Wing foiling is an easy, affordable and accessible water sport with a fast learning curve. Its gear packs up small and is very durable. It also provides a great workout.
Practising in large bays free of swells and other obstacles is best. Before you start, ensure your leash is securely attached to your wrist. For more information about the wing foiling, click here.
Buying a wing
One of the first steps in getting into wing foiling is to purchase a wing. Foils comprise a fuselage, mast, and wings (front and back). The size of the wing will influence how much lift it produces. Foils are available in various sizes, so choosing the right one for your goals, weight, and local wind conditions is essential. Foils are modular, so you can upgrade them as your skills improve.
Foiling is a mesmerizing sport that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves the water. It’s easy to learn and requires a relatively small amount of gear compared to windsurfing or kiteboarding. It also uses less power than other wind sports and requires no assisted launch or landing.
To get started, try out a wing on land first. Find a flat, empty concrete area like a schoolyard or parking lot to practice. Trying a board and wing in shallow water can also be helpful. Choosing the correct leash will be necessary for maintaining a connection to your wing. There are many different types of leashes, including wrist-attached and waist-attached. Each has pros and cons, so it’s best to demo a few other options to decide what feels comfortable.
Choosing a board
When starting wing foiling, choosing the right equipment is crucial. Foils have four main parts: a front wing, a rear wing, a fuselage, and a mast. Beginners will likely want a large, floaty board with plenty of stability.
A good rule of thumb is to add 30-40 litres to your body weight when selecting your first foil board. It will give you enough float to learn how to control the wing and minimize your frustration with staying upwind.
Once you have the basics figured out, you can progress to smaller, more maneuverable boards. Just remember that for every litre of volume you remove, it will take more wind to get going! You must also decide how to maintain a connection to your wing. It can be done by attaching a leash to your wrist (usually attached to your front/leading hand) or using a waist leash.
Getting in the water
Wing foiling (also called wing surfing) is an alternative to kiteboarding that offers much less wind and is great for beginners. The sport is simple and consists of two main elements: a board with a hydrofoil and a wing. The wing generates lift and propulsion, while the hydrofoil helps you stay on the water. The foil can be mounted on a surfboard or windsurfing board and is available in different sizes.
Once you have a spot in mind, practising handling the wing on dry land is a good idea. It will help you understand how the wing responds to changes in your body and hand positions. For more information about the wing foiling, click here.
Getting started
Whether new to windsurfing or an experienced kiter, wing foiling is a great sport to learn. The equipment is easy to transport and provides a fun, low-impact workout. However, the sport has unique challenges, and it’s essential to pay attention to weather conditions and the state of the water.
For beginners, a large board with a lot of volume is the best option. A good rule of thumb is choosing a board with 30 litres more volume than your weight. You can also consider an inflatable board, which is lighter and more portable but may not be as durable as a hardboard.