sailboat mast wind indicator

Should You Use a Masthead Wind Indicator?

On a run with light and shifty wind, a masthead wind indicator is essential. The telltales on the shrouds are too affected by the sails to tell you what’s going on. Sailing Anarchy Forum

I do not like them because they really help your competition more than you. Sailing Anarchy Forum

Our coach, Dave Ullman, insisted that we get one and use it. Roble-Shea Sailing

A masthead wind indicator, sometimes called a masthead fly or a Windex (brand name), is a wind vane mounted at the top of the mast. Like shroud telltales, it tells you the direction of the apparent wind, which is a crucial cue for many aspects of sailing. See our post Ten Ways to Use Shroud Telltales for all the ways you can use shroud telltales (or a wind vane).

If you have shroud telltales, should you also use a masthead wind indicator? Sailors’ opinions vary, and a recent walk through the local boat park showed about 60% of boats with them (much higher % for the Flying Scots). Here we list the pros and cons.

Masthead wind indicator – Pros

#1. more precise than shroud telltales downwind.

When sailing downwind, a wind vane is a more precise indicator of apparent wind direction than shroud telltales, which are affected by flow off the sails. To see this, try a boat that has a wind vane. Sail downwind and adjust your heading so the wind vane points directly along the fore and aft axis of the mast. This indicates you are sailing dead downwind. At this heading, the difference in angle between shroud telltales and a wind vane can be as much as ten degrees. Knowing this allows you to sail dead downwind in breeze and thus sail less distance.

#2. Less Bouncy than Shroud Telltales

Being rigid, center mounted, and slightly heavier, a wind vane bounces around less than shroud telltales. In some cases, discussed below, it’s worth looking up to take advantage of this “noise reduction.”

#3. Better than Shroud Telltales for Some Situations

Attack and defend downwind.

It’s easier to use the wind vane here, due to its accuracy, stability, and unobstructed view. To attack, point the tail of the wind vane at competitors ahead. Defend by repositioning when the arrowhead of the wind vane is pointing at competitors behind you.

Identify layline downwind

The fastest way to the leeward mark is to keep sailing your best VMG angle until you reach the layline, then gybe and sail the same VMG angle to the mark. How do you identify the layline? Again the accuracy and unobstructed view make the wind vane more useful in this case. You reach the layline when the tail of your wind vane points to the leeward mark.

Identify true wind direction when sailing downwind

If you use a compass, you have to know the numbers. We all know how to identify the true wind direction by luffing head to wind. The accuracy of the wind vane allows you find the true wind direction when sailing downwind. Sail dead downwind, with the wind indicator lined up with the fore and aft axis. Check your compass heading and add or subtract 180 degrees to find the true wind direction.

This helps keep tabs on the “numbers” during the pre-race routine or on a downwind leg when you suspect the wind has shifted permanently.  

Identify wind shear to aid sail trim

In very light air (no ripples), the wind true direction at the top of the mast may be different than near the bottom. This is important for upwind sail trim. Check your wind vane against the shroud telltales. If there’s shear or gradient, adjust your sail trim and twist as necessary. For more, see our post Wind Shear and Gradient Effects on Trim & Strategy.

Masthead wind indicator – Cons

#1. one more item to distract your focus.

Distractions take away your focus from the really important stuff, and many top sailors try to keep things simple. Wind vanes are another bright, shiny object to distract you, and worse, you must look way up to see them. Shroud telltales are in your line of sight and give you the same information. You can learn to compensate for their inaccuracies downwind.

#2. May give your competitor an advantage

Your masthead wind indicator is useful for competitors. They don’t need one – all they have to do is look at your indicator to determine if they are in your bad air or vice versa.

The Verdict?

Do the pros outweigh the cons? Your editor is always tempted to go for more indicators (shroud telltales, sail telltales, marks on control lines, etc.), but that approach has added lots of distractions and thus has not always served him well. Therefore, we decline to make a recommendation, except to say that used judiciously, we have found them helpful in the situations discussed above.

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2 thoughts on “should you use a masthead wind indicator”.

I firmly fall into the category of every boat (except mine) should have a masthead wind indicator. I love seeing the wind direction on my competitor’s boats!

Thanks, JP!

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How to Read Wind Indicators for Sailing: The Complete Guide

Sailing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires a great deal of skill and knowledge. One of the most important skills for any sailor to learn is how to read wind indicators. Wind indicators, also known as wind vanes or telltales, provide crucial information about wind direction and speed, which is essential for making tactical decisions while sailing.

