If you’ve seen someone flying above the water with a handheld wing and thought, “What is that?”, you’re not alone. That eye-catching watersport is called wing foiling—and it’s one of the fastest-growing trends in the world of wind and surf sports.
Whether you’re new to board sports or you’re a seasoned windsurfer, kiteboarder, or stand-up paddleboarder, wing foiling offers a fresh, exciting way to ride the water with a mix of glide, lift, and freedom.
Let’s explore what makes wing foiling so special, how it compares to surf wing or wing surfing, what gear you need, and where to get started.
What is wing foiling and why is everyone talking about it?
At its core, wing foiling is a watersport where a rider stands on a hydrofoil board while holding a handheld inflatable wing. The wind powers the wing, generating forward motion, while the hydrofoil lifts the board above the water surface—delivering a flying sensation unlike anything else.
Also referred to as wing surfing or wing kiting, wing foiling merges the best parts of windsurfing, kitesurfing, and SUP with added agility and minimal equipment.
Why wing foiling is suddenly everywhere
Wing foiling has exploded in popularity for good reasons:
Easy to learn
Unlike kiteboarding, there are no lines or bars. The learning curve is much smoother, and you don’t need massive wind or waves to get started.
Versatile conditions
You can wing foil in a variety of environments—flat water, choppy bays, ocean swells, or even alpine lakes.
Low impact
Since you’re lifted off the water, there’s minimal drag and impact on joints. It’s ideal for riders of all ages.
Compact setup
The entire wing foil setup is portable. No trailers, masts, or 12-meter kites—just a backpack of gear and you’re good to go
The essential gear you need to start wing foiling
To start your wing foiling journey, here’s what you’ll need:
1. Wing (Inflatable surf wing)
The wing captures wind and provides propulsion. It’s held directly by hand with handles or a boom. Choose size based on wind strength and your weight—larger wings for light wind, smaller for strong wind.
2. Foil board
Beginners typically start with high-volume boards (100–140 liters) for easier balance. These resemble SUP boards but with a foil mount.
3. Hydrofoil (Foil mast + wing)
The hydrofoil is the engine beneath the board. It lifts you out of the water, providing efficiency and speed. Large front wings (1800–2500 cm²) are ideal for learning.
4. Leashes
Use a leash for both the board and the wing to prevent losing gear in the water.
5. Protective gear
A helmet, impact vest, wetsuit, and booties (for rocky shores) are recommended—especially for beginners.
Looking for a reliable place to grab your full setup? Head over to EASY-surfshop for expert-approved wing foiling gear from top brands like Duotone, Cabrinha, Fanatic, and more.
Learning to wing foil: step-by-step guide
Starting wing foiling might seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly achievable if you follow a gradual approach:
Step 1: Master wing wandling on land
Practice holding and controlling the wing on the beach. Learn how to generate power, depower, and change directions.
Step 2: Get comfortable on a SUP or large board
Use a non-foil board initially. Focus on balance and using the wing to generate movement.
Step 3: Transition to a foil board
Start with a big, stable foil board and larger foil wing. Learn to pump the board and use the foil’s lift to glide.
Step 4: Learn to jibe and tack
Once you’re foiling consistently, work on your turns. Wing foiling allows both toe-side and heel-side riding.
Wing foiling progression: what’s next?
As you gain confidence, you’ll want to challenge yourself further:
- Smaller Boards: Trade your training board for a shorter, more agile board.
- Faster Foils: Try low-aspect foils for speed and carving.
- Wave Riding: Catch small ocean or lake swells using the foil.
- Freestyle Moves: Learn jumps, spins, and advanced transitions.
Some even transition to wing foiling races or long-distance downwind sessions, pushing their endurance and technique.
How wing foiling compares to other watersports
| Sport | Equipment Size | Wind Needed | Portability | Learning Curve |
| Wing Foiling | Medium | Low–Medium | ✅✅✅ | 🟢 Beginner Friendly |
| Kitesurfing | Large | Medium–High | ❌ | 🔴 Steep |
| Windsurfing | Large | Medium | ❌ | 🟠 Moderate |
| SUP | Medium | Not needed | ✅ | 🟢 Easy |
Wing foiling offers a rare combination: accessible enough for casual riders but deep enough for lifelong progression.
Where to buy the best wing foiling gear
Choosing the right gear is key to a successful start. That’s why it’s best to shop from a store that knows the sport inside and out. At EASY-surfshop, you’ll find:
- Beginner-friendly surf wings
- Top-quality foil boards and hydrofoils
- Expert advice and support
- Complete wing foiling packages at competitive prices
Whether you’re shopping from the UAE, Europe, or anywhere with wind and water, EASY-surfshop is the go-to spot for wing surfing gear you can trust.
Final thoughts
Wing foiling is more than just a new sport—it’s a completely different experience on the water. It’s about freedom, flight, and that addictive feeling when you lift off the water for the first time.
It’s also a community—one that’s rapidly growing around the globe. So, if you’ve been dreaming of trying something new, exciting, and totally unforgettable, wing kiting might just be the ride you’ve been looking for.
Ready to take flight? Explore your gear options now at EASY-surfshop and start your wing foiling journey today.
Is wing foiling safe for beginners?
Yes. It’s safer than kiting because there are no lines to get tangled in. Still, always wear safety gear and start in low winds.
Do I need strong wind to wing foil?
No. You can start in winds as low as 12–15 knots. With a large foil and wing, even light winds are enough.
How long does it take to learn?
Most riders can get up and foiling within 3–5 sessions with consistent practice.
Can I wing foil on lakes?
Absolutely. As long as you have steady wind and enough depth for the foil, inland lakes are perfect for learning.
