Hi to all. I am new to windsurfing and thinking to windsurf during the winter. ( 12-14 celcius air temperature and sea temperature)

what kind of gear do i need? are there wet suits and dry suits? whats appropriate for surfing? any specific recommendations?

help the newbie! thanks...

Winter? ....We those sort those sort of temps weekend before last at Canton

You don't need a dry suit but do get a wetsuit that is designed for windsurfing - one with panels on the outside (chest especially) which are not covered in fabric. Although the fabric protects the neoprene from tears it holds water and loses body heat through evaporation. It makes a huge difference to how cold you get! Windsurfing wetsuits also have a looser cut around the arms and shoulders to allow the movement we need.
Have a look at Flying Objects Flux, ProMotion wetsuits, NPX.

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Windxtasy said...
You don't need a dry suit but do get a wetsuit that is designed for windsurfing - one with panels on the outside (chest especially) which are not covered in fabric. Although the fabric protects the neoprene from tears it holds water and loses body heat through evaporation. It makes a huge difference to how cold you get! Windsurfing wetsuits also have a looser cut around the arms and shoulders to allow the movement we need.
Have a look at Flying Objects Flux, ProMotion wetsuits, NPX.

Don't think it matters that much about windsurfing-specific wetties. Top line surfing wetties have the flex in the arms you need anyway.
Dry suits are for whimps. If its mostly those temps, just get a top line 3x4mm steamer.
I used one in tassie last spring, and the year before that too.
Even for spear fishing in Vic autumn last year. Was pretty cold each of those times.
Get a thermal rashie underneath if you really feel the need.

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Boris said...

Don't think it matters that much about windsurfing-specific wetties. Top line surfing wetties have the flex in the arms you need anyway.

I agree. I used a 4/3mm O'Neill Psycho 2 steamer in Europe the past few years... temps were around the same as you state.

I found the key to staying warm was getting some nice 3mm booties and then wearing a beanie on my head if it's really windy and there's wind chill. With that on I had no probs...

I use 5/4 and it's great (Spartan wetsuits...Brits know how to make a comfy windsurfing wetsuit)...easy to dress and undress and very warm...The coldest I used it so far was 12 degrees sea temp. and 10 degrees air temp. on 1st December in Italy, 5 hours and didn't feel the chill.

I agree the Oneil Psycho range are great. I have had a few now and they have been great for sailing all winter in the southern ocean. They are a great suit with years of pedigree.

I agree with Darvio and Sean. Overhere in the Netherlands we sail all year round. That means both air and water temperatures close to freezing. Sometimes with the wind adding chill factor it feels like well below zero. Most people I know have an O'neill Psycho II 5/3 and combine that with a thick lycra. I also use that combo and never get cold. Tried several wetsuits and I'm sure you will be pleased with a Psycho. It has a wider fit around the shoulders and upperarms, is made of super stretch neopreen and has one of the easiest entry/ closing systems (no need to ask a buddy to zip you up!).

Don't be scared of the double lined wetsuit. Alltough it gets wet and stays wet on the outside you will never feel the chill. With the temperatures you're wanting to sail in a 4/3 wetsuit will be the best. A 5/3 will make you sweat with 14 degrees.