| Before you start practicing windsurfing, it is vital to | | | | comprises of holes drilled diametrically opposite each |
| understand the various equipments used in it. A | | | | other. The mast collar is placed above a pin that is |
| windsurfing novice can be easily misled into thinking | | | | positioned through the hole at the required height. |
| that windsurfing involves only the surf board and the | | | | Tips for Choosing Mast Extensions |
| sail. However, there are various smaller parts like the | | | | Apart from the type of sails, it is important to keep a |
| boom, fin, uphaul, mast and mast base that play an | | | | few factors in mind while choosing mast extensions. |
| equal role in windsurfing. Yet another important | | | | Some of the factors to be considered while choosing |
| component of this kit is the mast extension. | | | | mast extensions are as follows: |
| Windsurfing Mast Extension | | | | 1. Ensure that the mast extension is compatible with |
| As the name suggests, mast extension refers to the | | | | various brands of masts along with a carbon mast. |
| extension that joins that mast to the luff of the sail. | | | | Also, the extension must be designed to endure |
| Usually the mast extension is adjustable so that it | | | | immense wear and tear including salt water exposure, |
| becomes easy to join different types of sails. The | | | | huge amount of dust and sand particles. |
| mast extension consists of pulleys that help to pull high | | | | 2. The mast extension must be extremely efficient in |
| degree of tension during downhauling. There are | | | | downhauling. Opt for a mast extension with 15mm |
| different types of mast extension systems from which | | | | pulleys and a capable ratchet system. |
| you can choose the one that suits your mast and sail. | | | | 3. It is recommended to opt for light-weight mast |
| 1. Grooved Extension: The grooved extension supports | | | | extensions that are easily adjustable as well as easy |
| the mast with the help of a metal circlip. This circlip fits | | | | on your hands. |
| in the mast extension and supports the mast collar. | | | | 4. Always remember to check ring and collar |
| The grooves or channels in which the circlip fits are at | | | | adjustment system in a mast extension system. |
| an interval of 1-2cms. The grooved mast extensions | | | | 5. It is preferable to have mast extensions that are |
| are known to offer great durability. | | | | easy to rig. |
| 2. Spring-loaded Collar Extension: One of the most | | | | 6. Several mast extensions available these days |
| widely used mast extensions, the spring-loaded collar | | | | comprise of carbon fiber tube. This is a good |
| extension is the easiest to attach. The spring loaded | | | | development as this enhances the strength of the |
| extension can be easily adjusted according to the sail. | | | | extension. It is also lighter in weight than the usual |
| Like the grooved extension, the spring-loaded | | | | aluminium mast extension. |
| extension too has holes drilled at fixed intervals. While | | | | These are some of the basic aspects of mast |
| strapping the mast extension collar, a pin is inserted | | | | extension. Often surfers do not give great importance |
| through these holes so that the collar is attached at | | | | to mast extensions and focus more on surf boards. |
| the desired level. | | | | However, a good mast extension plays a key role in |
| 3. Pin System: In this type of mast extension, the tube | | | | windsurfing and hence must be carefully selected. |