Want to keep windsurfing over what looks like it could be one of the coldest British winters for a while? Winter windsurfing is tricky. You will get cold, very cold, but there are a few things you can do to really maximise your enjoyment.
There’s no excuses, check out this video of Francis Goodwin (age 66) taking on -3 temperatures!http://mpora.com/videos/KZVvP64YI
Francis Goodwin and his 3 generations of Windsurfers a Windsurfing video by frankybaby
Always Be Prepared
You need to be warm before and after you head out and stay as warm as you can on the water, so stock up on that winter clothing! Off the water layer up as much as you can, and get straight out of your wetsuit and into a hot shower as soon as you’re off the water (if you can!). On the water you’ll need every accessory you can think of: boots, gloves, hat, extra thick wetsuit, thermal rash vest, and even a heated belt pack. But when it starts to get cold we would recommend going one step further and heading for the dry suit. ION make a fantastic one that keeps you 10 times warmer than any wetsuit will, plus they look nothing like dry suits used to and can even classify as cool now.
Check out the ION drysuit here – Fuse men’s and Envee women’s.
Forecast, Forecast, Forecast
Know what you’re getting yourself into. There maybe cold days, let’s face it most days over winter will feel cold, but you will really feel those few less degrees on the water. Bear in mind wind chill. Strong winds are great, strong winds from the north will chill you to the bone.
Read more about windsurfing and the weather here.
Don’t Get Carried Away
We all know that once on the water and having fun the fear of the cold can soon drift away. But unlike the summer when we’re warm to the core, in the winter we cannot spend hour upon hour on the water. The cold will make you more tired, more quickly, this in turn ramps up the chances of accident and injury, so listen to your body and the weather and think: “Is that one last run really worth it?” As always, sail with others, if not tell someone when, where and how long you are planning to windsurf for.
Check out a guide to on water safety and a story of when things did go wrong for Alex Powell here.
Or you could always try this...
For all your winter windsurfing needs Board’s recommends you head to one of the following retailers, where we’re confident you will find what you’re looking for. If not get in contact with [email protected] and we can advise you on where to look for whatever you’re searching for this winter.
Boards Recommended Retailers:
