Advanced Wing Packs

Which pack to choose according to my practice and my needs?

The GONG PACK WING HIPE PRO is the all inclusive pack that fits in a transport bag for riders looking for a very performant, versatile and compact wing foil quiver.

The GONG PACK WING FOIL PERF is the ultimate all-round package. The wing, board and foil are real Swiss Army knives for all your sessions. Whether you’re into freeride, waves or jumps, this is the quiver for you.

The GONG PACK WING & SUP FOIL PERF  is the pack for those who love waves whatever the conditions, with or without wind. Sailing or paddling, the FLINT FSP PRO and its CURVE ALU foil will enable you to multiply your sessions and your sensations thanks to a clever and versatile pack you will use for both SUP foil and wing foil.

What size for the wing?

Soon you will see that one wing is not enough. You will want to fly all the time so you will complete your 5m² with a bigger one.

We recommend 2m² maximum distance between your wings. Ideally 1m², and this is even more true in the smaller sizes because when you go from 4m² to 2m² because the wind has risen, you divide the surface area by two, while the wind has certainly not doubled. On the other hand, going from 7m² to 5m² when the wind rises is quite fluid because it is proportional to the extra force of the wind.

Plus:

Superpower:

Pulse:

Droïd:

Neutra:

Don’t overestimate the power of wings. The jibber-jabber ion the grapevine consists in making you believe that you are going to have fun with a 4m² in 15 knots, even 8 knots… It’s really smoke and mirrors which aims at making you crack your wallet open on a cheaper Wing because it is smaller. The reality is that you need enough surface to develop the power you will need.

What wing board size?

In wing, we identify three main types of relationship to volume:

Comfort

You can select a volume large enough to float, which is your weight +10 = volume

• Example: I weigh 75kg + 10 = 85L to float. This means that with 85L I’ll be all good as long as I have a good wing level.

Sport

You can also sub-liter because the Lemon is large enough to be stable. If you have a great level and want maximum responsiveness, you can switch to negative volumes.

Up to your weight -10 = volume you can go on your knees while leaning on your wing in the water.

• Example: I weigh 75kg = 75L to slightly sub-liter. This means that with 75L my board will sink lightly and I will have to be precise and sporty at each start.

Sinker

At your weight – 30 = volume, you will have to start by sinking the board: it’s technical, very physical, and you lose part of the low wind range. And above all: you need depth, which can be annoying. The performance gain is debatable depending on your level, but the gain in sensations and responsiveness is interesting for some. It is also the best way to have light equipment, which is essential for the pros and especially for the biggest riders.

• Example: I weigh 75kg – 30 = 45L to use my board as a Sinker. Which means that with 65L and less, my board will completely sink and I will have to start with the help of the wing to get out of the water. In this case, less volume often makes things easier because we sink the board with ease. This makes it easier to place our feet on the deck or in the straps and climb on it. A small board won’t pop out as a cork, therefore easier to on it but not as quick to take off. Its stability qualities when on the surface remain the same underwater.

Finally, the most unstable volume is often the one between 10L and 20L less than your weight.

Choosing the board that suits you perfectly can turn out to be a real challenge given the many parameters that define its qualities. In order to better understand all these parameters of length, width, volume, hull, technology and shape of a board, we explain all of their purposes in this How To : Choose your wing board.

What technology for my board?

Inflatable techno

The simple, solid and very close to rigid inflatable thanks to our revolutionary HIPE.

The carbon plate is firmly glued under the inflatable structure. This piece, composed of 1.9 kg of pure prepreg carbon and two foam stringers, is a jewel of composite know-how. By its design, it mechanically provides precisely what it takes to be as rigid as a classic board, without increasing the total weight.

FSP PRO techno

Its PVC sandwich covered with a hyper dynamic full carbon coat.

