Surfing vs Windsurfing: What’s the Difference

If you're just stepping into the world of water sports, it’s natural to wonder: what’s the difference between surfing and windsurfing — and which one should you start with? At first glance, both look similar: you’re on a board, riding the elements, feeling the wind and the freedom. But under the surface, they offer completely different experiences, techniques, and energy.

Why Compare Them at All?

This article is here to help you understand what fits you better — your temperament, physical strength, and goals. We’ll break down the key differences in technique, gear, conditions, and learning curve so you can make a conscious, informed choice.

What Is Surfing?

Surfing is about catching the power of the ocean and riding waves using your body and balance — no sails, no motors, no tricks. Just you, the board, and the raw force of nature.

How it works: You paddle out with your arms, position yourself at the wave peak, then pop up to your feet and ride the wave using shifts in body weight and balance. It’s a dance with the sea.

Why people love it: Surfing connects you to the rhythm of the ocean. It builds strength, stamina, flexibility, and mental clarity. It’s moving meditation — full focus in the present.

Where to do it: You need consistent waves and beach breaks. Great beginner spots include:

• Bali (Indonesia)

• Sri Lanka (Weligama, Ahangama)

• Portugal (Costa da Caparica, Ericeira)

• Canary Islands

• Russia (Sochi, Kaliningrad — in summer only)

What Is Windsurfing?

Windsurfing blends sailing and surfing. Instead of riding waves, you harness wind power using a sail mounted on a board.

Origins: Invented in the U.S. in the 1960s, windsurfing exploded in popularity and became an Olympic sport by the 1970s.

How it works: You stand on a wide board, hold a sail, and use the wind to move. You control direction and speed by shifting the sail and your body weight.

Key features:

• Doesn’t require waves — flat water is fine.

• Focuses on wind technique, strength, and control.

• Quick start: most beginners can sail in a few hours.

Ideal for: Those who love structure, control, and constant motion. If you have a background in sailing, snowboarding, or kitesurfing — windsurfing might be your sport.

Core Difference: Waves vs Wind

The biggest distinction is the energy source:

• Surfing: Powered by wave energy. Timing, reading waves, and adapting to nature is essential.

• Windsurfing: Driven by wind. Your control over the sail and body alignment defines your ride.

In surfing, there are breaks and pauses between sets. In windsurfing, motion is near-constant.

Gear Breakdown: Boards, Swimsuits & More

Surfing Gear:

• Surfboard: Soft-top or hard, depending on skill level (8’0–9’0 ft for beginners).

• Leash: Attaches board to ankle.

• One-piece swimsuit or rashguard: Prevents chafing, ensures coverage.

Recommended by JOYS BRAND:

• Imsouane Violet – secure fit, tested in real ocean conditions.

• La Punta Silver – reversible, snug fit, perfect for active sessions.

• Garment Dye White Tee – cotton tee that doubles as a light surf top.

Windsurfing Gear:

• Board with mast attachment – stable, 160–200L volume for beginners.

• Sail – sized based on wind and your weight.

• Wetsuit or lycra top – essential for sun protection during long sessions.

Wind gear should be flexible, UV-resistant, and not bulky — so you can fully focus on handling the sail.

Which Is Easier to Start?

Surfing

Pros:

• The feeling of your first wave is unforgettable.

• Builds stamina, balance, and body awareness.

Cons:

• Requires patience — expect many falls.

• Relies on wave conditions.

• Some locations may not have surfable waves.

Windsurfing

Pros:

• You can start moving after just 1–2 hours.

• No waves needed — only wind.

• Perfect for lakes, flat seas, and wind-friendly bays.

Cons:

• Requires more upper body strength and coordination.

• More gear and technical know-how needed.

What Does It Do for Your Body?

Surfing

• Paddling strengthens shoulders and arms.

• Balancing works the core and lower body.

• Improves posture and breathing.

Windsurfing

• Controlling the sail builds arms, shoulders, and back.

• Engages your legs and hips for stability.

• Great for full-body coordination and reflexes.

Best Locations to Try Each Sport

Surfing Spots:

• Bali (Indonesia)

• Sri Lanka

• Portugal

• Canary Islands

• Sochi, Kaliningrad (Russia – summer only)

Windsurfing Spots:

• Dahab (Egypt)

• Karpathos, Rhodes (Greece)

• Tarifa (Spain)

• UAE, Morocco, Israel

• Moscow region lakes (Russia)

Temperament & Personality: What Fits You Better?

If you’re introspective, enjoy being in tune with nature, and embrace spontaneity — surfing offers soul and surrender.
If you love technique, constant movement, and structured challenges — windsurfing may be your calling.

There’s no “better” sport — just the one that matches your energy.

What to Pack: JOYS BRAND Picks for Both

For Surfing:

• One-piece surf swimsuits or rashguards that stay put.

• Imsouane Violet, La Punta Silver, Garment Dye Tee — all tested and trusted.

For Windsurfing:

• Functional lycra or wetsuit

• UV-blocking gear

• Minimal, stretchy, distraction-free design

Don’t forget: towel, change of clothes, water bottle, sunscreen, hair tie. A roomy shopper bag helps keep it all organized.

Final Thought: Try Both, Feel the Difference

Surfing and windsurfing each offer their own version of freedom. One rides the rhythm of waves, the other dances with the wind. You don’t need to choose forever — you just need to start.

JOYS BRAND supports your choice with versatile, functional gear made for real-life sessions. Whether you’re carving a wave or cutting the wind, we make sure you do it with style, comfort, and confidence.

Choose your ride. Follow your freedom. This is your moment.