Wind Sports

Wylde Wind and Waves youth beginner wing surfing class in the Columbia River Gorge

Operators of surfboards, sailboards, kiteboards, wingfoils and kitefoils are exempt from needing a Waterway Access Permit (OAR 250-010-0760)(1c).

Definitions

Kiteboard: (OAR 250-010-0010)(7)) “Kiteboard" means a vessel with no freeboard that is propelled by a sail or sail-like device that is not attached to the vessel but held and manipulated by the operator. These vessels include those common for kiteboarding, wingfoiling, and kitefoiling.

Sailboard: (OAR 250-010-0010)(14)) “Sailboard" means a sail-propelled vessel with no freeboard and equipped with a swivel-mounted mast not secured to a hull by guys or stays.

Description of other activities:

Wing Foiling:

It is a combination of a stand up paddleboard with a separate wing which the operator holds on to and maneuvers into positions to catch the wind. The board can also be a hydrofoil, an underwater fin with a similar design to an airplane wing, providing lift when it reaches a certain speed from the wind, lifting the board and the rider out of the water for a smooth ride on top of swells, waves, and chop.

Required Equipment:

Properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket, readily accessible, for each person on board. Oregon law requires kids 12 and under to wear their life jackets on all boats when underway. However, sailboards as defined in OAR 250-010-0010(14) are exempted from the requirements for carriage of any life jacket. The Marine Board recommends all wind sports participants wear a life jacket designed for the sport, even if exempt.
Sound-producing device (whistle).

Recommendations:

Wear a quick-release leash attached to the life jacket. Situations can arise when the rider becomes entangled with other users or needs to break away from the board for other safety purposes.