Take off in SUP Foil

Illustrations and explanations to make your first take off on a SUP Foil with our team rider based in Tahiti. Mãuruuru Mathieu!

   

Your SUP level

‘So for SUP Foiling it’s really advised to start off in smaller waves with the right equipment. If you’ve never practiced the foil on other supports, such as wing foiling, kite foiling or wind foiling, the learning curve will obviously be more complicated.A history in classic SUP is a massive advantage, for the catching of the wave is similar.’

Gear for learning

‘For the gear, the board and the foil should be adapted for the use. If you’re already a SUP rider, the board choice should be easy enough, your choice should be a volume which you’re already familiar with in SUP. If you don’t practice the sport then choose a board equal to your weight + 30 to 40 liters, for example if you’re 80 kg then opt for a board around 110 – 120 L. A board like the Zuma with an ADS fin will facilitate life because you’ll cancel out the row effect which is much more evident on a shorter board.

Opt for a foil with a bigger surfaced front wing (at least 1700cm²). Foils with more surface procure more stability, but also limit the speed. But they also make low speed take offs easier which is essential for the take off on smaller waves, which are the best conditions to learn in. The mast should not be too big, between 55 & 70 cm max. A shorter mast is easier for it limits the flight height and you gain in self confidence and control, and you may practice in shallower waters or zones where smaller waves are happening, even close to the shore break. Attention to the spot choice, find zones less frequented by surfers and swimmers, your first flight should be in isolation, stay away from other riders for everyone’s security.’

Ideal conditions

‘As I explained earlier, you need to start on smaller waves, or in the foam. Hollower waves, or more than 60cm, will be too technical in order to discover the discipline. Before beginning, it is important to verify the tide hours. This step allows you to verify water depths in order to avoid smashing the foil into the sand.’  

Take off technique

‘The paddling technique isn’t different whether you’re SUPing or foiling. You need to bring up the cadence of your rowing until you feel the take off. The biggest difference will be your body position, primarily your feet. In SUP we put our feet in the direction of the board’s width.

In SUP Foil, we put our feet in the direction of the length like in surfing or skating. The board takes off, your surf stance will allow for better pumping. It will consist of pushing movements at the front foot to create ondulations of the board.This allows the wings under water to push down on the water and remount to create the lift. The back foot serves to stabilize the ensemble and to stay in contact with the direction of the board (left or right).’