Windsurfing Gear for Beginners: Volume & Brand Advice

Question
Hi,I'm looking around for a cheap second hand windsurfing outfit at the moment,as I'm just starting out,could you advise me on what volume to look out for and is there much difference in the makes out there?
I'm 6'4'' about 110kg

Regards Mark

Answer
Hey Mark,

You will want to find something with at least 200ltrs of volume. It will have to have a daggerboard, preferably a fully retractable one.

With todays technology, most brands are very similar, especially in beginner/intermediate level boards. You should look for something made within the last ten years. This range of boards are the newer wide style and are much more stable than boards older than ten years. Plus, boards older than ten years may have 'brand' specific parts and if they are missing, they could be very difficult to replace.

Watch your local craigslist and ebay for used gear.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover