For a long time windsurfing was seen as the sport of the eighties, and then kiting came along and stole the show. But the classic is back, and for good reason: windsurfing is easier to learn than many think, and it is huge fun. Anyone who loves wind and water should give it a try at least once.
Why windsurfing is making a comeback
Windsurfing is wonderfully uncomplicated: a board, a sail, done. No kite in the sky, no long lines, you have everything right in your hands. The sport is coming back into fashion right now, partly because modern boards are much bigger and more stable than they used to be, which makes getting started easier. On the Baltic, with its many spots and schools, you will find a chance to try it everywhere.
Getting started is this easy
The beginning goes surprisingly fast. On a large, tilt-stable beginner board you will be standing after only a short time, pulling the sail out of the water with the uphaul line and starting to ride. The first few metres usually work on the very first day. Unlike with kiting, you do not need an elaborate safety briefing, and the risk is lower from the outset. That makes windsurfing a perfect introduction to the world of water sports, even for children and families.
The gear and where you learn
For learning, it is best to rent everything from the school at first. A large board with plenty of volume and a small, light sail are the right combination for the start. Most water sports stations on the Baltic offer taster courses, often for very little money. Try it out there before you think about your own gear. And if you already kite, you will notice that windsurfing is a lovely addition for days when you simply want to glide along in a relaxed way.
First purchases with examples based on body weight
For getting started the rule is: better a large, tilt-stable board with plenty of volume and a rather small, light sail. These are honest guide values, brands build slightly differently.
| 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 |
A beginner board with a daggerboard (a fold-out keel) holds its course better and makes the first turns easier. The smaller sail is your friend at the start: easier to pull out of the water and calmer to control.
Windsurfing is not a sport of yesterday but a timeless classic that is being rediscovered right now. Easy to learn, uncomplicated and suitable for the whole family. Grab a taster course at your favourite spot and find out why so many fall for the sail. The first runs are best shown to you by a school right at your spot.