Windsurfing is one of the most exhilarating water sports, combining elements of sailing, surfing, and pure speed. However, for all the thrill it offers, one factor plays an absolutely critical role in the experience—wind speed. Whether you’re a beginner learning to balance on a board or a professional carving through waves, understanding wind speed and how it affects your performance is essential. Different wind speeds provide different challenges and opportunities, and choosing the right conditions can make or break your session on the water.
In this article, we’ll explore the three best wind speeds for windsurfing, each suitable for different skill levels and styles of riding. From light breezes perfect for learning, to moderate winds ideal for freemove and slalom, and stronger gusts for advanced riders chasing waves and jumps—each wind range has unique advantages. We’ll also dive into the science behind wind speed, how to read wind forecasts, and tips to optimize your session for each wind category.
What Is Wind Speed in Windsurfing?
Before identifying the best wind speeds, it’s important to understand how wind is measured and perceived in the context of windsurfing. Wind speed is typically measured in:
- Knots (kt) – Common in nautical and windsurfing circles (1 kt = 1.15 mph or 1.85 km/h)
- Miles per hour (mph)
- Kilometers per hour (km/h)
- Meters per second (m/s) – Common in Europe
For reference:
- 5 knots = 9.3 km/h = 5.7 mph
- 15 knots = 27.8 km/h = 17.2 mph
- 25 knots = 46.3 km/h = 28.7 mph
Windsurfers also use the Beaufort Scale, a system that ranks wind strength from 0 (calm) to 12 (hurricane force). For windsurfing purposes, we generally work between Beaufort Force 2 (light breeze) and Force 7 (near gale).
Now, let’s dive into the top three wind speed categories for windsurfing and discover why they’re considered the best.
1. 8–12 Knots (15–22 km/h): The Best Wind for Beginners and Light Wind Cruising
This range of wind speed is often referred to as “light wind”, and it is ideal for beginners, instructional sessions, and freeride cruising on larger boards.
Why This Wind Speed Works:
Stability: Light wind conditions create smooth water with minimal chop, allowing beginners to focus on stance, balance, and steering without worrying about strong gusts.
Larger Sails Work Well: In 8–12 knots of wind, large sails (6.5–9.0 m²) are used to catch enough wind for propulsion, making it easier to learn sail handling techniques.
Perfect for Learning: Beginners can practice basic maneuvers such as uphauling, tacking, and jibing without being overpowered. The forgiving nature of the wind allows time to correct mistakes.
Ideal Equipment:
Board: Wide, high-volume boards (180–240 liters) that provide high stability and buoyancy.
Sail: Large sails, ideally with soft profiles for easy control and gentle power delivery.
Best for:
- Beginners
- Light-wind cruising
- Longboard windsurfing
- Practicing balance and sail control
Tips for Success:
Avoid strong currents, which can overpower the light wind.
Use daggerboards for better upwind performance on longboards.
Stay close to shore and avoid deep water if you’re new to the sport.
2. 13–20 Knots (24–37 km/h): The Best Wind for Intermediate and Freeride Windsurfing
This is widely considered the “sweet spot” of windsurfing wind speeds. It’s perfect for intermediate to advanced riders who want speed, dynamic maneuvers, and fun without being overpowered. Most windsurfing lessons and schools consider this the best wind range for progressing safely.
Why This Wind Speed Works:
Planing Winds: At around 13 knots, most boards and riders can achieve planing—the state where the board glides on top of the water rather than pushing through it.
Exciting but Safe: These winds are strong enough for fun but still manageable for intermediate riders.
Versatile: You can enjoy slalom, bump-and-jump, freestyle, and basic wave riding in this range.
Ideal Equipment:
Board: Freeride boards (120–150 liters) or slalom boards for speed.
Sail: Medium-size sails (5.5–7.5 m²) depending on rider weight and board volume.
Best for:
- Intermediate windsurfers improving their planing skills
- Freeride and flatwater blasting
- Learning footstraps, harness use, and water starts
- Basic freestyle tricks and small chop jumps
Tips for Success:
Learn to control the sail in gusts; gusty 20-knot conditions can still be challenging.
Use a harness to reduce arm fatigue and improve sail control.
Trim the board correctly by moving your weight aft during planing.
3. 21–30 Knots (39–55 km/h): The Best Wind for Advanced Windsurfing and Wave Riding
When the wind exceeds 20 knots, things start getting serious. This wind range is perfect for advanced riders, particularly those into wave sailing, high-speed slalom, or big-air jumping. It’s challenging, fast-paced, and thrilling.
Why This Wind Speed Works:
High-Speed Planing: You’ll plane effortlessly, and even the smallest input can launch you into exhilarating speeds.
Wave Riding & Jumping: Winds in this range typically create large wind-driven waves and swell, ideal for down-the-line wave riding and aerial maneuvers.
Tricks & Loops: Strong winds are necessary for more advanced tricks like forward loops, back loops, and radical freestyle moves.
Ideal Equipment:
Board: Small wave or freestyle boards (70–100 liters).
Sail: Small sails (3.5–5.5 m²) that offer better control in high winds and gusts.
Best for:
- Advanced windsurfers
- Wave sailing and jumping
- Extreme freestyle and loops
- Speed sailing and slalom racing
Tips for Success:
Rig down—don’t use a sail that’s too big; control is more important than power.
Use adjustable outhauls to fine-tune sail tension for gusty conditions.
Ensure safety gear (helmet, impact vest) is used, especially in waves.
How to Read Wind Conditions for Windsurfing
Wind consistency and direction are just as important as speed. Here’s what to look for:
Onshore or sideshore wind: Safer and ideal for most windsurfing spots.
Offshore wind: Can be dangerous; you risk being blown out to sea.
Gusty wind: Makes sail control harder and is less predictable.
Steady wind: Ideal for long rides and learning to control power.
Check reliable wind forecast websites such as:
- Windguru
- Windy
- iWindsurf
- Windfinder
Always look for:
- Average wind speed
- Maximum gusts
- Wind direction
- Wave height (if you’re wave sailing)
Matching Wind Speed to Skill Level
| Skill Level | Ideal Wind Speed | Board Volume | Sail Size |
| Beginner | 8–12 knots | 180–240 L | 6.5–9.0 m² |
| Intermediate | 13–20 knots | 120–150 L | 5.5–7.5 m² |
| Advanced | 21–30 knots | 70–100 L | 3.5–5.5 m² |
Conclusion
Windsurfing is all about harnessing the power of the wind—and knowing the right wind speed for your skill level and style is essential.
Light winds (8–12 knots) are perfect for starting out and building your foundation.
Moderate winds (13–20 knots) offer the most versatility and progression opportunities.
Stronger winds (21–30 knots) are a playground for advanced windsurfers chasing adrenaline and waves.
By understanding wind behavior and matching it to your equipment and experience, you’ll not only improve your skills but also enhance your safety and enjoyment on the water. So next time you check the forecast, use this guide to pick the perfect wind, grab your gear, and make the most of your windsurfing adventure.