High aspect and medium aspect front wings are the two most common types of foils used in wingfoiling. Unlike low aspect foils, which are ideal for sports with continuous power, such as kiting or boating, high and medium aspect foils are better for wingfoiling when there may not always be a continuous power source.
High aspect foils have better pump and glide, which means that they can maintain their speed even when the wind is not strong enough to keep them moving. This is particularly useful in wingfoiling, where the rider needs to generate their own power by pumping the foil up and down in the water. On the other hand, medium aspect foils are more playful and offer better turns, which is particularly useful when riding waves.
The fuselage, which is the part of the foil that connects the front and rear wings, can also affect the foil’s stability and playfulness. Shorter fuselages tend to be more playful, while longer ones tend to be more stable. This is something that riders need to consider when choosing their foil setup.
The size of the rear wing can also affect the foil’s drag and stability, with bigger rear wings offering more stability but also more drag.
For most wing foilers, a high aspect foil is the preferred choice due to its extra glide and pumping ability. However, some riders prefer medium aspect foils for better turning performance, especially when riding waves.
The size of the foil depends on the rider’s weight and the conditions they’re riding in, with smaller foils being better for lighter riders and bigger foils better for bigger waves. Riders need to choose the right size foil to suit their weight and the conditions they will be riding in.
For riders who want the best of both worlds, a high aspect foil of around 1000cm2 can offer performance and pumping glide while still being suitable for riding swell in the waves. This type of foil is a good choice for riders who want to do both freeriding and wave riding.
The type of waves being ridden can also affect the choice of foil. Long rolling waves are better suited to medium aspect foils, while less consistent or more random waves may require a high aspect foil.
This is something that riders need to take into account when choosing their foil, as it can have a significant impact on their performance.
