Wing foiling (also called wing surfing or winging) has exploded in popularity as an exciting water sport that combines elements of windsurfing, kitesurfing, and hydrofoiling. For newcomers, the terminology can be overwhelming. This comprehensive glossary covers the essential terms you’ll encounter as you begin your wing foiling journey.
Equipment Terms
Wing Components
Wing: The inflatable handheld sail that harnesses wind power to propel you across the water.
Leading Edge: The front inflatable tube of the wing that gives it structure and shape.
Trailing Edge: The back edge of the wing where the wind exits.
Strut: The inflatable cross-member that provides rigidity to the wing.
Windows: Clear plastic sections in the wing that allow visibility through the wing.
Handles: Rigid grips positioned along the strut that you hold onto while riding.
Wrist Leash: Safety strap connecting the wing to your wrist to prevent the wing from blowing away.
Boom: Some wings feature a rigid boom instead of handles for a different grip style.
Bladder: The internal inflatable tube inside the leading edge and struts.
Inflation Valve: Where you connect your pump to inflate the wing.
Foil Components
Hydrofoil: The underwater wing system that lifts the board above the water’s surface during riding.
Mast: The vertical component that connects the foil to the board.
Fuselage: The horizontal component of the foil that connects the mast to the wings.
Front Wing: The main underwater wing that provides lift.
Rear Wing (Stabilizer): The smaller wing at the back that provides stability and control.
Foil Board: The board designed specifically for hydrofoiling, typically shorter and with more volume than a standard surfboard.
Foil Box/Track: The mounting system that connects the foil to the board.
Riding Terms
Take-off: The moment when the foil generates enough lift to raise the board above the water.
Foiling: Riding with the board lifted above the water’s surface, supported only by the hydrofoil.
Breaching: When the foil comes too close to the surface or out of the water, causing instability.
Ventilation: When air gets pulled down the foil, reducing lift and causing a loss of control.
Stalling: When the foil loses lift due to incorrect angle of attack or insufficient speed.
Pumping: Using body movement to generate momentum and lift without wind assistance.
Tacking: Turning the board through the wind, changing direction while keeping the same hand forward.
Jibing: Turning the board downwind, changing direction while switching hands on the wing.
Touch-and-Go: Briefly touching down on the water before rising back up on the foil.
Sinking: When the foil loses lift and the board settles back onto the water’s surface.
Wind and Water Terms
Apparent Wind: The wind you feel while moving, which is a combination of true wind and the wind created by your own movement.
Upwind: Traveling in a direction toward the source of the wind.
Downwind: Traveling in the same direction the wind is blowing.
Reach: Sailing across the wind (perpendicular to wind direction).
Lull: A temporary decrease in wind strength.
Gust: A sudden increase in wind strength.
Chop: Small, frequent waves that can make foiling more challenging.
Wind Window: The area where the wing generates optimal power, typically positioned at 45° angles to the wind.
Skill Levels and Maneuvers
Water Start: The technique of getting up on the foil from a floating position in deep water.
Beach Start: Beginning your session from shallow water or the beach.
Foil Gybe: A smooth turning maneuver while remaining on the foil throughout.
Duck Tack: A tacking maneuver where you duck under the wing rather than bringing it over your head.
Riding Switch: Riding with your non-dominant foot forward.
Downwinder: A one-way trip riding predominantly downwind, often covering longer distances.
Luffing: Positioning the wing so it doesn’t catch wind, used when resting or repositioning.
Carving: Making smooth, arcing turns while maintaining foil lift.
Safety Terms
Self-Rescue: Techniques to return to shore safely when unable to continue riding.
Wind Shadow: An area with reduced wind, often behind obstacles like buildings or land masses.
Helmet: Recommended safety gear, especially for beginners and in shallow water areas.
Impact Vest: A protective flotation device that provides padding against impacts.
Leash Systems: Various types of leashes that connect you to your equipment to prevent loss.
Wind Limit: The maximum wind speed considered safe for your skill level.
Technical Measurements
Wind Speed: Typically measured in knots or miles per hour; beginners usually start in 8-15 knots.
Wing Size: Measured in square meters; larger wings (4-6m²) for light wind, smaller wings (2-4m²) for stronger wind.
Aspect Ratio: The ratio of wing span to chord length; higher aspect ratio wings are typically faster but less stable.
Mast Length: Measured in centimeters or inches; beginners often start with shorter masts (60-75cm) for stability.
Board Volume: Measured in liters; higher volume boards provide more flotation and stability for beginners.
This glossary covers the fundamental terminology for wing foiling beginners. As you progress in the sport, you’ll encounter more specialized terms related to advanced techniques and equipment variations. Remember that the best way to understand these terms is through practical experience—nothing beats getting out on the water and feeling these concepts firsthand.
