Foils Explained – Understanding Hydrofoils with ENSIS

Learning about Hydrofoils can feel complex at first. Shape, size, profiles, and numbers are often mentioned, but rarely explained in a simple way. With our Foils Explained series, we want to slow things down and break these topics into clear, easy to understand ideas.

In this ongoing tech talk series, Jan Pütz walks through key hydrofoil concepts step by step. Each video focuses on one topic, explains the terminology, and connects theory to how a foil actually feels on the water. This page will be updated weekly as new videos are released, giving you one place to revisit and deepen your understanding of hydrofoils.

Aspect Ratio and Glide Explained

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Aspect ratio is one of the most talked about foil terms, but it is often misunderstood. In this episode, Jan explains aspect ratio as the relationship between a foil’s span and its surface area, and how this shape influences glide. A higher aspect ratio reduces induced drag by limiting the size of the vortices created at the wing tips. This is why high aspect foils feel smoother, more efficient, and able to carry speed for longer once they are flying.

More foils explained soon

This series is just getting started. New Foils Explained videos will be added regularly, each covering another key part of hydrofoil design and performance. Check back here to stay up to date, build your understanding, and follow along as the series grows.