Beginner Windsurfer?

Question

Hi, last year I tried some wondsurfing on holiday and really liked it. I'm now interested in buying a windsurfer for myself. I'm just unsure which board/rig I should get. I dont have too much to spend because i'm a student so I was thinking of getting a second hand one.

I think on holiday I was using a medium sized board and a 5-6 square foot sail, I was just starting to use the harness before i had to leave. Any suggestions one what size sail and board? I'm fairly heavy and the wind is fairly light compared to Turkey (where i was originally windsurfing) where i would be using it, so I assume I would need a bigger sail, maybe 7.5?

Thanks

Answer 1

Congratulation  to your first experiences,

Here is my advice . do not go crazy on your first windsurfing equipment . Second hand is a good Joice , windsurfing Hampton has a swap meet on May 12th, check it out.

Do not get high tech gear just jet . Make sure the board is big in off that  you are still able to pull the sail up by standing on it ( Water start is not all the time possible). Get a sail around 5.5qm ( allround wave).

Check the used board for Dings and repairs. Check used Sails for Stickers, some people like to hide cracks behind it.

Talk to the owner where he surfed and why he is selling.

In general , if you feel the person takes care and is knowledgeable about equipment that's a good thing. Chat a little and if the persons character is OK he may give a beginner a good deal. Windsurfer are all like family and like to take care of each other , at least where I com from.

Mahalo

Answer 2

Your local shop can answer your questions. Find a trained/certifiedinstructor and take lessons. You may need more than one sail, light winds and strong winds.