All about the ENSIS WALTZ

Available in four different sizes, the ENSIS WALTZ is the ultimate SUP, downwind, and light wind wing foil board. Michael “Rawham” Näf is back in the boardroom with the WALTZ to break down why it works and why it is the right downwind board for you. We also catch up with Montse Solé, who has been spending a lot of time on the WALTZ.
Catching up with Montse Solé
Last year, Montse could be seen at most wingfoil racing events. This year, she has taken a break from the competitive tour to explore some amazing opportunities in the sailing world. She has also used the extra time off from training and has been doing a lot of downwinders, spending significant time with the WALTZ. We take a moment to catch up with Montse, chat about downwinders, the WALTZ, and find out more about her future plans.

You’ve been doing a lot of downwinders – Tell us more, how did you start?
The community of downwinders in Spain is growing so fast. In Barcelona, we have a pretty nice group of guys who are into this new and amazing discipline. One of the pioneers is Xavi Masde; he started some years ago and has been getting us hooked during the last year. My first downwind was with him; I was on the wingfoil, and he was on the downwind board. Immediately, I thought, “I have to do that!” But as you know, last year I was training for the wingfoil racing competitions, so I missed some good downwind sessions with the group, and now they are one step ahead. So, this year I have to practise hard to catch them!
What do you enjoy about downwinders compared to wingfoiling?
Imagine being able to surf an infinite wave floating through the open sea just with your board under your feet. It’s one of the best feelings of freedom I have ever experienced. But as we say in Spanish: everything that glitters is not gold… Downwinders have been for me (and are) the MOST challenging, hard, and physical watersport I have ever done. Maybe that’s the key; I’m so addicted; the satisfaction when you start accumulating kilometres is incredible!
Tell us about your experience with the WALTZ. Did it feel natural and easy to use? Which size are you riding?
I’m using the 6’3’’19’’. The first day I used it, the conditions were really light, but the first feelings were amazing. I thought I could not be able to stand on the foil, and not only did I achieve it, I did a little downwind! The board feels really light under your feet, and the way it is shaped makes it easy to get up on the foil. Paddling and pumping is so simple; that’s why I’m also using the Was a supfoil board when there are little waves or undulations. It’s amazing to be able to go to the water almost every day. And if that was not enough, it’s a nice machine for lightwind; I can wing with 6-7 knots minimal effort.

What advice can you give to beginners trying downwind boards and downwinders for the first time?
Patience, hahaha. No, seriously… As I said before, downwinding is a big challenge, so keep calm; it’s a long process. Firstly, it’s important to have some experience in sup and sup foiling; this will give you good paddle technique and stability. If you haven’t done it before, consider practising this first. For me, it was a game-changer to understand the timing and selection of the bump for the takeoff, so the more you control this part, the easier it will be (and less frustrating). Trust me; you don’t want to be in the middle of the sea exhausted and not be able to get up on your foil. And for sure, it’s really important to choose the right equipment.
Starting with a board with the right volume and a foil with a nice surface will allow you to accomplish short courses of 2-3 km and get the technique. When you are able to do some kms without falling and without a lot of effort, you will be able to use more efficient foils and a narrower board.
You’re not competing in any wingfoiling events this year. Can you tell us what you’ve been up to in the wind and sailing world?
As I said before, in addition to practising downwinds, I managed to get into the FoilCat team after a selection process among all the clubs in Catalonia in which nearly 30 women have participated. Foilcat is the first Catalan foil team composed entirely of women. The federation has opted for this team to enhance the foil by creating and sustaining a portfolio for future sailors. We have been sailing the 69F boat class and training for the Barcelona Foiling Winter Series. The boat 69F is the only team, one design, foiling monohull, with regattas around the world, other than the America’s Cup AC75 and the AC40. Foiling is the future of sailing, so it has been a really nice experience and rewarding opportunity to be part of.

Interested in wingfoiling?
The ENSIS team is highly skilled in wing foiling and is eager to assist you in starting your wing foiling journey. Our worldwide retailers offer a variety of ENSIS products, making it convenient for you to bring wing foiling to your location. Contact us now to learn more about our products or locate an ENSIS retailer nearby.