Sustainable sustainability
Share
Sustainable Sailing: How East Coast Kit and Elvstrøm Are Redefining Sail Longevity
When we talk about sustainability in sailing, it's easy to focus solely on the environmental aspect. But at its core, sustainability also means this:
“The ability to be maintained at a certain level or rate.”
That definition matters just as much when we talk about sails.
Whether you’re racing at top speed or cruising across oceans, the goal is the same: to maintain performance, reliability, and value over time. At East Coast Kit, we help you choose the sail that delivers long-term performance—built specifically for your boat, your goals, and your conditions.
⚙️ What Does Sail Sustainability Really Mean?
Sustainability varies from boat to boat. For a high-performance race yacht, it might mean maintaining top speeds with lightweight, low-stretch sails. For a bluewater cruiser, it could mean sails that last for years—resisting UV damage and daily exposure without needing constant replacement.
Our job is to find the sweet spot. We combine our hands-on sailing experience with yours to ensure the sail we specify meets, and wherever possible, exceeds your expectations over time—not just on Day One.
🌱 The Other Side of Sustainability: Reducing Environmental Impact
In addition to helping you sail sustainably, we’re also committed to making sailmaking itself more sustainable.
With Elvstrøm Sails, we’re proud to push the industry forward with real environmental progress, not just marketing speak. Here’s how we’re helping reduce the environmental footprint of sail production:
-
EXRP Laminate: A radial-cut laminate sail made using 95% recycled materials
-
EPEX Membrane Sails: Our top-tier performance sails now include the option for EKKO recycled polyester fibres
-
100% Renewable Energy: Elvstrøm’s main loft and headquarters are powered entirely by renewable sources
🔄 Introducing the East Coast Kit Sail Trade-In Program
We wanted to take sustainability even further—by addressing what happens to sails after their life on the water.
Now, for any customer ordering a like-for-like replacement sail, we offer an extra 5% discount (on top of any current offers) when you trade in your old sail.
But it’s not just a discount. We’ve partnered with The Old Salt Loft in Burnham-on-Crouch, specialists in upcycling old sails into beautiful and functional products. These include:
-
Tote and duffel bags
-
Deck chair covers
-
Cushions, pillows, and soft furnishings
-
One-off custom pieces
Your old sail won’t end up in a skip or landfill—it will be transformed into something useful and lasting.
🌊 Step-by-Step: How the Sail Trade-In Works
-
Order a new sail with East Coast Kit
-
Trade in your old sail (same type)
-
Receive an extra 5% discount on your new order
-
Your old sail gets a new life thanks to our upcycling partner
It’s a small step, but with every sail traded in, we move closer to what we call "sustainable sustainability"—combining long-term sailing performance with a measurable reduction in environmental impact.
📞 Ready to Trade In and Upgrade?
If you're considering a new sail—whether racing, cruising, or something in between—talk to our team today. We’ll help you select the right sailcloth for your needs, maximise your sail’s lifespan, and reward you for recycling your old one.
📧 Contact us by phone or email
📅 Or book an appointment through our Services page