Wing foil VS Wind foil: which water activity to choose?

Wing Foil and Wind Foil are two activities that look very similar at first glance, so how do you choose? Both sports involve flying over the water with a foil, using a board and a wing which allows you to catch the wind. If in both cases the sensations are magical, after reading this article you will know which water activity will suit you best.

How does a wind foil work?

Windfoil is a fascinating discipline derived from windsurfing, just like kite surf foil or stand-up foil, offering board sports enthusiasts new perspectives and unparalleled sensations. This water sport is based on the ability to navigate on water using the force of the wind, but with a particularity: windfoil allows you to fly above the water rather than simply glide on its surface. The way windfoil works is therefore similar to that of windsurfing, with practically identical manoeuvres, but the sensations experienced are quite different and incredibly exciting.

How to do wind foiling?

To windfoil, here are some key steps to follow:

Choose the right equipment: Opt for a windsurfboard suitable for windfoil with a foil housing, as well as a specific sail and foil.
Learn the basics of windsurfing: Master harness navigation techniques, tacking maneuvers, and sail adjustments.
Mount the foil on the board: Install the foil correctly in the housing of the board, making sure it is stable.
Start in the right conditions: Choose suitable weather conditions and spots for beginners.
Position yourself correctly: Place your feet in the straps of the board and keep a balanced position.
Generate Power: Use the force of the wind to generate power in the sail and allow the foil to take off.
Maintain your balance: Focus on maintaining balance and adjust your footing according to the movements of the foil.
Practice regularly: Regular practice is essential to progress in windfoil and develop your technique.

Remember to sail within the limits of your skills and take into account the weather conditions. With perseverance, you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of windfoil and enjoy the unique sensation of flying above the water.

Choosing the Wind Surf Foil for Windsurfing Enthusiasts

The Wind Foil is a very popular activity for windsurfers. Indeed, the Windfoil can be seen as the Windsurfing Extension (Windsurfing). Quite simply, it is a matter of add a foil under a wind surf board. Thanks to the foil, drag is reduced and the sensations of gliding are multiplied. The The sensations of speed are simply impressive, even in light winds.
The disadvantage of windfoil compared to wingfoil is that it is not possible to stop dead in your tracks. Windsurf Foil has more inertia, so it is necessary to predict its trajectories more. Finally, the equipment is heavier and takes up more space than wingfoil equipment.

The advantages of Wind Foil for Windsurfers:

Learning to Wind Foil is very fast. The board is longer and bulkier, so it will provide more stability.
Windfoil is easy to master. Thanks to the basics of windsurfing, it is easy to find your bearings and progress quickly.
In Wind Surf Foil there is no need for a large sail area. So you’ll be able to keep your Wind Surf quiver!

Choosing Wing Foil, the new discipline with many advantages

Wingfoil is a new discipline that mixes windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, surf foil and sup foil. Unlike wind foil and wind surf foil, in wingfoil the wing wing is not attached to the board. This allows for greater freedom, for example you can switch from wing foil to surf foil in one movement. The wingfoil wing can be neutralized very quickly.
What stands out in this new activity is the simplicity of the equipment, its lightness, its space saving and its ease of operation. Wingfoil offers freedom and versatility, all with lightweight gear.

Who can wing foil?

Wing foil is a sport accessible to all levels, from water sports beginners to experts. Whether you like surfing, kitesurfing or stand up paddleboarding, you can discover wing foil. However, it is advisable to have a good balance and physical condition to fully enjoy this sport. Whether you’re curious about new sensations or an experienced rider looking for a new challenge, wing foil offers a unique experience on the water.

What is the wind speed for wing foiling?

The ideal wind speed for wing foiling varies according to the preferences and experience level of each rider. For beginners, a minimum of 15 knots of wind is recommended to ensure an efficient take-off and enjoy sufficient lift, thus guaranteeing optimal sailing conditions. With the gain of experience, it is possible to sail in lighter winds. However, for more intense sensations and the possibility of making jumps, a wind range between 15 and 20 knots is recommended.

The advantages of wingfoiling:

Easy to transport and store : the material does not take up much space and can therefore be stored in small spaces. Plus, you can easily carry it around, and if you opt for an inflatable wingfoil, all your gear fits in a backpack!
Wing foil is the gateway to many other sports : SUPfoil, Surffoil, Wakefoil, Downwind, Pumping…
Possibility to sail everywhere, there are no massive restrictions as can be seen in kitesurfing for example. Make all the spots your new playground!
The hardware is simple and easy to install. Unlike kitesurfing, wingfoil requires very little space on the beach to assemble your equipment. In addition, the installation is very fast.
The wingfoil brings maximum freedom : as the kite is not attached to the board, you can manipulate it as you wish. You can start the session in wingfoil, go through freesurfing, downwinding and pumping between waves to reconnect them without limit.

Discover all the reasons to practice wing foil

In summary, what to choose between Wing foil and Wind foil?

Wingfoil and Windfoil are two different sports that use foiling. As for Wing Foil, it’s a more accessible practice. It is a light and practical sport that costs less overall than Wind Foil. Wingfoil will also make it easier for you to exploit many spots that would not be of interest to windfoil. Wind Surf Foil will be easier to learn for snowboarders. In light winds, the Windfoil will be more effective than the Wingfoil. In addition, by progressing in Wind Foil it will be easier for you to learn Wing Foil afterwards. On the other hand, wingfoil will not make learning to windfoil any easier.

Wing Foil or Wind Foil, the choice is yours!