Persistent wind patterns that blow from the subtropical high-pressure zones toward the equator — from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and southeast in the Southern Hemisphere.
Trade winds are the backbone of watersports at many of the world's best destinations. They're caused by the Earth's rotation and the uneven heating of the atmosphere, creating remarkably consistent wind patterns in tropical and subtropical regions. In the Northern Hemisphere, trades blow from the northeast; in the Southern, from the southeast.
This is why destinations like Tarifa, Maui, Fuerteventura, and Cabarete have such reliable wind — they sit in trade wind belts. Trade winds are strongest in summer when the temperature difference between land and sea is greatest. They typically build through the morning and peak in the afternoon.
Many riders plan their entire travel schedules around trade wind seasons.
Example usage
"Trade winds started early today — 18 knots by noon, building to 25 by 3pm. Classic summer pattern."
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