Those who are just starting out in wing surfing usually do so on a large longboard or SUP - this makes it easy to learn how to handle the wing before switching to a foil board. However, the SUP can also become a permanent solution, especially at light wind spots, as five to six knots of wind are enough to allow you to comfortably make your way around.
However, a centre fin is absolutely essential for fun in light winds, because without it the board drifts sideways. Cruising then becomes almost impossible - this applies regardless of whether you motorise your board with a wing or a windsurf sail. However, because most SUPs on the market do not have an additional box for a centre fin, there are Systems that can be retrofitted to the boardn - for example the FitOcean Wing Fin.
A fin box can be strapped on in a matter of minutes using a tensioning strap system, into which a centre fin is then inserted. The strap length can be adjusted, so the system fits all standard board widths. Ideally, the FitOcean Wing Fin should be fitted directly under the centre of the board, i.e. where the carrying handle is located. With a price starting at 59 euros, the system is also very reasonably priced - for example in the FitOcean online shop.
By the way: If you're looking for general tips on learning to wingsurf on a SUP, you can find them in the following video tutorial on our YouTube channel. Here you'll find all the information you need about choosing the right equipment, the right launch technique and the most important things about safety - take a look!

Editor surf
Manuel Vogel, born in 1981, lives in Kiel and learned to windsurf at the age of six at his father's surf school. In 1997, he completed his training as a windsurfing instructor and worked for over 15 years as a windsurfing instructor in various centers, at Kiel University sports and in the coaching team of the “Young Guns” freestyle camps. He has been part of the surf test team since 2003. After completing his teaching degree in 2013, he followed his heart and started as editor of surf magazine for the test and riding technique sections. Since 2021, he has also been active in wingfoiling - mainly at his home spots on the Baltic Sea or in the waves of Denmark.