jentzsch,

Calm would be the best!

However, since that is rarely the case. The wind directly down the runway at less than say 10kts would be second best. A bit of headwind is an advantage as it lessens your groundspeed and provides lift on takeoff. Learning to deal with crosswinds is important, as your skill increases you will be able to fly in wider parameters.

As your experience and comfort level increases each of us has to decide just how bad it has to be before flying or not!!!!!!!!

Not too long ago I almost let my ego exceed my skill level, maybe it did! Took off in maybe 15-20kts+ gusting crosswind showing off, no one else was flying. Realized immediately once the airplane broke ground, the conditions were pretty much beyond the capabilities of myself and the bird. Got the bird on the ground in one piece, but my pride was a bit tarnished. Stupid me!!!!!![] I am now still willing to fly in reasonable winds, but not a gusting gales.

Establish your own limits don't let anyone influence your decisions.

He who walks away has his airplane to fly another better day!