Use of PFD while windsurfing?

[Merrymeeting]

Hi,

We have a friendly debate ongoing in our household as to whether a PFD is required in NH while windsurfing. Some say yes, some say no. I'm hoping our resident legal expert can shead some light.

The wording here certainly implies it is encouraged but not required.

http://www.boat-ed.com/nh/course/p6-6_windsurfing.htm

Thanks

[NightWing]

A windsurfer is not considered a boat and getting wet, most likely dumping it, is part of the windsurfer experience. Hence, no PFD required, but is a good idea. Not a sport for poor or non-swimmers.

[SS-194]

It used to be required years ago but it was changed thanks inpart by lobbying windsurfing groups. One main idea was getting caught under the sail with a pfd on and not being able to get out from underneath it. Also your board ''depending on size'' is considered a flotation device. it is basicly a big piece of foam.

[NightWing]

It used to be required years ago but it was changed thanks inpart by lobbying windsurfing groups. One main idea was getting caught under the sail with a pfd on and not being able to get out from underneath it. Also your board ''depending on size'' is considered a flotation device. it is basicly a big piece of foam.

"Considered" a flotation device by some, perhaps, but not so by the Coast Guard.

[Chris Craft]

I used to do a LOT of windsurfing (sponsored by Bic) I only ever had one bad accident on my boards and that was a cracked rib from a impact of being slammed into the water while sailing in Newport RI durring a hurricane.....:rolleye2: You CAN get slammed into the water good on them but ussually it is not something were you get hurt. Plenty of stubbed toes but nothing life threatening. I did wear a life jacket all the time but angering my folks I wore it so that I could wear lead and hold up a bigger sail :D If I had a 15 pound boyancy vest I could put about 13 pounds of lead into the pockets. The things we do when we are young :D:D

I have NEVER been pulled over by the coast guard or anyone for that matter for not having my life jacket on.

Jon

[SS-194]

What do you mean you ''used to windsurf?'' I don't get it. cmon get out there