• 3D shapes on modeling software.
• Preshape by numerical control for total reliability.
• Shape control by traditional templates, finishing off the last mm 100% by hand.
• Epoxy resin and EPS foam blank: solid and lightweight.
• Deck, hull, and rails in vacuumed PVC sandwich: incomparable strength and incredible dynamism.
• Deck: full PVC/Fiberglass and Carbon sandwich composed of a high-density PVC foam core and 1 layer of 4oz fiberglass and 1 layer of 6oz
• Carbon fiber, fiberglass reinforcements on sensitive areas.
• Hull: integral PVC/Fiberglass and Carbon sandwich composed of a high-density PVC foam core and 1 layer of 6oz carbon fiber, fiberglass reinforcements on sensitive areas.
• Specific foil reinforcements: high-density PVC block housing the two US rail boxes. Four layers of carbon cover the boxes. Laminated PVC slats connect the reinforcement to the deck for maximum durability.
• Rails: the PVC sandwich structure completely covers the rails: increased structural strength, very good shock
  resistance (paddle, knee and harness hook impacts).
• Carrying handle integrated into a PVC block : limits infiltration, avoids breakage in the surroundings.
• Hot coat with integrated tinted resin: nobility of the process, weight reduction and solidity of the finish.
• Matt custom finish, hand-made, for weight reduction and better glide.

These boards are equipped with our innovative technology called FSP Pro. The highest quality on the market.

This full PVC Carbon sandwich offers the best dynamism while preserving strength, at an incredible weight. It’s quite simply the ultimate in vacuum technology for customs, used as standard on our production models : the same tech as the one used on our prototypes made in our shape rooms in France.

FULL sandwich means that the entire board is covered with a layer of 3mm high density hydrophobic PVC foam. This includes the rails, which allows better resistance and perfect sealing in the event of an impact. Above all, the sandwich on the rails are essential to have a rigid board as they work as a solid frame when the board takes flex. The dynamism is really superior and the durability of the board is second to none. This tech is not adopted by all competing brands. What they call sandwich construction is often a simple PVC reinforcement under the feet (and sometimes on the hull). At GONG we do things as seriously as they can be, so in full sandwich.

The carbon fiber that completely covers the board boosts its performance. It is clearly much livelier. Its response time is ultra fast, it does not twist, you are in direct contact with the foil and the elements.

All the lamination steps of the high density sandwich and then of the fiber are carried out under vacuum. The board is under strong pressure, from 2 to 4 tonnes depending on the stage, to ensure flawless bonding of the layers. With the use of drains we optimize the amount of resin on the board leaving only the optimum. Your board is light and super compact. A durable board made to handle all the stresses of a board’s life, its construction also offers a sound basis for any future repairs. So your board will stay like new for years or decades with proper maintenance. This durability will make a lot of people happy from one owner to the next, and avoids polluting with “disposable” boards.

To implement this very complex technology, we need time. A board without a full sandwich is built in 6 to 8 hours. GONG full sandwich boards take 12 to 14 hours of work. You understand that all these steps lengthen the production circuit and are therefore a monumental investment in quality.

For 2023 we have replaced the classic US Boxes, which everyone uses but which were not originally designed for foiling, with our own US Double Entry GONG Boxes designed and tested by our design office for extreme use in foiling. These new boxes are specifically reinforced in areas of high stress and are molded with a high fiber content. Durability is increased tenfold. We are clearly on the best BOX on the market which corresponds exactly to our needs in terms of resistance and functionality. What could be simpler than aligning the 4 nuts with the 4 entrances and sliding the foil into the box? 3 turns with a screw tightener and it’s ready. It’s so easy that you’ll wonder how you could do it the old way for years hahaha.

The foil boxes are placed in a large PVC 80kg/m3 reinforcement thicker than the boxes. Without any risk of water infiltration in the EPS sandwich, even with an intense impact. This reinforcement is connected to the PVC sandwich of the deck with PVC slats to ensure the cohesion of the whole and to avoid any play in the reinforcements over the years. Everything is fitted with fiberglass reinforcements for tolerance and carbon to limit bending. The handle is also set in a waterproof PVC block.

Remember that the high density PVC blocks that house the boxes and the handle are in addition to the full PVC sandwich. The anchoring is absolutely perfect. Not to compare with a reinforcement simply held by layers of fiber. Our reinforcements take hold on a high thickness of rigid material that you would not be able to bend by hand for example, which you could if it was only layers of fibers.

Our technology is truly the ultimate in board construction. Durable, efficient, repairable, we can count on one hand the number of brands able to offer a total PVC sandwich on a big scale production of wing boards. GONG is the leader!

