Why is the mast connected to the ski and not the deck?
There are really three reasons for the placement of the mast on the ski rather than the deck.
The original ski was much like the mono ski's we saw in Saskatoon, very narrow, very tipsy, but they do go straight real fast, without a skeg and one foot in front of the mast base. tried it with my first prototype but I didn't like the position I had to assume to sail that way.
Time and testing continued and showed the ski to be much more stable in deeper snow and when trying to jibe with the mast lower, that's how it evolved.
So the first reason is load vectors: with the mast on the deck, it's forces are directed downward, forward and a lot to leeward, HOWEVER, the center of axial rotation (the center line of the ski) and center of resistance is some 3 inches below the mast base and your feet. You now must compensate for these forces with your feet.
Placing the mast on ski results in greater form stability (universal close to axial rotation) and increased roll response (the 3 inch lever of deck needs only direct the ski and not have to compensate for asymmetrical mast loads), both desirable traits when sliding and jibing.
The second and third reasons are rather interrelated; structure and flex; There must be a structure to support the mast base, and if that structure is attached to the ski it can eliminate flex in the ski, and skis turn as a result of the combination of side cut and flex which create the turning radius of the ski. That's the reason the new Carve Windski now uses a large amount of side cut and a single riser with a minimum hard point on the ski to promote flex and a tighter turning radius. If as has been suggested the mast is supported by a cantilevered prow the ski flex will still be limited to the height of the supporting structure and deck. There are also fabrication complexity and costs.
There is one additional reason I haul out with an extra glass of wine, "... it allows better closing of the "gap" between the foot of the sail and the ground. Do you know how much power is lost to the low pressure side of the sail in that gap? ...Well yes, I'll have another glass of Cabernet, thank you!"
As a side note, reasons 2 & 3 also apply to the individual mast base locations on the Windski as apposed to a track. Something lots of windsurfers ask about.
Can't I just use an old alpine ski?
The short answer is "yes" you can. You can also use an old surfboard to build your own "windsurfer". However it won't sail like a like a professionally built sailboard, and neither will a home built "Windski". Go to the info page to see just what goes into a WINDSKI. Finally keep in mind, as in liquid "displacement sailing", length, (taper ratio) will equal speed. A longer skinner "hull" will be faster than a short wide one.
Can I rent before I buy?
Yes, contact Windski for details on a "try before you buy" program tailored for your needs.
Why does a Windski have a skeg?
A Windski is fastest when sailed flat to the snow surface. Edging the ski produces a turn. The skeg provides the resistance to the forces of the sail that would otherwise cause the tail of the ski to washout. Windski offers skegs of different depths so that you can optimize your Windski for you sailing conditions.
How much wind does it take to sail?
Depending on snow conditions Windski's have been sailed in as little as 7-10 mph with a 7sqm, sail, and a 200lb sailor.
Can I sail on ice?
For a variety of reasons this is NOT recommended. Primary of these is that ice is as HARD as concrete if you should happen to fall. Good clear ice is also difficult to find on a regular bases. Would you rather alpine ski on hard pack, or untracked powder?
Can I really sail up hill?
Given enough "power" (sail size and wind) Windskiing uphill is not only possible but will quickly become one of your favorite experiences in Windskiing.
How fast can I sail?
How fast can you drive your car? At some point prudence and judgment must rule, and will vary from sailor to sailor. Ultimately, your speed is limited by, the wind speed, sail size, and snow conditions and yourself. Speeds in excess of 45mph have already recorded via GPS.
Can I use my own rig?
Yes, Windski's use a standard mast base. Your "summer" rig will work and will feel no different than sailing on "liquid water". Although older vynal "windowed" sails can become brittle and crack in colder conditions.
Can the Windski jibe?
The number one question is answered by a resounding YES. The first jibe recorded on tape can be seen on the videos page.videos page.videos page.
Where can I buy a Windski?
At this time your Windski is only available directly from Windski. Contact Windski now and make sure you are ready for this winter's "Second Season Session".
How much does a Windski cost?
A complete Windski Carve retails for $987.00us plus shipping and handling.
How hard is it to learn to Windski?
Most non-sailors find Windskiing MUCH easer to learn than traditional "windsurfing". Unlike "liquid" water, snow doesn't move, when you lose your balance you don't go for a swim, (you don't even have to know how to swim), there is no fear of getting blown out to sea, you can always just walk back.
