THE YEAR OF THE WING
If you haven’t already jumped on the fast-moving train that is Wing Foiling, 2023 is your year! We understand that learning any new sport can be a challenge so to make things simple here are a few tips on how to select the best equipment to get you started.
Making sure that you are using the correct gear will make a big difference in your learning process. To make it clear let’s break it down into each Wing Foiling component.
BOARD
Key points: Volume and Weight
When learning to Wing Foil you need a stable yet light board that supports your weight and gets you up easily. Luckily for you, we have the perfect board to learn to Wing Foil, the Wingnut! When learning we recommend a Wingnut with a volume slightly above your weight; use the guide below for reference.
Once you understand Wing Foiling you will be able to add smaller boards to your line-up including the Nugget, our surf focused Wing board (35L-50L).
FOIL
Key Points: Early Lift, Stability, and Weight
Purchasing your first foil can be a daunting task as there is so much out there, but here at Freedom, we want to make it as easy as possible with our Halcyon Foil Line. With kit options including the 810, 1030 and 1250 the choice is a simple one:
– Halcyon 1250 Kit: Perfect first full-carbon set for everyone starting winging with loads of low-speed lift and stability in flight.
– Halcyon 1030 Kit: Smaller riders can ride as their first foil or the 1030 is a perfect addition to the 1250 for use in strong winds or when looking for a more manoeuvrable foil.
– Halcyon 810 Kit: Not recommended as your first wing foil set but something to aim towards. The 810 is faster, more responsive, and ready for you when you are ready!
Why the Halcyon?
In the DNA of all Halcyon kits, is a stable low-speed lift that gets you up on the foil with ease, leaving you to focus on the ride. Once up and foiling the Halcyon is stable and predictable underfoot while not holding you back at mid/high speeds. With a full carbon construction, the Halcyon range is lightweight and stiff which assists with all aspects of the learning process.
WING
When starting out Wing Foiling, we recommend a Wing between 5M and 6M. A Wing of this size will allow you to get out in lighter conditions (15mph/24kph). Smaller wings below 5M will be added to your quiver once you are heading out in stronger winds and pushing your Winging to the next level.
At Freedom we have two wings focused on keeping weight down and stability.
– The Freedom Wing: is an easy-to-use Wing that keeps things simple and light.
– The Session Wing: is even lighter to improve luff performance and strength.
GET OUT THERE!
You may have noticed by now that Freedom can get you fully decked out in top-of-the-line equipment but to crack Wing Foiling you have to get out there and get practicing.
Here are a few key points on when and where to get out:
– Wind Speed: Minimum 15mph/24kph(You need some wind!)
– Wind Direction: Cross shore – wind blowing directly from left or right when looking out from your launch point
– Location: Enclosed lakes or areas with the minimal swell
From what you have read you should now be ready to start your Wing Foiling journey and get flying. Your first few sessions may be difficult but with the right equipment and attitude, you will be on your way before you know it!
Be sure to keep us updated with your Wing Foiling progress by tagging us on Instagram with the hashtag #dedicatedtoflight. Now get out there and get your Wing on!
– Nathan Dodds
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