A few years ago, if someone had told you they were going wing foiling you probably would have given them a funny look. But these days, wing foiling is all the rage.The first commercial wing was released in 2018 and since, wing foiling sports have taken off. Wing foiling requires less bulky or complicated equipment than traditional wind surfing or kiteboarding and works well with less wind while giving the rider the feeling of flying free. What began as wing foiling on a foil board has expanded to include snow winging, skateboard winging, ice winging, and so much more. Even recreational paddlers are attaching wings to standup paddleboards, which allows riders of all levels to experience the joy of winging.
If you’re new to winging or just haven’t used our equipment before, here is some quick information to get you familiar with your wing and how to set up and care for your equipment so you can spend more time on the water. We strongly suggest that everyone reads our Foiling User Guide which is located on our website here. It includes not only these instructions but safety and warranty information as well.
INCLUDED WITH YOUR WING
The Raptor Wing kit comes with everything you need to transport your wing to the beach and get on the water. The wing comes with a convenient carry backpack, a wrist leash, a pump, and a repair kit.
PARTS OF THE WING
Although a wing may seem like one, large piece, it’s actually made up of eight main parts:
INFLATING YOUR WING
Inflating the wing is straight forward. Start by finding a clear space free of sharp objects and place your board upwind. Your wing can take flight during inflation, so it is important to keep the foil away from the wing. Having your wing downwind and your board upwind will help prevent this from happening.
Step 1: Unroll your wing with the strut side facing up. This will allow you to access the inflation valves.
Step 2: Attach your wrist leash to the leash loop located on the center front of the leading edge and attach it to your wrist. The wrist leash acts as a second anchor point for after inflation.
Step 3: Attach the pump tether clip to the leash loop. When you step on the pump you will create an anchor and it will prevent the wing from flying away. The pump tether clip anchors the wing low to the pump opposed to the wrist leash.
Step 4: Check to see if the valves and seals are clean and free of debris. Tighten the valve firmly to ensure no air will leak.
Step 5: Open valve cap, attach the pump and inflate the leading edge until it starts to register on the pump pressure gage. This is the moment when you can inspect the wing to see if there is a twist in the bladder. A twisted bladder can damage your wing and affect wing performance. If there is no twist, inflate to 8 PSI maximum.
Step 6: Close the neoprene protection covers. Check your wing for punctures or tears before use. When you disconnect the pump tether clip be advised your wing must always be secured to an anchor. Please note, your board and foil may not be a reliable anchor. If you choose to secure your wing to your board or foil, the foil could puncture the wing.
AFTER CARE
Taking good care of your wing is essential as it can extend the life of your wing and allow for fun on the water for years to come. After every session, check for punctures/tears and rinse with fresh water.
FOLDING YOUR WING
Find a spot clear of sharp objects to deflate your wing. Unscrew both valve bases to deflate the wing and make sure no sand, rocks, or water enter the valve because this may damage the bladder material
Step 1: Begin folding the wing from wingtip towards the center strut. We recommend folding in 6–8-inch panels, forcing the air out along the way. Overlay left and right folded panels over the center struct.
Step 2: Fold the wing in three parts starting from the trailing edge, forcing the air out along the way.
Step 3: Wrap the leash around the folded panels to secure. Store the wing in the bag and then store the pump hose inside the bag and attach the pump body to the outside of the bag.
Although getting your wing set up may seem intimidating, following these simple steps will help get you prepared to get out on the water.