It's definitely doable if you're on a budget (like many of us).

I used to have a gap from a 5.9 and a 7.4 and there was a bit of crossover in their ranges. I could hold down the 7.5 up to 20-22 knots and the 5.9 could plane in 15 knots. These are relatively modern 07-08 freeride sails.

There will be days when a 6.5 will be a better sail choice however...

Squid Lips said...

I think they are probably close enough in size, as shear tip says, but the Pilot's aren't very durable if you are looking to take it in the waves. They are more of a budget sail line. I have a 6m and have broken a batten, split the monofilm in the bottom panel and the tack pulley flew to pieces last time I tried to use it.

I've been reading about the durability issues just in the last 30 minutes from other websites! For the price of $100 would I be able to find a stronger sail of this size (7.0-7.5) for my intended use? Maybe at this price I can afford to put my head through the non-x-ply clear film!?

As you get hooked on windsurfing a great sail range would be 5.8, 6.5, 7.5 more money of course but when hooked these would be your most used sails.

DunkO said...

WS&S is where this sail originally came from except its now $150 cheaper and in very similar condition.

admittedly the sail is not a a top of the line sail but served me well in a progressive stage, and i believe that's what you are kind of in again after 20yrs returning too windsurfing. Even this sail depowers a lot better than the ones from back then

It's fine to 20 knots especially if your 100kgs (i've been out with it in more at 85kg) and then you've got the 5.8 for when it really blows?

My recommendations would always be full X ply for durability if its going in real waves though.

Not really caring if the sail gets sold, just good to get it out of the garage and used by someone again.

Sold! Good answer Duncan.

I've never minded if I was overpowered and if these modern designs are more forgiving, as I've been told by many, it should be OK and if I destroy it it won't break my piggy bank. I have not used a modern sail (post 1992) so anything made in the last 5-10 years should feel great...yes? I've still got a bit of sticky back left over in case I do put my head through it.

I'm excited, none of my gear is the perfect set-up or new, they both require a bigger budget which is beyond me. This will be good enough to cover me for a little while.

Heheh, I also bought a very cheap vintage slalom board that'll float me, it's actually newer than my wave board! That should give me a few jollies. Yeah yeah I know modern boards are better, easier to use blah blah blah. At least my sails and Kona are around 5-7 years old. That's bloody new to me!

Outta my way here I come!!!
(moronic laughter dissapearing into the distance on his Big Kahuna (Kona One))