56 FEATUREUK WINDSURFING
Going out in light winds is a great way to practice high-
wind moves and flowstyle (light wind freestyle) is a skill
in its own right. And with things like foiling becoming
ever more accessible the lighter wind part of
windsurfing is set to be revolutionised.
Now for the delicate part – money
Just like any sport windsurfing isn’t cheap. All hobbies
cost though and once the upfront cost is dealt with
windsurfing can be reasonably inexpensive. Think of it
like a gym membership. Instead of pumping pounds
into pushing weights around re-direct it towards
windsurfing gear as after all it’s better to be outdoors
than stuck inside, surely?
All sports have hype about why the latest equipment is
the best. It’s the same with windsurfing. If you’re just
getting into windsurfing, or haven’t had much practice,
older kit is no issue at all. You don’t have to hand over
a year’s worth of mortgage payments to get afloat.
Secondhand gear is perfectly fine to use. Check out
eBay and quality retailers like Boardwise in the
Midlands who do a great line in used quality kit.
Windless days
Unfortunately no matter how much equipment you own
there’s a chance of getting skunked – at least in terms
of scoring planing conditions. As we said before have a
plan B. Get hold of an inflatable SUP for windless days.
Make sure it has a mast insert for windSUP action.
Basically anything to get you wet. Holiday windsurfing is
great, and I can’t recommend a windsurfing trip enough,
but ultimately to really scratch that itch and also
improve you need to be sailing as regularly as possible.
Windsurfing in the UK is changing and no longer
should it be thought of as cumbersome or inaccessible
outside of overseas resorts and teaching
establishments. There are so many products and ways
to help fulfil your windsurfing dreams. The key is not
getting fixated on any one type of sailing (waves,
slalom) and instead embrace the opportunity of being
on the water. You’ll be glad you did!
uk
WIND
SURFING