The 80th Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race delivered one of the most compelling line honours battles in recent memory. After 628 nautical miles of shifting winds, tactical duels and relentless ocean conditions, Master Lock Comanche claimed a hard-earned victory, crossing the finish line in Hobart in two days, five hours, three minutes and 36 seconds. It was a result built on experience, preparation, trust in gear and a measured approach to one of the world’s most demanding ocean races.
From the Boxing Day start, the fleet was challenged by variable winds and unrelenting sea states along the New South Wales coast before confronting the notorious Bass Strait. Throughout the race, Comanche’s crew demonstrated a calm, methodical approach, maintaining speed through transitions and making clear tactical decisions as the weather evolved. Their ability to stay focused and adaptable proved decisive as the race progressed south.
"We’re an incredible team, and that’s what we focus on. When the challenge was thrown at us, we knew exactly what we had to do." - Co-skipper James Mayo
The win carried added meaning for the team following an early retirement in the previous edition. The 2025 campaign was built on detailed preparation and refinement across every element of the program. That preparation shone during the race, with the crew delivering a controlled and consistent performance when it mattered most.
"It’s absolutely amazing. We had a great lead during the race, and then it evaporated in the morning. We effectively had to restart. I’ve never seen anything like it in the Sydney Hobart — all the boats so close together on day two." - Co-skipper Matt Allen
Zhik is proud to partner with Comanche for the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, supplying high performance offshore sailing gear designed to support sailors operating in prolonged, exposed conditions. Offshore racing at this level places heavy demands on both crew and equipment, with long hours on deck, constant moisture and rapidly changing temperatures becoming part of the challenge.
Throughout the race, the team relied on Zhik’s OFS800 Offshore range, engineered to provide durable protection from wind and water while maintaining breathability and mobility. Designed for extended offshore use, the OFS800 system helped manage the physical demands of working on deck in wet and unpredictable conditions. Underfoot, the crew relied on the Zhik Seaboot 700, offering stability, grip and insulation during long watches, while remaining comfortable during continuous movement around the boat.
In addition to their offshore wet weather system, the crew also utilised Zhik's UV protective apparel, ensuring protection during periods of sun exposure and lighter conditions during the race. This layered approach allowed sailors to adapt efficiently as conditions shifted, maintaining comfort and focus throughout the passage.
The partnership between Zhik and Comanche reflects a shared commitment to performance-led design and real-world testing. Success in races like the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race are built on preparation, trust in gear and confidence in equipment when conditions leave little room for compromise.
For Zhik, supporting a campaign capable of performing at this level reinforces the brand’s role in outfitting sailors who compete in the world’s most demanding environments. Comanche’s 2025 Sydney Hobart victory stands as a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when experience, execution and proven performance gear come together offshore.
