Wind Foiling in Light Wind with the ENSIS Drive
Can you wing foil in light wind? Yes, you can! Nailing the technique and getting the right equipment is the ultimate session saver when the weather gods don’t want to cooperate. There’ll be weekdays where you’re staring out of the window, tied to your screen, watching the flurry of leaves get swept by, and you’ll get to Saturday and the wind will have dropped entirely! Leaving you with gear that doesn’t suit the conditions and techniques learnt on windy days. By mastering the art of the light wind pump and harnessing the power of apparent wind, you can extend your riding sessions, go out flying on beautiful calm days, and explore new locations. We’re going to jump into the techniques, gear, and mindset you need to enjoy light wind foiling, transforming challenging conditions into exhilarating experiences.
Why & Who?
Don’t let light wind conditions trick you into thinking that it’s a wasted day on the water! Light wind wing foiling offers a unique and serene experience that sets it apart from high-wind conditions. Instead of focusing on high-speed tricks and aerial maneuvers, you’ll prioritise smooth cruising and enjoying the ride. It’s a more meditative and tranquil experience, allowing you to connect with the water and the environment. Plus, it’s arguably a safer way to enjoy the sport, reducing the risk of high-impact crashes often associated with stronger winds.
Light wind wing foiling is ideal for a wide range of riders, from beginners to experienced wing foilers. Here’s why:
- Beginners: Light wind conditions provide a less intimidating environment to learn the basics of wing foiling. The slower pace allows you to focus on technique and build confidence.
- Experienced Riders: Light wind foiling offers a new challenge and a different way to enjoy the sport. It requires a unique skill set, including the ability to read the wind, execute precise maneuvers, and master the art of the light wind pump.
- Those with Limited Access to High-Wind Spots: If you live inland or in areas with less consistent wind, light wind wing foiling allows you to make the most of your local waters. Inland lakes and reservoirs, often less windy than coastal areas, become accessible playgrounds for light wind wing foilers.
By mastering the art of light wind foiling, you’ll unlock a world of possibilities and improve your overall wing foiling experience.
Find your nearest ENSIS dealer and embark on a new adventure.
Choosing the Right Gear
Wing:
The ENSIS Drive wing is the best light wind wing choice for light wind foiling. Its passive take-off and efficient profile make it easy to get going, even in the gentlest of breezes. The longer front handle provides excellent control, while the foam mini-battens reduce weight for effortless handling.
Our Drive wing is available in 7m², 8m², and 9m² sizes, and its use of strong and durable ALUULA fabrics makes it one of the lightest wings we’ve ever experienced. The wing gives you the lift off needed when you’re pumping, as the intuitive design has a high-lift profile that positions the power upfront; where it’s needed. Opt for a responsive wing that’s stable and easy to handle, the narrower wingspan also means that the wing tips are less likely to trail in the water, creating drag.
Discover even more about our exceptional DRIVE wing in this blog.
Board:
A pintail board like the Waltz is perfect for light wind foiling. The pintail shape makes it easy to pump and generate speed, while the extra-long foil tracks allow you to fine-tune your foil placement for optimal performance. The board’s longer waterline and buoyant design ensure it won’t sink, even when the wind drops completely, making it your trusty companion for getting back to the beach!
Michi Näf says ‘“Wow! The “WALTZ” downwind board is simply a machine! It offers you a playground for every condition. It’s stable, easy to handle, and the perfect companion for light wind wing foiling and long downwinders. It’s an adventurous addition to your water sports equipment.”
Foil:
The ENSIS STRIDE is the ultimate foil for light wind wing foiling. Its high aspect ratio design and efficient hydrofoil profile deliver exceptional lift and glide, even in the lightest of winds. The STRIDE’s balanced design and easy take-off capabilities make it perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike. Its light and stiff mast, combined with the front wing’s shape and the gullwing stabiliser, ensures optimal power transmission and effortless pumping.
The Light Wind Pump Technique
Even in subtle breezes, wing foiling defies expectations. Through strategic board pumping, riders can significantly reduce the speed required to lift the board out of the water on light wind days. This decreased drag, combined with the forward momentum generated by the engaged foil, creates a self-sustaining cycle of speed and lift. As the board ascends, the wing starts to create its own apparent wind propelling the rider forward with effortless grace.
To master the light wind pump, practice pumping your legs and arms in order to release the board. You’ll want to practise pumping the wing through the air whilst unweighting the board with your feet. As you pump, focus on transferring your body weight forward and backward to generate momentum. Repeat this circular motion until you’re gradually increasing speed. Experiment with different pumping techniques to find what works best for you and your set-up.
Excelling in light wind conditions means understanding the nuances of wind patterns. By honing your wind-reading skills, you can take advantage of the gustier moments. Keep a watchful eye upwind, identifying subtle ‘cat’s paws’ on the water’s surface. These small wind patterns can signal a brief increase in wind speed, which means you’re pumping harder onto the foil when it really matters. This strategic approach can significantly extend your light wind sessions.
When you’re wing foiling on larger bodies of water, harness the power of wind-generated chop and swell. Coordinate your pumping efforts with the natural energy of the water to effortlessly lift your board onto the foil. By surfing these swells, you can maintain momentum and enjoy a more dynamic and efficient ride, even in the most challenging light wind conditions.
Water Conditions and Ideal Locations
Flat, calm water is ideal for practising light wind techniques and improving your balance. Choppy water can be more challenging but offers opportunities for dynamic riding and wave riding. Small waves can provide additional lift and momentum, making it easier to get going in light wind conditions. The ideal locations to practise are areas with consistent light winds, such as the Swiss lakes or locations with flat water or small waves and minimal wind obstacles.
Light Wind Foiling Drills and Exercises
- Pumping Drills: Practise pumping on flat water to build strength and endurance. Experiment with different pumping rhythms and techniques to maximise your efficiency. See how long you can stay on foil, even when the wind has given up on you.
- Turning Drills: Work on tight turns and transitions to improve your manoeuvrability. Practice turning in both directions to develop a well-rounded skill set. Handling the wing in light winds requires a different approach.
- Wave Riding Practice: If you’re lucky enough to find small bumps, practice riding them to gain experience and confidence. Focus on timing your take-off and maintaining your balance as you ride down the wave face.
The Mental Game of Light Wind Foiling
Light wind foiling can be mentally challenging, especially when conditions are less than ideal. To stay motivated and focused, it’s important to:
- Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the difficulty as you progress.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and focus on the fun aspects of the sport.
- Learn from Mistakes: Use setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve.
- Take Breaks: Even the most skilled wing foiler gets tired after non-stop pumping! Recognise when your body needs a break.
By mastering these techniques and choosing the right gear, you can unlock the full potential of light wind foiling on days where you may not have ventured out before! Experience the thrill of gliding across the water, even on the calmest of days. With the ENSIS Drive wing especially, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer any light wind challenge.
