of the guys had gotten pinned behind a slower boat in a beercan race and was talking through how to get around them. With mixed fleet racing becoming more common in […]
Every once in a while, a new boat comes along that lets you rethink the entire sail plan from the ground up. The J/7 is one of those rare opportunities. When J/Boats Midwest and 180 Sails took delivery of hull #2 this summer, we weren’t just unwrapping a new model. We were stepping into the […]
Cruising Code Zeros are becoming one of the most common additions to modern cruising boats, and for good reason. They are faster, easier to use, and work across a wider range of wind angles than racing Code Zeros. To understand why, it helps to look at how these sails began and how racing rules pushed […]
Coastal cruising is about freedom, the ability to cast off for the weekend, explore new harbors, and enjoy every breeze without worrying about what’s next. But even when you’re sailing closer to home, the right sails make all the difference. The material you choose determines how your boat handles, how long your sails last, and […]
Sailing in waves is one of the most difficult skills to master, even for experienced sailors. This year on Lake Michigan has been an unusual one, with shifting wind patterns and confused seas that have made driving especially challenging. Most sailors have heard the classic advice for steering through chop: drive up into the face […]
Few things make a sailor’s heart sink faster than walking down the dock and seeing a new headsail loose on the furler, flogging in the breeze. When used properly, a furling system makes sailing easier, safer, and more enjoyable. But like most sailing gear, it rewards a little bit of attention and care. To help […]
Go behind the scenes at Evolution Sails. Learn how our design team shapes, tests, and refines every sail to balance performance, durability, and craftsmanship.
The Chicago to Mackinac Race is one of the ultimate tests of preparation, endurance, and performance. 333 miles up Lake Michigan demands more than just skill. It demands the right sails, the right setup, and a plan to handle whatever the lake throws your way. Last year’s race was a reminder of how quickly conditions […]
Hi, my name is Andy Camarda, and I am the founder of 180sails.com.
I started sailing before I could walk 30 years ago, and have been working for major sailmaking brands in the industry for over 8 years.
I have been a part of a team that has won every major event in Chicago including the Chicago to Mackinac, the Verve, and the NOOD.
