Wing boards

GONG's FSP 2X boards are designed to help you progress without limits. They combine simplicity, efficiency, and performance, offering lightweight, rigid, and durable boards suitable for all levels of practice. Thanks to their advanced construction with Full Sandwich PVC and biaxial fiberglass layering, they are reactive, durable, and ideal forwingfoil, even in varied conditions.

The FSP 2X models (Zuma, Lance, Mint, Lemon) benefit from the technology used in our prototypes made in France. This integration of high-end construction into series boards represents a unique achievement, ensuring exceptional durability and a premium experience at a competitive price.

Rigidity and Reactivity: Full Sandwich PVC and biaxial fiberglass construction ensures quick response to pressure, offering optimal control.

Lightweight: The use of EPS foam and epoxy resin makes the boards lightweight, easy to transport, and maneuver.

Durability: The robust Full Sandwich PVC construction protects against impacts and ensures exceptional durability.

Value for Money: Thanks to direct sales, the FSP 2X boards are offered at half the price they would typically be, while still offering top-notch quality.

Beginning: Getting Started in WingFoil

Zuma FSP 2X: Stable and versatile, perfect for beginners. Its durable construction and suitable volume make learning safe and easy.

Lance FSP 2X: Compact and ideal for sporty beginners, it remains stable and maneuverable for rapid progression.

Mint FSP 2X: For beginners with prior experience in glide sports. It combines glide and easy take-off for dynamic progression.

Lightwind: Optimizing Sessions in Light Wind

Mint FSP 2X: Its excellent glide makes it perfect for extending sessions in light wind, with easy planning take-off.

Zuma FSP 2X: Its stability and volume are perfect for less experienced riders in light wind.

Freestyle: To Tackle the Tricks

Lemon FSP 2X: Compact and reactive, perfect for starting freestyle with good pop/repop and optimal maneuverability.

Mint FSP 2X: Versatile, offering a great base for freestyle while maintaining excellent glide.

Freefly: For Long and Smooth Glides

Mint FSP 2X: Ideal for freefly, offering a smooth glide to enjoy the waves and downwind.

Lemon FSP 2X: Very reactive, offering perfect maneuverability for freefly, ideal for carves and quick transitions.

Zuma FSP 2X: A good option for starting freefly, providing comfort and stability while preserving endurance.

Wave Riding: Carve with Precision and Fluidity

Lemon FSP 2X: Ideal for waves, with maneuverability that allows for precise carves.

Mint FSP 2X: Allows for smooth, harmonious surfing, especially in strapless practice.

Lance FSP 2X: Offers good stability and maneuverability for smooth surfing in smaller waves.

Racing: For Speed Enthusiasts

Mint FSP 2X: Provides smooth glide, ideal for experienced riders interested in racing.

The FSP 2X technology relies on a Full Sandwich PVC construction with a complete biaxial fiberglass layer. Here are the technical details:

• Lightweight EPS core for optimal shock absorption.
• 3mm high-density hydrophobic PVC sandwich covering the entire board for maximum rigidity, excellent sealing, and increased impact resistance.
• Biaxial fiberglass vacuum layering: Ensures perfect adhesion of layers for a lightweight and durable board.
• Waterproof reinforcements for the foil boxes with vertical high-density PVC foam lattice, ensuring a perfect connection between the rider and the foil.

• US Box Double Entry GONG: Easy-to-mount and extremely sturdy, designed for extreme conditions.
• Textured anti-slip pads: Ultra-grippy and comfortable, perfect for maneuvers and long sessions.
• Ergonomic straps: Lightweight, adjustable, and comfortable for excellent support.
• Integrated carrying handle with depressurization screws: Convenient for transport and durability of the board.

Zuma FSP 2X: "Stable and performant, it helped me progress quickly."

Lance FSP 2X: "Ideal for starting and progressing fast."

Mint FSP 2X: "My ideal board for all kinds of sessions, from lightwind to freefly."

Lemon FSP 2X: "It excels in the waves, with perfect maneuverability."

Q: Which FSP 2X board is best for lightwind?
A: The Mint FSP 2X is an excellent choice for light wind, thanks to its natural glide and easy take-off, ideal for maximizing sessions in low wind and boosting re-launches.

