Newbie - looking for gear

[jwest21]

Sherman is no place to practice post-lessons unless you're wanting to put down a little money for a nice assisted downwinder.

Bodega, and on the rare occasion that Alameda picks up in the summer, are the prime spots to practice your water starting and getting up riding. Practice your self rescue every chance you get and you'll be quickly ready for 3rd avenue where the wind gods love us this time of year.

[ddubwinokur]

Yep, jwest is right. Sorry if my advice earlier wasn't clear. Sherman is definitely NOT a place to go right after lessons. To be successful at the main launches at Sherman (kite beach and little Baja), you must be able to edge upwind strongly, immediately after launching.

The progression for me is/was:
- take lessons
- figure out how to self rescue/not hurt others at Alameda
- figure out how to ride downwind/hold an edge at Alameda, Bodega, other safe places to learn
- Learn to go upwind at Sherman island downwinder, 3rd ave, alameda (if there's still wind), bodega, other safe places
- Be awesome at those places until you become at least intermediate

Good luck. Dan