A windsock is a large, conical, open-ended tube designed to indicate wind direction and relative wind speed. Windsocks typically are used at airports and in chemical plants in which there is risk of gaseous leakage. They are sometimes located alongside highways at windy locations.

Wind direction is indicated by the direction in which the windsock is pointing (note that wind directions are conventionally specified as being the compass point from which the wind originates; so a windsock pointing due north indicates a southerly wind.) Windspeed is indicated by the windsock's angle relative to the mounting pole; in low winds, the windsock droops; in high winds it flies horizontal.

Also called a wind sock or wind cone.

See also

• Anemometer a device for measuring wind speed
• Weather vane a device for indicating wind direction

External link

• FAA Specification for Wind Cone Assemblies FAA Advisory Circular 150/5345-27D (PDF 447KB)