Master the Wingfoil Jibe and Tack Techniques with Our Expert Guides.
Master the Art of Wingfoiling: Learn How to Jibe and Tack Like a Pro!
Here’s the breakdown:
The jibe is probably the most important move, as it is easier than the tack, and allows you to change direction at any time. So, after gaining control of the board and foil, this move should be the next thing that you learn.
JIBE
In order to initiate the jibe, slowly point your nose downwind, stay over the center of the board, and put pressure on the front foot. Prepare to let go of the backhand and hold your front hand over your head. Allow the wind to do most of the work for you. Switch your hands into your ideal handle position. Keep a natural foot position and continue flying, or switch your stance before entering the jibe.
In the beginning, make sure to always stay centered, and slightly forward on your board. Keep the same radius and hold the board speed. Key points are to maintain speed, and stay centered over the board, while applying the same pressure during the turn on the rail.
UPWIND TACK
To do an upwind tack, edge your toe side as far as possible and keep the wing over your head, or even slightly upwind of you.
Focus on carving as far in the new direction as possible so that the nose of your board points into the wind. Switch handle positions as fast as you can to get the wing powered up again. This might feel uncomfortable at first, but once you find the timing to use the speed and stay high up on your foil, it is quite easy. Imagine that your body is an extension of your mast, where your board must always maintain a 90-degree angle to your body. Once your wing is powered up, your front foot steps to the back, and your back foot steps to the front.