Wing boards

• Wing foil boards for beginners with no experience: HIPE First, HIPE Learn, or HIPE Perf in a large size for an easy inflatable option, or ZUMA for a stable and versatile rigid board.
• Sporty beginner: LANCE or ZUMA or HIPE Like, sized to your body for a good balance between stability and progression.
• Beginner in wing but already a foiler: LANCE for fast progression, or small ZUMA for more versatility. Possibly a large MINT.
• Experienced rider looking for versatility in their practices: ZUMA, CRUZADER POINT LW, CRUZADER DIAMOND, or FLINT to cover a wide range of conditions and alternate between wing and SUPfoil.
• For glide enthusiasts: MINT, CRUZADER POINT, CRUZADER DIAMOND, to under-power and glide freely, also ideal for strapless riders.
• For those wanting pure performance in winging: LETHAL, STUNT, RACER, and CRUZADER POINT LW for optimal performance in their respective domains.
• Light wind enthusiasts: CRUZADER POINT LW, the benchmark for making the most of light winds, followed by the CRUZADER DIAMOND and MINT.
• For sinker board fans: STUNT and LETHAL for a radical feeling.
• Travelers: HIPE Freefly, HIPE Perf, HIPE Diamond, HIPE Pro, HIPE Stunt, HIPE Lethal or HIPE Cruzader for the practicality of an inflatable, or a compact board like the LEMON, STUNT, or LETHAL.
• Competitors looking for the best race board: RACER, to dominate the competitions.

Beginning:

• 1st (tie): HIPE First, HIPE Learn and HIPE Like: Stable, easy-to-handle, and safe inflatable boards, ideal for beginners.
• 2nd: ZUMA: Rigid, stable, and versatile, but less easy to transport than the HIPE. Offers better glide sensations.
• 3rd: LANCE: Compact and stable, it allows beginners to progress quickly.
• 4th: MINT: More demanding, suitable for sporty beginners with a desire to progress fast and far.
• 5th: LEMON: Very demanding due to its size, reserved for sporty and experienced riders in glide sports.

Lightwind:

• 1st: CRUZADER POINT LW: Excellent glide, unbeatable takeoff in light wind.
• 2nd: CRUZADER DIAMOND: Very smooth glide for a stable board, highly effective in light wind.
• 3rd: RACER: Very high performance, but technical as it's designed for racing.
• 4th: MINT: Good capacity in lightwind with its amazing glide, and versatile.
• 5th: LETHAL: Very technical but highly effective in lightwind with its reduced width and glide.

Racing:

• 1st: RACER: The reference board for competition racing.
• 2nd (tie): CRUZADER POINT and CRUZADER POINT LW: Great glide for easy takeoff on small foils, and narrow width for strong attacks.
• 3rd: CRUZADER DIAMOND: A stability appreciated for starting races without struggles.
• 4th: MINT: Versatile for experienced riders who want to race without chasing the latest gear.
• 5th: LETHAL: Obviously not race-specific, but its shape performs excellently in races.

Freestyle:

• 1st: STUNT: Reactive, maneuverable, with incredible pop and repop for tricks.
• 2nd: LEMON: Compact and versatile, perfect for progressing in freestyle.
• 3rd: HIPE Pro: Safe and simple, ideal for learning tricks.
• 4th: MINT: A good balance to try your first freestyle tricks.
• 5th: LETHAL: Excellent for jumps with amplitude, though geared towards surfing.

Freefly:

• 1st: CRUZADER POINT: Exceptional glide, perfect for using small wings and enjoying downwind freely.
• 2nd: CRUZADER DIAMOND: Simple and effective, ideal for long sessions without needing to over-sheet.
• 3rd (tie): LETHAL and LEMON: Maneuverable and fluid, ideal for carving downwind.
• 4th: MINT: Excellent glide, takes off easily with small wings.
• 5th: HIPE Freefly: Inflatable, strapless, maneuverable, safe, really fun and practical.

Wave Riding:

• 1st: LETHAL: Super smooth glide, absolutely perfect for surfing, especially in big waves.
• 2nd: LEMON: Compact, maneuverable, and accessible, offering a lot of tolerance and performance in the waves.
• 3rd (tie): STUNT and HIPE Pro: Perfect for surf-freestyle, ideal for varied maneuvers, especially in choppy conditions.
• 4th: HIPE LETHAL: Inflatable and radical, easy to transport, it’s the ultimate board.
• 5th: MINT: Easy and maneuverable, with excellent glide for surfing with style.

