The first “Windsurfer” board was created in 1967 by Jim Drake and Hoyle Schweitzer. This original design became a one-design that sold more than 400,000 units, making it the largest class in history and contributing to the enormous growth and popularity of windsurfing. Throughout the 70s and 80s, the Windsurfer class played a significant role in promoting amateur windsurfing worldwide, organising national and international events with extensive participation.

In 2016, IWCA Europe began developing a new hull based on the Windsurfer One Design, which resulted in the Windsurfer LT, manufactured by Cobra and adopted by the class in 2018. This new board continues to increase its fleets across all continents, preserving the principles and traditions of the early windsurfing pioneers. The emphasis remains on fun, inclusive sailing that is geared towards amateur competition and a friendly atmosphere, with affordable equipment that emphasises navigation and tactics over equipment.