There are already many enthusiasts who want to learn the so-called wingsurfing and summer can be the perfect time for it. Wingfoil is a remarkable discipline that sits between windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Not only is it accessible, but it doesn't require bulky equipment or large spaces. In addition, the wing practitioners are gradually penetrating the surfing and kite spots. The Wing Foil is seducing more and more people who want to discover floating over the water and master new spots that were previously inaccessible to kitesurfing or windsurfing. Here is some information that may inspire you to do so.
Why adrenaline junkies should also learn to wingsurf
Wing foiling is oneexciting new sport, which has gained popularity in recent years. It combines elements of the water sports mentioned above and consists of handling a two-handed kite (wing) with a hydrofoil mounted on a short SUP board. It involves riding on a surfboard or regular SUP board while holding a portable inflatable sail known as a “wing.” The feeling of wingfoiling/hydrofoiling is pretty magical. With the help of a light breeze of about 10 knots, you use the hand-held sail and the movement of your body to jump onto the foil. It therefore feels as if you are suddenly floating above the surface of the water in a silent nirvana.
The new discipline allows water sports enthusiasts to learn wingsurfing in a simple and safe way. Furthermore, this is one of the coolest sensations you will ever experience. This new sport also appeals to all age groups who love the water - from children to seniors. In contrast to windsurfing, you don't need to set up as much equipment and you can progress faster. Compared to kitesurfing, wing foil also takes up much less space, opening up many more access points and not requiring assisted takeoff or landing. The weather doesn't have to be as windy as surfing or have big waves. You can feel like you are surfing on an inland waterway at sea and it feels like you are surfing a wave.
The history of wingfoiling
Hand sails date back to the 1980s, and hydrofoils emerged over 100 years ago. So innovations in kitesurfing and hydrofoil technology were the catalysts for propelling hand wings and such designs for this water sport. As such technologies advance, pairing a portable, lightweight inflatable wing has become a natural pairing with a SUP foil board. Now that the sport has become so accessible, it invites the masses to join in the fun of learning to wingfoil. People owe this to modern research and development as well as new film technology. Nowadays everyone can experience the full splendor of this beautiful sport.
How to choose the right size board
The choice of board is crucial for an easy start to wingfoiling. Generally, the boards used for this are paddleboards or inflatable surfboards. However, there are a few new models that are specifically designed for wing foil. To choose the right board, it is important to consider several factors, namely your riding program, your weight and your level. Furthermore, the choice of your wing foil board largely depends on your weight. If you are learning wingsurfing or practicing SUP, it is entirely possible to choose the same volume for your board. In fact, the ideal volume of a board for a person weighing between 50 and 70 kg is between 70 and 95 liters. It often takes +20/30 liters relative to its weight to know the volume of your ideal wing foil board when you want to take off.
Which wing should you start with when learning wingsurfing?
As with wakeboarding, windsurfing or stand-up paddling, the choice of wing is also fundamental to guarantee the best sensations. Therefore, it is important to consider the surface area of the front wing and the height of the mast. To start wing foiling, a mast around 80 cm is ideal. The larger the area of the front wing, the more lift it generates to enable the surfer to stand up easily. In terms of weight and materials, there are fiberglass, carbon and aluminum. Carbon wings are the lightest and offer better performance. However, the length of the fuselage in the wing also plays an important role according to the practice you want.
The choice of umbrella size depends primarily on the intended area of use. In a wind range of 10 to 20 knots, for a weight of 70-85 kg, 5 meters is recommended. If you weigh less than 70 kg, 4 meters would be sufficient, while people over 85 kg would need 6 meters. In any case, it is better to increase the front wing area than, for example, to increase the wing for light winds. A harness will also be useful if you want more freedom in your movements and navigation. In addition, a climbing harness also provides a certain amount of assistance if necessary, for example on long edges in freeride. This also stabilizes the wing once connected and therefore allows for better uplift performance as well as less energy loss.
Follow simple steps and learn wingsurfing
First, it would be easier to get a good breeze, especially between 13 and 20 knots. This provides the power needed to lift the board and easily retrieve it from the water. You can then reduce the low frequency range and increase the high frequency range. Be careful because a little breeze also means a little chop coming. Wingfoiling is ideally practiced in lakes that are not very turbulent. During the first few attempts, sailing on a fairly flat water surface will prevent you from losing your balance. Starting with a place with good conditions makes learning much more fun.
To start wingfoiling, the hardest part is the start. However, with the right techniques and a few sessions, it won't be that complicated. However, just like kitesurfing, it is important to have excellent support when starting out thanks to a voluminous board. The wing is used to gain speed. Here are some practical tips and steps to get you started:
- Enter the water with the wing and hydrofoil, then get on your knees and stay in the middle of the board
- Start moving with the wing out of the water
- Raise the leg and seek stability by holding the wing up. You must be in the “Slot” position at this point.
- Push with your back leg to stand up with one leg in the middle of the board and the other behind.
- To gain speed, you can pump your wing and start hovering.
- You can then refine your technique so that your movements become more efficient and less tiring.
