Why is the laser sailboat called a "one design" boat?

Question

Why is the laser sailboat called a "one design" boat?

Answer 1

A "One Design" is just like it sounds.  All of the boats in a One Design must be the same.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One-Design

Answer 2

Some "one designs" can be built by anyone, as long as they adhere to the same measurement rules as all others of that class (e.g. the Enterprise).

Others (e.g. the Laser) can only be built by licensed builders - a few builders around the world.

Others (e.g. the RS400) can only be built by one manufacturer. These are often called SMODs - Single Manufacturer One Designs.

Answer 3

The hull, foils, mast, spars, sails are measured to one design rules, although the choice of hull builder, foil maker, sailmaker and spar manufacturer are all left open. The fitting out of the boat is left open.

This means that the hull, foils, mast, spars, and sails are exactly the same for all boats in that design...  you can get whoever to build them, but they all must be built to the same specifications.

And this can go for any number of boats, not just Lasers.

Answer 4

A Laser is a one design because all Lasers are made the same. They can compete without a handicap in racing. Parts from one will fit another. The sails are always the same size. A person can not just put on bigger sails and race. All specs must be met or it is not a Laser.