In wingfoiling, we need three essential pieces of equipment to be able to sail, glide, fly… in short, to experience the thrill of being on the water! We need a board, a wing, and finally the foil, which creates lift above the water’s surface.
But what’s the ideal foil for your wing level? And what about the material: carbon or aluminium?
Which foil for wingfoiling?
The choice of foil depends on a number of criteria, such as your level of skill, the type of practice, the weather conditions on your spot, your size, and of course your budget.
Here are the main points to consider when choosing the right foil:
1. The fuselage
The fuselage is the part of the foil that connects the front wing to the stabilizer. The shorter the fuselage, the more responsive it is in maneuvers. On the other hand, a long fuselage goes faster and also gives you better stability, so it’s advisable when you start wing foiling. In fact, the greater the distance between the front wing and the stab, the easier it is to balance.
The fuselage can either be molded directly with the front wing of the foil, or they can be separate. In fact, at AFS Foiling, we have both versions.
2. The front wing
Placed at the front of the fuselage, it generates the lift of the foil and therefore of your board. It’s what keeps you flying over the water…
A large front wing (1500 to 2000 cm² surface area) is best for beginners or for sailing in light winds. It offers better stability and lift, especially at low speeds. The heavier the rider, the bigger the size. The right surface area is around 1750 cm² for beginners. The more you progress, the more you reduce the surface area of the foil’s front wing. This can happen very quickly, and you’ll be sailing with, say, a 1200 cm² wing within a year.
Experienced riders or those looking for more speed will prefer a high aspect profile (almost flat front wing) for enhanced performance in freeride, freestyle or downwind. As for those in the learning phase, it’s best to opt for a more versatile, less technical mid-aspect front wing.
3. Stabilizer (stab)
Located at the rear of the fuselage, it is sometimes called the tail wing because its surface area is significantly smaller than that of the front wing. The stabilizer provides both balance and stability when flying. Its surface area should be around 240-250 cm² for wing foil beginners. Located at the rear of the fuselage, it controls the behavior of the foil and improves gliding. The assembly of the stabilizer, front wing, and fuselage constitutes the aircraft. Also, if you need to adjust the angle of incidence of your foil, consider adding a small wedge (or wedges). It is slid between the stabilizer and the rear of the fuselage.
4. Foil mast height
A short
5. The turntable
This accessory is the base of the foil. It’s what you attach directly to your board. It’s the link between your board and your mast. Since at AFS all our masts are made of carbon, they are molded with the deck itself. For greater lightness, rigidity and durability. It also saves time by eliminating the need for two extra screws. However, some brands offer a separate plate for aluminum masts.
Example of foil configuration to start the wing :
You need a foil with a relatively short mast, either aluminum or HR carbon + a large front wing + a wide stabilizer for greater stability + a long fuselage to obtain an economical, high-performance foil that will accompany you as you progress.
Why choose an aluminum foil for wingfoiling?
When we talk about aluminum foils, this includes the mast, plate, and fuselage. The front wing and stabilizer are always made of carbon. This type of foil is often recommended for those who are new to wingfoiling or looking for a better, more economical option. It is the standard type of foil. Here are the main advantages that can make aluminum the best choice for your level and needs.
1. A more affordable price
Price is one of the main reasons why many riders opt for an aluminum foil. Compared to a carbon foil, which is often much more expensive, aluminum is a much more accessible option for your budget. This allows beginners, or those who don’t want to invest immediately in high-end equipment, to start learning without too much financial risk.
2. More maintenance
Another point to remember is that aluminum foils require more maintenance. It resists wear well, but needs to be rinsed regularly with fresh water, especially the screw inserts. Salt water and especially sand must be removed frequently. Tef gel or lithium grease are recommended to extend the life of your aluminum foil.
What are the advantages of carbon foils?
Carbon foils are often considered the best option for riders seeking wingfoil performance. Here are the advantages that make this material such a popular choice:
1. Lightness and rigidity
- Carbon is inevitably lighter than aluminum, which makes maneuvering easier and reduces fatigue during long sessions.
- Its rigidity ensures better transmission of forces, offering a more direct feel and improved glide.
2. Performance and speed
- A carbon mast enables high top speeds thanks to reduced drag.
- The profile of carbon foils is often optimized for all types of sessions, whatever the discipline: freestyle, surfing or even freeride.
3. Durability and adaptability
- Although more fragile and shock-sensitive than aluminum foils, carbon is more resistant to corrosion. This is a major advantage for use in salt water.
- Many brands offer prepreg or full carbon foils. AFS Foiling produces 3 types of
carbon masts :- HR carbon construction (high resistance) for direct feel on the water and easy manoeuvring
- High modulus carbon construction: thanks to its slimmer profile, this foil mast is even lighter and stiffer, making it more responsive. The top of the mast is thinner while remaining strong, as is the matching fuselage. At AFS Foiling, we have developed the Fuselink system, based on a conical assembly that allows the mast to connect around the fuselage while maintaining the latter’s inertia.
UHM construction (ultra high modulus) : with this mast, you have total control over your foil. The chord is reduced for pure glide and optimum rigidity. The Fuselink system is also available for this type of mast.