In a nutshell: a Parawing is not chosen based solely on the rider's weight. The right size depends on the overall sail + foil + board + level. For a 70 to 85 kg rider: 5 m² from 10 to 25 knots (kts), 4 m² from 14 to 29 knots (kts), 3 m² from 23 to 35 knots (kts) and more, by adapting the foil and board size. The foil weighs as much as the wing in the final outcome.
The Parawing opens new perspectives for foil practitioners, particularly in Downwind and Freeride. Compact, lightweight and able to be forgotten once folded, it allows you to focus on the essentials: harnessing the energy of the Swell and fully enjoying the Ride.
But when it comes to choosing the right size, many practitioners look for a simple answer: what size for my weight?
In reality, choosing a Parawing never depends on a single criterion. The rider's weight obviously plays a role, but the Wind range, the foil, the board and the sailing program are equally determining. Two practitioners of the same weight can use different sizes and achieve excellent results thanks to adapted equipment choices.
In this guide, we'll see how to build a coherent setup to choose the Parawing best suited to your practice.
The 5 steps to choosing your Parawing
- Define your usual Wind range.
- Take your weight into account.
- Choose an adapted foil: Surface and Profile / airfoil shape.
- Adapt your choice according to your board.
- Adjust according to your program: Downwind, Freeride or transition from Wing foil.
The Parawing is never chosen alone
The most common mistake is to choose a Parawing solely based on weight. In practice, the performance of a setup depends on the balance between several elements:
- the size of the Parawing;
- the rider's weight;
- the Wind range;
- the foil (Surface and Profile / airfoil shape);
- the board;
- the sailing program.
Each modification directly influences the behavior of the whole. A more voluminous board facilitates takeoff. A more lifting foil allows you to foil up at lower speed. Conversely, a compact board or a speed-oriented foil will require more power to take off.
This is why it is more relevant to think in terms of a complete system rather than wing size alone.
Start by defining your Wind range
Before even choosing a size, ask yourself a simple question:
In what conditions do I want to sail most often?
A practitioner who wants to sail mainly between 10 and 20 knots (kts) will not have the same needs as a rider who regularly evolves in 20 to 30 knots (kts). Once this range is defined, the other parameters will allow you to refine your choice.
Wind range table by Parawing size
The example below is based on a modern Parawing incorporating an active power management system (Depower / power-up type). The ranges observed for a reference rider of 80 kg, foil 1,100 cm², board of approximately 90 liters (Volume (liters)), by adapting the foil and board size:
| Size | Wind range | Main use |
|---|---|---|
| 5 m² | 10 to 25 knots (kts) | Light to moderate Wind, Downwind, initiation |
| 4 m² | 14 to 29 knots (kts) | Versatile, Freeride, varying conditions |
| 3 m² | 23 to 35 knots (kts) and more | Sustained Wind, lightweight riders, high performance |
These ranges vary depending on the rider's weight, foil, board and technical level. They correspond to values observed with the FYNIX equipped with the PushBar System®.
There is significant overlap between the different sizes. The same rider can sometimes use two different sizes within the same Wind window depending on their foil, board or desired program.
For a complete decoding knot by knot, consult our detailed analysis of Parawing Wind ranges. If you enjoy sailing in Light wind, also check out from how many knots you can sail on a Parawing.
The impact of rider weight
Weight directly influences takeoff / to foil up and the range of use. With identical equipment, a lightweight rider will take off earlier and can maintain the same wing size longer as the Wind increases.
Less than 65 kg
Lightweight riders benefit from earlier takeoff / to foil up and can often use a smaller wing at the same Wind speed. The 3 m² becomes accessible from 20 knots (kts) in the right conditions.
Between 70 and 85 kg
This category corresponds to the majority of practitioners and serves as the reference for announced Wind ranges. All three sizes are accessible depending on conditions.
More than 85 kg
Heavier riders seek more power in marginal conditions. The 5 m² will often be the starting size, and a more lifting foil can compensate in light Winds.
The foil: much more than a question of Surface
Two foils of the same Surface can offer completely different behaviors. The Profile / airfoil shape plays a major role in takeoff / to foil up, speed and overall ease of the setup.
Lift-oriented Profile / airfoil shape
These Profile / airfoil shape allow you to take off earlier and at lower speed. They are particularly suited to:
- Light Wind conditions;
- practitioners in progression;
- programs prioritizing takeoff / to foil up ease.
