Soling One Meter RC Sailboat: Class, Specs and Buying One
The Soling One Meter (S1M) is a one-design radio sailboat class and the largest class in the American Model Yachting Association (AMYA). Boats are built from kits or ready-to-sail models made by a single maker, Victor Model Products, so every boat is essentially identical and races come down to sailing skill. The hull is 39.375 inches long with an 8.875-inch beam, made of vacuum-formed polystyrene with wooden spars, flat single-panel sails and just two radio channels: one for both sails and one for the rudder.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Class specs
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 39.375 in (1 m) |
| Beam | 8.875 in |
| Materials | Vacuum-formed polystyrene hull, deck, keel, rudder; wood spars |
| Sails | Flat, single-panel only |
| Radio | Two channels: sails and rudder |
| Maker | Victor Model Products (approved manufacturer) |
From the AMYA and US Sailing class rules; check the current rules before building or buying.
Why it’s popular
The Soling’s one-design concept means a first-time skipper can build a boat that performs essentially the same as an expert’s. That keeps costs low and racing close. The simple two-channel setup and plastic construction make it easy to build and maintain, and many clubs in the US have Soling fleets, which makes it easy to find races and help.
New or used
New kits and ready-to-sail boats come from Victor Model Products. Used Solings appear in club classifieds and online; because all boats are alike, a well-kept used boat races just as well as a new one. Check the condition of the hull seams, keel attachment, sails and the sail winch before buying.
Used boat checklist
- Hull and deck seams intact, no cracks.
- Keel and rudder firmly attached and straight.
- Sails flat and undamaged; spars straight.
- Sail winch and rudder servo working.
- Radio included or compatible.
- Class-legal (no unapproved modifications).
Building tips
- Follow the maker’s manual and the AMYA building guide.
- Glue plastic seams carefully and let them cure fully.
- Align the keel and rudder precisely; misalignment slows the boat.
- Seal the deck to keep water out.
- Rig the sails to the class settings, then tune with club sailors.
Racing
Clubs run regular Soling races, and there are regional and national regattas. With identical boats, tactics, starts and sail trim matter most. If you later want a class with more design freedom, the IOM is popular worldwide; see IOM RC sailboats. For small ponds, the RG65 is another option; see RG65 RC sailboats.
Sailing tips
With only one channel for both sails, trim is mostly done on shore by adjusting the sheet lengths, boom positions and mast rake. On the water, ease the sails when sailing downwind and pull them in when sailing upwind. Watch the telltales or the boat’s speed and heel to judge trim. In stronger wind, flatten the sails and reduce heel; in light wind, give the sails more depth. Club sailors often share their settings for different wind strengths, which is the fastest way to learn.
Care
After every session, dry the boat, check that no water has entered the hull, and keep the sails rolled or flat to avoid creases. Plastic hulls are durable but crack if dropped on hard surfaces, so carry the boat on a stand. Replace stretched rigging lines and check the winch line regularly.
FAQ
Who makes the Soling One Meter?
Victor Model Products is the approved manufacturer.
How big is a Soling One Meter?
39.375 in long with an 8.875 in beam.
How many channels?
Two: sails and rudder.
Is it good for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed so newcomers can compete equally.
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
