Backwind Tack

Tack from the “backwinded” position

A backwind tack is, in principle, the second part of a downwind 360 = with the wing held back, you sail a semicircle to windward = a tack from the “backwinded” position.

In this video, you'll see how to lift the wing on a run foiled in switch stance (toeside) and then initiate the upwind turn. Tip: Keep the wing behind your body so that the power of the wind (pushes on the top of the wing) helps you turn upwind.

If you can already do 360s, lifting the wing to windward shouldn't be a problem for you either, as you'll be able to get into the starting position for the downwind tack.

If you haven't tried a 360 yet, you can use the backwind tack to practice the second part (a laydown jibe and a backwind tack combine to form a downwind 360).

July 16, 2026 © WING DAILY  |  text: Jürgen Schall  |  photos/graphics: Jürgen Schall  |  translation: DE