How Much Wind To Windsurf Foil?

Wind foiling is a relatively easy sport that can be achieved with the right gear. Most windfoils have a fuselage of around 85-115 cm in length, while kite, surf, SUP, and wing foils use shorter fuselages (55-75 cm). Wind foiling is best tackled in 8-15 mph winds, and rarely requires sails larger than 7.0 meters, allowing for less gear and a fresh experience in wind conditions most waterways experience. The ideal wind speed lies between 16 to 20 knots, preferably in flat water. Foil needs about 10-12 knots to provide enough lift for stable foiling.

For beginners, a good wind strength of 15-20 knots is ideal. Windsurfing starts to get really fun at around 18 knots for 85 kg people, and once you are good, you can plan in 18 knots on a 100l board. Foil wings differ in size, and depending on the strength of the wind, you need 5-7 knots of wind to get up on the foil. A sailor of high ability can foil in 4 knots with the right sail.

As long as you have the necessary water depth (about 4), you only need about 6-7 knots of wind and a 7.5-8.0m freeride sail to be foiling. Both types of foils offer different experiences and gear for beginners and experienced foilers alike.