Table of Contents

Understanding Wind Direction

When it comes to sailing, understanding wind direction is crucial. The direction of the wind can affect the speed and course of a sailboat. Here are some key points to keep in mind when reading wind direction:

• Wind direction is measured in degrees clockwise from true north. For example, if the wind is coming from the north, it is 0 degrees. If it is coming from the east, it is 90 degrees.
• Wind direction can be affected by local topography, such as hills or buildings. This is known as wind shear.
• Wind direction can also be affected by the sailboat’s position relative to the wind. For example, if the sailboat is sailing directly into the wind, the wind will appear to be coming from the front of the boat. This is known as the “no-go zone.”
• One way to determine wind direction is to look at the direction of the waves. Wind will cause waves to form in a certain direction, which can indicate the direction of the wind.
• Another way to determine wind direction is to use a wind indicator, such as a wind vane or wind sock. These indicators will show the direction of the wind relative to the sailboat.

Types of Wind Indicators

Wind indicators are instruments that help sailors determine the direction and strength of the wind. There are various types of wind indicators available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The Windex is a popular wind indicator that many sailors mount on the masthead of their boats. It is a simple device that consists of a vane or an arrow that points in the direction of the wind. The Windex is easy to install, lightweight, and affordable. It is also easy to read, even from a distance. However, the Windex is not very accurate in light winds, and it can be affected by the boat’s motion.

Telltales are small strips of fabric or yarn that are attached to the sail. They help sailors determine the direction and strength of the wind by showing the flow of air over the sail. When the sail is properly trimmed, the telltales should be streaming back smoothly. If they are fluttering or standing still, it means that the sail needs to be adjusted. Telltales are inexpensive, easy to install, and provide real-time feedback on sail trim. However, they can be difficult to see in low light conditions, and they can be affected by the boat’s motion.

Masthead Anemometer

A masthead anemometer is a more advanced wind indicator that measures the speed and direction of the wind at the top of the mast. It consists of a vane that points into the wind and a set of cups that spin in the wind. The speed and direction of the cups are measured by sensors, and the data is transmitted to a display unit in the cockpit. Masthead anemometers are very accurate, even in light winds, and they provide real-time feedback on wind speed and direction. However, they are expensive, difficult to install, and require regular maintenance.

Handheld Anemometer

A handheld anemometer is a portable wind indicator that measures the speed and direction of the wind at the location of the sailor. It consists of a small vane and a set of cups that spin in the wind. The speed and direction of the cups are measured by sensors, and the data is displayed on a small screen. Handheld anemometers are easy to use, affordable, and provide accurate readings. However, they require the sailor to hold the device steady, which can be difficult in rough seas, and they can be affected by the sailor’s body heat.

How to Read a Masthead Wind Indicator

A masthead wind indicator, also known as a Windex, is a device that is mounted on the masthead of a sailboat to show the direction of the wind. It is a simple and effective tool that helps sailors to adjust their sails and steer their boat in the right direction. Here are some tips on how to read a masthead wind indicator:

Observing the Vane

The vane of a masthead wind indicator is the part that moves with the wind. It is usually made of lightweight materials like plastic or aluminum, and it is designed to be sensitive to even the slightest breeze. When observing the vane, it is important to note the following:

• The direction of the vane: The vane will point in the direction that the wind is coming from. This is useful information for sailors who need to adjust their sails to take advantage of the wind.
• The angle of the vane: The angle of the vane relative to the boat’s centerline will tell you how much the boat is being pushed sideways by the wind. If the vane is pointing directly forward, the boat is sailing straight into the wind. If the vane is pointing to the side, the boat is being pushed sideways by the wind.

Interpreting the Tails

The tails of a masthead wind indicator are small pieces of fabric or plastic that are attached to the vane. They are used to show the relative strength of the wind. When interpreting the tails, it is important to note the following:

• The number of tails: Most masthead wind indicators have two or three tails. Two tails indicate light winds, while three tails indicate stronger winds.
• The position of the tails: The position of the tails relative to the vane will tell you the angle of the wind. If the tails are pointing straight back, the wind is coming from directly behind the boat. If the tails are pointing to the side, the wind is coming from the side of the boat.

By observing the vane and interpreting the tails, sailors can get a clear picture of the wind conditions and adjust their sails accordingly. With practice, reading a masthead wind indicator will become second nature, and sailors will be able to make quick adjustments to their sails without even thinking about it.

