Welcome to SF Wingfoil Academy! To ensure you have the best possible experience during your first lesson, please review this comprehensive checklist of items to bring and preparations to make. Being properly prepared will help you focus entirely on learning rather than being distracted by discomfort or missing essentials.
Essential Gear to Bring
Water Protection
- Wetsuit: 4/3mm or 5/3mm full wetsuit (San Francisco Bay waters are cold year-round)
- Booties: 3-5mm neoprene booties (protects feet from cold and provides grip)
- Impact Vest: Personal flotation device specifically designed for water sports
- Wetsuit Gloves: 2-3mm neoprene gloves (recommended during colder months)
- Hood: Neoprene hood for winter sessions (optional but recommended Nov-Apr)
Personal Items
- Towel: Preferably two – one for initial drying and one for after changing
- Change of Clothes: Complete dry set including underwear and warm layers
- Water Shoes/Flip Flops: For walking between changing area and water
- Water Bottle: At least 1 liter of water (physical activity in saltwater is dehydrating)
- Snack: Light, energy-rich snacks for before or after your session
Sun & Weather Protection
- Sunscreen: Water-resistant SPF 50+ (even on cloudy days)
- Lip Balm: With SPF protection
- Sunglasses: With retention strap and UV protection
- Hat: For sun protection before and after your water session
- Rash Guard: If using during warmer conditions or under wetsuit
Optional But Recommended
- Changing Poncho/Robe: Makes changing in public areas much easier
- Plastic Bag: For wet gear after your session
- Hair Tie: For those with longer hair
- Anti-Chafe Balm: To prevent wetsuit rash on neck/underarms
- Water-Resistant Watch: To keep track of your session time
Pre-Session Preparations
Physical Readiness
- Get a good night’s sleep before your lesson
- Eat a moderate meal 1-2 hours before your session
- Begin hydrating well the day before your lesson
- Avoid alcohol the night before your session
- Stretch gently before arriving
Mental Preparation
- Watch basic wing foiling technique videos to familiarize yourself
- Review wind directions and what they mean
- Set realistic expectations – most people don’t foil on their first day
- Prepare for multiple falls as part of the learning process
- Arrive with a patient, positive mindset
Practical Arrangements
- Check weather conditions the day before
- Confirm your lesson time 24 hours in advance
- Allow extra time for traffic and parking
- Save instructor’s contact information in your phone
- Charge your phone fully before arriving
What Not to Bring
- Expensive jewelry or watches
- Non-waterproof electronics
- Valuable items that could be damaged by water/sand
- Heavy food items that might cause discomfort during physical activity
Upon Arrival
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled lesson time
- Check in with your instructor, Captain Joshua Waldman
- Apply sunscreen before putting on your wetsuit
- Use restroom facilities before suiting up
- Secure car keys and valuables (minimal items brought to the boat)
Post-Session Plan
Having a plan for after your session enhances your overall experience:
- Bring a thermos of hot tea/coffee for warming up
- Have a recovery snack ready in your car
- Bring a plastic container for rinsing/storing wet gear
- Plan extra time to relax and absorb the experience
- Consider having post-session meal plans (you’ll be hungry!)
Weather Conditions Awareness
San Francisco Bay has microclimate variations that affect your session:
- Morning fog often burns off by midday
- Afternoon winds typically increase (usually good for wing foiling)
- Water and air temperatures can differ dramatically
- Wind can feel significantly colder on the water than on land
- Check marine forecasts rather than standard weather apps
A Note on Equipment
All necessary wing foiling equipment will be provided by SF Wingfoil Academy, including:
- Wing
- Foilboard
- Hydrofoil
- Helmet (required for all first-time students)
You only need to bring your personal items and water protection gear as listed above.
Being properly prepared for your first wing foiling lesson will significantly enhance your learning experience. If you have any questions about this checklist or need recommendations for specific gear, please contact us before your scheduled lesson.
We look forward to introducing you to the incredible sport of wing foiling!
SF Wingfoil Academy – Elevating Your Water Experience
