Wingfoil is an emerging water sport that combines the practice of kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. This discipline consists of using a surfboard or a foil, an inflatable wing and the wind to propel oneself through the water.
The practitioner stands on the board and uses the wing to glide through the water while controlling the direction and speed of movement. It can be practiced on all water surfaces such as the sea, lake or river.
Make the right choice of equipment
Before getting to the heart of the matter, it is good to remember that Wingfoil is a trendy sport.
This is why the choice of equipment is crucial for its practice. To start, choose a wing with a size adapted to your level and the weather conditions.
In general, for beginners, a kite with a size between 3 and 4 square meters is recommended.
Also take into account the choice of the wingfoil board which depends on the morphology of the practitioner and his level.
Larger boards allow for increased stability while smaller ones provide greater maneuverability.
For beginners, it is advisable to turn to larger boards. They should be between 5’10 and 6’8 in length and between 28 and 32 inches wide.
Wider boards offer better stability for beginners and allow them to better understand sliding movements.
Consider ideal weather conditions
The weather conditions are also an important element to take into account when practicing wingfoil. In general, for beginners, light wind conditions are ideal.
Winds of 10 to 15 knots are sufficient to allow pleasant and safe practice. Beyond 20 knots, the wind becomes stronger and the conditions of practice become more complicated, especially for beginners.
Master the basic techniques
Before embarking on the practice of wingfoil, it is important to master the basic techniques. You can start learning online or on a dedicated wingfoil forum.
The first step is to practice handling the kite on the ground. Then you have to learn to get up on the board and slide on the water using the kite. Once these first steps have been mastered, you can embark on the first wingfoil flights.
Remember to coordinate the movements of the kite with those of the board to maintain good stability in flight.