Q: How is the delivery of FSP 2X boards handled?
A: We deliver our boards throughout Europe, and on special request worldwide, with reinforced, recyclable, and plastic-free packaging for secure transportation that is as environmentally friendly as possible.

Q: Which FSP 2X board should I choose for wing surfing?
A: The Lemon FSP 2X is ideal for dynamic wave surfing due to its maneuverability and compactness, offering great reactivity in the most technical conditions. The Mint offers more glide and style with its longer length for a smoother, more relaxed surf.

Q: Are the FSP 2X boards easy to repair?
A: Yes, their Full Sandwich PVC construction makes them robust and easy to repair if needed. The hydrophobic shell protects them and serves as a very solid base to fix a repair that will last. We provide the necessary components and advice upon request for a like-new restoration.

Question: "Which board is best for light wind conditions between the Mint, the Lance, and the Zuma FSP 2X?"
Answer: "The Mint FSP 2X is for sporty riders with an intermediate level, offering excellent glide thanks to its reduced width, while remaining accessible due to its mid-length size. The Zuma FSP 2X is perfect for beginners, with perfect stability and great glide in light wind. The Lance, which is between the two, is wide and compact, combining balance and reactivity. It’s easy to handle but slightly less performant in terms of take-off in light wind compared to the other two."

Question: "Why choose the Lemon FSP 2X for wave riding?"
Answer: "The Lemon FSP 2X stands out for its compactness and maneuverability, making it perfect for tackling small to medium waves. It's very playful, ideal for those who want a lively board that’s easy to handle in varied conditions."

Question: "I’m an intermediate rider looking for a versatile board. Should I choose the Mint FSP 2X or the Lemon FSP 2X?"
Answer: "The Mint FSP 2X is ideal for its versatility, thanks to its amazing glide. It’s great for riders looking to progress without pushing too hard. The Lemon FSP 2X, on the other hand, offers more performance in moves and waves because it’s more compact."

Question: "Is the FSP 2X construction durable?"
Answer: "Yes, the FSP 2X technology ensures excellent durability thanks to its Full Sandwich PVC structure and biaxial fiberglass lamination. The boards are lightweight, robust, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for intensive use over many years."

The FSP 2X boards are designed to deliver exceptional performance across all disciplines while remaining accessible. Explore the range to find the board that fits your needs, whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider.

• Beginner, Less Sporty, and Non-Waterman: The Zuma FSP 2X is ideal for those without any water sports experience and looking for a stable, reassuring board. Its generous volume and stability allow for quick familiarization with wingfoiling without requiring lift-off to have fun. You can glide and take flight only if you feel ready.
• Beginner, Sporty but Not a Waterman: The Lance FSP 2X is an excellent option for a sporty individual discovering wingfoiling. Its compact design enhances maneuverability while remaining stable, enabling quick progress without causing early discouragement.
• Wingfoil Beginner but Already Familiar with Foiling: A larger Mint FSP 2X can be an excellent choice for quick progression, with great glide and easy takeoff.
• Experienced Rider Seeking Versatility: The Zuma FSP 2X covers a wide range of conditions, allowing riders to alternate between wingfoiling and SUP foiling.
• Glide Enthusiasts: The Mint FSP 2X and Zuma FSP 2X are ideal for lightly powered sessions, maximizing smooth glide sensations for fans of fluid rides, even strapless.
• For Those Seeking Surf and Freestyle Performance: The Lemon FSP 2X provides excellent maneuverability for wave riding and dynamic moves, perfect for experienced riders aiming to perform in waves and freestyle. The Mint FSP 2X combines glide and maneuverability. Its elongated shape provides exceptional glide, ideal for freefly downwind runs, and lets riders fully enjoy waves and strapless rides. Its lightweight construction keeps it stable and responsive, making it an ideal board for riders who want to carve smoothly with great fluidity on the water.
• Light Wind Enthusiasts: The Mint FSP 2X remains a top choice for optimizing sessions in light wind, while the Zuma FSP 2X ensures stability and comfortable navigation in milder conditions.
• Riders Seeking a Compact and Responsive Board: The Lance FSP 2X is a shorter board offering excellent maneuverability and optimal responsiveness, ideal for sporty riders looking to advance towards a more dynamic style.
• Riders Looking for Radical Sensations: The Lemon FSP 2X is perfect for experienced riders seeking maneuverability and responsiveness, delivering outstanding control for tight carves in the waves.

