Wing foiling has taken the water sports world by storm, offering an exhilarating mix of surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Choosing the right board is essential to get the most out of your experience. The two main options—inflatable and hard wing foil boards—each come with their own advantages and drawbacks. So, which one is best for you? In this guide, we'll compare both to help you make an informed decision.

 

Inflatable Wing Foil Boards

Inflatable wing foil boards are made from durable, high-pressure drop-stitch material, similar to inflatable stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). They are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them an attractive option for many riders that want easy storage and portability. Plus for the wing foiler who may prefer climates a lot hotter than the UK, the inflatables pack down and are super easy to travel with. 

Pros of Inflatable Wing Foils:

• Portability & Easy Storage – These boards deflate and roll up, making them ideal for travel and easy storage in small spaces.

• Lightweight & Travel-Friendly – Unlike hard boards, they are much easier to carry and transport.

• Safer for Beginners – The softer material reduces the impact during falls, making them more forgiving.

• Durability – Inflatable boards can handle bumps and scrapes better than hard boards, reducing the risk of dings and cracks.

• Volume - these boards being inflatable can pack the volume in a lot more compactly, meaning you can get more volume in a smaller size board.

Cons of Inflatable Wing Foils:

• Reduced Performance – They lack the stiffness of hard boards, resulting in less responsiveness and control. As with any sport, something inflatable cannot perform to the same as the solid version, the materials of the boards produce flexion more than a solid board and it is harder to pick up glide as the PVC layers struggle to wick away the water. Some models do have rail-release edges which helps with this, but something to consider is that it won't pick up speed as well.

• Longer Setup Time – You need to inflate the board before use and deflate it afterward, this can take longer than just taking the board out of the bag, sometimes ease of use can take priority as you are then pumping up a board and wing!

• Less Direct Connection to the Foil – Due to their softer construction, energy transfer to the foil isn’t as efficient. Across models, there has been lots of feedback that the foot connection to the responsiveness of the foil is affected due to the air of the board losing that foot pressure to the foil plate. There are models now that have a larger, stiffer carbon foil plate so that the rigidity is maintained for the foil and your foot connection is improved.
  Furthermore, the Starboard model in particular allows the foil to slide through the board so that your foot is directly onto the foil box and thus eliminating this issue.

• Cost is similar - For a inflatable foil board that has a decent foil plate for performance, the price is similar to that of a hard board, so it is not always a cheaper option.

Check over our inflatable wing foil board range here.

 

Hard Wing Foil Boards

Hard wing foil boards are made of composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass, offering superior performance for more advanced riders.

Pros of Hard Wing Foil Boards:

• Better Performance & Responsiveness – The rigidity of hard boards allows for precise control and efficient energy transfer. The materials of the board allow for better movement through the water and easier glide to pick up onto the foil. The rigid feel of the board, specifically under your feet where the foil plate is, results in instant responsiveness of your movement to the foil and board direction. Whether you’re carving turns, pumping for speed, or handling choppy waters, a hard board gives you the control needed for a smoother and more dynamic ride.

• Increased Stability & Efficiency – Because hard boards do not flex under pressure, they allow for a more direct transfer of energy from your feet to the foil. This means you expend less effort when generating speed, maintaining balance, and executing manoeuvres. The lack of flex ensures that every input is maximized, which is especially beneficial for advanced riders looking to push their limits. You will find more specialised boards for racing, wave and jumps will all be of a solid construction.

  

• Durability in High-Performance Use – They are built to withstand repeated use, high-impact landings, and aggressive riding styles. While they may be prone to scratches or dings, their overall structure remains intact far longer than inflatables, making them a solid investment for serious foilers.

Cons of Hard Wing Foil Boards:

• Heavier & Less Portable – Hard boards take up more space and require proper racks or bags for transportation. Although wing boards are smaller than windsurf boards, they do still take up practical space. Many can fit the board, foil and wings in the car, but normally if you are the only one in it! Having a roof rack may be a necessary purchase if you may have other kit or people on your journey.

• More Expensive – Typically, hard boards come at a higher price point due to their advanced construction. There are entry-price boards, however most wing boards are more expensive and can even reach the thousands if you want a lightweight construction in particular. 

• Less Forgiving in Crashes – Falling onto a hard board can be more painful, increasing the risk of injury. They are also more vulnerable to damage and scratching and so additional purchases such as  board bag is recommended.

Check out the hard wing board range here.

 

Questions to ask yourself...

• Do you need your board to be travel-friendly and super portable? (choose inflatable)
• Are you prone to accidents, injuries and breaking things? (choose inflatable)
• Are you willing to compromise on some performance for slightly cheaper option? (choose inflatable)
• Would you rather it was lighter and not as advanced? (choose inflatable)
• Are you after something for long-term progression? (choose hard)
• Do you want to improve specific wing foiling skills? (choose hard)
• Looking for speed and control? (choose hard)

 

 

Conclusion

Both inflatable and hard wing foil boards have their own unique advantages. If you’re a beginner or traveler, an inflatable board might be your best bet. But if you’re chasing performance and control, a hard board is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice depends on your riding style, experience level, and storage needs.

If possible, try both before making a decision—if you want to try out some options, just give us a call on 01202 700503 or pop in store!

Complete wing foil board range available here.