How To Cross Big Waves In Windsurfing

Dream Team rider Flo Jung talks you through how to cross big waves with windsurfing gear. In order to ride waves you first have to get to them. In the end it comes down to timing, patience and commitment. Here are some helpful tips to get out there. Enjoy the ride!

Filmed by Sam Tomé.

[robertallison]

Great to see a pivot gybe 'in the wild' - I'm practicing exactly that maneuver at the moment.

I would add that if you do get washed, keep the mast pointing at the oncoming waves and never let the kit get between you and a wave face.

[zytigon]

You need to be good enough to be able to do a really quick, sharp gybe and run away when needed to avoid a near vertical wave face that there is no way to jump over or other way around and so might only have a few moments to realize what is coming at you and decide what to do. Those waves in the video looked like 45 degree approach- quite nice for jumping if you are well enough powered. It can be hard to tell from the beach just how big the waves are and if wind is cross shore 90 degrees to waves you will be heading straight out to them. Maybe that is where cross on or cross off lets you approach the waves at a more favourable angle to jump steep wave face. Maybe buy a new mast with unconditional replacement warranty or an old or cheaper one that you can afford to break. Don't go out in a lot bigger conditions than you've done before ? If in doubt don't go out but it depends if there are rescue jetskis to help you. Depends how good you are at swimming and how fit you are. Also if you are used to surfing and being washed.

[natkingcol]

Looks easy! If only it was.... I find at my beach the wind is a bit kak on the inside, where you need it...