Our rigid boards for freeride, freefly, lightwind, and downwind:

FSP 2X = Full Sandwich PVC & Fiberglass

• Zuma FSP 2X: The perfect compromise between stability and glide, ideal for progressing smoothly.
• Lance FSP 2X: Compact and maneuverable, perfect for those seeking an easy-to-carry board that’s responsive for freeride.
• Mint FSP 2X: The perfect balance between wave riding and freeride, offering excellent glide for freefly sessions.
• Lemon FSP 2X: A dynamic board for those wanting to combine maneuverability and performance in waves and downwind.

Our high-performance rigid boards for wave riding, surf-freestyle, and freeride:

FSP 2X = Full Sandwich PVC & Fiberglass

• Lemon FSP 2X: A fun and versatile board for wave riding and tricks, with maximum maneuverability.
• Mint FSP 2X: Ideal for relaxed wave riding and attempting first tricks, while maintaining smooth flow and excellent glide; perfect for downwind freefly

Beginning:

• 1st: Zuma: The Zuma FSP 2X is ideal for less sporty beginners. Its generous volume ensures great stability, making it easier to get started on the water. Its light and rigid FSP 2X construction allows for quick progression while remaining accessible.
• 2nd: Lance: More compact than the Zuma, the Lance FSP 2X is suitable for athletic beginners looking for a stable yet more responsive board to progress quickly.

Lightwind:

• 1st: Mint: The Mint FSP 2X stands out for its natural glide, optimizing low-wind sessions. Its elongated shape makes it easier to get on plane, ideal for light wind days.
• 2nd: Zuma: With its volume and stability, the Zuma FSP 2X is a safe option for low-wind days, offering a smooth and enjoyable glide.

Freeride :

• 1st: Mint: The Mint FSP 2X is a versatile board perfect for freeriding. Its balanced shape provides smooth glide and excellent stability, allowing confident riding in various conditions. Its lightweight and rigid construction ensures quick responsiveness to foot pressure, making transitions easy while maintaining good maneuverability.
• 2nd: Lance: Ideal for relaxed freeriding, the Lance FSP 2X delivers comfort and stability. Its generous volume makes it an easy board to handle in moderate conditions, perfect for riders looking to improve their skills. Its stable glide allows for effortless long rides.
• 3rd: Lemon: With its compact design and responsiveness, the Lemon FSP 2X is an excellent choice for dynamic freeriding. It offers a good balance between maneuverability and stability, making it easy to combine carving and smooth gliding while keeping things playful.

Freestyle:

• 1st: Lemon: The Lemon FSP 2X is perfect for freestyle thanks to its compactness and maneuverability. It facilitates rotations and tricks while maintaining sufficient stability.
• 2nd: Mint: The Mint FSP 2X combines stability and responsiveness, making it ideal for beginners in freestyle while maintaining excellent glide.

Freefly:

• 1st: Mint: With its exceptional glide, the Mint FSP 2X is perfect for freefly and downwind. Its elongated shape allows for smooth transitions, offering a great sense of freedom.
• 2nd: Lemon: Its maneuverability makes it an excellent option for those looking to combine freefly and carving.

Wave Riding:

• 1st: Lemon: The Lemon FSP 2X excels in waves thanks to its compactness and responsiveness. Ideal for riders who want to perform in surf, it offers great maneuverability.
• 2nd: Mint: With its smooth glide capability, the Mint FSP 2X is a good choice for surfing waves with fluidity and style.
  

Summary Ranking by Program

• Beginning: 1st: Zuma | 2nd: Lance
• Lightwind: 1st: Mint | 2nd: Zuma
• Freestyle: 1st: Lemon | 2nd: Mint
• Freefly: 1st: Mint | 2nd: Lemon
• Wave Riding: 1st: Lemon | 2nd: Mint

This detailed summary guides you in choosing the FSP 2X board best suited to your riding style, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider.

