First flight

The take-off in wing foiling

Getting onto the foil is the first big goal in wingfoiling. This means that the forward speed creates sufficient lift on the wings of the foil to lift the board out of the water.

Balance is important - the body weight must be transferred to the board via the correct position of the feet in order to be able to control the foil. The foil reacts extremely sensitive, even slight shifts in weight are enough to steer up and down or sideways. If you shift your weight too much, you will simply tip over.

This ‘First Flight’ tutorial demonstrates how to start your first foil ride. The wind should be blowing strong enough to start without having to pump much. If the displacement speed is fast enough, you can gently shift your weight to the back leg to make the board rise.

However, the weight must be quickly brought back into balance to stop the ascent. If the foil continues to rise, the wings of the foil break through the surface and the flow will be interrupted. This causes the foil to lose its lift and the board sinks back to the water surface – there is a high risk of crashing in the beginning.

Basics Starting in lightwinds Level ★★☆☆ Rider: Stefan Spiessberger Text: Jürgen Schall Photos/Videos: Duotone DE

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