In return, they reach their limits more quickly when speed increases.
Speed-oriented Profile / airfoil shape
At equivalent Surface, a fast Profile / airfoil shape offers more Ride and efficiency once launched. However, it requires more engagement at takeoff / to foil up and more power to take off.
The Foil Surface is important, but the Profile / airfoil shape is equally determining. Don't focus solely on the cm² displayed. For a deeper dive into the subject, read our dedicated guide: what foil to choose for Parawing.
The role of the board
The board directly influences takeoff / to foil up ease. A voluminous board facilitates acceleration and reduces the power needed to take off. A compact board will require more technique.
The compensation rule
In Parawing, a large board often allows:
- to reduce the required foil size;
- or to reduce the Parawing size.
A very lifting foil also allows you to reduce the Parawing size needed for takeoff / to foil up.
Conversely, a compact board combined with a speed-oriented foil may require a larger Parawing size to achieve the same takeoff / to foil up.
The goal is not to maximize each element individually, but to find the right balance.
Why do some Parawings cover a wider Wind range?
At equal Surface, two Parawing can offer very different behaviors depending on their Profile / airfoil shape, stability and power management system.
Some technologies allow you to modulate traction in real time and exploit the same wing size across an extended Wind range. This is the principle of Depower / power-up type systems: maintain the power needed for takeoff / to foil up while improving control as the Wind strengthens.
The FYNIX is the first Parawing equipped with true dynamic Depower / power-up thanks to the PushBar System®. The lines slide inside the 32 cm Carbon bar and modify the wing geometry in real time: the rider can Depower / power-up or power up without releasing their grip, which significantly expands the usage range of each size. (PushBar System®: Registered trademark, Patent / patent pending in progress.)
To understand the operation in detail, read our technical analysis of Depower / power-up with the PushBar System®.
Choosing your Parawing according to your program
The Downwind
Downwind requires above all effective takeoff / to foil up and the ability to harness the energy of the Swell. The choice of foil is particularly important here. In small Swell or to facilitate takeoffs, a lifting foil is appreciated. When the Swell becomes faster, experienced practitioners often reduce the foil size to gain speed and freedom in curves.
The Freeride
In Freeride, versatility is key. Some practitioners choose a powerful Parawing combined with a compact foil to achieve a responsive and enjoyable setup across a wide range of conditions.
Transition from Wing foil
For practitioners coming from Wing foil, it is often wise to keep relatively tolerant equipment. A board offering sufficient stability and a lifting foil facilitate learning. You can consult our Parawing or Wing foil guide to better understand the differences between the two disciplines.
Complementary equipment: Leash, Harness, wetsuit, helmet
Beyond the wing, foil and board, a few pieces of equipment make a difference in comfort and safety.
The Leash
A Leash is essential: it keeps you connected to your board, which matters for safety, especially against the sharpness of the foil or if you need to stay in the water after a problem. Use a board Leash adapted to the foil. SROKA also offers a practical Hip Leash to keep your phone with you during the Session.
The Harness
A Harness is recommended: without it, the wing pulls hard on your arms. It transfers traction to the torso and allows for longer Session. A Harness with Kangaroo Pocket is ideal, two-in-one: it combines support and practical storage for folding the wing. Adjust it so the traction passes through your hips and not your shoulders. Discover the SROKA Parawing Harness, and our complete Harness guide for Parawing.
The wetsuit
Thickness mainly depends on water temperature. In Brittany, where water remains cold, go with a 4/3 in winter and a 3/2 in mid-season. In warmer waters, a long john or shorty is enough. A suitable wetsuit keeps you warm and extends your Session.
The helmet
The helmet is not essential in most conditions: the risk of impact remains limited, and it only protects part of the head, not the face. It's a personal choice. On a shallow spot, with rocks, or simply to reassure yourself when you start out, wearing one is perfectly legitimate.
What complete setup for getting started in Parawing?
If you're getting started in Parawing and coming from Wing foil or Kitesurfing, here's a coherent starting point:
| Element | Beginner recommendation (70 to 85 kg) |
|---|---|
| Parawing | 5 m² for 10 to 20 knots (kts) / 4 m² for 15 to 25 knots (kts) |
| Foil | 1,300 to 1,500 cm², high aspect ratio, UHA range |
| Board | 85 to 100 liters (Volume (liters)), stable, good Lift |
| Power system | Wing with active power management recommended for safety and progression |
Find our FYNIX Parawing available in 3 m², 4 m² and 5 m² on the shop.
