When preparing your Wing Foil wing for a session, it's important to check its condition to ensure optimal performance and maximum safety. Here are our step-by-step tips for successful preparation.
Step 1: Checking the wing's condition
Preparing your Wing Foil wing is not complicated; you just need to pay attention to a few points. First, before heading out, it's important to perform a visual inspection of your wing. The goal is to ensure there are no defects such as cuts or tears in the fabric. It could also be scratches on the leading edge or a leak. If you notice any damage, it is strongly recommended not to use the wing until it is repaired.
We then advise you to test the air pressure in the wing. To do this, use your pump's pressure gauge. Make sure the pressure complies with the manufacturer's specifications. For our Wing V3, we recommend inflation between 6 and 8 PSI (do not confuse this with 6 and 8 bar… yes, it happens). If the pressure is insufficient, add air until it is correct. If the pressure is excessive, absolutely do not go in the water and release some air to reach the recommended pressure.
Step 2: Cleaning the wing
For optimal cleaning of your wing foil wing, you will only need fresh water. It may be hard to believe, but the best way to clean your wing is to rinse it thoroughly with clean fresh water. Start by inflating your wing (or don't deflate it after the session) and run fresh water over it to remove sand and sea water.
You can rinse your wing after each session to maximize its lifespan. It's not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended if you don't plan to use it for a long time.
Step 3: Storing the wing
It is strongly recommended to store your wing foil wing in a cool and dry place. To ensure optimal lifespan for your wing, you must absolutely avoid humid places. Humidity risks causing mold on the fabric.
If you are storing your wing for a long period, we advise you to make sure it is completely dry and folded correctly. For the wing to be properly folded, ensure there are no pressure points that could weaken or damage it. Be careful, just like with kitesurf wings, you should not fold your wing the same way every time. Indeed, excessively sharp folds could weaken your spinnaker.
One last piece of advice? Store your wing high up if you don't want rodents to get to it.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Leaving your wing in the sun: the fabric of a wingfoil or kitesurf wing is sensitive to UV rays. That's why it is strongly advised not to leave them exposed to the sun when not in use.
- Rubbing your wing foil wing to remove sand: by rubbing your wing to remove sand, the sand will scrape against the wing and damage the protective layer covering the fabric.
- Exposing your wing to heat for too long: heat increases the pressure in your wing's bladder. If you leave it in direct sunlight or a very hot place, you risk your wing exploding.
If you still have questions on this topic, or for any other request, please do not hesitate to contact us!
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