Hi all
I know there's a lot of these sort of posts out there but the info is hard to come by when you don't have a support base yet.
I've never foiled but I've sailed and windsurfer since the 80's.
So, what is the size recommendation for a first wing? Is it worth buying a new model or save some money and buy second hand as I'll trash it anyway? Is it worth going even cheaper because when I get better I'll be using a different size spacing anyway?
Also, can you split up your learning, eg. Get lessons in foiling behind a tow-boat and learn to use a wing on a non-foiling SUP or just jump straight into it on a foiling board?
Thanks
Jethrow
Welcome to the sport !
The issue with most second hand wings is that they would likely be v1 and current v2 are heaps better.
It would help us if you could indicate the typical wind range at your local spots. Probably get a 5 or 6m at least with your weight.
Looking at inshore Pittwater and out in Broken Bay more that surf @Alysum. I guess realistically Sydney seabreeze's, so 10 to 20 Knots and more weighted towards the lower end.
Select to expand quoteJethrow said..
Looking at inshore Pittwater and out in Broken Bay more that surf @Alysum. I guess realistically Sydney seabreeze's, so 10 to 20 Knots and more weighted towards the lower end.
Talk to JB, he is Mr Pittwater. He will recommend Naish (which is fine), but he will give you good advice as well.
I've watched my brother learn the sport over the past 9 months and here's what worked for him at 90kg,
Board in the 125L range (6'8")
Wing 5m Doutone v1
Foil - Axis 1020 - the big one.
75cm mast.
We spent plenty of time behind a boat towing and getting the foil skills dialed before winging even came along. So that will definitely help.
Using a wing on a sup does work but be prepared to drift downwind. If you have a spot where you can go from A to B then it is great fun for the first few sessions.
The current Mk2 wings are a step up from the original First gen wings. More power and better wing range.
My recommendations
Wings - Naish 6.0, Smik 6.0, Doutone Echo 6.0, Cabrinha X-wing2 6.0, Armstrong 5.5.
naish and smik are handles.
Doutone is full boom.
cabrinha and Armstrong have mini boom grips.
Foils
Axis 1020 or 1010High Aspect
Armstrong 2400
Gofoil GL210 or GL240
Naish -2000+
there seems to be new gear arriving every month currently, and designs are progressing quickly. If you invest in a good modular foil platform with a leading brand then you have access to more foil wings down the track as you improve and get hooked on an awesome fun sport.
