When you’re windsurfing, you need a board and a sail. It’s pretty fun because it doesn’t only rely on waves for movements like surfing does. With a good, strong wind, you can even perform tricks while you’re in the air. It’s one of the reasons why most surfers transition from typical surfing to windsurfing.
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Top 8 Best Windsurfing Sails in Review
If you’re curious to know and try this water sport, you need to get an exceptional windsurfing sail. Quality is impactful in its performance, especially during strong winds. To save your time in finding the most recommended one, here are some of the best windsurfing sails you can check out.
- Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone
- Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL
- HD 2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX
- Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne
- Minikid Windsurf Rig 1.5M
- Speedster Windsurf Sail by Neilpryde
- Pro Rigg Complete Rigg Windsurf
- Windsurfing Evo Sail Racing by Neilpryde
#1. Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone – Best Overall Windsurfing Sail
Specifications
- Available Size: 7.8 meters, 8.8 meters, or 9.8 meters
- Weight: 13.45 pounds, 14.10 pounds, or 14.77 pounds
- Mast Construction: Platinum
- Number of Camber: 4
- Number of Battens: 7
- Suitable for: Intermediate to Pro
Are you looking for a windsurfing sail with optimum stability and acceleration? Check out the Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone. It features an exceptional geometry, which makes it fast. Plus, you’ll love how this feature will let you control with ease, especially during strong winds.
This sail has a hinge-effect, adding more power as it accelerates. This advantage is one reason why it’s ideal for intermediate or professional windsurfers. You’ll get the best of this sail’s performance during foil races with this feature, along with a forward-oriented draft position.
You’ll find it convenient to use because of the big foot-surface. It provides a vertical right position, which makes it comfier for windsurfers to stand and bend their knees. Also, this provides smoother movements as you ride it for a satisfying performance.
Adding further convenience is the 2.0 batten tensioner because it makes the sail light. It even has the Mini Protector-feature, which reduces its weight for easy-controlling.
The double seam technology advantage of this product makes it very durable even if you use it on strong winds. It doesn’t bend too much for better stability and performance. If you’re an aspiring racer, this windsurfing sail is very suitable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tear-resistant | Tricky for beginners |
| Lightweight | No others colors |
#2. Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL – Best Windsurfing Sail for Beginners
Specifications
- Available Size: 3 meters, 4.5 meters, or 5 meters
- Mast Construction: Fiberglass
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 1 or 3
- Suitable for: Beginner to Pro
The Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL is a versatile windsurfing sail because it fits all skill levels. It’s easy to handle, which makes it a recommended windsurfing sail for beginners, especially during practices. Plus, it features a lightweight advantage for overall convenience.
Professional windsurfers can count on this sail’s performance because it never fails to deliver a smoother one. If you’re competing or practicing to improve your skills further, this windsurfing sail will provide fun experiences on every sail.
The construction of this product impresses the customers with the premium-quality of Dacron material. It’s guaranteed durable, along with the monofilm. Also, it’s flexible enough to reach any windsurfing position for optimum performance.
You can choose from three sizes, depending on which size fits your skill level. Regardless of any sail-size, each uses an adjustable top. However, these don’t carry the same number of battens. The 3-meter sail has one, and the other two have three.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses adjustable top | Only a couple of colors |
| Compact | No cambers available in any size |
#3. HD2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX – Best in Versatility
Specifications
- Available Size: 4.5 meters, 5 meters, 5.5 meters, 6 meters, 6.5 meters, and 7 meters
- Mast Construction: Epoxy
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 5
- Suitable for: Beginner to Pro
Most windsurfers look for a windsurfing sail that will suit any type. If you want a multi-purpose one, you should buy the HD2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX. It’s best for various types, including freerides, windsurfer 280, and windsurf tourer. Plus, you can even attach this on inflatable boards.
You’ll love its performance because it’s stress-free to downhaul. The adjustable mask fork helps in retaining excellent rotation, adding ease as you move along winds and waves. Aside from this advantage, you can count on its acceleration.
This product is best for beginners to pro windsurfers because it’s hassle-free to use. You can expect a good ride as you use it for the first time because it’s lightweight. It even distributes balance well, which can help with your stance.
Aside from this sail’s performance, the Dacron luff panel gives a smoother power delivery and better maneuverability. The five battens on the monofilm-part help to maintain excellent stability, especially during strong winds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for inflatable boards | Doesn't include cambers |
| Has five battens | No other styles available |
#4. Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne – Best in Performance
Specifications
- Available Size: 3 meters to 6.7 meters
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 5
- Suitable for: Intermediate and Professional
Optimum performance is crucial in windsurfing, and you need the best sail you can find. One of the exceptional brands you can check out is the Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne.
