GEAR: WING FOILING: FLUID VS. VELOCE
- News
- Wing
Choosing between a Fluid and Veloce is the dilemma of intermediate to expert riders.
When it comes to wing foiling, choosing the right foil is critical for your experience on the water. GONG offers two compelling options for intermediate to expert riders: the Fluid and the Veloce. Both models have unique strengths, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision based on your riding style and goals.
Wing foilers: Malo, Clément and Bastien, GONG team riders, with Neutra and Neutra Boom wings from the Perf Series collection.
Fluid: Playful Handling
The Fluid model is particularly appealing if you prefer a playful, responsive foil. In order words, this is your number one choice if dynamic surfing, linking turns together and pushing the limits in waves are your thing. The Fluid allows for every turn in the book. It turns on the spot, offers forgiveness on radical turns and smooth transitions from one turn to the other.
While not specifically designed for light wind conditions, it offers immediate lift for early take offs. Which means you don’t need to oversize this foil to get going.
Though its standout characteristics are quick responsiveness and excellent maneuverability, making it ideal for riders who enjoy carving smoothly and executing dynamic turns, it’s worth mentioning this is also a foil that likes high speeds. Which is great for full tilt speed runs, but also when flying down the face of a wave. It’s a foil you can push because it’s very predictable. You're always in control with the Fluid.
Wing foiler: Francesco, GONG team rider, with a Stunt FSP Pro, Neutra Boom, and Fluid V3 front wing.
Veloce: Superior Glide, Efficient Flight
The Veloce combines glide AND maneuverability like no other foil. It’s the best compromise of glide and maneuverability for a very high aspect foil. Though it hasn’t the initial lift of a Fluid, the speed you can generate with the Veloce will get you on foil effortlessly. The Veloce rewards riders with exceptional efficiency once airborne. Its superior glide translates into less pumping effort, making it ideal for those aiming for sustained flights and higher speeds.
In light winds? Taking off requires a tiny bit more speed than the Fluid, but maintaining flight will be easier thanks to an exceptional glide. Which makes it a great choice when connecting swell bumps in marginal conditions or simply freeride sessions.
Wing foiler: Mathieu, GONG team rider, on his Cruzader Diamond FSP Pro, with a Droid Boom and Veloce V3 setup.
Making Your Choice: Fluid or Veloce?
The Fluid and Veloce are quite close in terms of performance. A bit more lift and handling for the Fluid, a bit more glide and speed for the Veloce, but all in all, the range of use is very similar.
- Choose Fluid if:
- You value playful handling and agility.
- Your priority is responsive maneuvering and dynamic turns.
- Choose Veloce if:
- You prioritize cool freeflying.
- You’re looking for a blend of speed, glide and maneuverability.
In conclusion, your choice between the Fluid and the Veloce should align closely with your wing foiling goals, riding style, and personal preferences. Both are excellent foils, tailored to distinct rider profiles and specific on-water experiences.