How to Read a Handheld Anemometer

When sailing, it is crucial to have an accurate reading of the wind speed and direction. Handheld anemometers are a great tool for this purpose. Here are the steps to follow to read a handheld anemometer:

Reading the Wind Speed

The wind speed is typically displayed in knots, miles per hour (mph), or meters per second (m/s). To read the wind speed on a handheld anemometer, follow these steps:

• Turn on the anemometer and wait for it to calibrate.
• Hold the anemometer up in the air, away from your body, at arm’s length.
• Point the anemometer directly into the wind.
• Read the wind speed displayed on the screen.

Determining the Wind Direction

The wind direction is typically displayed in degrees or cardinal directions (e.g., N, NE, E, etc.). To determine the wind direction on a handheld anemometer, follow these steps:

• Look at the display and note the wind direction.

Some handheld anemometers also have a wind vane or arrow that points in the direction of the wind. This can be helpful for quickly determining the wind direction without having to read the display.

How to Read a Windex Wind Indicator

Interpreting the reference arms.

The Windex wind indicator consists of a vane that rotates around a vertical axis and two reference arms that extend horizontally from the vane. The reference arms are designed to provide a visual reference point for the direction of the wind relative to the heading of the boat.

To interpret the reference arms, imagine them as the arms of a clock. The arm that is pointing to the left of the boat is the 9 o’clock arm, and the arm that is pointing to the right of the boat is the 3 o’clock arm. If the wind is coming from the direction of the 9 o’clock arm, it means that the wind is coming from the port side of the boat. If the wind is coming from the direction of the 3 o’clock arm, it means that the wind is coming from the starboard side of the boat.

Reading the Wind Direction

To read the wind direction using the Windex wind indicator, you need to combine the information provided by the reference arms with your knowledge of the boat’s heading.

If the boat is heading directly into the wind, the vane of the Windex wind indicator will be pointing straight up, and the reference arms will be horizontal. In this position, the 9 o’clock arm will be pointing to the port side of the boat, and the 3 o’clock arm will be pointing to the starboard side of the boat.

If the boat is on a port tack, the wind will be coming from the starboard side of the boat. In this case, the vane of the Windex wind indicator will be pointing to the port side of the boat, and the 9 o’clock arm will be pointing down towards the water. The 3 o’clock arm will be pointing up towards the sky.

If the boat is on a starboard tack, the wind will be coming from the port side of the boat. In this case, the vane of the Windex wind indicator will be pointing to the starboard side of the boat, and the 3 o’clock arm will be pointing down towards the water. The 9 o’clock arm will be pointing up towards the sky.

By combining the information provided by the reference arms and your knowledge of the boat’s heading, you can accurately read the wind direction using the Windex wind indicator.

Using Wind Indicators for Sailing Strategies

Understanding how to read wind indicators is crucial for any sailor who wants to improve their performance on the water. In this section, we will explore how to use wind indicators to optimize sail trim and choose the best course.

Optimizing Sail Trim

Sail trim is the art of adjusting the sails to achieve the most efficient and effective use of the wind. Wind indicators provide valuable information about the direction and strength of the wind, which can help sailors to optimize their sail trim. Here are some tips for using wind indicators to optimize sail trim:

• Keep a close eye on your wind indicator to detect changes in wind direction or strength.
• Adjust your sails accordingly to maintain the optimal sail shape and angle to the wind.
• Use the telltales on your sails to help you determine whether your sail trim is correct.
• Experiment with different sail trim settings to find the one that works best for the current wind conditions.

Choosing the Best Course

Choosing the best course is essential for reaching your destination as quickly and efficiently as possible. Wind indicators can help you to choose the best course by providing information about wind direction and strength. Here are some tips for using wind indicators to choose the best course:

• Look for areas of the water where the wind is stronger or more consistent.
• Use your wind indicator to determine the optimal angle to the wind for your boat.
• Adjust your course accordingly to take advantage of the wind direction and strength.
• Keep an eye on your wind indicator to detect any changes in wind direction or strength that may require you to adjust your course.

Maintaining Your Wind Indicators

Maintaining your wind indicators is crucial to ensure accurate readings and reliable performance. Here are some tips to keep your wind indicators in top shape:

1. Regular cleaning

Wind indicators can accumulate dirt, dust, and grime over time, which can affect their accuracy. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild detergent can help remove any buildup and keep the indicators functioning properly.

