Progression factors (credit: Admin)
- a huge range of board, wing and foil options are available and they don’t all work perfectly together
- in the Tropics big gear is your friend – enjoy being overpowered, or get a big board and/or foil
- where possible, learn each aspect of foiling separately e.g. wing handling, steering the board, balancing, pitch control
- get out there and ride what you’ve got
- be prepared for a long progression and to dedicate many hours to the sport
- a budget of $2-3k is recommended to purchase quality equipment and accessories
to avoid disappointment keep the wing upwind of the foil (credit: BarraAddiction)
- weight is important, a lighter board and rider will lift earlier and stall later
- strong winds (15 knots +) will aid progression
- every piece of gear is a compromise
- gear selection priorities include early lift; manoeuvrability; stability; it fits in the car
- for stability, beginner boards are usually 27″ or more in width
- start big – the power provided by a big wing compensates for lack of pumping technique
- as you improve you increase efficiency by pumping the wing with your arms and the foil with your legs
- choose a wingspan relative to your height to reduce wingtips catching the water
- booms and rigid wing handles help manoeuvrability and are easier in light winds than strap handles
the pop-up (credit: BarraAddiction)
