Board and rig for a 270lb newbie

[jpon2]

I need a recommendation for what board a guy of my size (5'10" and 270lb) should get to learn on with the minimum of frustration. Thank you in advance.

[WindsurfUtah]

210 liter Starboard Rio Large

sail size depends on where your going to learn / windsurf.

[thombiz]

My vote would be for a Kona One or a Fanatic Viper 80. Both have soft skins (Eva Foam Deck) which can take most of the bumps and scrapes a newby dishes out plus they should have a fun playful quality as you progress into your first short board. The soft skin will also be a lot easier on you knees, elbows, and tummy as you climb on after each fall that every beginner experiences. The centerboards will give them a little extra stability and help you get "home" when the winds lighten up.

[DelCarpenter]

My most important suggestion: take lessons from a qualified instructor. Do the lessons first. Buy a board and rig after you already know how to windsurf.

My suggestion for a board: Starboard Start. This is the link to Starboard: http://www.star-board.com/AutumnWinter2011/products/board_start.php

Whether you buy a Starboard product or not you a board like the Start will be the least frustrating as you learn. You could help shorten your learning curve by reading and using Starboard's "Start Windsurfing Forum" http://www.star-board.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=11

The size of the rig you buy depends on the strength of the winds where you will be learning. With your weight you'll need, and you'll be able to handle, a sail larger than most beginners. For 5 mph to 12 mph you might be in the 6.0 to 7.5 range. Depend on your instructor to help you decide.

How good is your balance? Do you already know how to sail a small sailboat? How strong is the wind where you will usually windsurf? Is the water there usually flat or will you be dealing with waves larger than 1ft?

Do you have access to a place which sells windsurfers and provides lessons?

[jpon2]