beginner tips

Question
Hi,
I've been windsurfing for about a month. I've been going about three times a week. I've learned tacks, and jybes. But I still need to learn to get on a plane, and how to waterstart. I read what you told Nicki, and that sounds very helpful, but could you help me with what size sail I should get. I've been riding a 5.7 and I feel that it's not big enough for me. An average day is about 10 to 12 knots. I way 140 pounds, and I'm 5'10. My board is about 175 liters. I feel like I need a bigger sail for these winds and for planing, but I don't want to waste all that money on the wrong size. What do you think?
Sean

Answer
Hi Sean,

Your weight and the volume of the board should be enough for you to plane with the 5.7 but you may need a little more experience and a little more wind. A 5.7 needs about 15-18 knots to really plane well. Also, a board with 175ltrs needs a bit more wind or more sail to get it planning. You probably would not go wrong by buying a 6.5 or 7.0. With the wind range of newer sails a 6.5 should work for you in 12-18kts. A 7.0 would work in 10-18kts. You should be able to find a decent used sail for a lot less than a new one. Look for something that has at least 1 or 2 cambers for better low end power and stability. Don't get a 3 or 4 cambered race sail as they would be more sail than you need. Check your local shop for used gear. Also ask about swap meets. You can also find a lot of used gear and great advice at this site  www.iwindsurf.com. It's free to sign up. Check the buy/sell and look for something near you.

As for planning, you probably need to work on getting into a harness and sailing comfortably. This will help you control the power of the sail and plane the board. Once you start planing you can start working on getting into the footstraps. This will help you stay powered up and on a plane. When you go to iwindsurf, do a search in the community section for 'planing'. You will find various posts and lots of great information.

Also feel free to ask me more questions as you progresss. Best of luck with your sailing and welcome to the greatest sport on the planet (just my humble opinion).

Keep on sailing,
Windlover