GEAR: WHICH INFLATABLE BOARD SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR A LIGHT WIND TRIP?

Next generation inflatable boards are pushing the limits of light wind.

Heading off on a trip without knowing whether the wind will show up is all part of the adventure. Fortunately, the latest generation of inflatable boards now delivers performance that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago. Thanks to carefully refined shapes designed to maximize glide and early takeoff, they let you get up on foil sooner, with less effort, while keeping the huge advantage of a complete setup that fits into a rolling travel bag.

Wing foiler: Malo, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Cruzader and Droid Aramid X wing.

Shapes that make all the difference

The secret behind these new inflatable boards lies in their shape.

The HIPE Cruzader has become the benchmark for light wind thanks to its elongated outline, which maximizes glide. In the slightest breeze, the board accelerates naturally across the water, activating the foil's lift with minimal pumping. The result is incredibly early takeoffs and an exceptionally smooth ride, even when conditions are marginal.

Patrice Guénolé on the HIPE Cruzader and Droid Aramid X wing Wing foiler: Patrice Guénolé, GONG founder and shaper, on the HIPE Cruzader and Droid Aramid X wing.

The HIPE Diamond follows a different philosophy with its mid-length shape. It delivers outstanding glide for early takeoff while keeping a compact overall length that makes it extremely comfortable while waiting for gusts. Once flying, its compact size provides agility and a playful feel that shines in freeride, surf and carving alike.

Ava on the HIPE Diamond and Droid Aramid X wing Wing foiler: Ava, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Diamond and Droid Aramid X wing.

For riders discovering wing foiling, the HIPE First and HIPE Perf focus on generous volume to make the first planing starts and light wind takeoffs easier. They allow steady progression while enjoying all the benefits of an inflatable board.

Finally, the HIPE Like is an excellent option for beginners who regularly ride in light or inconsistent conditions. Its shape is specifically designed for unpredictable winds, especially on inland waters where every gust counts. It helps you take off more easily and makes every session much more enjoyable when conditions are variable.

Louis on the HIPE Like, Plus wing and X-Over foil Wing foiler: Louis, GONG staff, on the HIPE Like, Plus wing and X-Over foil.

More time on the water

These boards turn days that once seemed too light into real wing foiling sessions. Instead of waiting on the beach for a few extra knots, you can get up on foil sooner, enjoy a more playful foil, and spend your session cruising, surfing, linking transitions or going on long rides with complete confidence.

The benefits go far beyond performance, they completely change the way you approach a trip. Every day becomes an opportunity to ride, even when the forecast looks far from promising.

Louis on the HIPE Like and Neutra Boom wing Wing foiler: Louis, GONG staff, on the HIPE Like and Neutra Boom wing.

A smaller foil?

Another huge advantage of these light wind shapes is that you can easily size down your foil. In wing foiling, you can ride in 10 to 12 knots with a foil that you would normally use in 18 to 20 knots on a board that is less optimized for light wind. On a dedicated light wind shape, you're flying after just five pumps, then you get all the benefits of a smaller foil. Brilliant for freeride as well as in the waves. You can ride a medium-sized foil in very light wind without needing an advanced level. And if you touch down after a hard breach, you know you'll be back up on foil easily, so you can fully commit to your jibes and send it!

Liam on the HIPE Diamond and Droid Aramid X wing Wing foiler: Liam, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Diamond and Droid Aramid X wing.

The perfect travel companion

Another major advantage of the HIPE range is its incredible ease of transport. Board, foil and wings all fit into a single compact travel bag, making trips by plane, car or van much easier. There's no longer any need to choose between performance and practicality, GONG inflatable boards now deliver the best of both worlds.

Whether your priority is getting up on foil as early as possible with the HIPE Cruzader, enjoying the versatility of the HIPE Diamond, or learning with confidence on the HIPE First, Perf or Like, there's now a HIPE designed for every style of riding, and every trip.

GONG gear ready for travel