That question is easier to answer in 2010 despite a wider field to chose from in "first boards" than ever before. This is because we've just had our 2nd revolution in windsurf boards in just one decade! "Whoa!", you say, "I don't even know about the first revolution -- I missed that -- and now there's a 2nd? I don't really care about either. I just want a proper board for me...Hey, is this going to be a long story?" Well...sort of...but the story explains a lot along the way, even though I'm going to skip around as I tell it.

Windsurfing boards used to be long, heavy, narrow, and very tippy. They slipped through the water efficiently in the hands of the expert but they were a disaster to learn on. The sport suffered severly. Then there was a revolution in entry-level equipment in the very late '90's -- the "wide-style" revolution -- in which width-wise stability was "discovered". Boards were made much, much shorter and the volume (floatability) was built into the middle to the rear of the boards where the rider stands. Things were better for the beginner. But, of course, that was followed, in the early '00's, by the obligatory experimentation with good ideas carried WAAAY to the extreme. (There is something not-right about a board wider than the top of the car it's being carried on.) Initially, I was worried about this whole revolution -- I feared the whole sensation of surfing would be lost to beginners on these huge, door-like platforms. But, board designers calmed down by '05-'06 -- at least some of them did -- and have learned how to enhance the wide designs to achieve higher performance boards that are quite stable, get on a plane easily, cruise comfortably, and are lighter feeling underfoot. Life for the beginnner was now, well...SWEET! This, the 1st revolution, was now mature.

Then, three years ago, in '07, windsurfing had another revolution sneak in the side door. This time it came from from the regular wave-surfing scene: the stand-up paddleboard (or SUP, for short.) . The SUP is really an old Hawaiian surfing concept: a big, wide, easy board one can stand on and, with a special long paddle, catch any kind of wave while already up on the board, standing and relaxed to enjoy the ride. People also found out they were a delightful way to get exercise and enjoy "walking on water" even on calm, flat waterways. And then, next thing...whadayaknow.... windsurfing manufacturers thought, "Huhm, let's try a mast track for our sails on one of these things" and, there you go...Revolution #2: an awesome, fun, very beginner-friendly, multi-purpose board! A LOT of bang for your buck, dude! For windsurfing, these boards are excellent, ultra-stable learning platforms, sail upwind and plane delightfully (in enough wind). They glide in light-to-moderate winds with a simplicity of elegance that delight even high-wind snobs (such as myself). SUP's, as designed by windsurfing brands, are true multi-purpose, multi-mode, multi-venue boards. But, there are trade-offs with a SUP, so your first decision is, Do I want to only windsurf with this new board, or might I also want to surf waves, explore calm flat-water venues under paddle power, and maybe even teach windsurfing to my kids and buddies on this thing? Don't say "no" until you give it a look. SUP-ing is the fastest growing watersport in the world. The SUP is such a big story it gets it's on Whitecap Site http://www.whitecapsup.com. Any way you go, life for the beginner is better than ever.

So... if you're still with me, let's look into 5 critical characteristics of "first board" design and how they might impact your decision...

The 1st revolution in "first board" design, 10 years ago, was about width-wise stability. Board designers quickly realized that the ideal beginner's board would be even better if it was also lightweight, durable, low-cost, and capable of intermediate skills (so you don't outgrow it so quickly.) Manufacturers sought to make boards with all five of those characteristics in one board. That ain't easy. "First board" choice often was all about where you're willing to make a trade-off, i.e., lightweightness means less durability. , Greater initial stability (width and bulk) typically means sacrificing future intermediate skills performance (manuverability and speed). But, as I said before, by about 2006 board shapers had come much, much closer to understanding and dialing-in the most-maximized, all-round shape. There are still some design trade-offs to consider but they aren't nearly as extreme as way back when, at least not among any boards I endorse.

Whew!...we're almost done, but not quite yet. Let me elaborate on that "capable of intermediate skills" thing. If you call me to discuss board choice, we'll talk about this for sure. Once you become an advanced-beginner level windsurfer, you would be able to notice, if you had alternatives to test, that a given board will have natural capabilities that another may not -- relatively speaking. Some boards seem inclined toward easier manuvering and upwind ability while other shapes are built for early planning and speed in light winds. This distincton is endlessly discussed in the world of windsurfing board design. You might as well be aware it's out there. Your personality, goals in the sport, and general athletic ability will determine which factor concerns you most.