2. Lubrication

Wind indicators often have moving parts that require lubrication to operate smoothly. Applying a small amount of silicone or Teflon lubricant to the moving parts can help reduce friction and prolong the life of the indicators.

3. Check for damage

Regularly inspect your wind indicators for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or bent parts. Any damage can affect the accuracy of the readings and compromise the safety of your sailboat. If you notice any damage, replace the indicators immediately.

4. Calibration

Wind indicators can drift out of calibration over time, especially if they are exposed to extreme weather conditions. Regularly calibrating your indicators can help ensure accurate readings and prevent any mishaps on the water.

Proper storage is essential to keep your wind indicators in good condition. When not in use, store them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help prevent any damage or deterioration.

In conclusion, reading wind indicators is a crucial skill for any sailor, and with the right tools and techniques, it can be mastered. The key is to understand the different types of wind indicators available and how to interpret the data they provide.

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"The WINDEX® Wind Direction Indicator is an indispensable tool for sailors of all levels since it allows instant and accurate wind information at all points of sail"

The WINDEX® is a Swedish invention from 1964 that is currently sold in more than 40 countries across five continents. In total more than 1,500,000 WINDEX Wind Direction Indicators have been sold over the last 45 years.

The different WINDEX models are found at the top of masts on every type of sailboat from Americas Cup boats to racing dinghies, and everything in between.

It is one of the most well known and recognised yachting products. The inventive and superior design of the WINDEX Wind Direction Indicator has allowed it to stay virtually unchanged for more than 40 years.

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Wind and Weather Tools

The best sailboat wind direction indicators, wind speed meters & anemometers.

If you’re a sailing enthusiast you probably are no stranger to needing accurate wind speed and direction information. There are a slew of wind meters available today for just about every need: from handheld anemometers (wind speed meters), to sailboat mounted wind direction indicators and more. In this article, we’re going to do a roundup of the best wind meters for sailing, wind vanes for sailboats, the best anemometers for sailing, and more.

The best wind direction meters for sailing

WeatherHawk SM-18 SkyMate Hand-Held Wind Meter, Yellow

This floating anemometer is one of the best wind speed meters for sailing. It can measure wind speeds ranging from 0.5 miles per hour all the way up to 99MPH at user-selectable intervals of every five, ten, or 13 seconds (in addition to calculating the average wind speed and tracking peak speed for you). Plus it can also measure wind temperature and wind chill in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. One other nice feature about this sailboat anemometer is that it comes with a durable build and a bright yellow flip-shield. Naturally, it’s also water-resistant so if it falls into the water you’ll be able to easily spot it floating. Also comes with a loop for a lanyard or wrist strap if desired. A belt sheath is also available for this product.

For more handheld anemometers, see our full article: The Best Portable Anemometers & Portable Weather Meters .

Cape Cod Wind Speed Indicator for Sailboats

Cape Cod Wind & Weather instruments have been a staple of sailors since the company was founded in 1939. With an emphasis on quality American-made wind speed indicators, these gauges are built to last.

This wind speed indicator for sailing can mount on your sailboat either vertically or horizontally and it comes with a spinning cup wheel which can be mounted wherever you like (the supplied cable is 50 feet long and comes with a mounting bracket and screws). For wireless anemometers, see our related article: What is the Best Wireless Anemometer & Wireless Wind Speed Meter?

For decades Cape Cod Wind & Weather has supplied sailors with reliable real-time sailboat wind direction indicators, and this wind speed meter for sailing is no exception.

This unit measures wind speed from zero to 100 miles per hour and comes with a ten-year limited warranty. Pairs well with Cape Cod’s Wind Direction Indicator which matches with a lighted dial interface for wind direction metering.

Davis Instruments WindTrak 15 Suspension Bearing

This weather vane for sailboats mounts on your masthead through bolts or a tap and it provides an easy-to-read wind direction indicator. It’s one of the most popular sailing wind vanes on the market and this particular Davis WindTrak model is intended for medium to larger boats (the vane itself is 15 inches long; a smaller model exists for smaller boats). This model has what Davis calls a bird-proof spike to keep seagulls from trying to land on the instrument while you’re sailing. The vane itself features tabs that reflect in order to remain visible at night or in dark conditions.

Davis Instruments Spar-Fly Wind Indicator for Yachts and Dinghies

This compact sailboat wind direction indicator comes in a bright red color and has both a top and side mounting option. It measures 15 inches long, is highly visible, and weighs an astonishing 1.25oz for a highly responsive level of accuracy even in light wind conditions. The Spar Fly sailing wind vane is intended for sailing dinghies or small yachts and has great reviews.

