Windsurfing Wind Conditions

A lot depends on the wind conditions on the day that you choose to windsurf. You should essentially know the wind conditions to decide what kind of windsurfing you would be doing on that particular day.

Wind condition comprises wind speed and direction which largely affects windsurfing. Wind speed is measured using the Beaufort Wind Scale. The Beaufort Scale categorizes the wind speed from 0 knots to above 60 knots.

You can start windsurfing at a wind speed that is as low as 0-3 knots where the wind is very calm. Beginners should ideally start out at this wind speed (called as low wind windsurfing) so as to learn the very basic steps of windsurfing. This wind condition will help you sail smoothly over the water as you learn to balance yourself on the windsurfing board by distributing your weight evenly and maneuvering the rig properly. While windsurfing up to 10 knots (called as light wind conditions), you merely glide through the water with your windsurfing board and the fin. You surf relatively at a slow speed.

When the wind speed increases above 10 knots, the windsurfing board no longer displaces water and you simply skim over the surface at a higher speed (planing). A smaller board works the best for planing at 15 knots which is considered an ideal wind speed for recreational windsurfing. While planing, the best way to change the direction would be to carve i.e. to rotate the rig using the edges of the windsurfing board.

You can windsurf at a wind speed of up to 50 knots (strong gale). You just need to make sure you have the correct windsurfing gear to cope with the increasing wind speed. As your wind speed increases, a bigger sized sail will be difficult to maneuver. A beginner and an intermediate level sailor can comfortably windsurf in a wind condition of 0-20 knots. Wind conditions of 25 knots and onwards are tamed only by experts. At this stage, the wind velocity is very high and can be life threatening for an inexperienced sailor.

Experienced sailors will be able to give you an overview of the wind conditions in that particular area. For more accurate wind condition information, you can buy a Wind speed meter that is easily available.