Second-Hand or New? 

New or second-hand? Nowadays there is some really excellent kid's equipment on the market as well as some great value family windsurfing packages available from windsurfing retailers. There is also an abundance of second-hand equipment which is suitable for T15 use so whatever your budget there will be something to suit.

Buying new kit

The best people to go to to buy windsurfing equipment are the windsurfing retailers, who will be able to offer you good advice. Some windsurfing centres have shops onsite, others are independant retailers.

The online windsurfing magazines will detail windsurfing retailers who you could contact. 

What to ask for?

Inform the retailer whether you are looking for a family equipment package or something suitable for a junior sailor only.

The best windsurfing retailers will stock some junior windsurfing equipment so you can see what it looks like and try on junior wetsuits, buoyancy aids and harnesses.

If you are interested in participating in inter-club challenges and might want to progress into the RYA Zone Squads, then let the retailer know, since the Bic Techno 293 one-design board may be suitable at this stage.

Second-hand kit

With children outgrowing equipment as they get bigger or decide to follow a specific competition pathway, the second-hand market is rife with suitable options.

What to look for?

If you are buying second-hand then make sure the board is not too old. Equipment has changed a great deal in the last 20 years and a lot of much older kit will be unsuitable for junior windsurfing. Whilst modern boards are measured by volume, older boards were measured by length. If you are using the board with a small sail, ensure the board is no longer than 320cm in length; this will help the board to turn easily with a small sail. For all T15 activities, no matter what sail size you are using, also make sure the board has a daggerboard or central fin so that you can sail upwind more easily. 

If you are small and looking to buy a second-hand sail or rig for the 3.5m and 4.5m classes, make sure you buy a junior sail rather than a high-wind adult sail. This way you will ensure that it's the right kind of sail to fit on a junior mast and boom, which are narrower in diameter to cater for smaller hands. They are also a lot lighter and have a lower boom cut-out so you can rig it for the correct height. 

Advice on what to buy?

If you are unsure on what second-hand equipment would be suitable for you, the best person to speak to is your Team15 coach, who will be able to help.

Where to buy second-hand kit

Windsurfing Centres

Many RYA windsurfing centres and some T15 clubs sell off their windsurfing equipment on an annual basis ready to replace in the spring; this ensures club kit is always current and in good condition.

RYA centres would be a good starting point to buy second-hand equipment; many operate a list during the season, so you could put your name down and collect in the autumn when they release the boards for sale. 'See also' to search for your local RYA Training Centres.

Windsurfing shops

Some windsurfing shops stock second-hand equipment as well as new. 

Look in the windsurfing magzines or use an online search engine to find out where your local retailers are based. Give them a call or have a look at their websites to see whether they offer second-hand kit.

RYA Forum

Facility exists for T15 clubbers to sell their equipment through the RYA forum; this may be worth browsing if you are looking to buy.
If you would like something specifically which is not being advertised, then start a new thread detailing your requirements.

Windsurfing Magazines and Online Windsurfing Magazines

You can buy second-hand equipment through the classifieds. However, the lists will probably not detail whether they are suitable for junior windsurfing. If you are unsure whether a board or rig is suitable, check with your Team15 coach first.

eBay

You will probably find a lot of windsurfing equipment advertised on eBay. Windsurfing equipment has changed a lot over the last 20 years. Not all the equipment advertised on eBay will be suitable for junior windsurfing - some of it may be very, very old and not suitable for anybody! Again, if you are unsure, check with your T15 coach.