Windsurfing Sails Size

An ideal windsurfing sail size varies from person to person and depends on various factors like the size of the board, you height, your weight and the speed at which you wish to windsurf. The size of the sail generally conforms to the wind speed and the shape corresponds to the type of sailing you indulge in. A wrong sized windsurfing sail can be disastrous if you do not have an idea about the sail size that caters to your needs. The sail size should be such that it gives you enough power and speed to enjoy windsurfing and yet be able to control the sails. We give you an overview of the sizes of sails available and how they respond to different wind conditions.

Sailors always use the metric system while referring to the sail size. Windsurfing sail sizes range from 2 square meters (2 oh - as the windsurfers call) to 13 square meters. Learning sails for children are available from 0.7- 1 square meter. A sail size of 9 square meters and above are considered as big. For an amateur windsurfer, sails ranging from 5 to 6.5 square meters in size are recommended as they work well for light winds up to winds of 4-5 knots.

Unlike the boards, a bigger sail size does not always guarantee you the best performance. Big sails are for heavier people or are to be used during light-wind conditions as they help in propelling the windsurfing board. Always make sure that the sail isn't too big for your body size and weight as more efforts are required to maneuver the rig.

You can be 'Lightly-powered', 'Moderately-powered' or 'Over-powered'. Lightly-powered means you don't lean too hard against the pull of the sail. You can cruise at 3 to 7 mph and a light-wind condition should be just fine. Though planing in this condition can be difficult. A light-wind sail or a medium sized sails (5 oh- 7.5 oh) are apt for this wind condition. Moderately and over-powered conditions lowers the speed and makes the sail hard to control.

We suggest you start off by choosing light-wind sails to get the knack of windsurfing. Eventually, you can experiment with various sizes of the sails, and finally find the one that appeals to you the most.