Subtropical Ridge Position – The High-Pressure Dome That Delivers 20-Knot Heaven
Summer wingfoil wind is rarely caused by storms. It is caused by High Pressure. Specifically, the Subtropical Ridge.
This band of high pressure sits around 30 degrees latitude. It includes the famous "Azores High" (Atlantic) and "Pacific High" (Hawaii/California). These giant domes of sinking air spin clockwise. Their rotation creates the pressure gradient that drives the summer season.
The Gradient Engine
Wind flows from High to Low.
- The Ridge: High Pressure sits over the ocean.
- The Low: Heat Low sits over the hot land.
- The Flow: Air rushes from the Ridge to the Heat Low.
This creates the standard 15–25 knots "gradient wind" along the coast. It is steady, dense, and reliable. It is the bread and butter of wingfoiling.
Ridge Placement Matters
The Ridge moves. Its position determines if you foil or float.
- Ridge North: If the High pushes too far North, the gradient loosens. The wind becomes light wind (8–12 knots).
- Ridge South: If the High drops South, storms can break through.
- Ridge East/West: This is critical. In Europe, if the Azores High pushes onto the continent, it kills the wind (blocking). If it sits just offshore, it squeezes the wind against the coast (Portuguese Nortada).
The "Squeeze" Zone
The strongest wingfoil wind happens where the isobars are compressed between the Ridge and the Heat Low. Check the GFS pressure map. Look for the High (H) and the Low (L).
- Far Apart: Slack wind.
- Close Together: The "Squeeze." This is where you find 25+ knots.
This squeeze often sets up over the Canary Islands, Cape Town, and California. It creates a permanent wind gradient that runs for months.
Forecast Stability
Unlike storm winds, Ridge winds are stable. The ensemble forecast will show tight agreement. If the Subtropical Ridge is locked in place, you can trust the wind forecast for 5 days out. It is a machine.
Summary
Respect the High. It is the source of your summer power. Watch the position of the "H" on the map. If it parks itself offshore and the land heats up, the gradient engine will deliver 20-knot heaven every afternoon.