Windsurfing is wonderfully uncomplicated: a board, a rig, done. Even so, at the start the many numbers are confusing, volume, sail size, mast length. Here you will read honestly which windsurf gear beginners really need, which sizes fit and what it costs. A buying guide, not a paid test.
The board: big, wide, with a daggerboard
For getting started one single rule applies: as much volume and width as possible. A large board does not tip, carries you safely and makes the first hours easy. Important is a daggerboard, the fold-out keel that lets you hold height and not constantly drift off. Such beginner boards also come inflatable (iSUP-like, soft falls, easy transport) or as hard boards (more direct, a little faster).
First purchases with examples based on body weight
Honest guide values for the start, better a little larger and more stable. Brands build slightly differently, take the numbers as orientation.
| Body weight | Board volume (beginner) | Sail size |
|---|---|---|
| approx. 45 kg | approx. 140–160 L | approx. 3.5–4.5 m² |
| approx. 65 kg | approx. 160–180 L | approx. 4.5–5.5 m² |
| approx. 85 kg | approx. 180–200 L | approx. 5.5–6.5 m² |
| approx. 100 kg | approx. 200–220 L | approx. 6.0–7.0 m² |
The rig: sail, mast and boom
The rig consists of sail, mast, boom and mast extension. A small, light beginner sail is your friend: easier to pull out of the water, calmer to control. Make sure mast and sail match (length and stiffness), when buying a complete rig this is automatically the case. The boom should match the sail in length and sit well in your hand.
New, used or rent
Windsurf gear is sturdy and ages slowly, used is often the clever choice here. You can get a well-kept beginner set (board plus one or two rigs) cheaply, and it rides just as well. With the sail, check for tight seams and no yellowed, brittle material, with the board for no pushed-through spots. Best of all: first ride different sizes at the school, then you buy with purpose.
What it costs
| Variant | Price | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| Used beginner set (board + rig) | approx. 300 to 700 € | The clever start, completely sufficient |
| New beginner complete set | approx. 800 to 1500 € | Those who want to start new and with warranty |
| Inflatable windsurf board + rig | approx. 600 to 1100 € | Those with little space who want easy transport |
You make the biggest leap not through expensive gear, but through the first proper lessons. Before you buy, rent a set or take a course, then you know which sizes feel good. How getting started works step by step is in Learning to windsurf: the first steps.
Note: As soon as our shop and partner links are in place, you will find direct recommendations here for boards, sails and accessories. Until then: the content stands on its own, even without a click.