Summary Ranking by Program:

• Beginning: 1st (tie): HIPE Learn, HIPE First, HIPE Like | 2nd: Zuma | 3rd: Lance
• Lightwind: 1st: Cruzader Point LW | 2nd: Cruzader Diamond | 3rd: Racer
• Racing: 1st: Racer | 2nd (tie): Cruzader Point, Cruzader Point LW | 3rd: Cruzader Diamond
• Freestyle: 1st: Stunt | 2nd: Lemon | 3rd: HIPE Pro
• Freefly: 1st: Cruzader Point | 2nd: Cruzader Diamond | 3rd (tie): Lethal, Lemon
• Wave Riding: 1st: Lethal | 2nd: Lemon | 3rd (tie): Stunt, HIPE Pro

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.

Advantages of an Inflatable Board:

Minimal Bulk:

An inflatable board folds up and fits into a transport bag that can easily be carried on your back! The HIPE Learn, Perf, Cruzader, Diamond, Freefly, and Pro models even come with roller bags, perfect for covering long distances with all your gear. These bags are designed to hold everything you need: pump, wing, complete foil, leashes, and wetsuit. This technology is ideal for traveling light, by plane, train, or even in a small car. You can take it anywhere!

Easy Storage:

No garage? No problem. The minimal bulk is a huge advantage for those living in apartments or with little space. Once folded, the inflatable board only requires a bag for transport and storage. Simple and compact storage!

Performance:

Contrary to some beliefs, inflatable boards have nothing to envy from rigid boards in terms of performance. Their technical construction integrates two structures: an ultra-rigid composite plate for immediate pressure transmission and an inflatable structure to provide volume and buoyancy. This hybrid design ensures high performance. The main difference with a rigid board lies in the more rounded rails, typical of inflatable models, which require compensating with slightly more volume for equivalent stability. We recommend choosing a board with +15L for an advanced rider, +25-30L for an intermediate level, and +40L for a beginner, compared to a rigid board.

Versatility for All Levels:

Inflatable boards are suitable for all levels. Models vary to meet specific needs, with, for example, wider boards for more stability for beginners or a narrow tail on the HIPE Freefly for quick take-offs and smooth wave touches. The HIPE Learn, Perf, Cruzader, Diamond, and Pro models are equipped with straps for optimal support.

Comfort in Navigation:

The surface of an inflatable board is softer to the touch, making falls less traumatic. The rounded rails add to this feeling of safety, providing a smoother ride, which is ideal for foilers seeking comfort.

Durability and Strength:

Inflatable boards are very resistant to shocks on the beach or in the trunk of a car. In case of puncture, the repair kit provided allows you to handle the situation quickly, just like fixing a bicycle tire, while a rigid board requires expertise in composite materials to be repaired. More autonomy for simplified maintenance!

Price:

Inflatable boards are less expensive to produce since their manufacturing is faster. Thanks to our direct sales model, we offer unbeatable prices on the HIPE range, especially the HIPE First, to make wing foiling accessible to everyone.

Advantages of a Rigid Board:

More Focused Shapes:

Rigidity allows for more specific shapes for each program. Rigid boards can be more pointed for racing or feature designs tailored for surfing.

Less Inertia:

At equivalent volume, a rigid board is slightly more stable when stationary, allowing for more compact and lighter models to reduce inertia while flying. This mainly improves glide sensations and responsiveness.

Precise Volume Distribution:

Rigid construction allows for optimized volume distribution, such as designs with bulbous noses for added stability when stationary. This type of ultra-precise shape makes each movement easier and makes the board more specialized for its purpose.

Aesthetic and Visual Enjoyment:

The appeal of rigid boards also lies in their aesthetics. Observing the curves of a shape, analyzing the concave of the hull, or the lines of a tail are part of the pleasure of the practice. A beautiful design on land often translates into equally enjoyable glide on the water.

Adaptability to Spot Conditions:

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

Transport and Storage:

Transport and storage remain the main challenges of a rigid board. For those with the necessary space, the pleasure of the composite feel largely outweighs this drawback. It’s up to each individual to find what fits their needs and lifestyle.

