Footy RC Sailboats: The 12-Inch Racing Class Explained
The Footy is a tiny radio sailing class built around one simple rule: the boat in racing trim must fit inside an open box 305 mm long, 153 mm wide and 305 mm deep (12 × 6 × 12 inches), with sails, masts and rigging allowed to stick out of the top. Radio control is limited to two channels, and only two rig sets may be used at an event. The small size makes Footys cheap to build, easy to transport and great for small ponds and even pools.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Key rules
| Rule | Limit |
|---|---|
| Measurement box | 305 × 153 × 305 mm (12 × 6 × 12 in) |
| Allowed outside the box | Sails, spars, rigging above; bowsprit forward; rudder aft (limited overhang) |
| Rudder overhang | Max 51 mm aft of the box |
| Radio | Max 2 channels |
| Rigs | Max 2 sets per event; smaller rig limited in height |
Summary of the Footy class rules; check the current rules before building.
Design ideas
Because length is fixed, designers get creative: boats are often sailed at an angle in the box, with the hull diagonal to fit more waterline, and some use bowsprits to carry bigger jibs. Narrow, deep keels with heavy bulbs give stability. The open rule means many designs exist, and home builders can compete with their own ideas. The RG65 and IOM classes offer bigger alternatives; see RG65 RC sailboats.
Building a Footy
- Choose a design or plan; many are freely shared.
- Build the hull from balsa, foam with glass, plywood or 3D printing.
- Fit a fin and lead bulb for stability.
- Install micro servos for rudder and sail control (2 channels).
- Make sails from light film or sailcloth.
- Test in a box to make sure it fits in racing trim.
Sailing tips
- Use the bigger rig in light wind, the smaller in stronger wind.
- Keep the boat light; small boats are sensitive to weight.
- Sail on calm, small ponds; waves are huge relative to a Footy.
- Seal the radio compartment carefully.
- Practise tacking and starts with friends.
Why sail a Footy
Footys cost little, fit in a backpack, and sail on water too small for bigger boats. They’re also great building projects, with endless design variations. Larger one-design racing is covered in IOM RC sailboats.
Racing
Footy racing happens at clubs and informal meets, sometimes in pools indoors during winter. Races are short and close, and the small boats make it easy to set up a course anywhere.
Electronics
Footys use the smallest radio gear available: micro receivers, sub-micro servos for the rudder and a small sail winch or arm servo, and a light battery such as a few AAA cells or a small LiPo with a regulator. Waterproofing is essential: seal the hatch with tape and put the receiver in a small waterproof bag or sealed compartment. Every gram saved helps the boat sail in light wind.
Kits and plans
Many Footy plans are shared free by designers, and some makers sell kits or 3D-printable hulls. Building from plans is part of the class culture, and owners often share build logs and test results, which helps newcomers choose a proven design.
Tuning
Small changes make a big difference on a Footy: mast position, sail twist and keel position all affect balance. If the boat turns into the wind on its own, move the rig back or reduce mainsail; if it falls away, move it forward. Test in steady wind and change one thing at a time.
FAQ
What is a Footy sailboat?
A small RC racing yacht that must fit a 12 × 6 × 12 inch box.
How many channels?
Two at most.
Can I build one?
Yes, home builds are common.
Where can I sail it?
Small calm ponds and even pools.
More on this topic: the complete RC Boats guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