....There are a couple other things you need to think about. 1) the usual conditions you can expect to sail in most of the time, and 2) your lifestyle -- how often will you be able to get out there on the water? This highlights the other design characteristic worth some elaboration: stability. In most cases you will be able to get to the lake or beach only when you have scheduled time off -- which is not necessarily when the wind is blowing at 15+mph. It may be 5 mph and puffy or it might be a steady "lake wind advisory", yet, that's the day you're off and ready to go. You want the equipment to "work" as well as possible in whatever conditions you encounter. I want you to have fun the first, as well as each and every time thereafter you go windsurfing. Also, the frequency with which you get on the water will greatly determine how fast you progress. If it can't be weekly, you need gear that is forgiving and doesn't require all your attention on balance each time you get out. Stability -- which comes from volume and width (obviously), but also length -- is the key to (1) drastically reduce the learning curve and (2), more importantly, have fun from the very beginning.

I(Note #1: A Word on Width and Length: Boards can get too wide to perform "all-around" as they say. Too much width = excess drag, weight, and bulk that will hold you back in several categories. You can get all the stability any reasonable person needs without going over the 80 to 90 cm wide range. And, concerning length, a board can definitely be too short, also. Stability is affected by the length axis significantly, but of even greater concern is how a too-short board narrows the margin for error in the critical sail trim, or angle, that all beginners work hard to maintain in order to sail comfortably across the wind. I NEVER ever teach first-day lessons in the sub 280cm boards for that reason (although your first board can be a little bit shorter than that in light of your future developing sailing abilities.) I have a "too-short' model listed below due to its one patented, unique feature that certain individuals might value.

For guaranteed success, here are my 2010 "First Board" recommendations. (Click on the hyperlink to see the board and specs.) Remember, MSRP may not be my price -- there is room for discounts on some models -- and NO national catalog mail order house beats me or would dare, in reality, to match my no-hassle guarantee of satisfaction.

Fanatic VIPER -- (MSRP, 2010: $1299 / closeout '09's available-- $979 !! * ) Developed after extensive testing and feedback on all major entry-level boards on the market, including classic "old school" beginner boards, up to the latest, most extreme "wide body" designs, the VIPER's are, all things considered, perhaps the very best all-round first board choice for beginners looking for advanced performance capability in their 1st board. It has proper length and reasonable, moderate width in two sizes: 220 liters and 190 liters. The larger 220 VIPER is 285cm x 85cm wide, 10cm longer than the Mistral MALIBU (below). The 190 is 280 X 80cm wide. Both VIPER's have an outline that is not only a little bit longer, but it is "straighter" which gives improved rig steering. The even-volume distribution helps sub-planing performance and adds counterbalance to the sail rig when you progress to the point of hooking in a harness and using footstraps on a plane. Overall EVA deck, High Resistance Skin, retractable centerboard, multiple beginner-friendly foostrap positions.

 ( * The '09 and '10 model are identical, except for graphics. The closeout price is a great deal!)

Trade-offs: Not cheapest, but otherwise, this is it!

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Bic CORE 293 D -- (MSRP: $1099) It's a classic, windsurf board outline shape upsized to beginner friendliness. And least expensive MSRP first board! A board on which you can both learn the basics of windsurfing and then progress right through to your first shortboard. Unique among the other first boards shown here in 2ways: (1) it does not have the EVA (synthetic rubber) deck; and (2) it is a lighter weight, similar outline to classic, all-round short boards. Based on the shape of the tremendous world-wide success of the BIC Techno 293 One Design, the CORE is a proven performer in a wide variety of conditions. (293cm X 79cm wide and 205 liters volume.) For a beginner, the high volume, stability and a fully retractable daggerboard make it an ideal learning platform. When the wind picks up, the Core 293 D becomes a true "free-ride" board on which you can learn how to plane, sail in the footstraps, waterstart and gybe! It's an ideal first board for the aggressive-minded beinner and one that many keep forever into their advanced years as their light-wind, big-sail freerider. (Note: The CORE has a regular, non-skid top deck construction like all smaller, performance windsurf boards.)

Trade-offs: less wide and stable (width-wise) than some here; no super-easy footstrap position options; no EVA deck protection

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Mistral "MALIBU" -- (MSRP: $1299.) An '09 model that is still available, this board has all the essential elements of first board design without complications, gimics, or extremes. The MALIBU is a board of superior performance in planing conditions. Mistral focused on maximizing the correct length-to-width ratio to provide stability on both axis and improved high-wind control. The '09 MALIBU comes in is 274cm long by 85cm wide with 220 liters which will give anyone, from light to heavy weights, plenty of float! Wow. Add a, comfy and protective EVA rubber-like deck all over, High Resistance Skin, many footstrap positions, and a traditional retractable daggerboard for "get-me-back-to-home" upwind ability

Note: If you're trying to bring a child or spouse into the sport, and you want that new "first" board to do some double duty when you need a light-air big-un...and you're not inclined to do the stand-up paddleboard thing...then, this is it!)

