In the thrilling world of windsurfing, learning how to tack and jibe efficiently marks the transition from basic cruising to becoming a confident, versatile sailor. These two fundamental turning maneuvers allow riders to change direction in response to wind shifts, navigate around obstacles, or simply explore new parts of the water.
Both tacking and jibing require technique, timing, and practice—but with the right instruction and consistent effort, they become second nature. This guide provides a deep dive into each maneuver, detailing the step-by-step process, common mistakes, and tips for improvement. Whether you’re a beginner working on your first turns or an intermediate sailor refining your form, this article will equip you with the knowledge to master these essential windsurfing skills.
Understanding the Basics: What Are Tack and Jibe?
Before jumping into how to perform these maneuvers, it’s important to define them:
Tack (or Tacking)
Tacking is the action of turning the board through the wind, changing direction from one tack (e.g., starboard) to the opposite (e.g., port). This is an upwind turn, meaning the nose of the board passes through the wind’s eye.
Jibe (or Gybing)
Jibing, on the other hand, involves turning the board away from the wind, with the stern passing through the wind. It’s a downwind turn, often faster and smoother than a tack but potentially more difficult to control, especially when planing.
When and Why Do You Tack or Jibe?
Understanding when to tack or jibe is critical to safe, efficient sailing:
Tack when you need to move upwind or change your direction while sailing against the wind.
Jibe when moving downwind or shifting direction while planing.
Wind direction, board speed, windsurfing goals (e.g., racing, wave riding), and water conditions all influence which turn is most appropriate.
How to Tack in Windsurfing (Step-by-Step)
Tacking is generally easier to learn than jibing, especially in lighter wind. It emphasizes balance and controlled sail handling rather than speed.
Step 1: Prepare for the Tack
Head Upwind: Point the board as close into the wind as possible.
Ease the Back Hand: Slightly reduce power in the sail while maintaining forward motion.
Keep the Sail Upright: This helps preserve drive and balance.
Step 2: Foot Movement and Body Rotation
Step Forward: Move your front foot closer to the mast base.
Move the Back Foot Across: Step around the mast to the new side of the board.
Face Forward: Rotate your body to face the new direction before flipping the sail.
Step 3: Flipping the Sail
Let Go with the Back Hand: Let the sail swing across naturally using the wind.
Grab the Mast or Front of Boom: With your new front hand, take control.
Regrab the Back of the Boom: Complete the flip and power up.
Step 4: Rebalance and Sail Away
Re-center your weight.
Sheet in gently and resume sailing on the new tack.
Common Mistakes When Tacking (and How to Fix Them)
Falling Backward During the Sail Flip
Fix: Keep weight forward over the board, not on your heels.
Losing Speed Before Turning
Fix: Initiate the tack while you still have momentum. Don’t slow to a standstill.
Not Moving Feet Early Enough
Fix: Step through the turn smoothly—timing is key to maintaining balance.
Grabbing the Wrong Part of the Boom
Fix: Practice grabbing the mast first, then the boom, so the sail doesn’t overpower you mid-turn.
How to Jibe in Windsurfing (Step-by-Step)
Jibing is more dynamic and speed-driven. When planing, it becomes one of the most exhilarating maneuvers in windsurfing—but also more technically demanding.
Step 1: Set Up for the Jibe
Pick a Clear Path: Check for other riders or obstacles.
Build Speed: More speed provides better stability through the carve.
Unhook the Harness (if used): Prepare to move freely around the sail.
Step 2: Initiate the Turn
Move Rear Foot to Carving Position: Slightly forward and across the board for leverage.
Lean into the Turn: Push on the toes of your back foot and start carving the board downwind.
Sheet In Slightly: Power the sail briefly to maintain speed into the turn.
Step 3: The Carving Phase
Keep Low: Bend your knees and stay over the board to maintain control.
Guide the Sail Across: Let the mast tip slightly into the turn while staying balanced.
Step 4: Flip the Sail
Release with the Back Hand: As you approach the new direction, let the sail depower.
Grab the Mast or New Boom Side: Use your front hand to guide the sail across.
Regrab and Sheet In: Finish the flip quickly and efficiently.
Step 5: Power Out
Shift weight slightly forward to prevent stalling.
Get back in the footstraps (if planing).
Resume normal sailing position.
Types of Jibes
Non-Planing Jibe
Ideal for light wind or beginners:
Slower, with an emphasis on balance.
Focus more on pivoting than carving.
Planing Jibe
Performed at high speed:
Board remains on top of the water.
Requires precise edge control and fast sail handling.
Common Mistakes When Jibing (and How to Fix Them)
Losing Speed Too Early
Fix: Enter the jibe with good speed and maintain pressure on the sail through the first half of the turn.
Falling to the Inside of the Turn
Fix: Stay centered over the board. Bend knees more and keep hips stable.
Flipping the Sail Too Late
Fix: Time the sail flip just before you finish the turn—not too late when you’ve lost speed.
Over-Sheeting During the Exit
Fix: Gently sheet in and allow the sail to fill gradually, especially in high winds.
Tack vs. Jibe: Key Differences
| Feature | Tack | Jibe |
| Direction | Upwind turn | Downwind turn |
| Wind Position | Through the wind’s eye | With the wind |
| Speed | Generally slower | Generally faster |
| Difficulty (beginner) | Easier to learn | More advanced technique |
| Board Control | Emphasis on balance | Emphasis on carving |
Training Tips for Mastering Tacks and Jibes
Land-Based Simulation: Practice footwork and sail flipping on land before heading to the water.
Short Runs: Focus on repetition—do short tacks and jibes repeatedly in a controlled area.
Video Review: Film yourself to catch timing and technique issues.
Use a Larger Board: Bigger boards are more stable and forgiving for learning.
Sail in Consistent Conditions: Moderate wind and flat water are ideal for practicing maneuvers.
How Equipment Affects Tack and Jibe Performance
Boards
Beginner Boards: Wider and more stable; better for practicing tacks.
Freeride/Wave Boards: Designed for agile carving and high-speed jibes.
Sails
Smaller Sails: Easier to handle, flip, and balance during maneuvers.
Larger Sails: Require more strength and precision, especially when jibing at speed.
Harness and Footstraps
Being comfortable in the harness and using footstraps correctly allows for better sail control and weight distribution during advanced jibes.
Conclusion
Mastering the tack and jibe opens the door to confident, all-condition windsurfing. Tacking offers control and balance while navigating upwind, while jibing adds speed and flow to downwind transitions. Both moves are not just technical steps—they’re expressions of fluidity and control on the water.
By practicing each step, understanding your equipment, and adapting to different conditions, you’ll find yourself performing smooth, stylish transitions that feel as good as they look. With consistency and patience, you’ll go from shaky turns to carving like a pro.