At GONG, our boards are the highest quality. Our low prices can only be explained by our direct sales model, eliminating margins. If by misfortune you break them, they can be repaired from A to Z with the components we keep in stock for your favorite repairer.

New equipment and design

The 2023 range of our wing boards features a new sleek design, taken over from the finishes used in the shape rooms for our custom boards, just like the full sandwich construction which have also been transposed years ago from our custom boards to our production boards.

The equipment is completely renewed on the 2023 boards:

• New reinforced GONG boxes to send big and new double entry rails that allows you to use our SCS system and save precious time during assembly!
• New more ergonomic GONG handle that offers a better grip.
• New stratification of the leash plug with a polished finish and absolute solidity.
• New sets of GONG footstraps, more ergonomic and more comfortable. In single version at the back and in V shape at the front for an ultra-balanced stance.
• New hard brush pad that allows for more thickness on the entire board for absolute comfort.

We invite you to analyze in detail your future board on the new 3D module of our product sheets.

Buy as an informed consumer!

How to place and adjust your straps?

What sizes of foil wings?

Curve

In the light wind, we tend to think that the bigger the better. With moderation though, but yes, it’s often the rule.

Here is a view of the ideal weight of the rider for each wing and each use:

The M-T has a 73cm wingspan, 1150cm², 2.0cm thick for a volume of 1.14L.

• In wing: less than 70kg or very good level and steady wind.

The L has a 77cm wingspan, 1350cm², 2.4cm thick for a volume of 1.6L.

• In wing: less than 75kg or good level and steady wind.

 The L-T has a 85cm wingspan, 1450cm², 2.3cm thick for a volume of 1.66L.

• In wing: less than 90kg or good level and established wind.

The XLS has a 89cm wingspan, 1500 cm², 2.5 cm thick for a volume of 1.89L.

• In wing: 70kg and more or good level

The XL has a 92cm wingspan, 1900 cm², 2.7 cm thick for a volume of 2.55L.

• In wing: 75kg and more, or light beginners.

The XL-T has a 102cm wingspan, 2100 cm², 2.7 cm thick for a volume of 2.80L.

• In Surf Foil: more than 90kg in normal waves.
• In Wing: 85kg and more for light and irregular wind.
• In Kite Foil: forget.

You’ll use a bigger foil in lower ranges, softer conditions. And conversely a smaller foil in those recommended for stronger conditions. The important thing to remember is that the choice of your front wing depends on your size, which requires lift, and your average speed, which generates lift.

Which foil mast?

In other words, everything will be played out between 85cm and 100cm. You can find all our advice on choosing between these two lengths by clicking here.

In summary, for waves and freestyle, but also for beginners and progressing, an 85 mast is ideal. Simple to put in the water, an easy rail to rail, it’s perfect. A 90 cm mast and above is great for Racing by offering more margin at high speed, namely in choppy conditions, but isn’t as maneuverable. All our masts : here.

Foil positioning?

For GONG foils, place the plate in the rear third when you start and in the center of the US rails when you progress. The Pros can position the foil even further towards the front for more lift and maneuverability.

The more you move it forward, the more the board will pitch nose-up. The more you move it backwards, the more the board nose-dives.

Be careful not to move it too far forward. We often tend not to let their back foot work, especially when we come from kite foiling. However, moving the foil back a little, forces more weight on the back foot and gives a more harmonious attitude and reduces effort.

Which leash?

Take a 5′5 to 6′ Leash in light wind and a 10′ Leash in strong wind. Preferably a model dedicated to the wing and of the coiled type.

Check its condition before each session and change it every year. This is your lifejacket.

Don’t let your wing flap in the wind at the end of the leash, it is not unbreakable! Ditto in the waves, do not hold your wing by the leash, it will explode or you will hurt yourself.

Harness or Harness free?

Riding without a Harness is sexy because it makes you feel free and it’s styley. You can move in all directions, it’s really pleasant.

On the other hand, you don’t have to use a lot of fabric to avoid having your arms stretched out. This means having to pump often to take off.

All our wings 2021 have Harness line attachments. So, you have the choice.

