How to learn Wingfoiling

Get comfortable with the wing

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Before getting on a foil board, it’s important to get comfortable with the wing. You can practice wing handling on a big, floaty board with daggerboard or use a big, stable foil board to learn on. The goal is to get comfortable with the wing and learn how to control it in different wind conditions. You can start by practicing wing handling on land, then move to the water. Try to get a feel for the wind and how it affects the wing. Practice holding the wing in different positions and steering it in different directions. Once you’re comfortable with the wing, you can move on to the next step.

Learn to steer the board

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Start by learning to steer the board and turn around close to the beach. Don’t go out too far only to find out you can’t go the other way. Beware of offshore winds! You can practice this by using a big, stable board with a daggerboard or a small board with a foil. Start by paddling out to a calm area of water. Then, practice turning the board by shifting your weight and using your feet. Try to turn the board in both directions. Once you’re comfortable with turning the board, you can move on to the next step.

Use the wing to steer the board

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Learn to use the wing to steer the board. This will help you maintain balance and control while riding. You can practice this by using a big, stable board with a daggerboard or a small board with a foil. Start by paddling out to a calm area of water. Then, practice using the wing to steer the board. Try to maintain your balance while using the wing to turn the board in different directions. Once you’re comfortable with using the wing to steer the board, you can move on to the next step.

Transition to a smaller board

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Smaller boards are less forgiving than their larger counterparts. They respond instantly to weight shifts and wing movements. Expect a steeper learning curve, but the rewards are worth it.

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Work on stability: slightly bend your knees to absorb choppy water and maintain balance. A relaxed stance prevents sudden weight shifts. Keep the wing stable. Any sudden movements can destabilize the hydrofoil board. Practice maintaining a consistent wing position.

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As you ride the smaller board, pay attention to your footwork. Practice moving your feet smoothly during transitions (e.g., from upwind to downwind). Keep the wing stable while adjusting your stance. Shift your weight subtly to maintain equilibrium. Anticipate gusts and adjust accordingly.

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Ride off the foil

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Now it's time to FOIL finally! As you gain some speed you will feel how the board starts to lift up slightly. In this moment, shift your weight slightly forward while you keep the wing stable. To descent, shift your weight back and lower the foil with this. Practise controlled landings.

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Sustain longer flights

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Once on the foil, find your balance. Use subtle adjustments to maintain the height. Bend your knees slightly to absorb any bumps. You will want to start learning tacks (transitions) and more advanced manoeuvres, when you are able to sustain a stable flight over more than 10 seconds and are able to ascent and descent in a controlled way.