What Forecast Apps Do Kitesurfers Use?

Checking the wind forecast before a kitesurfing session

Short answer: the most used apps by kitesurfers are Windy, Windguru and Windfinder, each with different strengths. None is 100% foolproof — most experienced riders combine two or three sources before deciding whether to head out.

The 3 most popular apps, compared

Windy

A very clear visual interface with animated wind maps. Good for getting a general view of broad weather patterns and several forecast models in one place.

Windguru

A classic among kitesurfers and windsurfers for its detailed hour-by-hour forecast table, with specific gust data. Many experienced riders prefer it for the density of information in a compact format.

Windfinder

Simple and intuitive, a good option for those just starting to interpret forecasts and wanting something less overwhelming than Windguru.

Why no app replaces local knowledge

Forecast models are general and sometimes miss specific local effects (like a particular lagoon's thermal versus the open coast just a few kilometers away). That's why, even if you check the app, the judgment of someone who knows the spot day in and day out is worth a lot.

How we do it at We Are Salty People

We combine these apps' forecasts with years of accumulated knowledge observing Óbidos Lagoon's specific behavior — that combination is what lets us confirm your lesson 24-48hrs ahead with real confidence, not just glancing at a number on a screen.

👉 Ask us on WhatsApp about the forecast for your dates.  |  See courses →

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Wind Seasonality at Óbidos: A Year-to-Year Guide for Returning

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Wave Kitesurfing: The Natural Progression from Óbidos