So, if on the other hand you like to ride with a lot of canvas, the use of a Harness is almost mandatory if you don’t want to do sessions bridled at one o’clock. In this case, the installation of Harness lines is super simple, (see our tutorials on the Forum). We advise you to use a Harness that is as stiff and as soft as possible, with a windsurfing type hook.

Tips of 24 to 28cm of distance between the batten and the V-shaped hollow section will be perfect. Use a small diameter rope and a thin sheath because the ends of the rope are heavy and rigid, and therefore dangerous for turns and other tricks.

So, it’s up to you to see if sensation and aesthetics prevail over performance. But it is a safe bet that soon all riders will have Harnesses because the evolution will go towards more powerful Wings and more performance.

Handles or Boom?

We have tried everything, in every conceivable combination. A boom is great but is not at all suitable for a beginner public who needs a light wing.

With a boom, he’ll hit the board and damage it, or damage his shoulders. And it’s as hard to transport as it is to install.

For the Perf Series :

It’s your choice :

• TEXTILE HANDLES for beginners, for surfing, for freeflying, to protect yourself and the board, and for a very light wing.
• BOOM for maximum power and a very race / windsurf / freestyle feeling.
• RIGID HANDLES for the best of both worlds: staying light and developing strong traction. You also gain in piloting precision, way more than with textile handles.

With this very versatile wing, we prefer textile handles for beginners. But once you know how to fly, many will go for rigid handles for their piloting precision. Everyone has their own opinion, the choice is yours.

For the 2023 range:

• The new large rear handle naturally positions your hand where you are most comfortable. Once in flight, your hand won’t move much, but you’ll find this big handle very useful during take-off, pumping or certain tricks where moving your rear hand makes life easier. Easier to catch than the double handle, it remains precise in steering.

Full Window or Canopy ?

Wings without windows are cheaper, 200 grams lighter and easier to store.

Wings with windows are safer, stiffer and more responsive.

For beginners, a wing with windows is a must because safety comes before the few grams you could gain. The point is not to admire the landscape: windows will allow you to see if there’s someone or something on the other side of your wing when jibing and therefore prevent a potential collision.

With Battens or without ?

The particularity of inflatable wings is their relative flexibility. This is not necessarily a disadvantage if the profile keeps its shape.

For this, the use of Battens is an indisputable asset. But it is more expensive and not as light.

At GONG, you have the choice to use them or not. According to your taste. And to take Wings which are not equipped with them.

Dry your wing ?

Unless you end your session with a long ride in the sun and land on a pontoon, it’s rather rare to get out of the water with a completely dry wing. ? Note that there is no need to dry your wing if it is to be used regularly in salt water, as the salt protects the materials from mold.

If, however, for transport or storage reasons you want to dry them, you must absolutely avoid hanging the deflated wing by the handle on the leading edge. It’s however very practical but it is the best way to obtain a hernia on the central strut at the junction with the leading edge following the collapse of the bladder inside. The bladders are movable in the strut and the leading edge. So if you hang it up deflated to dry, the bladder can slip, or even crumple, in the strut sleeve.

So ideally, you dry your inflated wing in the shade, and at worst flat or at least with just the inflated central strut.

Find all our How to : Dry your wing

Good to Know:

Wings are very light inflatable structures. This is the reason of their efficiency. You must therefore take the greatest care of them.

The classic mistake is to pierce the wing with the foil. You won’t escape it. But it is very easy to repair. Our fabrics limit the tear and contain it instead of the impact.

The more serious mistake is to get the wing hooked in the water and have it stuck in the water causing you to kink it. Kinking will increase the pressure rapidly and cause the wing to explode. Repairs are then the logical consequent. The same happens if you inflate too much.

The inflation pressure of your wing will affect its power and handling in high water. If high pressure puts your wing at risk, you can also cheat if the wind is very strong by inflating it a little less to make it easier to hold. It will be less stable but less powerful.

Note that inflating your wing too much gives a heavy feeling and does not improve performance. It is a very bad reflex.

Everybody wants a wing. So, don’t take a wing that is too complicated at the beginning. Take a wing that is really made for your beginner needs and you will sell it to a friend in a few months without any worries. The low prices that GONG offers will boost your progress without breaking your budget. Food for thought.

Forum link:

All you need to know about wings

Choose your wing