This sail will keep up with your game because of its eM3 Fabric Technology. It comes with a 90-degree pre-preg polyester scrim, and a reduced film-thickness, which make it lighter and easier to control. Plus, rotation is not an issue with this product since it comes with five battens.
It also boasts a Spiderfiber construction. It distributes load, from seams to the body, for maximum control. It’s why windsurfers love using it because this advantage lets it glides quicker at any board.
The Spiderfiber material is not the only thing that makes this sail interesting. It also uses high-quality Dacron, and X-Ply materials that reduce this sail’s weight, promoting smoother movements. You can also guarantee sturdiness because these are UV and tear-resistant.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Apt for freeride, flat water, wave, and bump & jump-types | Not compatible with inflatable windsurfing boards |
| Comes with fiberglass for a lightweight advantage | Not ideal for racing |
#5. Minikid Windsurf Rig 1.5M – Best Windsurfing Sail for Family-Use
Specifications
- Available Size: 1 meter, 1.5 meters, 2 meters, 2.5 meters, and 3 meters
- Mast Construction: Vario Alloy
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 2
- Suitable for: Kids or Beginners
The Minikid Windsurf Rig 1.5M may look meek, yet it’s a recommended windsurfing sail for beginners because it’s available in smaller sizes. Not only beginners can enjoy practicing this sail, which makes it fascinating. Even kids can also use them.
Customers admire the premium-quality of monofilm material because it provides speed. It contributes to its overall performance without compromising sturdiness. Whether you encounter strong winds or waves, it will undoubtedly last.
Convenience is another edge of this sail because there’s ease on almost everything you do with it. It’s easy to rig and mount, which makes it favorable to beginners. Plus, it’s easy to carry since it comes with a sail bag.
This windsurfing sail is famous for family use. It’s an exceptional addition to your collection if you frequently visit the beach for a couple of rounds with kids.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a sail bag | Mostly for beginners |
| Not weighty | Restricted performance |
#6. Speedster Windsurf Sail by Neilpryde – Most Stylish Windsurfing Sail
Specifications
- Available Size: 5.2 meters, 5.7 meters, 6.2 meters, 6.7 meters, 7.2 meters, 7.7 meters, or 8.2 meters
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 7
- Suitable for: Intermediate and Professional
Buying a stylish windsurfing sail can boost your confidence as you practice or compete. You’ll need a reliable brand with excellent design and performance to get the worth of your purchase. As you choose from some of the best options, you can never go wrong with the Speedster Windsurf Sail by Neilpryde.
Customers prefer to use this windsurfing sail because the performance is undoubtedly excellent. You can handle it with ease, thanks to the narrow sleeve and luff curves’ combination features. Even though it doesn’t have cambers, it provides acceleration to the windsurfer.
When it comes to its look, you get to choose between two styles, which are in purple and pink shades. Plus, one of the edges of this product is that the prints don’t fade quickly, and the material is slightly thick, which can boost this product’s speed.
You’ll love this sail more because the battens provide optimum stability. The battens from the mast lessen the drag by cleaning airflows, which keeps it stable even when you speed up.
These advantages are fitting for windsurfers who participate in racing competitions. You get maximum performance and acceleration, along with a striking style.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The film's print is UV-resistant | For intermediates to pros |
| Comes with seven battens | Uses a fixed top |
#7. Pro Rigg Complete Rigg Windsurf by Ascan – Most Compact Windsurfing Sail
Specifications
- Available Size: 4 meters, 4.5 meters, and 5 meters
- Mast Construction: Aluminum
- Number of Camber: None
- Number of Battens: 1, 3, or 4
- Suitable for: Beginners to Intermediates
The Pro Rigg Complete Rigg Windsurf by Ascan is one of the recommended windsurfing sail for newbies in the sport. It’s reliable if you’re looking for a brand that can help you develop your skills as you begin your journey.
It comes with two color combinations, letting you choose which style will suit your vibe. You’ll also love how convenient it can be because you can easily store it in your vehicle. Its portability is a satisfying factor why it’s famous because safekeeping is one of the primary dilemmas of windsurfers.
This windsurfing sail is handy because you can use it for freestyle and freeride types.
Another advantage of this product is that it’s hard-wearing. The quality-aluminum and monofilm materials make sure it will last for quite some time, regardless of any condition. Plus, this sail’s durability amazes windsurfers more because it can hold 110 pounds of load.
Customers also love how this sail is very stable as you ride it on different conditions. Thanks to its battens, you can assure the performance’s stability.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for windSUP boards | Not ideal for wave-type windsurfing |
| Has an adjustable boom | Can't use it on racing |
#8. Windsurfing Evo Sail Racing by Neilpryde – Best Windsurfing Sail for Racing
Specifications
- Available Size: 7 meters, 8 meters, 9 meters, or 10 meters
- Number of Camber: 4
- Number of Battens: 8
- Suitable for: Professionals
Foil Racing is one of the popular windsurfing competitions these days. If you’re looking for a competitive brand for training and competing, you should pick the Windsurfing Evo Sail Racing by Neilpryde.
The Quadruple Luff Panel Outline makes the luff panels stretch-resistant, which helps a lot in shaping the sail body. Also, stabilizing your draft position is effective because of this panel’s thickness.
The Twist Shaping Concept will make you feel as if you have additional gear, and customers love this feature. As it promptly opens, thanks to its battens, and it gains smoother acceleration without compromising stability.
What makes this sail desirable for most racers is the clear window-feature in the sleeve. It doesn’t only provide outstanding visibility, but also an extra lift. It’s the reason why this sail is very handy during competitions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features a clear window for visibility | Requires more windsurfing skills |
| Features Airflow Batten Layout | Sells out frequently |
Top Pick – Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone
The Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone is the top pick because it’s best for freestyle and freerides, as well as for foil racing.
This sail’s acceleration is never questionable because of its high-aspect geometry. You can control this board without any hassle as well. Plus, the minimized loose leech reduces the foil’s drag as you ride it.
It comes with a hyper cam, providing hassle-free rotation. As for the big foot-surface promotes a straight rig point for exceptional performance. Also, the adapted draft position assures optimum power during races.
Novice windsurfers are welcome to give this windsurfing sail a try, yet it’s ideally for intermediate to pro levels. You have to be knowledgeable enough when it comes to windsurfing because it’s not a hassle-free activity, unlike surfing or paddleboarding. Nonetheless, if you need a top-performing board for competitions, you can never go wrong with this sail.
Getting the Best Windsurfing Sail – Buyers Guide
In buying the best windsurfing sail, there are other things you need to consider aside from the sail’s type. Don’t waste your time and money in purchasing a brand that’s not apt for your skills or area because you’ll end up selling your sail to another surfer. Here’s a guide for you to consider as you are looking for a reliable brand.
Place for Sailing
Before buying a windsurfing sail, you should determine the area for windsurfing. Do you prefer to do this water activity on lakes, or are you open to trying in on oceans? Keep in mind that the sail planning for lakes is very dissimilar from what the sea requires.
Size of the Sail
Consider the size of sail in buying windsurfing sails. Most surfers have three or four sails, while professional ones need more than four. The area for windsurfing will still have a minor impact on the size you choose. If you’re going to do it on lakes, you’ll need about six sails. Other bodies of water have various surf planning.
The surfer’s skill-level and weight also affect when it comes to the sail’s sizing. After determining your weight, it will be easier for you to choose which size to pick.
Type of Sail
Your skills and purpose will define the type of sail you need. If you’re a beginner, you should use a freeride sail without any cambers. Once your skills are enhancing, you can switch to another type of sails, including a wave or slalom.
Compatibility with Boom and Existing Mast
Some surfers are replacing their sail with an existing mast and boom already. Guarantee that the pole has the same properties you need for your sailing. You can also consider investing in a mast if you don’t have one because it has significant differences.
Brief Overview and History About Windsurfing
Windsurfing is the new way to surf nowadays. All you need is good wind, and you’re good to go. A little wave can add thrill, but this watersport typically held on flat water areas.
This water sport is a mix of sailing and surfing, and it started in 1970. People often refer to it as boardsailing or sailboarding. People are already playing this sport in the 1970s, but it became more popular in the 1980s. By 1984, this water sport was part of the Olympics.
Jim Drake, a sailor, and Hoyle Schweitzer, a surfer, introduced the first patent on March 27, 1968. The first windsurfing boards came from tees, daggerboards, and booms in teak. Schweitzer continues to manufacture these for shippers and pilots, which focuses more on commercial uses. When windsurfing became famous further as a professional sport in countries around the globe, people are widely using these for recreational activities.
If you’re interested in trying this sport, decide whether you will pursue a career as a racer or a rider. Nonetheless, you’ll need the best windsurfing sail you can find for exceptional performance despite any career you choose.
Windsurfing Sails: What You Should Know
The sail is the most crucial instrument in windsurfing, next to a rig where you attach it. It’s the part that can make you move on the surface. It should be flexible because it needs to proceed with the wind.
