Ultimate Review of The Best Windsurfing Sails in 2023

I’ll share everything you need to know about selecting the best windsurfing sails in the section below.

Here, we’ll go through the actors to consider to ensure you pick a windsurfing sail that is right for your surfing needs.

Surfing Location

Before you invest in a windsurfing sail, you need to determine the surfing location.

Do you prefer doing it on lakes or open to trying windsurfing in lakes?

Keep in mind that windsurfing on lakes is quite different from surfing on the ocean.

Size of the Windsurfing Sail

Usually, most windsurfers have multiple sails.

Professionals even require more.

Of course, several factors affect the size of the sail.

One of them is the surfing location. For example, if you’ll be surfing on the lakes, you need more surfing sails than when surfing on the ocean.

The surfer’s skill and weight also affect the windsurfing sail’s size.

But generally, windsurfers use sizes between 5 and 8 square meters. Of course, the best way to know the size and square meters you need is to use online size charts or follow the product’s recommendations.

Sail Type

Generally, your skill and purpose define the type of sail to choose.

For example, beginners should opt for the freeride sails without any camber.

And once your skills improve, you can switch to other forms of sail such as wave or slalom.

Compatibility

If you’re replacing your sail with an existing mast and boom, ensure that it has good compatibility.

The pole should have similar properties you need for sailing.

Everything you Need to Know about Wind Sails

The sail is an important instrument in windsurfing.

It’s what makes you glide over the surface.

The sail should be flexible because it needs to adjust to the velocity and push of the wind.

Traditionally, windsurf sails were used by the Egyptians, primarily for driving their boats, and this helped to establish Nile River trading routes in the Indus Valley.

The concept hasn’t changed much today, only that many users now use them for recreational purposes.

Windsurfing Design

A windsurfing sail comes with different components, and each plays a critical role in optimizing the sail’s performance.

Beyond the individual components, a windsurfing sail comes in two distinct designs;

1)      Camber induced design

2)      Rotational design

Camber refers to the symmetry between two acting surfaces of an aerofoil.

This design has 1-5 camber inducers and is mostly used by beginners as it’s light and has no battens.

On the other hand, rotational sails have rod battens extending at the back of the mast.

They move around the sides of the mast when jibbing.

However, unlike cambered sails, they provide less power when you ride straight. But the good thing is they’re normally lighter and easier to use.

Windsurfing Sail Types

Normally, sails are different depending on the types of windsurfing activity, either for recreation or competition.

The different types of windsurfing sails include:

Wave Sails

This class is designed for stronger winds, making the sail seem smaller than other windsurfing equipment.

As their name suggests, they’re meant for use in the waves and come with well-designed panels to ensure no breakage.

Plus, the batten used in their profile is strong to prevent snapping.

Slalom Sails/ Racing Sails

Racing sails are designed for use in light wind conditions but need to propel at high speeds.

They come with light materials to promote faster and instant acceleration.

However, their lightness means they compromise on their sturdiness and tend to break easily.

Freeride sails

They’re also known as lightweight sails and are usually used on lighter winds.

A freeriding sail is often used for recreation.

Beginner Sails

The beginner sails are popular with beginners.

They tend to be light to prevent users from getting exhausted faster while in use.

Plus, the lightweight construction prevents hurting users while making them feel comfortable at sea.

Freestyle Sail

The freestyle sail is used on flat water.

It’s also common with surfers who want to do tricks.

While the freestyle sails are similar to wave sails, they’re wider and have a greater capacity for acrobatic tricks.

Olympic Windsurfing Sails

These sails consist of high-level technology rig with mast and boom and wide style boards.

They’re ideal for competitions and can be used in any power wave sailing conditions.

Choice of Material

Using quality materials for your windsurfing sail is crucial because the cheaper ones tend to rip during strong wind.

Some of the popular materials with windsurfing brands include:

1)      Mylar

Mylar has a Dacron coating, but it holds a better shape than Dacron.

Unfortunately, it peels over time.

2)      Dacron

Dacron is a Polyester fiber from China.

It’s lightweight, and this promotes better control.

Unfortunately, it can stretch out of place.

3)      Monofilm

Monofilm holds a better shape, is robust and clear, which gives it excellent visibility.

It’s used in the premium windsurfing sails.

Windsurfing Tips for Beginners

Knowing some handy tips from the experts will help you grow faster into the windsurfing sport.

Here’re a few tips to consider;

• If you’re unsure whether you want to get into windsurfing, you can start renting a sail. This allows you to explore the sport, define your skill and make you know whether you’ll pursue windsurfing.
• Consider taking windsurfing lessons. Sure, you can always learn by yourself, but learning the basics from experts will help to expedite the process.
•         When surfing, consider using more of your body weight than your hand’s strength. Relax, avoid bending and keep a neutral position.
• Start by practicing on a decently-sized windsurfing sail because it’s stable and helps maintain your balance.
•         Start on the small waves and light winds.
• Like any other water sport, don’t forget to dehydrate and fuel your body with energy-giving foods.

Best Windsurfing Sails Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the difference between a windsurfing board and a windsurfing sail?

A: On a board, the mast is supported on a board deck, while in a sail, the mast is self-supported.

Q: Is it difficult to lift a windsurfing sail?

A: No, because the upper body strength isn’t needed for lifting the sail. All you need is the skill for riding the sail.

However, they’re still lightweight windsurfing boards, making it easier for surfers to execute tricks.

Q: Do I need windsurfing lessons?

A: It’s not necessary, but it’s always good to learn from the experts.

What’s essential is you need to practice.

Q: How do I maximize safety when windsurfing?

A: Avoid getting into the water in stormy conditions and gusty winds.

Secondly, practice in predictable, good wind speed, ideally 5 to 10 miles per hour.

Q: Where should I practice windsurfing?

A: Flat waters are the best.

However, steer away from waters with off-shore wind, rock levees, obstacles, and crowded areas.