A Guide to Choosing the Correctly Sized Board, Foil, and Wings
Wing foiling is an exhilarating water sport that combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing, with the added thrill of using the foil to fly above the water and increase efficiency on the water. To enjoy it to the fullest, it's crucial to select the right size for your wing foil board, foil, and wing. Choosing the appropriate size will enhance your stability, maneuverability, and overall experience on the water. In this blog, we'll guide you through the considerations for selecting the right size for each component of your wing foil setup.
Board Size
The wing foil board is the foundation of your setup, and getting the right size is paramount to your success in wing foiling. One of the most common beginner mistakes is starting with too small of a board or foil, which will hinder your learning curve and make for frustrating sessions. Here are some factors to consider:
Volume: The volume of the board determines its buoyancy and stability. Larger boards with more volume are generally more stable, making them ideal for beginners. However, advanced riders may prefer smaller, lower-volume boards for increased maneuverability. Progression is different for everyone, but starting with a high volume board (100-150L depending on rider weight) will give you the best chances of success. Follow these sizing guidelines and give us a call at the shop if you are unsure!
|
RIDER WEIGHT (BEGINNER)
|
BOARD SIZE
|
|
<150lb
|
80-100L
|
|
150-200lb
|
95-125L
|
|
>200lb
|
125-150L+
|
Length: Longer boards provide better stability, making them suitable for beginners and those looking for a stable platform to learn on. Shorter boards offer increased maneuverability, allowing for tight turns and tricks and better clearance on swell. For beginners, a board around 6ft is a good starting point. Longer boards also generate speed better, which makes downwind-style boards popular for lighter wind winging.
Width: Wider boards provide more stability, making them suitable for beginners and lighter wind conditions. Narrower boards are more responsive and better for experienced riders in stronger winds. Narrow boards also generate speed better, which makes downwind-style boards popular for lighter wind winging.
Shape: Choose a board shape that suits your riding style. A more rounded nose and tail are forgiving and stable, while a pointed nose and tail offer increased speed and performance.
Skill Level: Your skill level plays a significant role in board selection. Beginners should opt for larger, more stable boards (100-150L depending on rider weight), while advanced riders can choose smaller, more responsive models.
Wind Conditions: Many intermediate to advanced riders will have 2 (or more) boards to select from based on the conditions. A very low volume “sinker” board (25-45L) will be the most maneuverable for larger swell or airs, but will require strong winds and more advanced technique to get started. A larger volume board (50-90L) will sacrifice a bit of performance but allow you to get started in lighter winds, and to get back to the beach easier if the wind dies during your session.
Foil Size
The foil is the element that allows you to lift your board out of the water and ride on the foil. Here's what to consider when selecting the right foil size:
Wing Size: Foil wings come in various sizes, and are typically measured in terms of surface area in square centimeters. Larger wings generate more lift and are suitable for lighter winds and slower speeds. Smaller wings are better for strong winds and higher speeds, and for riding larger swell. The foil you start with will depend on your weight, follow these sizing guidelines and give us a call at the shop if you are unsure! Our go-to foil size for most beginners is 2000 cm2.
|
RIDER WEIGHT (BEGINNER)
|
FOIL SIZE
|
|
<150lb
|
1500-1800 cm2
|
|
150-200lb
|
1800-2200 cm2
|
|
>200lb
|
2000-2400 cm2+
|
Aspect Ratio: While surface area gives you a good starting point when choosing a foil, the aspect ratio (defined as the ratio of wing span over chord) tells more of the story of how the foil will behave. Lower aspect ratio foils are more stable and slower, and thus better suited to beginner riders. Higher aspect ratio foils are typically faster and have better glide, but they are less stable and better for intermediate to advanced riders.
Mast Length: The mast length determines how high your board will rise out of the water. Longer masts provide greater clearance and are better for deep water and choppy conditions. Shorter masts are suitable for shallow waters and learning. We typically recommend a mast around 75cm for beginners, and most intermediate to advanced wingers opt for an 85-95cm mast, though if you are racing or riding in XL swell you may want a mast that is 100cm+.
Fuselage Length: The fuselage is the component of the foil that connects everything together, mounting to the mast and spanning between the front and rear wings. A longer fuselage is more pitch stable and more suitable for beginners. Start with a fuselage around 70cm. Shorter fuselage lengths make for tighter turns but sacrifice stability, most intermediate-advanced riders will want a fuselage around 60cm. Advanced riders wanting the tightest turns and doing aerial maneuvers can opt for an even shorter fuselage around 50cm.
Skill Level: Foil size should align with your skill level. Beginners will want to start with larger, lower aspect wings and shorter masts for increased stability. Intermediate to advanced riders will want to select a foil based on their local conditions and weight. For our local conditions in Bellingham, many riders opt for a foil in the 1000-1500 cm2 range for lighter wind days with smaller swell, and a foil in the 700-1200 cm2 range for higher winds and larger swell.
Wing Size
The wing, which is the handheld sail-like component used for propulsion, also comes in various sizes. Choosing the right wing size is essential for balance and control:
Wind Conditions: Select a wing size based on the prevailing wind conditions in your area. Larger wings are better for light winds, while smaller wings are ideal for strong winds.
Rider Weight: Your weight plays a significant role in wing size selection. Heavier riders will need larger wings to generate enough power, while lighter riders can opt for smaller wings.
Skill Level: As your starting technique improves, you will be able to get up and foiling with smaller wings. As a beginner, having a slightly larger wing will allow you to get up on foil with less effort, resulting in more time foiling and faster progression. Every wing is a little different, but roughly speaking follow these guidelines for your first wing:
|
Rider Weight
|
Light Wind
(10-15kts)
|
Moderate Wind
(15-20kts)
|
Strong Wind
(20-25kts)
|
Extreme WInd (30kts+)
|
|
<130lbs
|
5 - 6m
|
3.5 - 5m
|
3 - 4m
|
2 - 2.5m
|
|
130-160lbs
|
5.5 - 6.5m
|
4 - 5.5m
|
3 - 4.5m
|
2.5 - 3m
|
|
160-200lbs
|
6 - 7m
|
4.5 - 6
|
3.5 - 5m
|
2.5 - 3m
|
|
>200lbs
|
6 - 8m
|
5 - 6.5m
|
4 - 5.5m
|
2.5 - 3.5m
|
Choosing the right size for your wing foil board, foil, and wing is crucial for a successful and enjoyable wing foiling experience. Take into consideration your skill level, local wind conditions, and personal preferences when making your selections. If possible, consult with experienced wing foilers or instructors for guidance as they understand the learning process and can assist in navigating the gear needed to get started. Like always, give us a call or reach out via email if you have any questions or need another opinion on sizing equipment.
