Zhik has officially joined forces with the German Coastal Rowing Team as their exclusive outfitter, marking a bold new chapter in high-performance water sports. As Coastal Rowing makes its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028, Germany’s top athletes will chase gold in gear designed for the extreme demands of this rapidly evolving discipline. The partnership also reflects Zhik’s strategic move to build its presence in the rowing world and solidify its position as a leader in performance gear for this growing Olympic and recreational category.
A New Frontier in Olympic Rowing
The 2028 Olympic Games will mark a historic turning point for rowing, with the introduction of Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint as a medal discipline. Differing from traditional flat-water races, Coastal Rowing is a thrilling sport that combines endurance, technique, and raw intensity with the unpredictable forces of the sea. Short, explosive sprints from the beach into open water test the limits of the athletes coordination, speed, and adaptability for the ever-changing racecourse.
In this high-stakes environment, gear isn't just there to look good, it's a critical factor in how you perform. That’s why the German Rowing Association (DRV) selected Zhik as its exclusive outfitter for the Olympic cycle. Backed by Zhik’s German distributor, Peter Frisch GmbH, the partnership will provide on-water and onshore apparel for athletes and staff alike, designed to meet the diverse needs of elite coastal competition.
From world champions to Olympic medallists, Germany’s Coastal Rowing team brings a legacy of excellence. Athletes like Karl Schulze, two-time Olympic gold medallist and bronze finisher at the 2023 World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals, know that every stroke counts — and every second is earned.
“In Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint, the right gear is critical,” says Schulze. “Zhik delivers on every front — breathable, quick-drying, and engineered to move with us.”
With constant exposure to saltwater, sun, wind and surf, gear demands are extreme. Zhik’s apparel gives the team a competitive edge with technical fabrics, ergonomic designs, and smart layering systems developed alongside world-class athletes.
Importantly, the team has also been able to utilise key pieces from Zhik’s existing product range, originally designed for sailing and paddle sports, highlighting the brand’s commitment to cross-sport innovation. This adaptability not only supports elite performance in Coastal Rowing, but also demonstrates the technical versatility of Zhik gear across a wide spectrum of water-based disciplines.
Engineered for Speed, Protection, and Performance
To dominate the dynamic conditions of coastal rowing, German athletes are outfitted in a comprehensive technical gear that spans water, shore, and recovery. Here’s a look at what they’re wearing.
Sun Protection – Built to Shield
Sun protection is critical in Coastal Rowing, where athletes are exposed to long hours of intense UV radiation reflecting off water. The combination of exertion, wet conditions, and harsh sunlight means that high-performance sun gear isn't optional, it's essential. Zhik's technical apparel is certified with UPF50+ sun protection, offering maximum defence against harmful rays while remaining breathable and quick-drying for comfort during high-intensity sessions.
- Rowing Unisuit – Engineered for elite performance, the Zhik Rowing Unisuit features a lightweight, high-stretch fabric that delivers comfort, mobility, and performance in every stroke. 3D body mapped panelling follows the contours of the body to deliver a highly natural, ergonomic fit that enhances freedom of movement. This design provides exceptional mobility through the full stroke cycle, ensuring athletes can move efficiently and comfortably during intense effort. The suit also incorporates flatlock seams to reduce chafing, a secure leg opening for comfort, and moisture-wicking, quick-dry technology to enhance thermal regulation and maintain comfort during high-output efforts. Ideal for training and competition, it’s built to meet the demands of modern rowing at every level.
- Eco Spandex LT Tops – Part of Zhik’s sustainable innovation platform, these tops are made with high-stretch recycled polyester and deliver certified UPF50+ sun protection to guard against prolonged UV exposure on the water. The lightweight, breathable fabric features a smooth feel for next-to-skin comfort, while its quick-dry and moisture-wicking properties keep athletes dry and cool during high-output sessions. The ergonomic fit is shaped for active movement, ensuring comfort and freedom through every stroke. Flatlock seams reduce chafing, and the four-way stretch knit ensures excellent shape retention and full mobility under pressure.
- Caps & Hats – Zhik’s range of water sports caps and hats are crafted for on-water endurance. Lightweight and fast-drying, they offer secure fits for high-wind environments and extended sun protection. Soft headbands and vented panels maximise comfort when training or racing under pressure.
Warmth Layers – Thermal Performance
Staying warm and dry is essential in Coastal Rowing, where cold air, wind chill, and exposure to water can rapidly reduce body heat. Mid layers play a critical role in thermal regulation by insulating the body and managing moisture. When worn over a breathable base layer and under a protective shell, these garments trap warmth close to the skin while allowing sweat to wick away. This not only maintains athlete comfort but also helps preserve energy and reduce the risk of muscle fatigue or strain in cooler environments.