How to Compare a Rigid Board and an Inflatable Board:

When choosing between a rigid board and an inflatable board, it is essential not to rely solely on volume. Unlike rigid boards, which vary in thickness between the tail, center, and nose, inflatable boards maintain a constant thickness throughout their length.

This uniform thickness results in less effective volume in terms of stability and takeoff, as it doesn’t contribute optimally to buoyancy or balance.

At the same volume, a rigid board and an inflatable board will have noticeable differences in length and/or width. The stability of a board depends mainly on its width, while its ability to take off early is influenced by its length. Therefore, it’s crucial to compare the dimensions (length and width) of a rigid board and an inflatable board, rather than relying solely on volume as an indicator.

For beginners and intermediate levels, choosing an inflatable board that is slightly more voluminous is often a good idea. This will provide more stability and better glide in light wind conditions.

To better understand parameters such as length, width, volume, hull, technology, and shape of a board, we explain all these concepts in detail in our guide: How To: Choose Your Wing Board.

Choosing the ideal board can quickly become a puzzle with all the parameters to consider: length, width, volume, hull, technology, shape... All these elements influence performance and the feel on the water. In this guide, we detail all the essential characteristics to make the right choice.

Length:
Length helps with balance and improves glide, but it also increases inertia. Below 6’, it can be more challenging to maintain balance, and the learning process can be trickier.

Questions to Consider:

• Space: Do you have enough room to store and transport your board? A 6' board is practical everywhere, a 7' board still fits in a standard car, but an 8'6 board will require a garage and roof racks. Inflatable models solve these storage issues: when folded, they fit into a backpack. Ideal for traveling light while maintaining 95% of the performance of a rigid board.
• Style of navigation: If you're aiming for a relaxed style of navigation, a board longer than 6' is great for smooth learning and fluid glide. For tight turns and more aggressive driving, a shorter board (5'0 or less) offers more responsiveness but requires more technique.

Short boards require a good level of skill to manage fore/aft instability and lateral balance. However, with the right volume, they can provide an ultra-responsive experience, even for non-expert riders. They’re also perfect for transport.

Width:
Together with thickness, width affects balance, lift, and maneuverability.

For beginners, it’s essential to choose a board with enough surface area and volume to make standing up easier. The foil makes width less important when in flight, but it remains an asset when starting.

As you progress, you can opt for narrower boards. They favor speed on the water and make takeoff easier, especially in light winds. In strong winds, a narrow board offers less wind resistance and is more enjoyable when sailing in counterbalance.

Width benchmarks:

• 20”: Narrow board
• 25”: Standard board
• 30”: Wide board

Width provides lift but also slows takeoff. The balance between your skill level and the width is crucial, especially in lighter conditions. Keep in mind that the better your cardio and technique, the less width you'll need.

Outline:
The outline, or the outer curve of the board, directly influences stability and responsiveness.

• Rectangular outline: Wide and stable, it makes it easier to take your first steps and is ideal for starting on choppy water. Great for beginners or freestyle landings, for example.
• Narrow and elongated outline: More technical for balance but perfect for surfing and aggressive turns. It allows you to push hard without hesitation and take off quickly.

Remember that wide tips make life easier on the water, while narrow tips make life easier in flight.

Thickness:
Maximum thickness is less important than its distribution. A flat deck is more stable and better transfers pressure to the foil. A deck that is too curved or too recessed makes it harder to control and affects the feel.

Laterally, a flat or slightly rounded deck is ideal for stability. Longitudinally, a good distribution of thickness over the rear two-thirds of the board ensures better balance and predictable behavior.

Scoop/Rocker:
The scoop (or “banana” curve) is a crucial point to avoid common mistakes in basic shapes. An excessively pronounced scoop at the front pushes water and slows down the board, which can cause the rider to fall. A good scoop should be harmonious and adapted to all other parameters of the shape to guarantee optimal glide.

Flow:
We use the term "flow" to describe the glide induced by the board’s profile view. The distribution of volume along the length of the board will determine the flow more or less. This natural glide, more or less pronounced, often contrasts with balance needs. It should be adjusted according to your skill level and feeling.

