Blaze Sailing Dinghy – Review, Specifications & Buying Guide

Blaze sailing dinghy

The Blaze sailing dinghy was designed and built by Ian Howlett and John Caig in the mid 90’s, and marketed by Topper International from the year 2000. The sail and boom of the Blaze dinghy have been changed over time and as a result there are now three distinct versions of the Blaze.

Blaze Version 1

The original Blaze had a 10.2 sq metre fully battened sail which proved difficult to handle in any real breeze for many helms. As a result the The Blaze class association brought about changes to the sail and boom. These included

– ping some of the excessive leech of the sail
– use of carbon boom
– redesigned partially battened sail of 10 sq metres with battens at the top of the sail only meaning power can be spilled from the sail so making the dinghy easier to handle.

Blaze Version 2

Marketed as the ‘Blaze X’
Blaze Version 3

Released in 2008 with a a re engineered deck and changes to layout and fittings.

The Blaze has a very active class association which has been involved in development of the dinghy throughout. In 2006 manufacturing of the Blaze moved from Topper International to Cirrus Raceboats in conjunction with Rondar. The Blaze sailing dinghy can accommodate helms from around 11 to 16 stone.

Performance and Handling

The Blaze is known for its combination of speed and controllability. It performs particularly well in medium to strong winds where its planing hull can fully engage.

Key performance characteristics include:

• Fast planing upwind and downwind
• Strong stability from hiking wings
• Responsive helm feedback
• Excellent control in gusty conditions
• Efficient rig for both inland and coastal sailing

The wide wings give sailors greater leverage, allowing the boat to be sailed aggressively without excessive physical strain compared to narrower dinghies.

Sailing Experience

The Blaze offers an engaging and athletic sailing experience. It rewards good hiking technique and sail trim while remaining more forgiving than trapeze skiffs.

It is especially popular for:

Club racing
Inland lake sailing
Coastal regattas
Sailors transitioning from entry-level dinghies

The boat performs well across a wide wind range, with particularly strong results in breezy conditions.

Rig Options

The Blaze class includes several rig variations:

Standard Blaze rig – primary racing configuration
Fire rig – smaller sail for lighter sailors or stronger winds
Halo rig – larger sail for lighter conditions and heavier sailors

This flexibility allows sailors of different weights to remain competitive.

Who is the Blaze Suitable For?

The Blaze is best suited for intermediate to advanced sailors who want performance sailing without trapeze systems.

It is ideal for:

Sailors upgrading from Laser, Solo or similar dinghies
Competitive club racers
Sailors who prefer hiking over trapeze sailing
Those looking for a modern but manageable single-hander

It suits a wide weight range thanks to its adjustable rig and wing system.

Racing and Class Activity

The Blaze has an active UK class association with regular racing at club, regional and national level.

Key features of the class include:

• Friendly and supportive racing community
• Regular championships and open meetings
• Strong development support
• Mixed fleet racing compatibility

The class remains competitive and accessible for both newer and older boats.

Buying a Used Blaze

When considering a used Blaze dinghy, check the following:

Hull condition (especially stress areas)
Wing frame integrity and fittings
Mast and boom condition
Sail wear and shape
Centreboard and rudder alignment
Control lines and fittings

The class has good longevity, and parts are still widely available.