🌊 What is WingFoil?
1. Overview
**WingFoil is a hydrofoil that receives wind with a sail (wing) called “wing” in hand and is
attached to the bottom of the boardItis a new marine sport that rises from the surface of the water by ** and proceeds to slide.
It is similar to windsurfing in that it utilizes
the power of the wind, but it is more flexible because the mast and boom are not fixed to the board.It is characterized by a high style.
In the last few years, it has spread rapidly all over the world, and the number of lovers in Japan is increasing in various places such as Enoshima, Shonan, Tateyama, and Lake Biwa.
2. Configuration and How it works
● WING (WING)44
A sail that inflates with air.Hold it with both hands and catch the wind directly to get propulsion.
Since there is no fixed mast, it is easy to change direction and blow, and even beginners can handle it safely.
● FOIL (FOIL)33
Wing-shaped metal parts attached under the board.
When a certain speed comes out, liftis generated, and the entire board rises from the water surface.
Because the resistance of the water is greatly reduced, it is characterized by being able to slide even a slight wind.
● BOARD (BOARD) ---2
Shorter and thicker than normal SUP.
Beginners emphasize stability at large (120-140 L)
, and advanced users use small and lightweight foil boards.
3. The charm of WingFoil
① You can enjoy even light wind
Because the foil floats from the water surface, frictional resistance is reduced, and it can
slide sufficiently even with winds of only 4-6 m/s.
It is a sport that can be enjoyed even in the sea of Japan where the wind is difficult to stabilize.
② ② High degree of freedom operability
Just tilt the wing of your hand and you can adjust the speed and turn freely.
It is attractive that you can feel the wind and waves throughout your body because you are not tied to the mast.
③ ③ Wave riding is also possible
You can use not only the wind, but also the power of the waves to slide.
If you get better, you'll feel like you're gliding on the waves with foil.
④ ④ Compact and easy to carry
The wing is inflated with air, so the size is enough to fit in a backpack if you let out the air.
It is also easy to load a car, so you can easily enjoy it even when traveling.
4. Differences from windsurfing
| Items | Windsurfing | Wing foil |
|---|---|---|
| Driving force | Secure the sail with a mast | Hand-held wing |
| Required wind speed | About 6-10 m/s | About 4-7 m/s |
| Board shape | Flat type (non-foil) | Flotation with foil |
| Preparation and carrying | Large and complex setting | Lightweight, easy・ short time |
| Feeling of operation | Focus on stability and speed | Free and intuitive - floating feeling |
| Learning difficulty | it takes some time to get started. | A sense of balance is important |
5. Learning Steps
- Practice wing operation on land(how to catch the wind and posture)
- Water running on a large board(steady progress without levitation)
- Practice on a board with foil(learn to float and balance)
- Advance to applied technologies such as jive, tuck, and wave riding
Beginners are effective when you start from the practice to feel the wind with 'electric Foil with handle' and 'rope practice' 'SUP+ wing' first.
6. Required equipment
- Wing (3-6 m2)
- Foil board (with foil)
- Wetsuit (depending on season)
- Leash code (board spill prevention)
- Life Vest or Impact Vest
- Helmet (recommended)
7. Benefits and Considerations
Benefits
- Planing is possible even in light wind
- Safe and lightweight
- A sense of unity with nature
- SUP and surfing experience can improve smoothly
Notes
- There is a risk that you will not be able to return by offshore (wind heading off the coast)
- Need to be equipped with paddles and other measures to prevent trouble in the event of an accident
- It is important to always be aware of changes in waves, currents and winds
8. Summary
WingFoil is the most advanced water sport that combines 'wind', 'wave' and 'floating feeling'.
It can be enjoyed even with a light wind, the equipment is simple, and the distance to the sea is much closer--
it brings a new experience of “flying freely over the sea” exactly.
Such a sport that even the time to wait for the wind becomes comfortable.
That is WingFoil.