Hull Work:
The hull can play a key role in glide and stability. For example, a double concave under the nose cushions water contacts, but it adds surface area, which can reduce speed during a touch. The key is to find the right balance between cushioning, volume, and water contact for a balanced behavior.

Three Main Options:

• Inflatable Boards: Thanks to HIPE technology, they offer 95% of the performance of a rigid board while being easier to transport and store. Perfect for stress-free travel.
• Monolithic Boards: Simple, quick to produce and repair, but less durable.
• Sandwich Boards: A foam core, surrounded by layers of fiber and dense reinforcement materials, then more fiber layers. More durable and highly resistant to shocks.

At GONG, we have: 4 rooms, 4 atmospheres!

It is essential to understand the construction options when buying a board. Aesthetics and the program are important, but construction is a key element! And often, it’s a real struggle to find and understand this information amidst the marketing maze…

At GONG, we are committed to presenting what’s beneath the design in full transparency, without the fluff.

Inflatable Boards:

Solid and very close to a rigid board thanks to our revolutionary HIPE range. The composite plate, a real revolution by GONG, makes all the difference. It is securely glued under the inflatable structure. This piece, made from prepreg and two foam stringers, is a composite masterpiece. Through its design, it provides exactly what’s needed mechanically to be as rigid as a traditional board without adding excess weight.

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Strapless Construction:

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With its high-end PVC inflatable technology, this GONG board is beautiful, lightweight, very rigid, and really solid. It’s a highly reliable technology at an unbeatable price, tested on thousands of SUP First boards, our best-seller.

• Simple single-layer Dropstitch technology with double-layer rails.
• Usage Pressure: 15 psi
• Transport: It fits into a bag.
• Practical: It inflates in 2 minutes.
• Aesthetic: The finish is very beautiful.
• Solid: Great resistance to rough handling.
• Durable: 100% repairable.

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Construction with Straps:

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With its high-end inflatable technology in welded double-layer Woven Dropstitch, this GONG board is beautiful, lightweight, very rigid, and really solid. Manufactured in the best factory in the world, with the densest, top-quality Woven Dropstitch, we are confident that its bonding will last for years, without leaks or deformation.

Inflatable Advantages:

• Woven Dropstitch double-layer welded technology.
• Usage Pressure: 15 to 20 psi
• Transport: It fits into a bag.
• Practical: It inflates in 2 minutes.
• Aesthetic: The finish is very beautiful.
• Solid: Great resistance to rough handling.
• Durable: 100% repairable.

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Rigid Boards:

Whether it’s Wood 2X, FSP 2X, or FSP PRO, all our constructions are high-end full vacuum sandwich constructions.

Wood 2X Technology:

Wood 2X is a full sandwich of wood and biaxial fiberglass, reinforced with 3mm PVC on the deck. The

Wood 2X gives you access to extremely reliable technology at an unbeatable price. Specifically reinforced on the standing zones and inserts in addition to the full wood and fiberglass shell, this tech is perfect for discovering wing foiling and for freeride and wave riding.

A budget-friendly entry in our range, which matches the high-end construction of many brands! Undoubtedly the best strength/price ratio on the market.

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FSP 2X Technology:

FSP 2X is our innovative and high-end technology that offers the best balance of weight/strength/performance on the market.

FSP 2X is a full sandwich of biaxial fiberglass and PVC. This high-density 3mm-thick material is solid, lightweight, and hydrophobic. It forms a rigid and solid shell around the EPS core of your board. Combined with biaxial fiberglass, it guarantees the best durability/performance compromise on the market. And with the vacuum manufacturing process, the final weight of your board is perfectly controlled.

Durable, high-performing, and repairable, there are only a few brands capable of offering full PVC sandwich technology in series for wing boards. GONG is the leader!

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FSP PRO Technology:

The FSP PRO construction is a multiple world champion in Surf-Freestyle, Big Air, and even Racing.
An innovative and high-end technology with Full Sandwich PVC & full carbon construction that offers the best dynamics while maintaining strength, at an incredible weight. It’s simply the top of the line in custom vacuum construction, in series: the same technology used for our French-made prototypes in our workshop!

A lightweight, ultra-high-performance technology that is incredibly solid and tested by our team riders in competition.

It’s truly the pinnacle of board construction. Durable, high-performing, and repairable, very few brands can offer full PVC sandwich technology in series for wing boards. GONG is the leader!

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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.