Downwind wing foiling offers unparalleled sensations of freedom and gliding. But to fully enjoy this activity, proper equipment is essential. This discipline has specific characteristics that require particular attention.
Want to maximize your downwind sailing experience? Discover how to avoid the most common mistakes and improve your technique.
Part 1: Mistakes to avoid before going downwind
1. The equipment:
1.1 Choosing the board:
With a wing in hand, the choice of board becomes less critical. You'll be generating power with the wing, so long, narrow boards will be less essential for getting up on the foil easily. Don't hesitate to choose a board with a bit more volume to make light wind conditions easier. However, a board that's too wide will generate a lot of drag. Therefore, a downwind wing foil will be more enjoyable with a mid-length or downwind board. But there's no need to go to extremes.
1.2 The foil:
Choose a foil with a large wingspan for extended, effortless gliding. A more compact foil will turn better but won't glide as long on swells. A smaller stabilizer will increase glide and maneuverability. For example, the UHA range with an aspect ratio of 11 would be a good choice for beginners.
1.3 The wing:
Choose a wing size appropriate for the wind strength and your skill level. Since you've chosen a foil with a large wingspan and a board with slightly more volume than your weight, you'll be able to ride with a smaller wing. This will greatly facilitate downwind riding. Indeed, a smaller wing will be more maneuverable and playful in turns, while a wing that's too large will be difficult to control, especially in light wind conditions.
1.4 The leash:
Never underestimate the importance of your leash. Choose a strong leash of a good length to avoid losing your board if you fall.
2. Weather conditions for downwind wing foiling
2.1 Consult the forecasts:
Before setting off, check the weather conditions. Verify the wind strength and direction, and the presence of currents. If your goal is to sail offshore, we recommend going in a group.
2.2 Adapt your equipment:
Adjust your equipment according to the weather forecast and the location where you will be sailing. If you are going offshore alone, take all necessary safety equipment with you.
2.3 Your physical condition:
Adjust your equipment according to the weather forecast and the location where you will be sailing. If you are going offshore alone, take all necessary safety equipment with you.
2.4 Warm up:
Before heading out, take the time to warm up to avoid injuries. And always let someone know before going downwind. Away from the board, it's always harder to find someone if you have a problem.
Part 2: Mistakes to avoid during the downwind
2.1 The departure:
- Choosing the right spot: With a wing in your hands, position yourself at your arrival point and go upwind with the wing to come back downwind with freefly.
- Proper equipment: In this downwind configuration with a wing, you will be using a small wing so the harness is not necessarily necessary but on the other hand, have with you an impact vest or a rescue wing and especially a wetsuit.
- Check your equipment: it is essential to double-check your equipment before heading out to sea. You don't want to have to deal with problems once you're out at sea.
2.2 Navigation:
- Managing your energy: Downwind flying is a long distance. Learn to pace yourself and conserve your energy. The goal isn't to be the first to arrive, but to fly continuously and enjoy the experience.
- Adapting your technique: Depending on the conditions, you will need to adapt your paddling technique, in particular your pumping efficiency and your position on the board to maintain the same position for extended periods.
- Respect others: If you are riding in a group, respect other riders and leave enough space between you so as not to bump into each other.
- Be vigilant: Monitor your surroundings and anticipate potential dangers (boats, other beach users, etc.).
2.3 Anticipate to avoid unforeseen events:
- Technical issues: How to react in case of breakage. If you're far away, never leave without a means of communication. Furthermore, there are two things you absolutely mustn't lose: the wing and the board. So double-check your leashes to make sure they're in good condition before you set off.
- Changing conditions: Never set out unless you are certain that the conditions will be stable during your session. If the forecast predicts changeable conditions, we advise against going. In both cases (stronger or weaker winds), you will be in difficulty. Indeed, if the wind drops, you won't be able to get going again. If the wind picks up, you will likely no longer be in ideal conditions to start. Too much power, less stability…
- Fatigue: To avoid putting yourself in danger, you must learn to recognize the signs of fatigue and react accordingly.
Security Council
If you opt for a long-distance downwind, inform your loved ones to give them all the information (departure time, where you are leaving from, estimated arrival time) but do not hesitate to contact the CROSS (regional operational center for surveillance and rescue) to inform them of your route.
Don't forget adequate safety equipment for long downwinders.
- A VHF radio that will allow you to communicate with all boats and rescue services even if there is no cell phone signal.
- The impact vest (fender at the waterline)
- Possibly a Secumar-type belt (a life jacket that works with a CO2 cartridge and a distress flare).
- Fluorescent lycra to be seen from afar if you have a problem.
Part 3: Mistakes to avoid upon arrival
- Choosing the right landing spot: if you've departed from your intended destination, you won't encounter any surprises. Otherwise, scout the area to ensure you can return to shore in the conditions you'll be facing during your downwind run. Check the tide, wind direction, swell strength, and estimated time for your downwind run to calculate the time required to reach the open sea.
- Packing your gear: When you're downwinding, there's wind, so position the nose of the board in line with the wind to prevent the foil from falling.
- Take stock: Analyze all the elements, and in particular the points that could have posed a security problem, and find a solution to avoid them next time.
Downwind sailing is an incredible experience, but it requires careful preparation and a good understanding of the risks. By following these tips, you can fully enjoy your session safely. Remember to progress at your own pace and always prioritize having fun. The enjoyment of downwind sailing comes from good preparation and a thorough understanding of the risks. This discipline requires real learning about open water sailing: so learn from your mistakes to improve while avoiding putting yourself in danger as much as possible.
This activity can only develop if participants respect safety rules and common sense. It's up to you!
Additional tips:
- Sail in a group if possible: Sail preferably in a group to benefit from increased safety and share your passion.
- Inform your loved ones: Before leaving, inform your loved ones of your itinerary and expected return time. Never leave without a means of communication.
The next step is to do the same thing with a paddle. This step will require more technique and experience to successfully start paddling.
If you still have questions about this, or for any other inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us !