Getting back into Windsurfing - Need some tips on equipment

ashepp2633 · Joined: 26 Jul 2008 Posts: 1

Hi Folks, Looks like a really active and helpful community here on iwindsurf.
I'm a brit who's been over here in Seattle for about 12 years now. I'm looking to get into the local Windsurf scene after nothing more than the occasional recreational rental in Hawaii.

I would say I'm about intermediate proficiency though still rusty. My previous equipment was a Bic 280 Astrojet I think with about 120l of volume, a quiver of North Sails, harness, etc. I can water start and just about carve jibe Smile

Would love to pick up some used equipment to get me back on the water. Any suggestions for best places around Seattle to look ? Also feel free to give me a shout on 206 234 5222 if you've got something that might be suitable.

Much appreciated.
Adam.

andymc4610 · Joined: 19 May 2000 Posts: 684

A trip to the gorge would be worth your time with many so many shops that have cheap used gear, or a swap meet. Windance (the best), 2nd Wind, Gorge surf shop, big winds, isthmus to name just a few shops with lots of stuff......

ascott72 · Joined: 12 Jun 2006 Posts: 124

I am not sure what the windsurfing scene is like in the Seattle area so I don't know what kind of gear you need (130 liter board, quiver of sails from 7.0 - 4.2?) but it is worth making a trip to Hood River for either a CGWA or Windance swap meet. Best place to pick up new gear cheap. Mostly high wind stuff but there's some bigger gear floating around too.
You can also check Craig's List.

http://windsurf.gorge.net/cgwa/swap.html

LeeD · Joined: 12 Jun 2008 Posts: 1175

Since most sailible days in Seattle seem to be in the 8-18mph range, you'd need big boards and bigger sails, like maybe at least 120 liter board and sails centered around 8 meters.
Most of my friends up there use Formula and low 10's, to max out the # of planing days.
You didn't mention YOUR sizing, very important in the final choice of gear.
Yeah, hit the Gorge using up your 6 hour drive, but it's worth it for the amazing amount of used gear at incredibly low prices.

forwards · Joined: 30 May 2000 Posts: 109

The group below is fairly active in the pacNW, and FS/WTB gear postings are allowed every wednesday:
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/NW-WINDTALK/
Suggest you copy your original post there.
Local SEA sailing conditions are generally light during summer, though a number of locals are into formula stuff... see "city league" posts in this link. Most of us make the wknd drive to the gorge. In fall/winter/spring there can be good wind locally, and there are a number of good places withing 2 hours driving.