Windsurfing is a fantastic sport to get into, but setting up windsurfing equipment can be challenging for a first-timer. At Joluka Windsurfing, we help you with this process. This in-depth guide teaches you how to set up your gear for windsurfing and get ready to hit the water. First, learn the anatomy of your windsurfing gear by referring to each section of the diagram below.
Most sails have information at the bottom that tells you how to assemble the sail, the size of the sail, the size of the boom, the size of the extension, and the size of the mast. This information ensures that all your gear fits together properly.
Mast
You fit several smaller poles together to create a tall mast that can hold a sail. The mast includes a smaller piece called the mast extension, which attaches to the bottom of the mast and secures the sail while also fitting onto the board.
Sail
Face the wind with your back and lay out the sail. Start feeding the mast through the mast sleeve from the track of the sail. Feed the mast all the way up to the head of the sail. On some windsurfing rigs, attach a cap to secure the top of the sail onto the mast. Once done, ensure the sail is stretched and flat alongside the mast with little to no fold in the physical sail.
Mast Extender
The mast extender is a crucial piece of windsurfing equipment. At the bottom of your mast, you should attach a mast extender, which is a smaller piece with a series of holes. Use strong rope to feed it through the sail and the holes on the mast extender multiple times. These holes act as a pulley system, allowing you to easily tighten the sail and secure it to the mast. After looping the rope, sit down and use your body weight to tighten the sail. This will give your sail its wing-like shape, providing you with more control. Finally, secure the rope appropriately.
Boom
The boom fits over your sail and onto the mast, giving you a handle to hang on to and steer your rig on the water. With the uphaul (rope) facing down, gently feed your sail head-first through the boom. Fit the boom to an area of the mast, not the material of the sail.
When fitting the boom, open your clamp. Take the smaller ropes on the boom, fit them around the mast, and back onto the side of the boom where the clamp is situated. Once on, carefully close the clamp to secure the boom tightly onto the mast.
On the other side of the sail, between the leech and the boot, there is a hole for you to secure the back part of the boom. Use the rope attached to the boom to feed it through the hole and the boom multiple times. Apply the same pulley system. Tighten the rope, and now you have a tight sail and a secured boom.
Mastfoot
The mast foot or mast base is a small piece of equipment that you fit onto your board, allowing your mast to slide into place. Depending on the type, the mast base can look and fit differently. You slide it into a slot on the board and tighten a single or double bolt, depending on your setup. After securing it tightly with an Allen key, you can slide your mast into the top of the mast base. Once it’s tightly secured to the board, you’re ready to hit the water.
Final Notes
Setting up your windsurfing equipment properly is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Ensuring that your board, sail, mast, and boom are correctly assembled and adjusted to your skill level and the day’s conditions can make all the difference. Remember to double-check all connections, wear appropriate safety gear, and always be mindful of the weather and water conditions. With the right setup, you’re all set to catch the wind and ride the waves with confidence. From Joluka Windsurfing – Happy windsurfing!