The Evolution 5.5 where built between the 70's until 1990. Most boats where designed by Britton Chance Jr and Ben Lexcen. The hull is a radical change from a Classic boat, it is less deeper and thewetted surface is decreasing drastically. The rudder is separated from the keel. The naval architects also explore new combinations allowed by therules with lighter boats (1750 kg) therefore very short at waterline.

Synaril Z-130 a boat designed in 81 by Britton Chance Jr. and built by Hermann Egger distinguished himself by winning many world championships and other title. He was owned by François Homberger. Philippe Durr was at the helm and Daniel Stampfli was crewing.

Ben Lexcen also designed Arunga and many othe very successful boats.

Most boats where built using plywood. Some Australian boats made in fiberglass made their first appearance in the 80's, then the american Melges Boatyard produced a important series of boat all in fiberglass based on Warrior a hull designed by Fay/Luders.

The mast is still fairly heavy as it is built according to the old rule and can only be found in aluminium.

From a performance point of view there is not such a great difference between the evolution and the modern class. A good crew with good sails can still bring an evolution boat on the front line in a large fleet like Weekend V manned by Andreas Christiansen in the last world championship in Flensburg.

(Left: Man Jack, design B. Lexcen, builder: H. Egger St-Aubin, Switzerland, now sailing in France)

(Below: La Soute à Voiles, Designer: A. Fragnière, Builder: P. Liechti, St-Aubin, material: fiberglass)