GEAR: WHICH QUIVER TO GET INTO SUP FOILING FLAT START ON A LAKE?
Getting into SUP foiling flat starts is an amazing challenge, both physically and technically. It's a fascinating but also demanding activity that takes time and patience. Flying on your power is your reward.

SUP foiler: Patrice Guénolé, GONG boss and shaper, with a NOTW EPS Pro and a Veloce HDW foil.
Here are some tips to improve the chances of success for a rider weighing 90 kg, for instance.
1. Cruzader Point or NOTW ?
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The Cruzader Point is a great board for SUP foiling in different conditions, but for beginning in flat start, it will be very technical. Keep in mind that with a length of 6’6, generating speed for takeoff will be more difficult than with a longer board.
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An 8'8 NOTW or another elongated board would be perfect to improve glide and speed, making it easier to generate lift with less effort.
2. Foil : Sirus 156 cm² or 186 cm² ?
To begin flat start, it's crucial to maximize lift for easier takeoff:
- Sirus 186 cm²: With its large surface area, it generates significant lift at low speeds, which is essential for taking off on a lake. It will also make the flight more stable, giving you time to refine your technique.
- Sirus 156 cm²: A possible option, it will demand more speed and effort to takeoff, which can slow progress and be discouraging initially.
For a 90 kg rider, it's advisable to opt for the 186 to increase your chances of success.
3. Learning to flat start
The flat start is a real athletic challenge and an exciting experience. Here are a few tips to progress:
- Work on your technique: The paddling motion must be smooth, rhythmic, and powerful, synchronizing the pumping of the board (lightening / applying pressure) with the paddle pull. This timing is crucial to generate enough speed.
- Get physically ready: This is a challenging sport that engages the cardio, legs, and shoulders a lot. Specific physical preparation (paddling, pumping) will be helpful.
- Choose the right conditions: A calm lake, with no wind and no chop, is ideal for minimizing disturbances and focusing on your technique.
To sum up:
- Board: If possible, consider a NOTW 8'8 or another long board to facilitate glide and reduce initial effort.
- Foil: The Sirus 186 cm² is the ideal choice to maximize lift and make takeoff easier, particularly for beginners (rider: 90 kg).
- Mindset: Be patient, as flat start is both a thrilling and challenging learning experience. See each session as a step towards an amazing goal: flying using your own power.
Have a great session, and feel free to reach out to us on the GONG Galaxy Facebook group or via our contact form for 100% personalized advice!