How to Understand Windsurfing Terminology
Much of windsurfing terminology comes from sailing. Learn to talk the talk with windsurfers - and even a few old salts.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Understand that "windward" means toward the wind, or that you're facing into the wind, while "leeward" means away from the wind, or having your back to the wind.
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2
Know that the right side of the board - when you're looking toward the front - is called "starboard," while the left is called "port."
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3
Realize that, when sailing windward or leeward, you rarely sail directly into or away from the wind, or sail directly in the direction you want to go for that matter, but rather crisscross your way, making multiple turns. Turns into the wind are called "tacks." Turns away from the wind are called "jibes."
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4
Note that sailing directly into the wind is called "in irons" and sailing directly away is called "running." Sailing perpendicular to the wind is called "beam reaching." Sailing at 45 degrees into the wind is called "close reaching" and sailing 45 degrees away from the wind is called "broad reaching."
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5
Learn the proper names for the parts of your board. The front is referred to as the "nose" and the back is the "tail." The fin in the middle is called the "dagger-board." Collectively, the pieces of the sail and mast are called the "rig."
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6
Know the names of the parts of your rig. The pole in the center is the "mast," while the double-sided bow crossing it is called the "boom." All the canvas in-between is the "sail."
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7
Learn the names of the lines that secure the sail to the boom and mast. The line attaching the boom to the mast is the "inhaul," while the line attaching the sail to the mast is the "tack." The "clew" is the outside tip of the sail and the "uphaul" line is what the surfer uses to pull the sail up out of the water.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Use the proper terminology whenever possible to get used to it; it won't take long.
Always wear a life vest when using windsurfing terminology.
Windsurfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.
