RCA Welcomes Zhik as Official Performance Apparel Provider
- Rowing Canada Aviron
- Mar 4, 2026
Victoria, BC – March 4, 2026 – Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) is pleased to announce the selection of Zhik as its official performance apparel provider.
The partnership will see Zhik supply innovative, durable, and technically advanced apparel for RCA athletes, staff, board members, and umpires across all rowing disciplines.
Following a comprehensive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, Zhik was chosen for its proven commitment to sustainability, product innovation, and performance-driven design. The collaboration will focus on developing apparel that enhances athlete performance through on-water testing and feedback with RCA’s High Performance (HP) program.
“This partnership is built on a shared obsession with performance. Working directly with Rowing Canada and the High Performance program allows us to test and refine our products where it matters most – on the water, with athletes competing at the highest level,” shares Mat Belcher, CEO of Zhik.
Zhik, founded in Sydney, Australia, is a global performance water sports brand known for its innovation-led design and close collaboration with elite athletes. The company’s technical apparel is trusted by Olympic and world champions across multiple disciplines, including rowing, sailing, and paddle sports. Through this partnership, Zhik will work closely with RCA’s HP athletes to test and refine gear in real training and racing conditions, ensuring apparel that meets the demands of world-class rowing.
“Rowing is a sport we are deeply committed to globally, and partnering with one of the world’s leading national programs is a powerful step in that journey,” says Mat Belcher.
RCA’s partnership with Zhik underscores a shared commitment to performance excellence, sustainability, and athlete-centred innovation.
“The athletes and coaches are thrilled to partner with Zhik,” shares Chuck McDiarmid, NextGen Program Lead. “Mat Belcher’s visit from Australia really energized the team and showed us the depth of commitment behind this partnership. Zhik’s focus on high-performance watersports technology is bringing a fresh perspective and exciting innovation to rowing.“
The agreement provides flexibility and long-term value, ensuring that RCA’s apparel program continues to evolve with the needs of the rowing community while contributing to Zhik’s growing involvement in the global rowing landscape.
About Zhik
Founded in Sydney, Australia, Zhik is a global performance water sports brand designing technical apparel for rowing, sailing, and paddle sports worldwide. Known for innovation-led design and athlete collaboration, Zhik works closely with elite teams and grassroots communities to develop gear built for real conditions. Zhik products are trusted by Olympic and world champions across multiple disciplines.
About Rowing Canada Aviron
Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) is a non-profit organization recognized by the Government of Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee as the national governing body for the sport of rowing in Canada. RCA represents registered members of all levels and ages across Canada, whether they row for recreation, health and fitness, or competition.
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Colleen Coderre, Communications Lead
Rowing Canada Aviron
T: 613-530-6217
Cassie Turkstra, Communications Coordinator
Rowing Canada Aviron
