All Wings

The 2023 range of GONG wings is online!!!

It is not an evolution but a revolution in terms of performance and comfort.

In this young sport, every step forward is a giant leap. We have listed 2 full pages of evolutions in 2023 to offer wings that are even more efficient, light and durable. It’s just amazing! Hundreds of prototypes, simulations, thousands of tests all over the world to bring you wings that are both flawless and in perfect harmony with your expectations.

Here are some examples of our many improvements, which we will discuss in detail with you on the networks and our forum.

To begin with, general changes are adopted across the entire 2023 range: Plus, SuperPower, Pulse, Droid and Neutra.

The entire range benefits from changes in shape, assembly and equipment, the benefits of which could be summarized by more performance and steering precision, full option equipment and a strength/lightness ratio unprecedented on the market. Here is an overview of these general changes:

Assembly

The size of the leading edge segments has been reviewed (especially the sections preceding the tips) to optimize rigidity and curvature. This redistribution is both on the length of each segment and on the diameter of the sections to find the perfect compromise between stiffness/tolerance, power/smoothness, take-off/control, stability/handling, etc… for each wing.

Re-segmentation of the leading edge with the addition of two sections: a central one for the rigidity of the dihedral (ideal for jumps and acceleration) and the connection with the central strut, and a second one to optimize performance by optimizing the profile with more cutouts and therefore more progressiveness in the front of the shape.

Strong increase in tensions for a more precise feel and more rigidity. More tension translates to wings that are more demanding as they may seem technical when pumping underpowered and powerful in high range. We have nevertheless made the choice to increase the tension of our wings and offer maximum efficiency for a new experience in terms of performance. The behavior of the wings remains perfect in every program, because a Plus stays cool for example. But each wing has been radicalized to offer much more.

Shape

A dihedral that’s less important to boost the wings. Having more dihedral translates into more tolerant wings, and less dihedral delivers more performance. In excess, too much dihedral blocks the Wing in rotation (in tacks, jibes and loops) and decreases upwind and low range performance. In the end it’s just pretty… So we found the perfect balance between performance and tolerance. Our wings are super fast in rotation, powerful and only the tips release the excess of power.

Optimized profile according to the shape to best suit the different programs. Adding segments allows you to place the curve of the hollow with more precision. Adding panels locks it down. We feel a big difference in navigation with a profile that offers much more performance. Simple FS360 quickly turn into 720s… It’s almost shocking the first 15 minutes! We really go higher and faster.

Optimization of the twisting of the canopy on the leading edge for better aerodynamics. The seam line of the leading edge canopy is redefined to obtain a hollow that is constant in all situations.

A more hollowed out trailing edge: some wings are much more hollowed out and others slightly. The objective is to reduce vibrations while maintaining a maximum of useful surface.

The rear handle

The rear handles are replaced by a single handle, which is wider and placed 5cm behind the most forward handle on the V2. This results in an even more natural riding position. The large rear handle makes it easier to grab, instinctively. The front handle remains as on the V2 because we place it perfectly. It’s precise. By moving your hand on the rear handle, you dose the “throttle control”. This rear handle is torsionally stiffened, but still just as soft in the hand. The gap between the handle and the strut remains identical to the V2: no feeling of floating. It’s direct and precise.

New: 2023 Pulse and SuperPower with boom!

We have been innovating and testing all types of handles since the launch of our very first range of wings. So far soft handles have been chosen for every production because they are simple, light, efficient and durable. We have no problem proposing an alternative, but only if it demonstrates as many assets. This is what happened with the boom adopted for the Pulse and the SuperPower for which the benefits have met the high standard set by our developers and team riders.

Wing foiling is progressing and the demand for firmness in racing now prevails over practicality in transport.
So we designed an incredibly smart and efficient boom.

Construction

Replacement of anti-flaps and mini battens with new cylindrical fiberglass micro battens that are much lighter and more flexible so as not to create a hard point; and replaceable or removable very easily.

The work on the structure and the distribution of materials has made it possible to lighten our 2023 range significantly: on average 400g less depending on the model for a 5m², it’s absolutely crazy! From your first grip, the difference is stunning!

The 2023 range also brings specific developments for each model. Here’s a first look at it:

The wing tips

The tips are different from one wing to another. The Neutra keeps very round inflatable tips so as not to catch on to water. The Plus keeps the tips in long inflatable segments to maintain its slight “flex” which brings a lot of tolerance when pumping and in wind gusts. The SP, Pulse and Droid have a new tip design.

