Windsurf foil is a true revolution for windsurfing, offering a whole new dimension to the sport. Are you also tempted to try foil windsurfing and be able to ride full speed above the water with only 7-10 knots of wind? You are not the only one!
Windfoiling is relatively easy to learn, especially if you already know how to windsurf. You may find the first runs difficult, as you need to get used to controlling the foil with small body movements. After a while, you will finally understand the influence of your body weight and find the right position on your board. The time needed to get flying is usually 2 to 4 hours, and you should manage to have a relaxed flight after only 4 to 5 sessions.
Moreover, windfoiling is far less physical than funboarding. As you are flying above the sea, there is no friction on the water’s surface, and the hydrodynamic drag is minimal. The propulsive force needed when sailing above the water is thus much lower than in regular windsurfing. In other words, you will need smaller sails for the same wind conditions, and you will not be physically tired after a session. This makes windfoiling suitable for everybody, regardless of age or gender.
The key in managing your first runs in the air is to be light on your feet, understand how to position your body and use your body weight to control the foil.
When you are foiling, your body is upright on the board, as there is very little traction generated by the sail. This enables you to literally stand above the foil, and control the height with your feet and body weight. Move your body backward and press on the back foot to lift the nose of the board and get higher. On the contrary, move your body forward and press with front foot to go down.
Windfoiling is the perfect weapon where there is not enough consistent wind for traditional short boards. Windsurfing full speed in 8-10 knot conditions with small sails is no longer a dream. This is because you just need enough wind to pull you up on the foil. You will then generate enough apparent wind to increase your speed up to the foil cruising speed, which is usually about 20 knots.
While 8 knots is a real target, it becomes very technical. When learning, we would recommend starting with a wind range, between 12-15 knots and a relative small sail (5 or 6 m2). That way you will easily experience the lift given by the foil, and the rig will be light and easy to manoeuver.