Fluidesign

42°59′13″N 81°14′35″W / 42.986950°N 81.243177°W / 42.986950; -81.243177

Fluidesign
Fluidesign Inc.
Company typePrivate
IndustryBoat manufacturing
FoundedLondon, Ontario, Canada
(1999)
FounderGordon Henry
Headquarters
London, Ontario
,
Canada
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Gordon Henry, Sam Roberts (CEO)
ProductsRacing rowing shells
Websitewww.rowfluidesign.com

Fluidesign is a Canadian manufacturer of racing rowing shells headquartered in London, Ontario.[1] Established in 1999 by former rower Gordon Henry, the company introduced shell designs influenced by aerodynamics and composite techniques from the aviation sector, including the use of carbon fibre. Its early models featured wing-shaped outriggers and colored carbon finishes that reduced the need for paint. Fluidesign produces a range of sculling and sweep boats, such as singles, doubles, pairs, and quads, which are used by rowing clubs, universities, and competitive athletes internationally.

History

Fluidesign was established in 1999 by Gordon Henry, a former Hudson Boatworks salesman.[2][3] Henry left Hudson Boatworks in 1998 and soon after was approached by Diamond Aircraft for a collaborative project.[4][5]

This project utilized expertise from the aviation industry, particularly in aerodynamics and the application of carbon fiber, to innovate in the design of rowing shells.[5][6]

The initial Fluidesign models featured distinctive wing-like outriggers, a design choice influenced by the aerodynamic principles used in Diamond aircraft.[5]

In January 2000, Henry began selling Fluidesign racing shells and subsequently gained full control of the company by purchasing his business partner's shares.[4]

In 2016, the company relocated to its current premises on Elias Street in London, Ontario, from its previous location at 175 Exeter Road, London, Ontario.[5][7]

Rowing shell design

Fluidesign's rowing shells are recognized for their colored carbon fiber construction, a choice made to eliminate the need for paint and thereby reduce the overall weight of the boats.[8][2] Fluidesign's range of boats includes singles, doubles and pairs, and coxed and coxless quads.[9][10]

Comparison between a Fluidesign double scull and a coxless quad scull.

Types of boats

Fluidesign builds rowing shells using carbon-fibre composites with clear finishes to reduce weight. They currently offer:

  • Single Sculls (1X) – Available in FluidMax and Elite variants
  • Double Sculls / Coxless Pairs (2X / 2‑) – Offered as FluidMax and Elite models
  • Coxed Four / Coxed Quad (4+ / 4X+)
  • Coxless Four / Coxless Quad (4‑ / 4X)

Athletes rowing in Fluidesign shells


References

  1. ^ "Fluidesign – Company Information". Dealroom. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  2. ^ a b "Former Olympic rower from P.E.I. now leading boat builder for sport". CBC News. 12 August 2016. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  3. ^ Jeff Whiting (August 2015). "Against All Odds" (PDF). Rowing News. pp. 38–47. Retrieved 1 July 2025.
  4. ^ a b Topher Bordeau (March 2006). "All In The Family: The Canadian Boatbuilding Family Tree". Rowing News. pp. 52, 54, 55. Retrieved 1 July 2025.
  5. ^ a b c d Fluidesign (December 2023). "History of Fluidesign". rowfluidesign.com. Retrieved 28 January 2024.
  6. ^ Martin, Chip (23 November 1998) [1998-11-23]. "Fluidesign". The London Free Press.
  7. ^ "International Business Listing". The Rower's Almanac 2002. 2000. p. 374. ISBN 978-0-9651327-4-9. Retrieved 28 January 2024.
  8. ^ Caroline Grogan (28 November 2000). "Strength in Numbers – New Boat Builders Respond to Growing Market". Rowing News. pp. 25–26. Retrieved 28 January 2024.
  9. ^ "Fluidesign's Innovative Boat Design". Retrieved 26 December 2023.
  10. ^ "Elite racing shells from Fluidesign at the Row Show 2023". Retrieved 12 April 2024.
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