Sailing, which sport to practice according to the wind strength?

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Each wind force corresponds to a water sport. In fact, each sport requires ideal conditions to practice and a certain wind strength. Here is what sport you can practice from less than 5 knots to more than 30 knots.

Less than 5 knots

These are the ideal conditions to practice surfing and paddling. For surfing, you will have to find a wave spot, while for paddling, you can practice everywhere, on 15 to 20 cm of water and even in rivers.

From 5 to 20 knots

It is ideal for houseboat or light sailing, dinghy type. The conditions are manageable at all speeds - even upwind - and you can sail with all sails out. The sea state is generally quite calm and the waves are often less than 1 m.

The wind and sea conditions also allow us to sail close to the coast whereas a stronger wind would tend to move us away for safety. The anchorages are also more frequented.

These conditions allow the less experienced to feel comfortable. As we approach 20 knots, we can consider taking a reef.

From 15 to 25 knots

It's time to practice kitesurfing! Below, the wind has difficulty to support the rider. The wind will not be too strong to make the first tacks and for the most experienced, between 20 and 25 knots, the riders can already reach a nice altitude.

25 to 35 knots

This is the realm of windsurfing! The small sails allow to adapt to strong wind conditions and to absorb gusts, while the large float allows to keep floating even when the wind is strong, compared to kitesurfing, which will tend to sink.

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