Beginners:

Beginners in wing should ensure their board has enough volume to float. The combined weight of the board and your weight must be less than the board's volume to guarantee buoyancy. If you're unsure about your balance or lack physical fitness, opt for additional volume and width. For comfort, we recommend a volume equivalent to your weight + 30 L. The length of models like the HIPE Perf and Zuma makes takeoff easier and provides better stability during rides.

Examples for a 7 kg board and different body types:

• If I weigh 70 kg, the minimum volume required to float is: 70 kg + 7 kg = 77 L. With a volume of 100 L (70 kg + 30 L), I will be comfortable without excess.
• If I weigh 85 kg, the minimum volume required to float is: 85 kg + 7 kg = 92 L. With a volume of 115 L (85 kg + 30 L), I will be comfortable.
• If I weigh 100 kg, the minimum volume required to float is: 100 kg + 7 kg = 107 L. With a volume of 130 L (100 kg + 30 L), I will enjoy good comfort.

Intermediate / Advanced:

In wingfoil, there are three main approaches to volume:

Comfort: Choose a volume sufficient for flotation, usually your weight + 10 L.

Sport: For more responsiveness, you can opt for a slightly lower volume, provided the board is wide enough to remain stable. If you have an excellent level of skill, you can go as low as your weight - 10 L. This allows for takeoff while kneeling and leaning on the wing.

Sinker: With a volume equivalent to your weight - 30 L, the board will sink completely, requiring a technical waterstart, similar to wakeboarding. This is a challenging practice as it demands deep water and great physical fitness, but it offers unmatched sensations. This choice is often favored by pros and experienced riders looking for lightweight gear.

Note: Volumes between 15 L and 25 L less than your weight are often the most unstable, as they offer intermediate buoyancy that can make starting tricky.

More Specialized Shapes:

The rigidity allows for more specific shapes tailored to each purpose. Rigid boards can be sharper for racing or designed with features suitable for surfing.

Less Inertia:

For the same volume, a rigid board is a bit more stable when stationary, allowing for more compact and lighter models to reduce inertia in flight. This particularly enhances the glide sensation and responsiveness.

Precise Volume Distribution:

The rigid construction allows for optimized volume distribution, such as designs with bulges on the nose for better stability when stationary. This type of ultra-precise shape facilitates every movement and makes the board even more specialized for its intended use.

Aesthetic and Visual Enjoyment:

The charm of rigid boards also lies in their aesthetics. Observing the curves of a shape, analyzing the concave of the hull, or the lines of the tail is part of the enjoyment of the practice. A beautiful design on land often translates to equally pleasant glide on the water.

Adaptability to Spot Conditions:

The choice between a rigid or inflatable board also depends on the type of spot. In choppy water, the stability of a rigid board is an advantage.

Transport and Storage:

Transporting and storing a rigid board remains the main challenge. For those with the necessary space, the pleasure of the composite material experience far outweighs this inconvenience. It’s up to each person to find what suits their needs and lifestyle.

The FSP 2X represents the pinnacle of innovation at GONG, offering the perfect balance of weight, durability, and performance. This technology is based on a full sandwich construction using 3 mm high-density biaxial fiberglass and PVC, creating a rigid, hydrophobic shell over the EPS foam core.

Why Choose FSP 2X Technology?

• Strength and Lightness: The high-density PVC foam and biaxial fiberglass create a robust structure while maintaining minimal weight. This construction offers increased impact resistance, especially with vacuum reinforcements.
• Durability and Repairability: Unlike other constructions, the full PVC sandwich preserves the board's structure over the long term, making repairs easier and extending the board’s lifespan.
• Optimal Performance: Thanks to precise control of vacuum lamination steps, each board remains lightweight while providing superior dynamism. The manufacturing process optimizes resin use for a compact, responsive board.

Technical Details

• EPS Core: Lightweight and shock-absorbing.
• Epoxy Resin: Ensures durability and flexibility to prevent breakage.
• Vacuum Lamination: Ensures a perfect bond, guaranteeing a structure that is both light and strong.
• Specific Foil Reinforcements: PVC block for the US rails and handle, reinforced with carbon layers for maximum durability.

