If you’re new to wingsurfing, you’ll initially have lots of questions and will need to find your way through the maze of technical terms. That’s why we’ve set out all the basics and technical terms here first, before we help you find the right wing for your personal needs in the second part of this article.
The Wing – Basics & Technical Terms
By no means does everyone who takes up wingfoiling have prior experience of other sports such as kitesurfing or windsurfing – so here are a few basics and key terms:
- Front tube: Inflatable air chamber forming the leading edge
- Central strut: Inflatable air chamber which stabilises the wing in the transverse direction
- Boom: Grip bar; alternatively, handles
- Window: Allows a view through the wing towards the leeward side
- Valve: Bayonet/SUP valve for inflating the wing
- Front handle: Hand strap for guiding the wing into a neutral position
The right wing – how to find the right size
Wings are now available in all sizes from 2 to 8 square metres. Whilst ambitious wingsurfers usually own several wings in different sizes, beginners generally want to start with a single size that covers the appropriate wind range. When choosing the right size, the key factors are body weight, riding ability and, of course, wind strength. It’s worth noting that wings generally have a fairly wide operating range, as they can still be kept neutral even in strong gusts. This means that a single size can easily cover a wind range of ten to 15 knots. The following recommendations apply to anyone who is just starting out with just one wing size want to cover as wide a wind range as possible:
In inland areas, where prevailing wind speeds range from 6 to 15 knots, the following recommendations apply:
- <60 kilos: 4.5–5 square metres
- 60–75 kg: 5–5.5 square metres
- 75–95 kilograms: 5.5–6.5 square metres
- >95 kg: 6–7 square metres
In coastal regions and at spots with regular wind conditions ranging from 12 to over 20 knots, the following recommendations apply:
- <60 kg: 4–4.5 square metres
- 60–75 kilos: 4.5–5 square metres
- 75–95 kilos: 5–5.5 square metres
- >95 kilos: 5.5–6.5 square metres
Boom or handles – which grip system makes sense?
There are several different handle systems available on the market – soft handles, fixed handles and boom systems, which resemble a kite bar or a windsurf boom. By the way: In our ‘Reviews’ section, you’ll find plenty of reviews of the latest Wings!
1. Firm grips
The handles are permanently attached to the wing; no assembly or disassembly is required. The compact pack size is also generally retained, as the wing can be folded between the handles. Another advantage is the direct power transfer provided by the rigid handles when steering and during manoeuvres.
2. Booms
Full-length booms are also becoming increasingly popular. Whilst long booms can sometimes add a little extra weight and usually need to be fitted quickly before a session, they do offer unlimited flexibility in choosing the grip position, as well as the most direct power transfer possible.
3. Soft handles
Many first-generation wings were fitted with narrow handles – these are often available on the second-hand market at present. However, the popularity of this system is waning, as the lateral position of the hands cannot be adjusted with millimetre precision, which can sometimes result in an uncomfortable grip. Whilst such wings may be acceptable for a modest price, we strongly recommend following the trend towards fixed handles or booms.
Wing with or without a window?
Windows can offer added safety, particularly at busy spots. However, most manufacturers only fit their wings with small viewing slits so as not to increase the pack size too much, as PVC windows are not meant to be folded. All in all, we’d advise beginners who aren’t yet confident at jibing to choose wings with windows. Those who can already jibe or who ride at less crowded spots can do without windows in their wing, but should then take a quick look downwind before every manoeuvre to check the clear space.
Please take care with the valve system
Wings are inflated and deflated using special valves. Unfortunately, not all brands use the same system, so when buying one, you should bear in mind the need to purchase a compatible pump. Alternatively, surf shops also stock adaptors that allow you to convert your pump to a different system. Here is an overview of the most common systems on the market:
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf