Why you should use a wingfoiling harness

Harnesses are not a new concept in the sailing and watersports world, but the requirements for wingfoiling are vastly different. The ENSIS BIRDIE is a harness specifically designed for wingfoiling, which is lightweight, unobstructive, and intuitive to use. The main goal of this harness is to make your wingfoiling sessions easier and give you more time on the water. Join us as we explore why and how to use a wingfoiling harness, set up harness lines, and explain why the BIRDIE is the best harness for you.

Why Should You Use a Harness?

Riding with a harness can take some practice, but getting used to it will greatly enhance your wingfoiling sessions. For the adventurers and free riders, a harness is a game changer. It reduces the load on your arms, allowing you to comfortably ride long distances without getting tired. Using a harness expands your wind range, giving you the confidence to use larger wings on the water, which is especially helpful in gusty conditions. This means less time swimming in lulls and more time on the foil.

Setting Up - Harness Lines

Harness lines connect the wing to the harness. There are a few options for harness lines, but windsurfing-style harness lines are the easiest and most versatile for wingfoiling. When buying your first set of harness lines, we recommend getting an adjustable set to find your perfect length. If the lines are too long, they will get in your way while pumping the wing; if too short, you'll struggle to hook in.

Where to Place Your Harness Lines on the Wing?
Whether your wing has a boom or handles, the goal is to find a balance point so that when you hook in and lean, the wing remains stable and engaged. This balance point will vary with each wing size and design. You can determine this balance point by flying the wing on the beach. Start by setting up the harness lines near the middle of the wing or between the two handles. Test and adjust the connection points until the wing feels stable while hooked in. You can also experiment with widening the harness line connections to make the wing more stable or placing them closer together for a more reactive feel.

Why Choose the ENSIS BIRDIE Harness?

Compared to sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, the load requirements for a wingfoiling harness are much lower. This allows the BIRDIE harness to be designed with a focus on intuitiveness and unobstructiveness. The harness is minimal and extremely light, weighing only 390g including the hook.

The hook easily folds side-to-side, allowing you to lie on top of your board comfortably without worrying about damaging it. The harness is ergonomic and has padded back support, keeping you comfortable on the water for hours.

If you haven't seen the video with ENSIS designer Patrick Aggeler about designing the BIRDIE, be sure to check it out. It is well worth the watch.