Trade-offs: Not lowest price of all boards here; a bit shorter and less "turny" than the CORE or VIPER above.

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Mistral's PACIFICO (the stand-up paddleboard, or SUP) -- (MSRP: $1299, '09 close-out available at $1095) -- This is the multi-purpose revolution! A super-friendly beginner's windsurfing board that also brings you into the world's fastest growing watersport: stand-up paddleboarding. As a windsurfer, it's first name is STABLE. It's long: 350cm (11' 4") X 78cm wide (30") and 207 liters. (Notice, it ain't THAT big: it's not even as wide or as much volume as some other first-board choices here. Or heavier.) An overall EVA deck for barefoot (and bare legs) comfort. High resistance skin for durability underneath. Super easy beginner platform -- that's obvious -- but what amazes is how shockingly lightweight it feels underfoot! As you improve it really planes smoothly -- even in bad, crazy chop in high winds -- and delivers a rewarding, floating ride. But, if there isn't any wind, then what? Go surfing, dude! Grab a stand-up long paddle and get on the water! Ride waves, paddle the still waters at sunset, glide in light air, zoom by sail when it blows... and you can still send the kids out to play on it while you take a break.  On a personal note, I have one of these and carry it everywhere I go. As an inland, water-sports fanatic, this board changed my life. Love it!

(A specialized stand-up paddle is $99 for aluminum, $220 composite, $300 all-carbon.)   

Trade-offs: it's long (but not heavy, however, can be a handful to transport and cartop for some people); only one footstrap position; may take more wind to plane than some models here; Be aware: no daggerboard!! (but the long out line largely compensates for that)

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Starboard WHOPPER CLUB (stand up paddelboard with center fin-- MSRP: $1299) With the WHOPPER CLUB edition, everybody sails, everybody surfs!! What a complete package! So many features for windsurfing AND wave-surfing user-friendliness! Lot's of stability: 34" (85cm) wide and 10' long. May be the easiest board ever to learn to surf  the SUP way. For windsurfing, the center fin arrangement and multiple mast base inserts for choosing a sail position make it a tried and true entry-level windsurfer. Extras!! High density EVA nose and tail bumpers to reduce risk of injury: extra strong side fin boxes; standing area color-coded tp indicate best paddling position and point to stradle when uphauling in windsurf mode. Only SUP out there with a suitable windsurfing centerboard substitute. Carrying handle insert at mid-point makes toting to the water easy...it's light anyway!  And when the wind isn't blowing, this board will catch the smallest waves with ease. It's almost impossible to nosedive. This board is a extremely popular bestseller, not justworldwide, but more importantly, also right here in the SE United States. (The Starboard company, and Whitecap both, have surfers with 20+ years of wave riding expertise who LOVE this board as a SUP surfer! Quite shocking what a sweet surf board it is at this width. Whitecap has references if you want to investigate further.)

(A specialized stand-up paddle is $99 for aluminum, $220 composite, $300 all-carbon.)   

Trade offs: Not set up to take footstraps, so not likley to deliver advanced-intermediate windsurfing performance.

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KONA "Link" -- (MSRP: $1249)  An excellent entry level performance hybrid! Traditional longboard-like performance due to it's round nose shape and fittings, yet it's not hugely long so that it can have reduced bulk to enhance speed and manubverability in higher winds. 220 liters and 300cm long x 80 wide. A very easy board to control under full power. Those retro, island-style good looks don't hurt either!  Really, a sweet choice for multiple users of various sizes, abilities and agressiveness, especially in a flat-water venue (i.e., lake or protected bay). Full EVA deck and removable integrated wheel at rear for easy transport.

Trade offs: Not cheapest. A bit heavy, relative to some. No super-easy foostrap options (but several moderate progressive positions.)

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A complete sail rig has 5 main parts: 1) the sail, (2) the mast, (3) a boom, (4) an extension, and (5) the mast base/U-joint.

Sails from the last few years are also much better than the old beginner's rigs. They are lighter weight and without mechanical cams (cup-like devices that grip the mast where the battens (ribs of the sail) meets the mast) so they rig easier, uphaul (lift from the water) easier, and transition from one side to the other on turns much easier. Most men should start with something in the 6.2 to 6.7 sq. meter range. Lighter women, something closer to 5.5. I often have good close-out deals on some sizes of '09 and '08 sails. Some used ones out there are quite suitable. Things I would want to talk with you about: Should you get one or two to begin with? Which size(s)? Are you planning to take it in the ocean? Are you going to go out whenever it blows...or just whenever?

