How to surf a wave using a wing foil?
Do you already know how to wing foil and want to take it to the next level? Do you dream of surfing waves while flying above the water , without the board ever touching the surface? You've come to the right place! In this article, we'll explain how to wing foil a wave , giving you tips on choosing the right spot, wing positioning, trajectory, and maneuvers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced wing foiler , you'll find all the information you need to fully enjoy this exciting sport.
Prerequisites for surfing a wave with a wing foil
What level of experience is needed to start surfing?
- Knowing how to navigate correctly : you need to master the basic principles of wing foiling , speed and direction control, tack changes, etc. You also need to know the safety rules and right-of-way rules on the water.
- Mastering jibes : It's best to know how to perform them without losing control or touching the water with the board before attempting to surf. Here you'll find our illustrated guide that explains how to perform a jibe on a wingfoil , step by step.
If you have these skills, you're ready to surf a wave on a wing foil! Otherwise, we advise you to practice on a flat, calm body of water before venturing into the waves.
"With a foil like the 1350 Lift , you can surf endlessly on even the smallest ripples over 20cm. It's the best way to transform a lousy spot into a dream spot!"
Choosing a spot for wing foiling
- Wind direction and strength : a side-shore (parallel to the beach) or side-onshore (slightly oriented towards the beach) wind is preferable, as it allows for easy sailing and a return to shore in case of trouble. Offshore winds (blowing out to sea) should be avoided, as they make returning difficult and dangerous. The wind strength should be sufficient to inflate the wing and lift the foil, but not so strong as to cause instability. Generally, a wind speed between 10 and 25 knots is recommended.
- Wave size and shape : you need to choose waves suited to your skill level and equipment. To start, it's best to opt for small, gentle, and consistent waves , which allow you to get used to gliding and taking off. To progress, you can move towards steeper, faster waves, which offer more thrills and maneuvering opportunities. You should avoid waves that are too big or break too sharply, as these can be dangerous. You can also easily start out in choppy conditions and make your first surfs.
- Available space : you must ensure you have enough space to navigate without obstructing or being obstructed by other users. You must respect the rules of priority.
How to surf a wave using a wing foil?
- Spot a wave forming and turn around in front of it, or at least sail in the same direction as the wave. You need to position yourself far enough away to have time to prepare and get into position.
- Adjust your speed to match the wave's speed to get as close to it as possible. The goal is to be on top of it, without being too far ahead or too far behind. Use the wing to accelerate or decelerate by pulling or releasing the handles or boom.
- Once on the wave, put your wing in a neutral position by holding it by the leading edge handle. This allows for greater freedom and lets you truly surf. Keep the wing above your head or to the side, depending on the wind.
- Adjust your trajectory according to the shape and movement of the wave. You must steer the board with your feet and torso, keeping your knees bent and your gaze fixed on the horizon. You can adjust your speed and direction with the wing by moving it slightly and smoothly.
- If you're going faster than the wave, you must go at an angle to it, so as not to overtake it or lose it. If you're going slower than the wave, you must stay perpendicular to it, so as not to be overtaken or fall.
What equipment do I need for wingfoil surfing?
The " Classic " range
Classic foils have a medium aspect ratio. They are easy to handle and offer good stability and maneuverability. They are ideal for beginners or riders looking to have fun in the waves or practice transitions. They are available in several sizes, ranging from 1250 cm² to 2000 cm². The 1250 is designed for experienced riders or very lightweight beginners (under 50 kg).
The " High aspect " range
High aspect foils have a high aspect ratio, meaning a larger wingspan relative to the chord length. They are more efficient in surfing because they plane for longer. They are also better suited to light winds or mushy waves. They are available in several sizes, ranging from 950 cm² to 2000 cm².
| Front wing | Surfing behavior |
| HA 1350 | Glides effortlessly over the slightest ripple. Perfect for choppy conditions, small swells, and waves under 50cm. Ultra-efficient for pumping. It's the ultimate wing for having fun wing surfing and foil surfing in small conditions. 100% compatible with foil surfing. |
| HA 1190 Lift | Planes for a very long time and provides excellent lift. Perfect for choppy conditions, small swells, and waves under 70cm. Very efficient for pumping. 100% compatible with surf foiling. |
| HA 1190 Speed | Planes for a very long time, picks up more speed than the 1190 Lift, but requires a few centimeters more wave height to plane as much, due to its faster, less buoyant Speed profile. Perfect in small to medium swells and waves under one meter. Very effective for pumping when you have some speed. It will be harder to get it pumping again if it loses speed, compared to the Lift version which can easily recover at low speeds. 100% compatible with surf foiling. |
| HA 950 | Perfect in swells over 50cm for effortless planing. You pick up a lot of speed with great control. |
| Classic 2000 | Very powerful, this is the wing that offers the most lift. A larger rider can make their first surfs in waves or swells between 20 and 60 cm. |
| Classic 1750 | This is the perfect wing for starting out in wing foiling. It allows average-sized riders to learn wing foiling in the best conditions and to easily make their first surfs. |
| Classic 1500 | This is the perfect wing for beginners in wing foiling if you're smaller (under 60kg). It allows lighter riders to learn wing foiling in the best conditions and easily experience their first surfs. 100% compatible with surf foiling for larger riders. |
| Classic 1250 | This is the perfect wing for carving and making the most of waves from 30 to 80cm for an average-sized rider (80kg). 100% compatible with foil surfing. |