Going back to 3200 BCE, Egyptians use sails on boats as they travel the Nile River. Also, Sumerians utilized square-rigged boats to establish trading directions in the Indus Valley.
Windsurfing sails have the same effect on boards these days. It’s even more impressive than before because wind surfers can do tricks with the help of strong wind and small waves.
Parts and Designs of a Windsurfing Sail
Being familiar with the different parts of a windsurfing sail will give you an advantage in choosing which brand to buy. Every element contributes to its optimum performance. Here are the essential components of a windsurfing sail.
- Luff
- Boom Cut-out
- Battens
- Batten Tensioners
- Boom
- Clew and Outhaul
- Task, Mast, and Downhaul Extension
- Mast
When it comes to designs, there are two to keep in mind; the rotational and the camber induced types.
The Camber Induced design is the balance of two exteriors of an aerofoil, wherein it has one to five inducers. If you’re a beginner, this design is suitable because you don’t have to use any battens.
The Rotational design includes battens, which extend at the back-part of the mast. These have lesser stability and power. On the bright side, it’s easier to use as you maneuver in different directions.
Materials
Using quality materials is crucial since cheaper ones will rip during strong winds. Here are some of the typical stuff that good brands use for their windsurfing sails.
Mylar
This material has a Dacron coating, yet it can hold the shape better than Dacron. On the other hand, it peels off over time.
Dacron
This material is the so-called Polyester fiber from China. It’s lightweight, which provides an ease to surfers control it. However, it can stretch out of its shape.
Monofilm
This material holds the shape better than how the Mylar can. It’s robust, and it’s clear, which gives excellent visibility.
Windsurfing Sail-Types
Knowing different windsurfing types is also essential if you want to pursue this sport as a profession. There are various types to consider, such as the following:
Free Ride Sails
This type is famous for its lightweight feature. It’s ideal for lighter winds, yet it’s not suitable for competing. Nonetheless, you can use it for recreational purposes or fun.
Beginner Sails
This type uses soft materials, such as Polyvinyl Chloride and Dacron. In using it, it will depend on the weight, age, and size of the sailor or surfer. It’s comfy to use, easy to control, and it prevents the risk of hurting others. It’s also suitable for kids.
Slalom Sails
This type has a small size and is apt for light winds. It provides an exceptional speed to the board. Also, it uses lightweight material for acceleration. This type also comes with chambers to settle down undesirable turbulence of the water.
Wave Sails
This type is for stronger winds, and it comes with durable panels that don’t break easily. It also has battens to prevent the sail from snapping when waves break. Aside from these, it has a short boom.
Freestyle Sails
This type is for flat water areas. Windsurfers use it for tricks, especially in wave competitions. It has similarities with wave sails, but this type is better on executing acrobatic skills.
Olympic Windsurfing Sails
This type has a rig with high-level technology, a boom, and a mast. It has a broad style, making it suitable for competitions, and it has excellent stability. This type is only recommendable for competition-usage.
Handy Windsurfing Tips for Beginners
Some surfers learn better when they practice alone. However, knowing some handy tips from experts is better. Here are some tips to consider.
- If you can’t decide whether to rent or buy a windsurfing sail, it’s best to rent first as you start to explore the sport. It will let you define your skill level. Also, it can make you realize whether you want to pursue it or not. You can buy one after deciding the right sail for you.
- Take some lessons if you can, exceptionally the basic. This water sport is not as easy as surfing, so you’ll need the support of windsurfing experts. From stance to grip, they can assist you further to enhance your skills.
- Use your body weight more than your hands’ strength. Relax your body back while holding the sale, don’t bend your body, and keep a neutral position.
- Start practicing with a large board-size because it’s stable. It will help you maintain your balance as you practice.
- Start with small waves and light wind. It’s the best way to learn, especially if you prefer to practice alone.
- Don’t forget to hydrate and fuel your body with energy-giving foods, such as fruits, bananas, or energy bars.
Conclusion
This handy guide will help you determine what windsurfing sail to choose, depending on what you need. If you’re a beginner, you can focus on considering the place for sail, size, and type. Nonetheless, it’s also ideal to seek the advice of windsurfing experts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it difficult to lift a windsurfing sail?
Q: Do I need to enroll in windsurfing lessons?
Q: How can I maximize safety in windsurfing?
Q: Where should I practice or learn windsurfing?
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Torsten Bird is a talented and adventurous waterman from Western Australia, passionate about surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, hydrofoiling, skimboarding, snowboarding and skateboarding. Torsten has spent countless hours mastering his skills and his dream is to one day represent Australia as an Olympic athlete. Follow Torsten’s adventures on Instagram.
