If there's one thing you should never skimp on when windsurfing, it's a good mast base. Because if the connection between the board and sail breaks, dangerous situations can quickly arise on the water. Because an ailing mast foot tendon usually breaks during falls or landings and integrated safety ropes do not always withstand the forces that occur and break off, the board and sail sometimes separate completely - at many spots this quickly makes you a case for the sea rescuer. If the board drifts away in strong winds and low water temperatures, it can even be life-threatening.
Healthy savings
A new mast base plate is no bargain, you have to fork out between 50 and 100 euros for one. Buying second-hand? Not recommended! So it's no wonder that many windsurfers don't want to dispose of the part until it's obviously cracked. The problem is that mast foot tendons often still look fit on the outside, but the vulnerable breaking points are usually located where the pin and plate are connected to the tendon or power joint - i.e. out of sight. If you don't want to wait until the mast foot flies apart on the water or want to throw away a still intact foot "on suspicion", you should definitely opt for mast feet with replaceable components. The easiest way to do this is with mast foot plates that are fitted with tendons, which can be replaced in a matter of minutes. And this is how it's done:
Replace mast foot tendons
The tendons of mast feet should be checked regularly. Find out what you should look out for, how to do it and what it costs in our picture gallery. Click through!
What to do if the mast base breaks?
Almost all mast bases are equipped with a safety rope. If the connection breaks, the rope holds the board and rig together and you can still surf to the shore. Unfortunately, it happens again and again that the safety rope of the mast foot plate does not survive the fall and tears through. Even if the mast foot breaks above or below the actual rubber connection, the safety rope is worthless. Losing the board far out is the ultimate disaster for any windsurfer! So if the board and sail separate, let the rig float and always try to reach the board immediately - it's your unsinkable life raft. Stay on the board and draw attention to yourself. A fellow competitor may be able to bring you a spare mast foot! If this is not possible, you can make a makeshift repair to the mast foot on the water. This is not an easy task, especially in waves, but this method has proven itself many times over. All you need is a spare rope (which you should always carry with you on a harness, for example).
When repaired in this way, the rig is usually a few centimetres off the centre of the board. However, water starts are usually still possible.
Note: As the extension is unprotected on the deck of the board, damage to the deck is not uncommon. Nevertheless, if in doubt, it is advisable not to wait too long for rescue and to take action yourself.
