In this construction, the sandwich manufacturing process with fibers and PVC is still used, but the fabric of the envelope changes. Instead of being made of glass fibers, it is made entirely of carbon.
A beginner rider, starting from scratch, needs to equip himself with a board, kite and float. Not forgetting helmet, impact vest, neoprene wetsuit and pump.
As for the advanced practitioner, already equipped, he’ll need to change some of his equipment to suit his progress or his desires.
Fortunately, the second-hand wingfoil market has grown considerably. And it’s becoming easier to find what you’re looking for on a limited budget, whether it’s a wing, a board or a foil for that common passion we all share: wingfoil.
Where can I find used wingfoil equipment?
As with other board sports, there are several ways to find second-hand wingfoil equipment.
Surf stores
Shops specializing in windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, and now wingfoiling often offer used equipment. And if you have the opportunity to visit them in person, even better. This allows you to get direct, personalized advice from a specialist salesperson. It also allows you to see the equipment for yourself and form your own opinion. Another advantage is that shops check second-hand equipment for any defects before putting it on sale. Quality remains paramount. And if, despite everything, you discover a fault with the board or foil after purchase, a warranty is usually provided.
Used equipment sold in stores usually comes from other practitioners who want to sell it. This is known as consignment sales. But it can also be equipment that has been used for testing or was on display at previous events.
For those who can’t make it to the shop, it’s always possible to buy used wingfoil gear online. Don’t hesitate to chat or call, especially if you’re not sure about your choice of wing or board. And ask all the questions you can think of, both about the technical level and the condition of the used wingfoil equipment on offer. Allow around a week for delivery to your home or to a relay point.
Wingfoil brand
Some wingfoil brands offer second-hand equipment directly on their website. This is also the case for AFS foiling. In fact, we recondition our equipment when necessary, and today we’re proud to have a wide choice of second-hand equipment. Our aim is to help as many people as possible to discover wingfoil, and to be able to sail with quality equipment.
Online sales platform
There are a few websites specializing in second-hand board sports equipment which, like the stores, offer complete foils, floats and wings. And all the accessories you need for wing foiling (impact vests, helmets, leashes, wetsuits). On the other hand, generalist second-hand websites are also a good way of finding the wing equipment you need.
Social networking
You’ll find several communities on Facebook and the marketplace, which have been growing and multiplying over the years. These are wingfoilers of all levels who post their wingfoil equipment on the group’s news feed. It’s a variant of the forum. The exchange is direct between riders. Whether in person or online via websites, the price can be negotiated before purchasing a foil or other equipment, for example. But ask for as many photos as possible if the sale is remote, and ask all the relevant questions. This will ensure you don’t end up with a wing with a hole in it or a board with a crack.
What are the criteria for buying used wingfoil equipment?
When buying used wing foil equipment, it is extremely important to evaluate several factors in order to choose what suits you best. This will ensure you get the best value for money.
Assess your level of practice
For the board: your level of wingfoil experience is criterion No. 1. If you’re a beginner, opt for a board on which you’ll float before taking off: the volume of the board should be 30 or even 40 liters more than the weight of the rider for a first wingfoil board. This will ensure that you don’t get too comfortable with your stability, first on your knees, then standing on the board… And that you don’t tire too quickly.
An intermediate or expert rider, on the other hand, will be looking for an evolving or more technical board. But never overestimate yourself.
For the wingfoil: Choose a 4m² wing if it’s your only wing, ideal for sailing in wind conditions between 15 and 25 knots (if the rider weighs less than 75 kgs). Get something bigger if you weigh more. And if your budget allows you to buy 2 wings, allow 1 m² between the two sizes.
For the foil: 2 choices are possible, the foil with an aluminum mast, or the one with a carbon mast. The latter is lighter, stiffer and less fragile, but much more expensive than aluminum. As for the front wing of the carbon foil, don’t go too small, as it’s the one that gets you off the ground (with the help of the sail). The smaller the surface area, the more difficult the take-off. Let’s not forget the stabilizer (small wing at the back of the foil), which, as its name suggests, ensures your stability once airborne. Finally, the fuselage must be long when you start wingfoiling. It gives you greater stability and more power, making control less technical than a short fuselage.
A final word of advice for used foils bought as spare parts: make sure that the foil’s plate is compatible with your board (the connection accessory between these two parts). There are two types of box, the most common being the double US box. However, it’s always cheaper to buy a complete foil than one piece at a time, and at least you won’t be mistaken in your choice.
