Choosing your first windsurf board can be challenging for a beginner. Click here to ensure you purchase the right board for your skill level.
Not every windsurfing board you come across in the market is suitable to be your very first board. Some might be more accommodating for individuals with a higher skill level. Because of this, it can be difficult to understand what to look for when choosing your first windsurf board. Luckily, we compiled all the necessary requirements to ensure your board is appropriate for you.
Disclosure: This post is to give you important tips on selecting your first windsurfing board. I know you’ll play it safe when you get out there on the waves, but just in case you need me to play the mom card, always windsurf within your skill level and range. Okay, on with the show.
Tips for Choosing Your First Windsurf Board – Choose a Wider Board
The wider your windsurf board is, the more stability you will have on the water. Stability is one of your biggest concerns as a beginner, so you will need a board that makes you feel comfortable gliding through the wind and waves. While you can move onto narrower boards once you have developed your skills, wider boards will help you get the hang of windsurfing techniques.
Tips for Choosing Your First Windsurf Board – Find a Board With a Larger Volume
The volume of a windsurf board also affects—you guessed it—your stability. Beginners will feel wobblier on the board; therefore, one with a larger volume can help you get used to this water sport. However, a board with a high volume will be difficult to use in strong winds, so don’t take your beginner board out when wind conditions are not favorable.
Tips for Choosing Your First Windsurf Board – Use a Daggerboard
A daggerboard is a retractable centerboard or fin on the underside of your windsurfing board. There are different types of windsurfing boards, so not all of them will have a daggerboard. Nevertheless, your first board should have one because it can help you sail upwind and make turns. Given that these are challenging tasks for beginner windsurfers, the extra aid will come in handy.
Tips for Choosing Your First Windsurf Board – Consider a Hybrid Board
Your passion may be learning the ropes of windsurfing, but you may also want to enjoy other water sports. Some companies offer an inflatable board that works for both windsurfing and paddle boarding. This means you can convert the gear on your board to accommodate whichever water sport you plan on enjoying that day. This is great for beginners or individuals who love leisurely trips across the water instead of intense, rigorous adventures.
Tips for Choosing Your First Windsurf Board – Know Whom You’re Purchasing From
Lastly, you should never buy the first board you find online. Ensure the business you’re purchasing from is a reputable business with multiple customer reviews. After all, you don’t want to splurge on a new piece of equipment only to find it was made with low-quality materials. Shop around and weigh the pros and cons of each board you find to purchase the right equipment for you.
You shouldn’t choose justany type of board for your first windsurfing board. As a beginner, you probably need a wide, high-volume board and additional gear or equipment to ensure you’re learning the water sport correctly. When you’re shopping around for equipment, don’t be afraid to ask the dealer questions regarding their gear to guarantee you’re buying the appropriate board for your skill set. Good luck finding the perfect beginner windsurfing board!