Raymarine i60 Wind System with Masthead Instrument

The Raymarine i60 Wind System measures wind speed and direction as well as a slew of other readings with an easy-to-read digital-dial hybrid display and a masthead mounted instrument. It comes mounting gear and a 100 foot long (30 meters long) cable to connect the wind meter to the display. This is one of the best anemometers for sailing. Can measure wind speed/direction, maximum wind speed (peak), Beaufort scale, Tack and VMG. Plus it has a red backlight for dark conditions.

Frequently asked questions about windvanes for sailboats & the best anemometers for sailing

What features should I look for when shopping for a wind meter for sailing?

The best wind meters are often mounted anemometers made specifically for boating which have a display you can attach to your console. We have a few such wind speed meters for sailboats listed in this article, above.

Handheld anemometers for sailing usually float, are brightly colored, and are waterproof in case they fall into the water. They may also contain temperature gauges and loops for wrist-straps or lanyards.

No matter the type of anemometer you choose, a large easy to read at a glance display is also especially useful for sailing anemometers.

What is an anemometer?

An anemometer is simply a wind speed meter. Some anemometers have digital displays, others have dial displays. The most sophisticated anemometers can also measure a variety of other metrics like temperature, dew point, humidity, barometric pressure, and so forth. Advanced anemometers can even give a personalized weather forecast for any location (especially useful if you’re using an anemometer in a spot where there isn’t a reliable weather forecast). Anemometers for sailing are useful because they give a clear and accurate reading of wind speed and direction. For more information about what anemometers are, read our related article: What is an Anemometer and What is it Used For?

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Sailboat Wind Indicators

Sometimes old ways are the best ways. If fancy wind systems aren't up your alley, a traditional wind vane might be what you need. At MAURIPRO Sailing store we carry wind indicators for every size boat, so you will be able to read the wind with ease. We have wind indicators from top manufacturers for dinghies and keelboats alike, so you can find one that fits your boat. Telltales or wind indicators attached to the shrouds are great for sensitive light wind sailing, as well as making sure the wind is at the right angle when wing on wing sailing downwind.

Finally, even with a state-of-the-art electronics system, nothing beats the responsiveness and effectiveness of quality tell tales on the sails. When sailing with telltales, you can always get the maximum performance out of your boat.

MAURIPRO Sailing, your direct access to Sailboat Wind Indicators and all your other sailing and boating needs.

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Masthead Wind Sensors: Wired vs. Wireless

Does a wireless masthead wind indicator make sense? This is a good question, and there are certainly some pros and cons to consider. For sailors with wiring-unfriendly masts, the wireless approach is a good one. These include wooden spars, ones with conduits that are already full with other wiring, and masts that are regularly unstepped. The downside of going wireless is that the batteries will need to be changed on occasion, and in some cases, signal interference is possible.

Testers looked closely the Garmin/Nexus gWind/nWind and Raymarine Tackticks wind sensor batteries. The gWinds NiMH battery life is about three to four years, depending on usage; it is easy to replace and costs about $20. The Tacktick TA100s battery life, according to Raymarine, depends on usage. The replaceable lithium batteries cost about $65 and are fairly easy to install, but they may require removal to allow easier access. All current Tacktick Micronet displays have replaceable batteries with an estimated 10-year life.

Wireless interference issues are possible in a few cases. The Tacktick system uses 916 MHz for wireless data transmission. This is close to the frequencies of some GSM-based cellphones and other wireless devices such as PC keyboards/mouses and some hobbyist gear. The nWind/gWind system transmits at 2.4 GHz. This frequency is also in the Bluetooth range, along with some WiFi devices, cordless phones, and older microwave ovens. Overall, reports of interference problems are few. Sailors should note that typically anything that conducts electrical current can act as a radio frequency block, and this can include sails with high carbon-fiber content.

Bottom line: For sailors who want wind data and and have wiring-adverse spars, wireless is the way to go. On the whole, we had no issues with the tested wireless systems. Both promptly connected and worked well. The Tacktick display does need to have close to a line-of-sight location relative to the wind sensor. The Nexus/Garmin system offers additional flexibly because the wireless receivers location can be optimized. If you don’t need wireless capability, stay with the hardwired systems.