A Meticulous Process for Quality Results

Each FSP 2X board requires between 12 to 14 hours of work—almost double the time of other boards on the market. This attention to detail results in a more resilient and high-performing product. The custom matte finish enhances glide and provides a premium aesthetic.

Environmental Commitment and Longevity

In addition to being lightweight and high-performing, FSP 2X boards are built to last. Their durability supports extended use, limiting waste production. The plastic-free packaging and manufacturing align with an environmentally respectful approach.

With FSP 2X technology, GONG offers a high-end solution that combines performance, durability, and unmatched value for wingfoil enthusiasts.

The choice of a quiver primarily depends on your level, your style of practice, and your goals on the water. For many, a single board is enough, the one that will accompany you everywhere. This is especially true for beginners, who will benefit from a versatile board to progress at their own pace without getting distracted.

However, as you progress, you may feel the urge to add a second board to your quiver. For example, pairing a larger volume board for light wind sessions with a more compact and radical board for days with stronger wind allows you to cover a wider range of conditions and never be left on shore.

For those looking to maximize their performance in each discipline, opting for a quiver focused on specific programs might be the key. A dedicated wave riding board for surfing, paired with a freerace or freestyle board for full-speed sessions or explosive tricks, forms a winning duo for those who want to excel in each style.

Finally, if you live in a specific spot, such as a lake where the wind is often light, you may prioritize a board optimized for light wind, while keeping a more radical option for the days when the conditions improve. Similarly, riders who want to enjoy the water every day, regardless of the conditions, can expand their quiver with a Stand Up Paddleboard for windless days, or a surfboard to glide on the waves when the wind is lacking.

A well-thought-out quiver ensures you get the most out of every session, while staying prepared for changing conditions and exploring all the pleasures of water sliding.

Examples of Quivers by Region:

• For the Mediterranean:
  The Mediterranean often means light winds or extreme conditions. A good quiver might include a Cruzader Point LW FSP Pro for light wind days, allowing early takeoff and maximizing sessions. In addition, a Stunt FSP Pro would be ideal for Mistral or Tramontane days, offering the necessary responsiveness for freestyle when the wind is strong.
  
• For Northern Germany:
  On the Baltic or North Sea, conditions can change quickly, with strong winds and often choppy water. An ideal quiver might include a Mint FSP Pro, perfect for its versatility and ability to adapt to changing conditions, and a Lethal FSP Pro for surf sessions in the small waves found at some spots. This setup allows for riding in all conditions and enjoying more intense sessions.
  
• For England:
  England offers varied spots, with strong winds and beautiful waves on the west coast, and calmer conditions in the estuaries and bays. A Lemon FSP Pro would be perfect for playing in the waves and enjoying moderate wind days. To complement this, a Racer FSP Pro would provide high-speed fun, making the most of strong, steady winds.
  
• For a rider based in central Europe (Germany, Switzerland, Austria):
  For riders who mostly ride on lakes and seek versatility, a Cruzader Diamond FSP Pro is perfect for light wind days, offering smooth glide and easy takeoff. Complementing this with a Mint FSP Pro allows for enjoying every breath of wind and having a more radical board for days when the wind picks up. This duo covers all conditions on lakes and promotes rapid progression.
  
• For Brittany and the French Atlantic Coast:
  Brittany offers a wide range of conditions, from light winds to powerful winter storms. A balanced quiver could include a Lethal FSP Pro for surfing the beautiful waves on the wild coast and a Cruzader Diamond FSP Pro for lighter wind days when you want to glide over long distances. A SUP might also be a great complement for windless days.

A well-thought-out quiver ensures you make the most of every session, stay prepared for changing conditions, and explore all the pleasures of water sliding.

Why is a Surfboard Essential in Your Quiver?

Whether you're passionate about wing foiling, foil, or SUP, having a surfboard in your quiver is essential. Surfing is the mother sport of all the sliding disciplines we practice today. It helps you understand the fundamentals of wave reading, connection with the ocean, and refining your sense of glide. Additionally, on days when the wind is lacking, surfing is the perfect alternative to never be stuck on land and continue enjoying the water.

