The GONG V3 foils, with their optimized designs, offer superior lift and glide, allowing for a reduction in wing surface area by approximately 200 cm² compared to V2 models. Below are recommendations tailored to different skill levels and riding styles:
Beginners
For learning to foil, a front wing with sufficient surface area is essential for maintaining flight and enabling early takeoff, especially at low speeds. Beginners should prioritize larger surface areas for maximum stability and forgiveness. With V3 models, wings between 1,300 to 1,800 cm² are ideal, depending on weight and preferences.
Recommended sizes by weight:
- 70 kg rider: Front wing of 1,300 to 1,500 cm² for stability and easy takeoff.
- 85 kg rider: Front wing of 1,500 to 1,700 cm² for added lift and comfort.
- 100 kg rider: Front wing of 1,700 to 1,800 cm² to maximize takeoff and tolerance.
Intermediate / Advanced Riders
For more experienced riders, the choice of wing size depends on the primary goal: comfort, responsiveness, lightwind performance, or glide for freefly and downwind sessions.
Comfort and Stability
Select a front wing that balances lift and maneuverability. Wings between 1,100 to 1,400 cm² ensure early takeoff with good flight stability.
- Example: An 80 kg rider might choose a 1,200 cm² wing for a comfortable and versatile setup.
Responsiveness
For a more dynamic riding style, wings between 900 and 1,200 cm² are ideal. This smaller surface reduces drag, providing more reactive handling, but requires good technical skills to maintain control.
- Example: An 80 kg rider using a 1,000 cm² wing will enjoy increased maneuverability, though takeoff may demand more effort.
Lightwind Performance
In light wind conditions, larger wings (about 1,200 to 1,600 cm² for V3 foils) ensure sustained flight even with minimal energy. The Sirus V3 is highly recommended for maximizing lift at very low speeds, making it perfect for lightwind sessions.
Glide for Freefly / Downwind
Advanced riders seeking maximum glide for downwind or freefly sessions should choose high-aspect-ratio wings, typically between 1,000 and 1,200 cm² for V3 models. These wings optimize continuous speed and glide but require advanced technical skills.
Professional and Experienced Riders
Extreme Lightwind Performance
To maximize performance in extremely light winds, pros use front wings between 900 and 1,300 cm². Models like the Veloce HDW V3 provide optimized lift and glide, enabling flight in marginal conditions and extended lightwind sessions.
Downwind and Freefly
For downwind runs, ideal wing sizes for pros range between 650 and 950 cm². Foils like the Veloce HDW V3 deliver optimal glide, facilitating smooth transitions between bumps with minimal speed and enhanced control.
Freestyle
For freestyle, wings between 600 and 700 cm² are perfect for a combination of lightness, pop, and responsiveness in aerial moves. The Ypra Surf Freestyle V3 is well-suited for these dimensions, offering high maneuverability for aerial tricks and tight carves.
Radical Surfing
In technical and aggressive surfing, pros prefer front wings between 500 and 700 cm². The Ypra Surf V3 and Fluid V3 cater to this need with their extreme maneuverability and responsiveness, enabling radical maneuvers, sharp snaps, and slashes for incisive wave riding.
Racing and Pure Speed
In speed and slalom competitions, pros opt for wings between 450 and 650 cm². Models like the Ypra Race V3 and Ypra Slalom V3 ensure maximum speeds and precise reactivity, ideal for tight trajectories and rapid acceleration.
These recommendations reflect the versatility and performance capabilities of the GONG V3 foil range, ensuring there is an ideal setup for every skill level and riding style.