The SuperPower, Pulse and Droid benefit from our new LDS technology (Low Drag System), this world first allows a new management of the drag with the integration of a removable rigid batten which allows a perfect tapering of the last section of the tips. The flow of the airflow in the wings is not linear or parallel to the batten. They essentially go sideways towards the tips. This diagonal tendency in the flows creates an overpressure in the intrado on large tips with a voluminous section. Our innovation is to drop the volume of the tips almost to zero so that the air is no longer retained. The wing enjoys deep breaths of air! The gain in speed and stability of the wing is stunning. The system is perfectly rigid but removable with a discreet, reliable and super classy system.

Windows

On the Plus, Superpower and Pulse, the need for visibility, especially for security, led us to offer a panoramic view from your control room. The two large PVC windows centered on the canopy and a PVC window on the small canopy panel between the strut and the main canopy guarantee you an exceptional panorama at first glance. These PVC panels fit perfectly into the profile of the wing and are very durable, especially against low temperatures and folding.

On the Neutra and Droid, which are aimed at experienced riders, priority is given to lightness by completely removing the windows.

New sizes

The sizes of the different wings have been reviewed to better suit their program and cover the specific needs of each rider. For example, the 2023 Neutra is available in 8 sizes including 4 intermediate sizes for a perfect quiver: 2m², 2.5m², 3m², 3.5m², 4m², 4.5m², 5m² and 5.5m².

Here is the recommended wind range for each wing:

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.

Comparative?

In order to understand the dominant qualities of each of our wings, we used the following criteria:

• Power: power base, torque.
• Vmax: ability to go fast easily.
• Simplicity: simplicity of piloting.
• Agility: easy to handle the wing.
• Control: stability in high range.
• Neutrality: depower when the wing is totally sheeted, flat in surfing for example.

For Whom?

• Beginners: this will be the Wing Plus that you’ll need. Smooth, progressive and stable, it is a light Wing that is easy to handle without getting your arms ripped off.

• Experienced: you have the choice between different disciplines: the SuperPower will give you the traction you dream of, the Pulse will give you an amazing Vmax and stability, while the Droïd will be unbeatable in Freestyle, and the Neutra will be the queen of wave sessions.

Focus on the Use: Progression, Lightwind, Freeride, Freestyle, Waveriding.

Your weight should not point you towards any particular Wing, except when it comes to the SuperPower. But the choice of surface will depend on your weight in each discipline.

For What?

The Wing Plus: Allround!

• Its role is to make your first year of Wing flying easier. It has no limits with its very efficient but non-specialized shape like the other wings of the range.
• Light, easy, powerful, it has all the qualities to help you arrive to a good level.

The Wing SuperPower: Full Power!

• Your water surface exposes you to capricious, irregular, gusty winds? It is THE Wing that’s unbeatable in the light and for the heavier riders: power to spare and furious acceleration.

The Wing Pulse: Freeride attitude!

• Dominate the others in speed and heading, holds up easily in gusts, and when launching.
• It kills it on all levels, and propels the Wing into new realms of performance.

The Wing Droïd: Freestyle machine!

• Maximum compactness to link tricks and rotations.
• Its torque delivers an incredible boost for ever more pop.

The Wing Neutra: ultimate Waveriding!

• Absolute smoothness with this Wing 100% surf/jumps/transitions.
• We get back to the essence of the flow and driven the dream for the last century and to flourish with a Wing in hand.

Which wing disciplines?

To date, there are no boundaries in the world of the wing. But soon we will see the preferences of each profile spreading within the wing world.

We have known for decades that there are clear forms of practice, first popularized in windsurfing, then in witesurfing. There’s no doubt that we will find them in wing.

First the beginner who wants to progress, the Allround rider. He needs simplicity above all. But he wants beautiful gear, of quality and developed for his progression. He doesn’t want to look like a beginner with bad equipment and he’s right. He needs a clever, well thought-out set that simplifies his life without being simplistic & cheap.

Then the Freerace rider, because cranking out speed with the boys is always enjoyable. And not everyone has a fabulous wave riding spot in front of their house, nor does everyone want to be ripped apart in the waves. So, challenging ourselves and each amongst friends remains a major pleasure of our sports.

When the wind is limited, not very clean, we get frustrated ! Watching chumps out there playing while we are stuck on shore is surely one of the most frustrating experiences. So, we equip ourselves in LightWind, so we don’t miss out on a single session. It is often the addiction for equipment lovers because this tendency leads quickly to an arms race.

