How do I find the right foil for my needs?
We don't want to leave you alone with this question and have summarized the most important aspects of choosing a foil for you.
You're still not sure? Then simply contact Alex for personal product advice by email:
Frontwing
How big should my front wing be?
The surface
One of the most important factors when choosing a foil is the surface area.
In general, foils over 1500 cm² are good for beginners. Of course, the choice always depends on many factors such as body weight. These foils generate enough lift to lift the board out of the water even at low speeds and at the same time ensure the greatest possible stability.
As riding skills increase, the desire for a smaller foil increases. A smaller area goes hand in hand with lower resistance and therefore also with higher speed. However, foils of 1000 - 1500 cm² require more attention from the surfer. If you master the pumping technique well, you can get into foiling almost as quickly as with the larger alternatives. The higher speed lets you easily fly through lulls.
Advanced and experts should also take a look at foils with less than 1000 cm² in area. They require a high level of driving skill and allow for spectacular speeds.
Aspect ratio
An equally important point as the area is the span and the associated profile.
The English term "Aspect ratio" describes nothing other than the ratio of the Span to Area. Overall, "Low - Mid Aspect" foils have a thick and deep profile with a lot of surface area and a small span. They fly stable and turn easily. They also generate a lot of lift and help you to take off even at low speeds and little wind.
The "High Aspect" foils are thinner and have a large wingspan. They are very efficient and glide better through wind holes. You need a bit more speed to take off and when foiling they require more feel. In return, you achieve a higher final and average speed.
The "Aspect ratio" also influences the curve radius. With the same area, a HA foil rotates with a larger radius than an LA foil.
The Stabilizer (Backwing)
The backwing is almost as important as the frontwing. It influences the entire behavior of the foil. Simply changing the backwing with the same frontwing can deliver a big performance boost.
A large stabilizer with a lot of surface area is important for beginners. It provides a lot of lift and stability.
On the other hand, a small, stretched backwing provides less drag, more speed, tighter turns and improved maneuverability.
Fuselages
The fuselage describes the connection between the two wings and the mast.
Just like a larger or smaller backwing, the length of the fuselage also has a significant impact on handling.
In general, the longer the fuselage , the more stable the foil flies. A short fuselage of less than 70 cm makes the foil more agile and manoeuvrable. Therefore, a long fuselage is recommended at the beginning in order to be able to get into the sport as easily as possible.
the mast
Many manufacturers give you the choice between aluminum and carbon masts.
Aluminum masts are more robust against external influences and are much cheaper to buy. This makes them good for beginners. The carbon alternatives are lighter, a little stiffer and therefore perfect for anyone who wants to get the most out of their equipment.
The right mast length:
It's more comfortable with a learn to wingfoil with a short mast, as you fall from a low height. However, you also have little time to react to avoid a fall. A mast of around 60-75 cm is ideal for a beginner. A short mast is of course essential in shallow waters.
This is opposed to a long mast, which gives you more leverage and allows you to make more radical maneuvers without the foil getting out of the water.
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