Buy windsurfing sails for freeride, wave and freestyle
A windsurfing sail is the driving surface of a windsurf board that converts wind force into forward movement. The right sail determines your speed, control and enjoyment on the water. At Watersportsonline you'll find windsurfing sails from Severne, NP and STX in sizes from 3 to 9 m², suitable for every discipline and every wind area. Want to know which sail suits you? The full windsurfing range gives a clear overview of the boards, masts and booms that go with them.
Which type of sail suits your discipline?
The five main types differ in profile, size range and wind range. The table below helps you quickly find the right category.
| Sail type | Size range | Wind range (Bft) | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freeride | 5.0 - 9.0 m² | 2 - 5 | Beginner to intermediate |
| No-cam freeride | 4.5 - 7.5 m² | 3 - 6 | Intermediate |
| Wave | 3.0 - 5.5 m² | 4 - 7 | Intermediate to expert |
| Freestyle | 4.0 - 5.5 m² | 3 - 6 | Intermediate to expert |
| Race / freerace | 6.0 - 9.5 m² | 2 - 5 | Expert |
Rule of thumb: if you're unsure between two sizes, choose the smaller one if you sail a lot at sea or in stronger winds, and the larger one for flat inland waters with light wind.
Severne NCX, Blade and Convert: what are the differences?
Severne dominates the range with clearly defined models. The NCX is a no-cam freeride sail: light, quick to rig and versatile for wind force 3 to 6. The Blade and Blade Pro are wave-oriented sails with a fast, responsive profile for surfing in the shorebreak or in strong wind. The Convert is designed as an entry-level model for learners who want stable, forgiving sailing. The Moto and S-1 sit in the freerace segment, built for speed over flat water. NP (North Sails) and STX offer starter packages with mast and boom included, ideal for those who want to start completely without having to match separate parts. Also check the windsurfing mast range for the right mast combination for your sail.
Frequently asked questions about windsurfing sails
How do I choose the right sail size for my weight and wind area?
Sail size depends on three factors: your body weight, the average wind force in your sailing area, and the board you're using. A rule of thumb: divide your weight in kg by 10, then add 1 to 1.5 for wind force 4. If you weigh 80 kg, a sail of 9 to 9.5 m² works well at force 3-4. If you weigh 70 kg and sail at sea with regular force 5-6, you're looking at 6.5 to 7.5 m². Inland sailors on flat waters like the IJsselmeer tend to use slightly larger sails than coastal windsurfers, because the water is flatter and the wind more consistent. If you sail in two different conditions, consider two sails: a large freeride sail for light wind and a smaller wave or no-cam sail for stronger conditions.
What is the difference between a no-cam and a cam sail?
A cam sail has camber inductors, small plastic elements that wrap around the mast and give the sail a fixed, aerodynamic shape. This produces high top speed and early planing, but rigging takes longer and the sail is heavier. A no-cam sail has no inductors. The profile is softer, the sail is lighter and quicker to rig. No-cam sails are therefore popular for wave and freeride sailing, where you regularly need to drop the sail or tack quickly. Race and freerace sails typically have multiple cams for maximum performance. The Severne NCX is a great example of a no-cam freeride sail that's versatile and user-friendly without falling far behind cam alternatives in speed.
Which mast fits my windsurfing sail?
Every manufacturer specifies a recommended mast length and bend curve (IMCS value) for each sail. You'll find this in the product specifications. Using a mast with the wrong stiffness means the sail profile won't fit properly, and you'll lose performance. Severne sails are designed for Severne RDM and SDM masts. NP sails are tuned for NP masts. If you want a universally compatible mast, choose a quality mast with the right IMCS value from our windsurfing mast range. Pay attention to the difference between SDM (standard diameter) and RDM (reduced diameter): wave and freestyle sails are almost always paired with RDM masts because of the extra impact resistance in the surf.
How do I maintain and store a windsurfing sail?
Rinse the sail with fresh water after every session, especially after saltwater. Salt crystallises in the stitching and weakens the material over time. Dry the sail rolled out or hung up, never folded in direct sunlight. UV radiation damages monofilm and ripstop. Store the sail loosely rolled or rolled up in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, release the tension in the mast sleeve by removing the boom and mast. Small tears in monofilm can be patched with sail repair tape. Larger damage can be repaired by a specialist. A well-maintained sail lasts five to eight years.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