And we know that some of you have twisted ideas, rebellion in your blood, a desire to search and destroy everything ahahah 😉 Well these riders like Freestyle. What’s better than tearing it up on the flat? More seriously, these people basically want to reproduce, on the flat, some wave riding moves. And quickly gets out of hand then it ends up in a tail spin, if can get complicated and very elitist, but there’s a real freestyle subdivision.

Finally comes the Holy Grail: Waveriding. Original essence of our passions, riding the waves is in us. So yes, it’s the ultimate, the aspiration and objective, and a lot of you devote yourselves to it without limits, celebrating the ocean more than the wind, exploiting the wave more than the gust. And it’s beautiful.

What styles of wing?

Do you all have a style in mind that speaks to you, several perhaps?

At GONG we have developed specific answers for each style so that everyone can find not only performance, but also what most resembles them or what they want to identify with.

You want to surf with a Droïd because you like its style, its compactness, its voltage? Nothing prevents you from doing so, on the contrary.

You are a beginner and you like the look of the Neutra? Go for it! It will be less perfect than a Plus but the important thing is that you like it.

What wing Quiver?

A beginner will have all interest to equip himself with Wing Plus. It’s cheaper because we make a lot of them, it’s light, the V is marked for ease… It’s great.

Generally, we stay in the same range to make our Quiver. This is very true for beginners who will find their marks on one size and find them on the size above or below in the same model.

For a Pro it’s different because depending on the conditions and what he wants to do, he will draw from each model the resources he needs. For example:

• In 12 asthmatic knots, a SuperPower 6m2 will be fabulous. It will erase all the defects of the spot.
• But in 15nds perfectly regular, he will surely prefer a Pulse 6m2 which will be faster.
• And if he wants to work on his tricks he will switch to a 5m2 Droïd.
• And if there are waves he will love the Neutra 5m2.

In reality we often each have our own style, our tastes and our sensibility for this or that type of wing and associated program. And we do a little bit of everything with it. But the important thing is to be able to choose the one that best meets your criteria.

Which Technology?

At GONG we only make high-end wings. Our low prices can only be explained by our choice of exclusively Direct distribution.

Our wings benefit from the best construction, developed by GONG, currently the strongest on the market with its double thickness of leading edge segments and reinforced seams. This is far from basic kite technology.

Our Wings are built to last and accept the constraints of this new sport. We use the best materials available while keeping our prices low thanks to our no middleman sales system. With basic materials, it would be 30% cheaper, but less durable and much less efficient.

At GONG our Wings are the highest quality and if by misfortune you break them, they can be repaired from A to Z with the components we keep in stock for your favourite repairman.

What type of wing boards?

The Wing Plus matches perfectly with a HIPE,  a Zuma, a Lance or a Flint and our Aluminum Allvator Foil. It’s the magic combo for beginners and mellow sessions.

The SuperPower, Pulse, Droïd and Neutra are the perfect combination with a HIPE Pro, a Flint, a Mint, a Kube, a Lemon or a Lethal and our Carbon Monobloc Allvator in 85cm or 100cm and faster Front Wings. This is the high-performance combo.

You can (should) add to this combo a SUP for windless days, and surely a Board dedicated to surfing. But if you’re heading towards the wing, you may already have these toys in the garage 😉

What Leash?

Take a 5′ to 6′ wing Leash in light wind and a 10′ Leash in strong wind. Preferably a model dedicated to the wing and of the Coiled variety. A short Leash allows you to get back the wing quickly. A long Leash protects the wing from the Foil falling into the canopy by letting it go further off.

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! Do not hold your wing by the Leash, it will explode or you will hurt yourself.

For the Board, choose a Leash a little longer than the Board. Either straight, or coiled, belt, knee, or ankle… it’s up to you to choose according to your preferences.

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.

Wishbone or Handles?

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.

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.

New : the Pulse Boom and SuperPower Boom

Equipped with an innovative and high-end boom, we immediately feel that this design by our R&D is the real deal. The boom is fixed with two screws on US nuts: the same as those of your foil! Our system leaves no play to the boom. It is perfectly rigid and impossible to untighten while sailing. No hook and loop, no rope, no fragile parts, no plastic parts that fail after a year, nothing that can ruin your session. On the contrary, our parts enclose the straps which encircle the entire central strut, as on wings with handles: total reliability proven for years.

Our boom is made of prepreg carbon applied in 4 directions for minimum weight and maximum strength/stiffness. It’s the most high-end tech on the market to make no concessions between stiffness, weight and performance. With its oval section, it offers better grip for less fatigue and maximum comfort. The ovalization also offers more rigidity while allowing the diameter to be reduced. Our boom is covered with a textured molded grip which further improves its grip and reduces effort. It’s velvet…

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.

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