Sarasota-based marine electronics installer Bill Bishop blogs at the Marine Installer’s Rant. One of his recent blog posts describes efforts to create a modern open data format for marine use called Signal K that would be compatible with NMEA devices like chartplotters, friendly to WiFi, cellphones, tablets, and the Internet-a format available to everyone, where anyone can contribute.

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Reference ID: 213d733a-624d-11ef-9488-a58bcd763fd0

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• Sailboat Equipment

Wind Indicators

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Replacement J-Base for Winex 10

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Ronstan Carbon Wind Vane Pro - Olympic

Davis Windex 10 Spare Vane

Pro wind indicator blue Windesign Sailing

C Vane Wind Indicator for Sunfish

WinDesign Pro Wind Indicator

Allen Brothers Cruising Flag Long Rod - Assort (Pack Of 10)

Allen Brothers Racing Flag Short Rod - assorted colors / individual

Tacktick Wireless Vertical Wind Transmitter - (New Design)

Tacktick Wireless Wind Transmitter

Tacktick Wireless Speed Depth Wind System w/ Triducer

Tacktick Wireless Speed Depth Wind NMEA System

Tacktick Wireless Multi Wind System with T112 & T120

Ronstan Wind Vane, Arrow Style

WinDesign Oringinal 10" Hawk Wind Indicator

Optiparts Standard Wind Indicator

Davis Windex 15" Wind Indicator

Davis Windex 10" Wind Indicator

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Wind Indicators

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C-Vane, Sunfish Wind Indicator Arrow

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Windex® 15 | 15-40 feet sized boats

587.00  kr

WINDEX 15 is the perfect choice for all family and racing boats from about 29 to 40 feet. The WINDEX Wind Indicator offers exceptionally good performance. The secret is the needle that rests in a sapphire layer, which means that Windex 15 finds the shifts even in extremely weak winds.

• Reflector tape on the vane and tacking tabs make Windex® 15 easy to see day and night. Windex® vanes are sturdy and when installed properly, offer many years of use. They have been wind tunnel tested to wind speeds of 40 m/s

Description

• Windex® 15 will be the perfect choice for all cruising and racing boats from 5-12 (15-40 feet) meter.
• Windex® wind vanes for sailors that need exceptional performance at the best value of any wind indicator worldwide. The secret is in the sapphire jewel suspension bearing, large fin-low inertia vane, and easy-to-read, fully adjustable tacking tab system.
• Windex® wind vanes remain the top performing wind indicators in the world and offers exceptional performance with great value.
• Provides accurate apparent wind direction information for cruisers and racers
• Saphire jewel suspension bearing makes the device sensitive in light air and responsive in heavy air

Windex® 15 with BirdSpike data:

Vane length 380mm (15”) Height 370 mm (14,5”) Weight 100 gr (3,6 ounces) It has a 5/16” thread or drill a 8 mm hole and mount with washer and nut

Here is a video of how to assemble a Windex 15

Supporting rod for Windex® 15

Vane unit for Windex® 15, complete

Pair of index arms for Windex® 15

Mast socket for Windex® 15

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Opti Pro Wind Indicator

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Description

This wind indicator from Windesign Sailing has a stronger vane-arm which is accurately balanced and performs amazing sensitive. The vane arm of both low friction indicators are now attached to the needle with a new positive locking system which prevents loosing the vane arm.

• Shaft fits in all Opti mast top pins
• Previously known as EX1242

Product Reviews (1)

The best for your buck.

Posted by Ethan Sargent on Nov 24th 2017

There are fancier carbon fiber wind indicators out there, which are more expensive. But this one is just as good and shows you the wind direction. It's a good idea to have a few of these, because you loan them to your friends if they forget theirs. And sometimes they get lost, somehow. Sometimes kids kick them in the water by accident.

Shipping & Returns

Delivery Info: Enjoy Free Standard Shipping on most orders* to the Continental United States over $99. Our Standard Shipping method utilizes USPS, UPS, and FedEx to send packages near and far. Oversize/Freight shipping (where applicable), Expedited Shipping (where available), and rates to other destinations will be calculated at checkout.

See our Shipping Page for more information (and exceptions).

Returns Info: Your 100% satisfaction is our goal - we want you to love your sailing gear, but if something doesn't work out, we accept returns on most new, unused items*. Returns can be made within 366 days (1 year + 1 day) of your original order date. Exceptions include (and are not limited to) cut line, Rig Shop products, special order items, numbered sailors, and items used or worn sailing.

See our Returns Page for more information.

Prop 65 Warning

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