Your Parawing chosen, time to practice and the first difficulty for the Beginner: get back on your board after a fall. We explain how to do it, step by step.
The most common mistakes when choosing a Parawing
Mistake #1: choose your size based solely on weight. Weight is one factor among others. Without knowing the associated foil and board, a size recommendation remains approximate.
Mistake #2: focus solely on foil Surface. The Profile / airfoil shape is at least as important. A 900 cm² foil with a lifting Profile / airfoil shape can take off earlier than a 1,100 cm² foil with a speed Profile / airfoil shape.
Mistake #3: reproduce the setup of an expert rider. Advanced riders often use equipment optimized for pure performance, which requires more engagement. A performant setup is above all a balanced setup for your level.
Mistake #4: ignore the power management system. A Parawing without active power management is harder to hold when the Wind strengthens. It's a safety criterion as much as a performance one, especially for riders in progression.
Conclusion
Choosing your Parawing is not simply about selecting a wing size. The rider's weight, Wind range, foil, board and program should be considered as a coherent whole.
The more balanced your setup, the more you'll enjoy the potential of the Parawing, whether in Downwind, Freeride or in a transition from Wing foil.
Remember one simple idea: the Parawing is never chosen alone.
FAQ
What Parawing size to choose according to my weight?
Weight alone is not enough. As a guide, for a 70 to 85 kg rider with a 1,000 to 1,100 cm² foil and a board of approximately 90 liters (Volume (liters)): a 5 m² covers 10 to 25 knots (kts), a 4 m² covers 14 to 29 knots (kts), a 3 m² covers 23 to 35 knots (kts) and more, by adapting the foil and board size. A rider under 65 kg can often drop a size, a rider over 85 kg may sometimes need a larger size in marginal conditions.
What's the difference between a 3 m² Parawing and a 5 m² Parawing?
The 5 m² is designed for light to moderate Winds and facilitates takeoff / to foil up. The 3 m² is reserved for sustained conditions, from 23 knots (kts). The two overlap around 23 to 25 knots (kts): the choice then depends on the foil, board and program.
What foil to choose with a Parawing?
A lifting Profile / airfoil shape facilitates takeoff / to foil up at low speed and is suitable for light conditions or Beginner. A speed-oriented Profile / airfoil shape offers more Ride once launched but requires more power at takeoff / to foil up. To start or sail in small Swell, a Front wing of 1,300 to 1,500 cm² with high aspect ratio, in the UHA range, is recommended.
Can you use your Wing foil equipment to get started in Parawing?
Yes, in most cases. A lifting Wing foil foil is well adapted to Parawing. The board must provide sufficient Volume (liters), from 80 to 100 liters (Volume (liters)) depending on weight, to facilitate takeoffs. A standard Wing foil board is suitable for the transition.
What is a power management system on a Parawing?
It allows you to adjust wing traction in real time, similar to a Depower / power-up system. The FYNIX is the first Parawing equipped with true dynamic Depower / power-up thanks to the PushBar System®.
What board to use with a Parawing?
In Parawing Downwind, a board of 80 to 100 liters (Volume (liters)) facilitates takeoff / to foil up. Specific Parawing boards are narrower and longer than Wing foil boards to better channel the Ride. A heavy or Beginner rider will favor more Volume (liters).
Is a Harness mandatory in Parawing?
It's not mandatory, but highly recommended: without it, the wing pulls hard on your arms and Session are shorter.
What wetsuit for Parawing in Brittany?
A 4/3 in winter and a 3/2 in mid-season, as water remains cold. In warmer waters, a long john or shorty is enough.
Do you need a helmet in Parawing?
It's not essential in most conditions, the risk remaining limited. On a shallow spot or to reassure yourself, it can be justified.
About the author
This article was written by Bruno Sroka, professional rider, three-time world champion in Kitesurfing and Kitefoil, glide equipment designer and founder of SROKA Company. Author of the Cape Horn crossing under sail (2008), English Channel Kitesurfing record (2012) and France-Ireland crossing (444 km, 2013), Bruno has been developing foil, Downwind and water sports equipment for over 20 years. He is the designer of the FYNIX and the PushBar System®, the first dynamic Depower / power-up mounted on a Parawing.
