By Florian Bouton | Published on 06/09/2022 at 14:00 | Updated on 06/09/2022 at 14:00
Do you know the wingfoil, also called wingsurf? Why not treat yourself to this recent sports training session as soon as the weather permits? The Lepetitjournal.com team makes you discover this sport which has emerged in recent years.
What is the wingfoil?
THE Wingfoil is a sailing sport at the crossroads of kitesurfing and windsurfing sailing. The sail lends itself to windsurfing, as it is smaller, more maneuverable and requires less wind. It is inspired by kitesurfing, as it has a small surfboard mounted on the foil (kind of light keel, see photo below). THE foil reduces friction with water and therefore requires less wind to increase speed. When moving, only the foil is in contact with the sea, the board flies above the water. For Keahi De Aboitiz (quadruple world champion in kitesurfing), the sensations are reminiscent of snowboarding in the snow.
It is an easier sport to practice. Indeed, the equipment is reduced, which saves space: the sail inflates and the board takes up little space. There are also fewer objects to manage when surfing: no ropes or harnesses, just your hands. Moreover, the foil allows you to surf in weak waves, so it is ideal for beginners.
According to Robbie Naish, multiple world champion in sailboard and kitesurfing, this “sport will become the dominant sport in the next ten years. It’s for everyone: simple, fun and fast.”
The creation of the wingfoil
This sport would be born from 2017; the first board was marketed in 2018. The first world championship in 2021 combines two disciplines: racing and freestyle. This last event went to Frenchman Titouane Galéa in 2021.
Where to see wingssurfers and where to try them in Hong Kong?
To watch, participate or take advantage of the good deals, join the Wind Foiling @ Hong Kong Facebook group. The group mentions races and events held in Hong Kong.
There are at least three clubs in Hong Kong that can try the sport:
Florian is a young French teacher for foreigners. Fascinated by nature and good at diving.
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Where to learn to kitesurf in France?
10 places for learn kitesurfing in France
- 1.1 Glénan Archipelago.
- 1.2 Bay of Wissant.
- 1.3 Arcachon basin.
- 1.4 Port-Leucate.
- 1.5 Espiguette Beach.
- 1.6 Beauduc Beach.
- 1.7 Almanarre beach.
- 1.8 La Tonnara (Corsica)
Where to kite for beginners? Dakhla, the Ebro delta, Mauritius, Djerba, Brazil are among the best summer spots for kitesurfing lessons. What kind of place do you need to learn and progress in kitesurfing? You need a flat, shallow, unobstructed body of water and preferably hot water like in Djerba or Lagoinha.
How to choose your first kitesurf?
Wingspan to wing area ratio for beginners. In short, if you live in an area with little wind (like in 06), opt for a combination of 8 m² and 12 m². If you live in a very windy area or are a light person, you can opt for 6-7 m2 for windy days.
With what equipment to start kitesurfing? Plank: The beginners often start with larger sizes. Belt or seat belt: these are easier to use to start with. Leash and safety knife A life jacket that leaves room for your bass.
Which kite to choose for beginners?
Which kite to choose to start? If you want to start and evolve towards a twintip, do not hesitate to choose the Delta Hybrid wing. This very versatile type of wing offers the advantage of putting you in ideal conditions to progress without constraint.