Equipment durability
It depends on the age of the equipment you are about to buy. In wingfoiling, the older it is, the less it is worth, even if it is in perfect condition. Wing equipment has evolved very quickly since it first appeared on our shores in 2019.
You can also find equipment on sale in our clearance section.
Wear and tear
Carefully checking every part of your wing foil equipment is essential. This is good advice if you want to avoid unpleasant surprises once you’ve paid for your gear. It will also ensure you get the most out of it for longer.
Equipment history
It’s how the board, wing, or foil has been treated, in a way. The approximate number of sessions on the water, the former rider’s skill level, the type of wing discipline they practiced (jumps, surfing, strong winds?), rinsing, storage, etc.
How to assess the condition of a used wingfoil?
Once again, remember to ask the seller as many questions as possible, whether they are a private individual or a professional: they are a human being just like you, after all.
Sometimes the wear and tear of a wing is visible, sometimes not.
In what is visible :
The seams = between each panel of the wing or on the bladders and around the valves. Sometimes on the edges of the wing window (if there is one). All seams must be intact.
Handles or boom = check that they are securely fastened and free from cracks.
Repairs = check if there are patches on the different panels of the sail, or if the color of the various seams differs from one point to another.
The spinnaker cloth: some wing sails may be worn without necessarily having been repaired. This can be seen with the naked eye by looking at the spinnaker cloth.
Valve caps: check that they close properly.
In what is invisible:
The two inflatable bladders = these are the center strut and the leading edge, but they are not directly visible as they are covered by the wing fabric. If a wing has been used for a significant number of sessions, it has been inflated many times. And it automatically wears out from being inflated with air. Especially if its previous owner overinflated it.
On the other hand, riders who fall often or jump a lot tend to cause impacts to their wingfoil. This causes further damage to the tube.
Finally, make sure that the secondhand wing you are about to buy has always been folded properly. There should be no knots or creases in any of the tubes.
Even better if the sail has been rinsed from time to time. She doesn’t like sand.
Don’t hesitate to ask to inflate the wing, to see that the bladders are holding the pressure correctly. And wait a few minutes to make sure they don’t deflate.
How do you assess the condition of a used wingfoil board?
To assess the condition of a used wingfoil board, don’t overlook any details—be meticulous. Even a small dent can sometimes let water in.
Wing board bridge
Examining the float deck (the surface) is taken too lightly if you look too quickly. Particularly under the anti-slip pad: press down with your thumbs. If it’s too soft, it’s not normal. The condition of the footstraps, screws and inserts should also be considered. Finally, look for cracks, chips or discoloration.
Wing board hull
The hull is the underside of the board. Here too, check for cracks and chips. Especially if a hole is a little too deep and you can see the fibers. If it’s not very deep, it may just be the paint wearing off, or it may not go any deeper than the resin. Be careful, a board that takes on water becomes heavier, so don’t wait to have it repaired by a shaper.
The wing board rails
These are the lateral ends of the float, probably the areas that should be given the most attention. Indeed, a board can delaminate at this point. Make sure there are no bubbles, bumps, or deformities.
Board tail and nose
The tail is the rear end, while the nose is the front end of the wing foil board. These parts are less stressed by the rider, but it’s still a good idea to take a look at them.
How to assess the condition of a used wingfoil?
To glide and fly optimally and without force, the foil is the wingfoiler’s key component. It’s also the part of the equipment most exposed to stress and impact. Whether on the beach, in the parking lot or in the water. Inspect the front wing + stabilizer (foil wings) as well as the mast and fuselage for cracks, chips, or wear. Significant damage can affect the performance of the foil.
Foil wings
The wings are the most fragile part of the foil. Check the condition of their surface and contours: a wing in good condition should be smooth all over.
Mast and fuselage
Whether aluminum or carbon, the mast and fuselage must be carefully inspected for notches, delaminations and cracks. Make sure there is no play between the mast and the fuselage or plate.
Fasteners and screws
Check that all screws and nuts are in sufficient number and in good condition. Rusty or worn screws could get stuck in the inserts (screw holes). Make sure they’re tight enough to avoid play.
The market for used wingfoil equipment now offers an increasingly wide choice. However, to avoid unpleasant surprises, take the time to inspect the equipment you are considering buying. If you have any doubts, contact a more experienced friend (or not necessarily). Two pairs of eyes are better than one. And if the sale is being made remotely, ask all the questions that come to mind and request additional photos. A thorough evaluation will help you invest in quality used wing foil equipment. And if in doubt, the price estimate may need to be revised.
Finding your happiness in secondhand wingfoil gear starts here!