I am looking to get back into windsurfing after 25 years, my first board was the original windsurfer with a laminated teak wish bone, yes, that's how old I am now. I grew up sailing and surfing Sydney's beautiful north shore and still sail 4/5 days a week as I am a coach and instructor.
I have given up racing small boats and often wondering if I could still windsurf after so many years. If so,,,, what type of board and rig do you think I need for fast flat water?
I'm now 48 years old, 1855 tall and weigh 92 kg's, I would very much appreciate any advice to help guide me in the right direction as to what board and rig would be best suited. Thinking something a few years old for the first one.
Head straight to Wind Surf nSnow, these guys will help you out, no problems.
And you will pick it up again in a blink.
^Head to your local shop, because we are just too busy on here to help??..
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You mentioned your first setup, what was your last board and sail? And what skill level did you end up reaching before you gave it away? planing? gybes? tacks?.. Keep the info coming.. Welcome back!
I think that youd have all the basic skills needed to sail but using one of the old boards will be a different stance and sensation to the new gear.
With the new smaller gear you're are either on the plane and flying or slogging around, and both of those states will use a different stance from what you may be used to.
I would try and jump on someone else's gear for a test ride or pop into Wind Surf and Snow and see if you can demo or rent something around 130 litre free ride board and rig combo. This should give you a reference point to determine if you need to go bigger or smaller with your gear.
Welcome back!
Yeh, thanks Barn.. the last board was a Tyronsea not sure of the spelling so long ago now.... It was supposed to be a bit of an "all rounder", some waves and speed. I found it quick in a straight reaching line but a dog to gybe. Never really mastered it on that board.
Welcome back Hank,
I was in same boat 2 seasons ago - same weight + few kegs. Sailed a windsurfer as a young bloke. Never used harness or footstraps before.
I lashed out and bought a JP Xcite Ride 130 ltr. Enough float that you can uphaul (will be shaky but persist). Bought 2 sails - around 7 and 6 metre and never looked back.
I reckon a board about 130 litres is a good starting point. You can stand on it without sinking, uphaul it and still ride it in 25 knots.
You will want to go down in size eventually but keep this size board as it will become your light wind option
Some boards I reckon worth looking for as a good starting point would be;
JP - EXCITE RIDE
TABOU- ROCKET
FANATIC - SHARK
STARBOARD - FUTURA
There are other brands and models but think of these as your Holden Commodores or Ford Falcons - you dont want a Maserati as your first car ;) OK you do but you know it will end in tears :)
You wont look back trust me. Good Luck.
Have a look in the NSW section -the Wind Surf n Snow / JP are doing demo days in a few weeks. This could be an ideal opportunity to try a range of gear and tempt yourself with some new stuff!
Thanks guys, the information has been very helpful and has given me a starting point to look for. May see you on the water, look for the wobbly one.
