We will explain the difference between wing foil and windsurfing.

🌊 The difference between windsurfing and windfoil

1. Basic structure


  • A mast boom sail is fixed to the windsurf board, and it is carried by the wind with the sail.
    Balance take by foot and weight transfer on board.
  • Windfoil/Wingfoil There is a 'foil (winged
    hydrofoil)' under the board, which rises from the water surface at a certain speed.to.
    The foil dramatically reduces the resistance of water and can be slidable even in light wind.
    The 'wing foil' uses a type (Wing) that holds the sail by hand without fixing it with a mast.

操作️ The difference between operation and learning

  • Windsurfingoften involves learning sail control and posture, and it takes a little time for the first progress to be made.
  • Windfoil/wingfoil has a small number of tools, but the sense of balance after floating is difficult.
    On the other hand, the sail is light and it is easy to feel the wind, so 'You can enjoy it even on days when the wind is weak.'

💨 Required wind strength

TypesSuitable wind speedFeatures
WindsurfingMore than about 6-10 m/sIt is difficult to run without strong winds to some extent
Windfoil4-6 m/s degree is also OKBecause the foil floats, it can slide even in light wind
Wing foilStable at 4-7 m/sIf the wind is too weak, it is difficult to operate and balance

✅ Advantages and disadvantages

Windsurfing

Benefits

  • There is a sense of unity between the sail and the board, and a stable running feeling.
  • Dynamic play such as a sense of speed and jumping is possible during strong winds.
  • It has a long history, and there are plenty of schools, equipment, and used goods.

Disadvantages

  • The equipment is large, and preparation and carrying are somewhat difficult.
  • If the wind is weak, you can not enjoy it.
  • Initial learning takes time.

Windfoil/Wingfoil

Benefits

  • By floating from the water surface, there is little resistance, and it can slide even in light wind.
  • The equipment is light and the setting is relatively easy.
  • With a new feeling, you can experience sliding as if you were flying.
  • It is relatively safe to start offshore.

Disadvantages

  • There is a lot of falling water until you get used to handling the foil, and it is difficult to balance.
  • Higher initial investment (foil board wing required).
  • There is a risk of impact and injury when falling.

It is a reference video.