Hi I am new to the sport but I can now sail along without too much worry..My question is when is it time to start using a harness, is it before or after your in the foot straps

As fairly new myself learn to get in the harness as soon as possible you wont beleive how much easier it is when you not using all the strength in your arms to hold onto the boom. Makes it so much more enjoyable. Harness up and lay back and relax.

I something think it's actually better getting into the harness after planing and in the straps especially when over powered. Seems to reduce the chance of catapulting as well. Really depends on the conditions I think.

sboardcrazy said...

ejmack said...

I something think it's actually better getting into the harness after planing and in the straps especially when over powered. Seems to reduce the chance of catapulting as well. Really depends on the conditions I think.

Not quite on topic but if its gusty & a bit dicey I'll sail along subplaning with my rear foot in the strap as a safety. I keep the weight on the front one and its generally when I see a gust coming. At least I know I'm anchored so I don't have to worry about getting launched.I always sail in a harness even subplaning ( unless I'm sinking!).

You don't have any probs rounding up into the wind when you have the rear foot in the straps sub-planing? I've got no hope on my board, I'd be nose near verticle and pointing into the wind instantly.

knigit said...

If you are sailing around alright, and can get to where you want to go then you are ready. You'll save so much energy once you get the hang of it you'll be able to sail for a lot longer and in stronger winds.

Have you got the board planing yet?

I would suggest getting fairly long harness lines to start with and perhaps a mast-deflector or nose protector for the board.

Don't be discouraged the first 50 times you go over the handlebars still hooked in ha ha. Happens to everyone when they're getting used to the harness.

No not planning yet but thanx for the heads up about the catapult

Oi, I am a couple of months into windsurfing and got a harness last week.Ive had 3 x sessions with it on.Session 1,wanted to chuck it to the sh%t house within minutes.Session 2, got it all adjusted to my height,hooked in layed back against the rig and fell in love again ha.Just had session 3 this arvo in couple of knots stronger,went over the front a few times but loving it.I have found it supports my dodgie back during up haul+ gives my arms a rest when laying back into the rig.For me,best thing Ive bought in my learning curve,and hangin for my new 6.4 sail due tomoz,yewwwww.Even got some shoulder height waves today,sore as,but so stoked

My advise to all windsurfing beginners is to at least have the harness on from as soon as you can in your learning curve.
It is good to get used to it being on. and many times you may think you should try using it to hook in and the fact of going back and putting it on can delay the inevitable.

Also hooking in usually speeds up the planning process which then makes getting in straps easier.

Nose protector and head protector maybe worthwhile too.