There are two basic categories of boards used in the sailboarding water sport. These are the long board and the short board. The types of board developed along with the sport.
The original boards were the long boards. These were boards that could be stood on without the board sinking. They needed to be so buoyant in order for the sport to develop.
For information on the history and development of the water sport of windsurfing refer to Suite 101 article "History of the Windsurfing or Sailboarding Sport."
Windsurfing Long Boards
The windsurfing long board has two main uses:
- A beginner’s board
- A cruising or long distance board.
The windsurfing long board is usually considered any board longer than three metres in length. They have a large bulk and generally move through the water displacing the water as they move.
The large bulk means that the board provides enough buoyancy to enable a sailor to stand on the board without falling off. This makes it perfect for beginners as they can easily master the uphaul start without having to worry about the board sinking.
The windsurfing long board will usually have a centre-board or dagger board. This is needed to provide resistance against the sideways motion the sail impacts on the board. The shape of the hull, combined with the centre-board, converts that sideways force into forward movement.
Sailing a Windsurfing Long Board
The optimum way to start a long board is the uphaul. This is the act of pulling the sail out of the water by using a rope attached to the mast. This technique is explained in the Suite101 article "Doing an Uphaul to Start a Sailboard or Windsurfer for Beginners."
Generally, the way to turn a long board is through a tack turn. This is where the board is turned into the wind, and the sailor then flips the sail around. This technique is described in more detail in the Suite101 article "Sailing Skills in Turning a Windsurfing Long Board for Beginners."
However, in the hands of proficient sailor, a long board can be made to do many of the basic sailboarding tricks: carve gybe, body drag, duck gybe.
The Windsurfing Long Board is a Recreational Sailboard
The long board is usually considered a recreational sailboard. It is a general all-rounder; found on the many resorts in the world that offer windsurfing as a pastime. They can be also found strapped to the top of touring caravans
Another use of the windsurfing long board is that it can be easily converted into a canoe or surf ski with the addition of a paddle. This is probably the reason it is not uncommon to see a windsurfing long board strapped to the side of ocean-touring yachts. Not only for cruising around some of the great anchorages of the world, but they can be also used for pottering around the yacht at anchor.
The windsurfing long board can also be used for fishing and even other water based activities like exploring waterways.
The main benefit of the windsurfing long board is flexibility. It can be used as a family setup for all members of the family – beginners and experienced sailors all able to get a level of enjoyment.
Bruce Iliff - Hello from an Australian freelancer! I’ve been scratching articles together in Australia in a range of subjects for a number of ...
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