Surf foiling is a new discipline that’s taking off significantly. It’s a lot like surfing but with a different feeling and some pretty scary consequences if done incorrectly.
Foils are enormous and made of metal and have momentum that can keep them going after a fall and hurt you or other surfers in the lineup. It is essential to understand how they work and avoid them when surfing in crowded conditions. For more information about the surf foiling, click here.
Origins
Foiling has gained much attention over the last few years, with big surfboard names swapping out their surfboards for hydrofoils. Also known as prone foiling, the sport allows surfers to ride much bigger waves than they would typically be able to and opens up a whole new range of locations for surfing.
Hydrofoils were first patented in the 1900s to reduce drag on boats, but they didn’t become popular in water sports until recently. Laird Hamilton was a pioneer in using hydrofoils on his surfboard, and he’s credited with helping to introduce the sport to the world.
Safety
Foiling has a steep learning curve and requires the skill of experienced riders. Many beaches have banned foiling in the main surf lineup to avoid collisions with regular surfers and swimmers. The hydrofoil’s blade can cause severe injury or death in a collision with a natural object or other foilers. Foilers are also challenging to see in crowded waters, posing a risk for surfers and swimmers.
Surf foilers should wear a helmet and impact vest and practice on small, crumbly waves away from other surfers to minimise the risk. Foilers should also wear leashes and a spotter to help them get back up after a fall. They should also be aware of other ocean users and establish designated zones for foil surfing, traditional surfing, and swimming. They should also educate surfers and swimmers about the risks of foiling. They can also police other foilers behaving dangerously, encouraging them to take lessons and learn their craft.
Equipment
Foils have sharp edges; when combined with sufficient momentum, they can inflict serious injury. Surf foilers should wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head injuries. Foilers should also avoid crowded surfing lineups, which may interfere with surfers and swimmers.
Foiling requires a lot of physical strength to get up and ride waves, so it’s essential to maintain paddle fitness by doing regular long paddle sessions. Using a longer leash than a classic surfboard, equal to or longer than the foil, is also recommended.
Wing foiling is a great activity to practice in poor conditions, as it allows you to surf soft, crumbly waves that other surfers neglect. However, choosing a safe spot is essential: a strong and consistent wind without too much chop or waves and an empty location (for both surfers and swimmers). A good quality foil board, preferably light, will allow you to progress quickly. For more information about the surf foiling, click here.
Surfing conditions
Foil surfers must choose their waves wisely to avoid putting themselves or other surfers at risk. The foil’s sharp blade, which isn’t called a “fin” for nothing, can easily slice into the skin or head of an unwitting surfer.
In addition to choosing the proper wave, foil surfers must also take care not to put themselves or other surfers in danger by riding in crowded surfing zones. Foil surfers should seek out small crumbly waves adapted to their skill level and equipment. They must also keep a safe distance from other surfers and swimmers.
The good news is that foil surfing requires much less effort than regular surfing. It is because the hydrofoil does all of the work by generating lift. It makes it possible to catch big waves that would otherwise be impossible. It is especially useful when the conditions are too choppy for regular surfing. For more information about the surf foiling, click here.