For experienced surfers, a high-performance surfboard, such as a fast and responsive shortboard, a fish for small wave sessions, or a twin fin for retro sensations, is a great choice to keep challenging yourself. A good fish or twin fin will offer smooth glide and a unique style, perfect for creative sessions in the waves.

Beginners or those seeking a gentler approach to surfing can opt for more forgiving boards, such as a mini-malibu or a Batmob from our range, which offer reassuring stability for first sessions. Mid-length boards are also a perfect option to combine maneuverability and easy paddling, allowing for rapid progression.

Finally, for smaller waves or for those who love pure glide, a longboard or retro longboard is a fantastic option. These boards allow for smooth riding on the smallest waves with elegance and offer a more relaxed, contemplative approach to surfing.

In summary, incorporating a surfboard into your quiver not only connects you to surf culture and the history of sliding but also expands your horizons as a rider. You’ll fully enjoy every session opportunity, even when the wind is absent. For sliding enthusiasts, surfing is the essential discipline that will enrich your ocean experience.

There are three types of connections for your wing foil leash, each with its own specific features:

• Ankle Leash: Classic, attached to the ankle like in surfing.
• Waist Leash: Less bulky, attached to the waist for more freedom of movement.
• Quick Release Leash: For riders using a harness, allowing for quick detachment.

Choose your leash type based on your priorities. Make sure to check its condition before each session and replace it annually. It’s your lifejacket and your insurance to avoid incidents with other riders.

Why use an ankle leash?

The ankle leash was the standard at the beginning of winging, due to a lack of better options. It remains an interesting choice in the waves and for riders who prefer to stay toeside and not change feet. However, it has some drawbacks:

• Bulkier on the deck, especially during take-off or maneuvers.
• Can easily get caught in the foil when you’re in the water, which could result in it breaking when tension is applied.
• Creates unpleasant drag while flying.
• Less accessible for quick release in case of need. You risk getting caught in the foil while trying to grab it.

Why use a waist leash?

Choosing a waist leash means saying goodbye to leashes that drag in the water and get tangled in the foil. This type of leash offers more comfort and better sensations:

• It’s away from your legs, so it doesn’t interfere with your stance.
• The connection on your back provides great freedom of movement once properly adjusted.
• Ideal for grabbing your board quickly, such as when passing through a shore break.
• Easy to release with a reinforced velcro system, making it practical for delicate situations like landing on the beach.

Why use a quick release leash?

When using a harness, a quick release leash is essential. It connects to your harness and allows for a fast detachment in case of a tricky situation, ensuring both safety and peace of mind.

Straight leash or coiled leash?

We offer two types of cords for our leashes: straight leashes and coiled leashes (also called telephone cords).

• Straight Leash: Similar to a surf leash, it creates more distance between you and the board when you fall. This reduces the risk of the board snapping back at you, making it ideal for beginners and surfing, where it’s better to minimize the spring effect.
• Coiled Leash: Its coiled cord stays out of the water, providing a smoother ride and avoiding tangling around your feet. It’s the perfect choice for freeride. However, it’s less suited for the waves, where strong tugs might cause it to get tangled.

Fixed or adjustable waist leash?

• Fixed Leash: Tailored to your size for a custom fit, ideal for smaller riders.
• Adjustable Leash: With a velcro system, it adapts to any body shape and is perfect for sharing gear among multiple riders.

Here are some tips and practical advice to improve your wingfoil experience, whether it’s for choosing, maintaining, or using your wing boards:

1. Adjust the foil placement for more stability:

• Moving the foil forward in the board’s box helps increase lift and makes takeoff easier, ideal for beginners or light wind conditions. It’s also suited for experienced riders seeking a more responsive ride and tighter turns.
• Moving the foil backward makes the board more controllable, which is better for progressing and avoiding scares, especially at higher speeds.
• However, the foil should “resist” you, creating an opposing force that results in stability and higher speed.

