Haven't been windsurfing / sailboarding since I was 12 – more than 20 years ago. Only did it for 3 months as a kid, one summer; but I picked it up quickly, got hooked, and I've never forgot how much fun it is.
I'm thinking about buying a board and sail, but I've got no idea what sort of equipment I should be looking at / trying out / buying.
If anybody out there can offer some advice; I 'd appreciate it.
I'm 6'1", between 85 and 89kgs (depending on beer consumption), done a lot of snowboarding and surfing over past 20 years. Good balance, better than average board skills I guess. I think 15 > 20 knot winds is what I want equipment for. If it's not blowing, I wouldn't bother, and if it's howling – nup; not until I've at least got advanced basics sorted.
Like I said, any advice would appreciated.
Cheers
As you have some experience already, and appear to have good board skills the advice would be a bit different to a normal 'first timer'.
I would recommend a second hand freeride board around the 120-130 litre range, with a 430 mast and the biggest sail you can fit on it (6.3 or so?). If the budget will stretch to it then get a 5m or so sail as well.
This board will end up as your light wind option for down the track, as you progress you will get out in higher and higher winds, and want a smaller board (something around the 90 litre mark would do nicely for high winds).
Just my opinion, no doubt others will chime in with their ideas.
I'd try to pick up something second hand around the 150Ltr mark. A board around 150Ltrs will be a more stable platform and I think you might struggle on a 120 Ltr board. Sail and masts arent as important as you'll eventually need two sails anyway. I'd say one 6.5 to 7mtrs and one 5.5 to 6. Not smaller unless you want to go out in 20kt's plus.
Anyway read a few more opinions and go from there.
Perhaps if you list what part of Australia you are in, you could catch up with some locals and check out the gear they have for yourself.
20 years ago is a long time and boards have changed a fair bit. See if you can try a couple of boards before you buy one.
If you get a large board ie 150lt, you could also use it on very light days (around 8 - 10 knots) with a large sail. I use my larger board (a 155 Starboard Go) with an 8.5 and its great fun. I have also used the Go with a 5.8 in 20 knot + winds. It gets a little wild in the strong winds though.
The other advantage of a larger board is that once you have progressed and gotten a smaller board, you can use the large one to introduce friends to windsurfing.
My advice: Don't put anything in your ear that's sharper than your elbow. And don't fall in love, or do if you must but be prepared for some grief.
You're welcome.
[}:)] Just loves a pasting every now and then 
)
[}:)] Just loves a pasting every now and then )