Really good values on high-quality "first" sails in complete rigs that include mast, boom, base, and extension:

Chinook POWER GLIDE complete rig .....    5.5 at $619 and 6.5 at $669

<<<<<<<  Until this rig came along last year, I never endorsed the pre-packaged "kit" rig approach. The sails might be OK, but the rig components were always too cheap and flimsy. But Chinook exploded that stereotype with this totally awesome total rig! A 100% X-Ply sail -- top durability!! Beautiful, too (By the renowned designer, David Ezzy.) Comes with the first fiber-epoxy mast I can stand behind in years -- very light! Also, Chinook's standard "Sport" model alloy boom, standard high-quality extension, and very sweet euro-pin mast base that I always sold in "first" rigs. I'm still amazed. This is a "kit" rig I am proud to sell.

From the world-renowned Aerotech brand, the all-monofilm GLIDE in 5.2 at $591 up to 6.5 at $652 in a complete rig with appropriate two-piece Epic Gear brand epoxy mast and boom. It's a lightweight, performance shape with features like a pulley down-haul and grid luff panel to reduce mono wrinkling. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Consider Aerotech's AIR-X if you want a full-on performance sail with greater durability and state-of-the-art features. I specify this as a best "first gear" choice due to it's light-weight, easy-rigging, all-round freeride design -- and price. For beginners, I'll do a 5.2 or 5.8 at $479 for sail only. Scrounge a used mast or boom, base and extension, or let me complete a reasonable package. (You get the increased durability of "all X-ply" construction in this sail model. Easily worth it if you live or sail in the ocean.)

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If you don't go for a packaged "complete" rig, then we build the rig component by component:

I have in stock the boom you ought to get.... $119 to $139. A super value in a quality aluminum boom by Chinook or Epic Gear. These are exactly like the boom I started on and often still use; they're $30 cheaper than other manufacturers and way less than hi-tech carbon ones you don't need.

The mast: For years, most beginners started with a basic epoxy for $149. I did for my first 2 years. But, the other lighter option is the carbon-composite which, for the basic 40 % carbon one I would recommend, you jump to about $290. They are lighter and more responsive and someday you will want one. For now, choose between the epoxy or 40% carbon, unless you can easily afford a higher percent carbon and lightness of the rig is very important to you.

U-joints and mast bases are really simple, but there are several systems out there. Only two are really standard. Let's go over it....

The mast base extension sticks into the bottom of the mast. It has two purposes: (1) It has the imbedded pulley wheels on it for downhauling the sail, and (2) it adjusts the lenght of your mast to fit sails of various sizes. Extensions come in 3 or 4 standard lengths and each is adjustable in the amount of length they add to your mast. You only need one. This allows a given mast to adjust to fit a variety of sail sizes. Get a longish one. Why not? It only costs a few bucks more and then you have more flexibiity.

>>> Both pieces together: approximately $110.

An extension is made to accept a U-joint/mastbase (also commonly referred to as just the mast foot or mast base) of the same style. There are only two current styles: (1) the double push-pin cup , or (2) the Euro-pin. Either is perfectly fine and readily available in shops, etc. but the base and extension styles must match. This universal joint top piece inserts into the bottom of the mast base extension and locks in place. The flexible piece of the U-joint comes in two shapes and materials, the black rubber hourglass or the urethane tendon. Either is fine. The bottom of the U-joint assembly usually has a threaded bolt and stainless or brass square washer to insert in the mast track of the board. Then, there is a mechanism to tighten down the whole assembly to the board, usually by twisting, which pulls the washer up tight inside the mast track. (Yep, can you believe that?! -- it all comes down to that washer holding the sail to the board!) I sell, and use myself the Chinook, and Streamlined brands of extensions and U-joints. Expect to pay about $58 for the longest mast base extensions. The Chinnok rubber "Twist-On" is a twist-and-release U-joint that is simple, reliable, inexpensive ($57) and great for beginners (and you'll still be using it when you're an expert).

A WARNING: If you get this fantastic used-board-with-sail-and-everything-deal from your brother-in-law that has an old, obsolete mast track and mast base/U-joint system, you will be very mad when you realize that, if a piece of this system breaks, that's it -- the board is worthless.The sail, mast, and boom should work on another board, but if you can't find the obsolete replacement U-joint parts -- and I'm pretty good, but I can't work miracles --just toss out the board. To prevent this from happening, call me before you buy that used stuff. I'll go over it with you.

Up-haul line -- The basic bungee one is $11. (Or, the braided rope for easy grip -- $23.Or an E-Z-Uphaul for $32

Boom bra pad -- $13. Attaches to the boom at the mast clamp to cushion the blow if the boom slams into the nose of the board.

Hand-held rigging tool -- $14

That's all, folks!