To choose the right sail for windsurfing, it is important to consider several parameters. The choice of sail size depends on, as a general rules:

Skill level

The better an athlete is at windsurfing, the larger sail he can afford. Otherwise, if a beginner overestimates his strength and takes a sail that is too big for him, it’ll be difficult to correctly set the riding technique. A large sail will pull forward, which will cause the rider to constantly fall, and he will also risk injury or tearing his back due to an incorrect stance. A beginner should start with 3-4 m² sails, while a professional can afford larger sails. Most kids sails range from 1.0-3.5  m², while an Adult Windsurfing sail will range from 3.5-9.5 m².

Place of windsurfing and average wind speed there

The stronger the wind, the smaller the sail. On the same spot, the same amateur rider with a wind speed of 3 --- 5 m/s can take a sail of about 7 m², and with a wind speed of 10 --- 12 m/s he’ll be comfortable on a sail of 4-5 m². If the rider makes a mistake and takes a sail that is too small, then he won’t have enough traction and won’t be able to fully ride.

Weight of windsurfer

The heavier the rider, the larger the sail they can take. For example, with the same wind conditions and skill level for a 50 kg girl, 4 m² sail is suitable, and for 70+ kg man --- 5.5 m² sail. Otherwise, the consequences will be the same: if the sail is too large, the rider will lose control and will constantly fly forward from the board, risking injury and breaking the sail. And if too small, he won't have enough traction to gain the desired speed.

If you can, it is best to have multiple sails for different wind conditions. Optimal number of sails: 2 or 3 ---  for light, medium and strong winds.

Text: Natalia Kirasheva/WINDY.APP