Freestyle windsurfing is all about creativity, skill, and control. Whether you’re a beginner looking to try your first trick or an experienced rider aiming to master advanced maneuvers, learning freestyle tricks can make your windsurfing sessions more exciting. Here are some of the best freestyle tricks to try and how to perform them.
Upwind 360
The Upwind 360 is a smooth, stylish trick that involves a full spin while keeping the sail under control.
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How to do it:
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Start by shifting your weight slightly forward.
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Turn the board upwind while leaning into the sail.
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Keep the sail powered throughout the spin.
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Complete the 360-degree turn and regain balance.
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Duck Tack
The Duck Tack is a fun way to change direction while maintaining flow.
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How to do it:
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Steer the board slightly upwind.
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Release the back hand and duck the sail underneath.
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Step forward on the board to complete the tack.
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Switch your stance and continue sailing.
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Air Jibe
The Air Jibe is an exciting aerial maneuver where you switch directions mid-air.
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How to do it:
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Gain speed and unweight the board.
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Pop the board into the air while turning downwind.
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Let go of the back hand and rotate the sail.
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Land smoothly and continue in the new direction.
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Vulcan
The Vulcan is the foundation for many sliding tricks in freestyle windsurfing.
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How to do it:
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Approach with good speed on flat water.
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Jump slightly and push the nose down while rotating the sail.
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Land on the opposite side with the sail flipped.
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Maintain control and keep sailing.
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Spock
The Spock is an advanced move that adds a sliding rotation after a Vulcan.
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How to do it:
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Start by executing a Vulcan.
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After landing, push the board into a backward slide.
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Hold the sail position and complete the 360-degree spin.
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Shift your weight forward to regain momentum.
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Flaka
The Flaka is a stylish 360-degree spin performed on the nose of the board.
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How to do it:
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Carve slightly upwind before jumping.
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Pull the sail forward while rotating your body.
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Land smoothly with the board facing downwind.
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Shift weight back to regain stability.
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Forward Loop
The Forward Loop is one of the most thrilling tricks in windsurfing.
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How to do it:
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Get enough speed and find a wave or chop.
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Jump and tuck your body while throwing the sail forward.
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Rotate fully and spot your landing.
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Absorb the impact and sail away.
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Conclusion
Freestyle windsurfing is all about pushing your limits and having fun. Whether you’re mastering the Vulcan or taking on the Forward Loop, these tricks add excitement and style to your rides. Practice on flat water, focus on technique, and enjoy the thrill of freestyle windsurfing!
