Wing Foiling FAQ's

We have a lot of Frequently Asked Questions concerning wing foiling as it is such a new sport with a lot of interest. Answers to these questions are not always easy to find so we have put a list of the top ones here with our responses. 

Can I Wingfoil on a Windsurf Board?

You can learn to wing on a windsurf board, yes. But to foil you will need a windsurf board that is designed to be a crossover model for windsurf foiling and wingfoiling, standard windsurf board will fit a fin and not a foil. It will generally be a shorter windsurf board, but a longer style wing foiling board. An example is the JP X-Foil 

Can You Wingfoil on a SUP?

This is a similar response to the previous question. You can't wingfoil on a normal SUP, you can wing on a Windsurfing SUP as it will have a back and centre fin to help you fo upwind when learning. Yet, to wing foil you will need to have a SUP Foil board. Another good example of a SUP board you can wing foil on is the Starboard HyperNut 3in1 (SUP surf, SUP Foil and Wing Foil).

Can You Wingfoil on a Lake?

You can wingfoil anywhere you have wind and momentum to get you going! The lake will just need wind and deep enough water for the foil. ready to go anywhere!

How Fast Can a Wingfoil go?

Fast! Recently recorded you can go (with a lot of practice) up to 27knots on a wingfoil. However, most of us don't reach these speeds and it feels faster on a foil as you have a completely smooth ride. Wingfoiling isn't always about speed, but skill and waves too!

Is Wingfoiling Difficult?

A lot of factors contribute to getting up wingfoiling and we would recommend having a few lessons to get the basics of handling the wing and getting up on the foil. A similar sport to windsurfing, you can get the basics quite easily and quickly, but progression and skills when wingfoiling can be difficult and require a lot of practice. Sports are meant to be a challenge and as such this mirrors why wing foiling is so popular as it is a new challenge for everyone!

Is Wingfoiling Dangerous?

We do recommend some personal protective hardware when wingfoiilng as you can crash into the water at fast speeds and at a height; but also because the foil itself is sharp. However, once wearing a helmet, leash and impact vest for safe measure, there are very little accidents from wing foiling compared to other watersports.

How much does Wingfoiling Cost?

Starting a new sport with new kit is always an investment. To get people into wingfoiling more smoothly, there are many complete wing packages available to purchase as sets with up to 30% off the RRP prices. These can start from £1700 with JP Wing Air Package. 

Lessons for wingfoiling can vary depending on if you want lots of lessons to practice if you don't have your own kit yet. Our first wing foiling lessons are 2 hours long and £125 per person. 

When was Wingfoiling Invented?

The first Wing Foil Wings came out in 2019 and since then the sport has progressed positively in every direction. There has been great developments in the wings, boards and foils; as well as the tips and tricks for learning.

Is Wingfoiling Harder than Windsurfing?

Yes it is harder than windsurfing, but that is mainly due to the fact that windsurfing requires you to learn how to move along with a sail on a board on the water, compared to a wing on a board above the water on a foil! When foiling, you have to factor in the process of being stable on the board without dropping the foil down to the water again.

Is Wingfoiling Faster than Windsurfing?

When windsurfing, you can reach higher speeds than when wingfoiling. At professional speed courses, windsurfers can reach 56knots; however many skilled riders can reach up to 30 knots. On the foil, wingfoilers can go out in lighter winds and pick up good speeds, but it all depends on the rider and what style of riding they like. 

 

If you have any more suggestions or questions please do let us know, we would be happy to answer any on 01202 700503,  in the shop, Live Chat, or info@pooleharbour.co.uk