First windsurf board

Question
Ok, so I've taken the beginner windsurf lesson and been renting equipment at my local lake.  I can do sail-thru tacks and Jibes.  I have not planed yet (at least not on purpose).  Have been using the HiFly Primo board.

I have the urge to buy my own board.  I have been reading about the Starboard GO.  There is some sort of side-fin stabilizer option that I could use and then remove once I can plane and learn how to turn with my feet.  This sounded like a board I could use now and advance with.

So, 2 questions. 1) What do you think about the logic of choosing this board and 2)  How do I choose the size? 155, 166, 177...What factors do I consider?  I am ~ 180-185 lbs.

I thought I would continue to rent the sail rig until I understand better how I would choose the type/size.  Will save that question for another day.

thanks
-John

Answer
Hey John,

Congrats on learning to windsurf. Sounds like you're hooked so welcome to a great sport. As to the GO being a good choice for you. It is a very user friendly board for beginners and advanced sailors. The options of footstrap position, fin choices, etc. make it a very good board for beginners to advance to higher levels of sailing. As for what size you should buy, here are a couple of thoughts. If you continue to rent for a few more sessions so that you can get on a plane, start learning harness hook in/out and maybe start working into the footstraps, then I would suggest getting the 155. If your skills are what I mention above, you will grow into the 155 and it will still work well for you in higher winds. The other option would be going with the 177 and learn the above techniques on your own board. The small drawback is that you may non be able to handle quite as high of winds with the 177.

Here would be the deciding factor on board size; What are your most predominate winds for the area you sail? If they are light to moderate (5-15kts) with occasional/seasonal higher winds (20+kts), then the 177 may be the better choice as you can carry a bigger sail for light winds and still be able to sail 15-25kts with a smaller sail and fin. If you have more days of 15kts or better, advance your skills and go with a lower volume board.

So I hope this advice will help you. Be sure to ask your local folks the same questions and ask about predominate winds. They should be quite helpful in helping you determine what will work best for your area.

Again, welcome to windsurfing.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover