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Well, perhaps not everything, but the relationship of wind to soaring is the most misunderstood aspect of the sport. Every pilot is guaranteed to get a question about the wind at least once – usually after telling friends about his or her new hobby. Below is a compendium of answers to the most common (and not-so-common) questions asked.
No…the wind does not need to be blowing for the glider to take off.
No…the glider will not fall if the wind stops.
No…the glider does not need wind to stay aloft, but
Yes…wind is necessary if the pilot intends to do ridge or wave soaring.
No…the glider does not go where the wind carries it, like a balloon (a glider can move independently of wind, as can all aircraft).
Yes…wind can turn a good soaring day into a great one. Thermals are sometimes aligned by wind into "streets," making soaring almost effortless.
Yes…all pilots need to be acutely aware of the wind at all times. It's one of the most critical variables in flying.