Does your boat have hiking straps? If so, these can be used effectively when there is only the occasional gust. Put your feet under the straps and swing as much of our upper body over the side as you can.

Work on constantly looking upwind to spot puffs before they get to you. Also work on getting in and out from the trap smoothly so you can work the gusts effectively.

If there's enough wind to keep the boat at even a slight leeward heel, it's probably worth it to stay on the wire. But if the boat heels to windward or you drag in the water, that's not fast. Remember, you can always sit up in the harness or even bend your knees and get your weight in real close to the hull during the lulls.

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