With the Surf-Report Gear 2019 section, benefit from a monthly article dedicated to gear, surfer gear and surfer work.
The craze for the wings, one of the most recent births of the sport, continues to grow and so do the different approaches. This practice, which involves the control of a hand wing called a “wing” and a hydrofoil mounted on a short SUP board, today arouses the interest of many practitioners.
And this alternative show, the Breton Bruno Sroka and his company of the same name which designs, develops, tests and markets Stand Up Paddle, hydrofoils and kitesurfs, have made it their new playground. in the body of water using the energy of the wind and the swell”.
It is better to start in moderate wind conditions, and favor hidden areas of the swell (between 15 and 20 knots established according to Sroka). It is easier to leave with a side wind so as not to risk being swept out to sea without being able to return (sea wind) or being constantly blown ashore (wind).
Like Windsurfing, Kitesurfing or other Foil-related disciplines, Wing Foil is a sport very dangerous. sroka advises operators to equip themselves with equipment following: board leash and wing leash, life jacket (compulsory if you exceed the 300m zone), helmet (recommended). In any case, avoid going solo and inform a loved one before you get into the water.
This is one of the most technical pieces needed to start having fun. understand the Wing Foil is not very difficult but you have to do it the right way. From the position of the body on the plane to the position of the wing, from the placement of the feet to the acceleration: steps to follow to ensure the best take-off and start of the course.
As in all board sports, the Wing Foil has a technical side which gives importance to the choice of equipment.
The hydrofoil consists of a mast, a fuselage, a front wing and a stabilizer. The length of the mast has a real effect on how you go: a shorter mast is more stable and easier to start, but a longer mast allows you to achieve a higher height and avoid touching the surface. The most important protection parameter is the front wing: the profile, the surface, the thickness but also the length and the width of the wing have a strong influence on the lift and the behavior of the wing (speed, stability and maneuverability).
There Wing is a wing specially designed for Wing Foil. It can also be used on a SUP board without foil at the start, or with a rock board (medium wind) or a sculpted type skate board (light wind). There are different sizes, constructions and shapes of Wing. We measure the size of the Wing by its location 3m – 4m – 5m – 6m – 7m. Each of its characteristics has an impact on performance and daily maintenance.
Bruno Sroka’s recommendation: “The wingfoil is a free exercise game where you can increase the fun by reducing the equipment. Easy to prepare, it’s pure pleasure. We are not looking for the speed or the height of the jump, but the feeling of enjoying the ride in the water and the swells of air alone or with friends without difficulty.
How to mount your foil?
Move the leaf into the deep tuttle box. Turn the screen over, place it on the sheet. Insert the screws into the well. Place the screws and tighten them at the same time. Your happiness is ready, happy browsing!
How to install a hydrofoil? Installation is easily done with four stainless steel screws. Four holes are first drilled on the flat surface above the propagator as shown in the drawing. The position of the flaps must be done without passing through the rear of the propeller.
Where to place the foil?
Once again: placement of the guard on the bay A little forward (1/3 max) in the light and vice versa in strong winds, the central position goes everywhere but it all depends on the position of the foot. instability.
Which sup for wing?
As an indication, a big one from 50 to 70 kilos can take a board that is between 70 and 95 liters, for a weight of 70 to 100 kilos you will need a big board that will be between 95 and 120 liters.
What paddle for the Wing? For novices you start with a wider and more stable windboard. This allows you to get to know each other and to drive. Once you get some experience you can switch boards and play with the waves on the board, fly the paddle board or add a foil.
Which board for the Wing?
As an indication, the product from 60 to 75 kg will be able to choose a wall panel whose size is between 75 liters and 115 liters, the product from 70 to 90 kg will change to the screen from 100 to 130 liters.
