Are you hesitating between buying a 4m² wing or a 5m² wing? Or maybe, once you’re at the spot, you don’t know which size to choose for the session? Wind strength is an essential factor that should not be overlooked when choosing a wing. A sail that is too big or too small can compromise your safety and enjoyment while riding. In this article, we’ll help you figure out how to choose the ideal wing based on wind speed and your skill level.
How is wind strength measured?
Wind strength is measured using the Beaufort scale, while wind speed is mainly measured in knots in marine environments. For enthusiasts of water sports such as wingfoiling, windsurfing, or kitesurfing, ideal conditions for sailing are generally between force 4 and 9. Each level on this scale corresponds to a specific wind speed range.
At 4 Beaufort, the wind is ideal for sailing, at around 15 knots. At 9 Beaufort, on the other hand, we’re into a strong gale of around 45 knots, weather conditions reserved here for experienced riders.
Summary table of ideal wind ranges for wingfoil :
The most common measuring instruments include :
- The anemometer: it measures wind speed using the rotation of its propellers.
- The weathervane: indicates wind direction.
The main factors influencing wind strength include :
- atmospheric pressure,
- temperatures,
- the Earth’s rotation.
These elements then create zones of high and low pressure, generating winds.
In what wind conditions should you start wingfoiling?
To begin our shared passion for foiling, it’s best to choose light to moderate wind conditions, around 15 to 25 knots. Below this range, take-off will be difficult; above this range, it can be dangerous for a
Why is light to moderate wind the best choice for beginners?
- Smoother foil take-off.
- Better control of your equipment and wing.
- Less risk (in the event of a fall, the impact is less violent in light winds).
What other factors need to be taken into account?
- Equipment: Choose a high-volume
wingfoil board for your first session (around 40 liters more than your body weight), which will give you greater stability. Choose a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver wing that’s suited to your level and the wind strength of your session. Finally, choose a foil with a sufficiently large and thick front wing, and a low mast height, to facilitate waterstarting and maintain stable flight. - The spot: to learn, choose a spot that is protected from waves (calm water), with a wide starting area.
- Take every piece of advice from a good rider you meet on the beach, unless you’re taking lessons. Especially if they know the spot well.
To learn and progress in wingfoil, it’s advisable to choose a spot with a light, steady wind, while equipping yourself with the right
Which wings quiver is best for wingfoil?
In board sports, the quiver refers to all the equipment you use, and the sail quiver refers to your different wings. Your choice depends mainly on the wind conditions you encounter most of the time, but also on your skill level, size, and weight. A beginner, who has not yet mastered all the pumping techniques, will start with a large, versatile, and lightweight wing. The main wing (the one you think you will use most often) should be 4.0 m² if you weigh less than 165 lbs, a 5 m² wing for those between 165 and 195 lbs, and a 6 m² wing if you weigh more than 195 lbs. This will allow you to wingfoil in light to moderate wind conditions (15 to 20-22 knots).
| Force | Wind type | Wind speed in knots | Wind speed in km/h | Level of wing foil experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Nice breeze | 11-16 | 20-30 | beginner to expert |
| 5 | Nice breeze | 17-21 | 31-39 | beginner to expert |
| 6 | Fresh breeze | 22-27 | 40-50 | beginner to expert |
| 7 | Big expense | 28-33 | 51-61 | intermediate and expert |
| 8 | Gust of wind | 34-40 | 62-74 | expert |
| 9 | Strong gust of wind | 41-48 | 75-88 | expert |
| Rider template | Light wind (15-20 knots) | Moderate wind (20-25 knots) | Strong wind (25-45 knots) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight (<165 lbs) | 4.0 to 5.0 m2 | 3.5 to 4.5 m2 | 2.5 to 3.5 m2 |
| Medium (165-190 lbs) | 4.5 to 5.5 m2 | 4.0 to 5.0 m2 | 2.5 to 4.0 m2 |
| Heavy (> 198 lbs) | 5.5 to 6.5 m2 | 4.5 to 5.5 m2 | 3.0 to 4.0 m2 |
Which wing is best for wingfoiling in strong winds?
Sailing a wingfoil in strong winds (30 knots and more) requires the right equipment, technique and physical preparation to guarantee safety and pleasure. First, opt for a small wing, between 2.5 m² and 4.0 m², depending on your weight and Beaufort force. A smaller glider will be easier to handle and hold for flying in difficult conditions.
- Reduced power: a smaller sail catches less wind. This allows for better control of the wing and prevents you from being propelled too quickly.
- Better handling: more maneuverable and responsive, smaller wings make maneuvering and changing direction easier.
- Safety: a small canopy reduces the risk of violent falls or dangerous situations.
In summary, the stronger the wind, the smaller the sail should be, even for a large, muscular person. Nature is always more powerful than we are. And above all, don’t hesitate to change sails as the wind conditions change. The weather is the first thing to consider before any wingfoil session, regardless of the rider’s level.
For smooth and optimal navigation on the water, choosing your wings depends on your needs and desires, but also on your budget. Some brands offer lighter, stronger, more fragile, or more technical materials depending on the intended use (waves, freestyle, freeride, racing). Or even with a rigid or flexible handle system, or even with a wishbone, as is the case with AFS Foiling. Sail shapes (with or without a window) and inflation systems also vary. However, one thing is certain: the sail surface (the canopy) will remain unchanged, even though some wings are more powerful than others. In short, before buying your wings, take the time to find out more from brands and shops. And watch video tests or take part in them. Finally, if you take lessons, ask your wingfoil instructor for advice on the equipment that will suit you best.
