Hobie also added lightweight carbon daggerboards and rudders recently too. However, I would agree that the Tiger has probably had fewer changes than most other F18s and this is because they have been at the front of the pack at all major F18 events. They also have considerably more resources contributing to development of the rig. If the Tiger begins to slide out of the front of these regattas, you can certainly expect a new Tiger shortly thereafter.


This is just what you need to expect from any formula class like the Formula 18, A class, and F16. The most active classes are going to see the most design iterations as the manufacturers fight for dominance. But again, like I said before, while the changes are exciting and revolutionary in appearance, the effort on part of the manufacturer and designers is fighting for a 1-2% (or less) advantage on the water. I would estimate that my skill at sailing these boats is extracting anywhere between 80% and 95% (when in our sweet spot of wind strength) out of the boat. Will 1% help me? Maybe...but not as much as going out to practice practice practice with the boat that I have.