2. Adapt the straps to your style:

• Strapless: More freedom but with limited performance. Ideal for those seeking pure flying sensations but misses out on some of the board’s potential, especially for jumping.
• With straps: The front straps, especially in a V-shape, offer more control and secure your feet, reducing the risk of touching the foil. The front strap is a crucial reference for beginners. The rear strap becomes useful once you master flying, offering more power and control. It's also a key asset for wave riding and tricks.
• With two straps: Setting up two straps according to your surfing stance brings comfort and precision on your "dominant foot" but sacrifices the opposite edge. This choice may be influenced by your spot or riding habits. If you often surf the same downwind side in light wind, sacrificing the upwind edge may make sense to improve your wave riding.

3. Optimize inflation of inflatable boards:

• For inflatable boards, it is crucial to respect the recommended inflation pressure. Under-inflation affects board rigidity and performance. Always inflate to the maximum recommended pressure to obtain a behavior close to that of a rigid board.
• Use the pump in double-action mode to inflate quickly and build up the board's pressure, then finish in single-action mode to reach optimum pressure without too much effort. Remember to maintain your pump to spare your efforts.

4. Choose the right shape based on your spot:

• Windy and choppy spot: Compact boards are better, as they offer better stability when kneeling and more reactivity in flight for better control.
• Flat water and light wind spot: A narrow board with a flatter scoop and good volume will help you get airborne earlier and maintain glide with less power from the wing.

5. Maintain your board to extend its lifespan:

• Rinse with fresh water: After each session, rinse your board, whether rigid or inflatable, to remove salt and sand that can damage the finishing materials over time.
• Store in the shade: UV rays damage composite and inflatable materials. Always store your board out of direct sunlight, and if possible, use a cover or bag to protect it.
• Store dry: Humidity is your board’s enemy. While it seems counterintuitive, boards don’t like staying wet, as it can cause osmotic damage, leading to finish peeling in extreme cases. Make sure to remove your board from its wet bag and leave it open to dry. It's also a good idea to regularly apply lubricants to the zippers of your bag.
• Regular inspection: Check the condition of your board, foil, and strap inserts before each session to avoid any surprises on the water. Any rough spots are likely to absorb water and should be properly repaired.

6. Find the right balance between length and maneuverability:

• Longer boards are easier for gliding and flight, especially for beginners or light wind conditions, but they require more effort to turn.
• Shorter boards allow for more radical maneuvers but demand better technique to maintain balance, especially at takeoff, and require excellent pumping ability.

7. How to choose the optimal width:

• Standard width (25”-30”): More stability at rest and during takeoff, ideal for beginners and riders seeking comfort.
• Narrow width (<25”): Reduces drag, improves speed, and allows you to go faster on the water before takeoff. It’s a great choice for experienced riders who often ride in light wind.

8. Work on your position on the board:

• Stance is key in wingfoil. By slightly adjusting your position on the board, especially your hips, you can adjust the flight angle and pressure on the foil. This can make all the difference for an early takeoff or to maintain a stable flight.
• A well-balanced weight distribution ensures better stability and smoother glide, especially during transitions between flight and when the board touches the water.

9. Maximize performance in light wind:

• For efficiency in light wind, opt for a foil with a large surface area, which will help you take off earlier. Also, choose a board that glides well, such as the Cruzader Point LW.
• Also adjust your wing choice: a larger wing generates more power to facilitate takeoff.

10. In case of a fall: quickly retrieve your board:

• Use an appropriate leash to prevent your board from drifting too far and becoming difficult to retrieve, especially in wave or offshore wind conditions.
• If your board is far from you without a leash, use the wing to swim faster: hold the leading edge facing the water, with the wing inflated by the wind, hold it in one hand, and swim toward the board.

11. Adjust your board choice based on water temperature:

• In very cold water, opt for a slightly more voluminous board. With a thick wetsuit, the extra weight may require more buoyancy for easier takeoff. Temperature differences of over 5kg can be significant.
• In warm water, a board with less volume is often easier to handle since the weight of the equipment is reduced. It’s the ultimate enjoyment in boardshorts. Struggling a bit more in warm water is never too frustrating ;-)

These tips help better understand and exploit the features of wing boards, leading to more enjoyable and efficient sessions. Each recommendation is designed to help riders adjust their equipment based on their level, style, and the conditions of their spot.