- Hydrophobic Fleece Tops – Designed for dynamic on-water conditions, these tops combine hydrophobic coatings with a fleece interior that repels water and retains warmth without becoming waterlogged. Ideal for layering over base garments, they offer breathability and flexibility for high-mobility training while keeping the torso warm and dry in cool or misty conditions.
- Wetsuit Tops & Bottoms – Featuring a soft internal lining infused with graphene for advanced heat retention, these garments deliver lightweight thermal protection in colder surf and wind-exposed environments. The four-way stretch neoprene allows full freedom of movement, while flatlock seams minimise chafing. Perfect for rowers and support crew operating in unpredictable coastal conditions. With the Microfleece™ range designed for cold conditions and Superwarm® engineered for extreme cold and freezing temperatures, Zhik offers a comprehensive layering solution.
Shore Support – All-Conditions Coverage
It’s not just the athletes who face the elements — support teams play a critical role in Coastal Rowing, often spending long hours on shore or in the water assisting launches, handling gear, and ensuring smooth execution of race-day operations. Whether braving chilly mornings, battling incoming surf, or providing real-time feedback during training, their comfort and functionality matter. Equipping the shore crew with high-performance gear ensures they can move efficiently, stay dry, and remain protected across all conditions — ultimately contributing to the athlete’s performance and success.
- Hybrid Fleece Jackets – These versatile midlayer jackets combine wind resistant paneling with recycled fleece, making them ideal for warming up, spectating, or performing shore support duties. Lightweight and breathable, they provide warmth without the bulk and are tailored for freedom of movement in active environments.
- Zhik Motion Tops – Zhik Motion™ Tops are adaptable technical layers made from 250gsm recycled polyester with a soft brushed finish for added warmth. Designed to cut wind chill and wick moisture, they offer UPF50+ sun protection and feature a 4-way stretch knit for unrestricted movement, perfect for varying onshore activities. A fluorocarbon-free DWR coating provides water resistance, while integrated thumb loops, a fitted hood, and built-in balaclava deliver added coverage in exposed conditions.
- Waterproof Jackets – Zhik’s waterproof outerwear provides athletes and support team members with a range of options tailored for various conditions, from light showers to heavy downpours. The INS200™ Jacket is a lightweight, breathable shell ideal for dealing with moderate weather and rain with its lightweight 3-layer Vecta fabric, it balances waterproof protection, breathability and clean design. For more extreme conditions the OFS600™ Jacket delivers offshore-level waterproof protection with durable 3-layer construction — perfect for extended exposure during training camps or beach sprint events in stormy weather.
- UV Sun Tops – Lightweight, quick-drying protection for support teams operating in full sun exposure. Zhik’s UVActive range of tops are made from UPF50+ certified materials to deliver maximum protection against harmful UV rays. Built with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that retain shape when wet, these tops offer extended coverage, cooling performance, and dependable sun defence for long days on the water.
From Sailing Pioneers to Water Sports Powerhouse
Zhik’s roots lie in competitive sailing, but its future is far broader. The brand is undergoing a powerful evolution, expanding its performance portfolio across the wider world of water sports. From paddle and surf to rowing and beyond, Zhik is redefining what elite aquatic gear can be through versatile, cross-discipline technologies that deliver performance across multiple environments. These include UPF50+ certified sun protection in the Eco Spandex and UVActive ranges, advanced moisture-wicking and thermal regulation in the Active Baselayers, and waterproof protection through lightweight outerwear such as the INS200™ jackets and other waterproof protection items. These innovations are paired with sport-specific designs like rowing unisuits, creating a technical ecosystem that performs across disciplines without compromise. These technologies are helping drive performance and protection across a range of environments and athlete needs.
This isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a shared commitment to innovation and excellence,” says Mat Belcher, Zhik CEO and two-time Olympic sailing champion.
“We’re proud to support the German Coastal Rowing Team and to help shape the future of this electrifying Olympic sport.”
Eyes on the Podium
With Los Angeles 2028 on the horizon, Germany’s Coastal Rowing athletes are training harder than ever — fast, fearless, and determined to make history. Their sights are set on the Olympic podium, and they’re backed by gear designed to perform under pressure.
This exclusive outfitting deal is about pushing boundaries, testing limits, and delivering when it matters most. Zhik’s Rowing collection is built on elite insight, rigorous testing, and a relentless pursuit of performance. It’s the same spirit that drives Olympic athletes and now it’s available to everyone.
