Or maybe you’ve already had a few sessions and are wondering why everyone seems so enthusiastic about it?
From our base here at Môr Watersports in North Wales, with access to open coastline, inland lakes, and iconic spots like the Menai Strait (very much for the more experienced due to its strong tidal flow), we see first-hand just how versatile and enjoyable wing foiling really is. It’s one of the fastest-growing watersports for good reason—and here’s why so many of us are hooked.
Why Wing Foiling Just Works
The kit is compact
Your board, foil and wing fit easily in the car—no roof racks or vans required. That alone makes getting on the water far easier.
A huge wind range
One wing can comfortably cover a wide wind range, often up to 20 knots, meaning fewer wings and more time riding.
Lightweight, efficient wings
Modern wings are incredibly light and generate power easily. Brands such as F-One, Armstrong, and AFS have refined designs so even lighter or marginal winds become genuinely fun.
Poor conditions become great sessions
Those “not quite enough wind” days suddenly come alive. The classic 12–15 knot session that might feel frustrating in other sports can be perfect for winging.
Upwind performance changes everything
Hydrofoils go upwind exceptionally well, which opens up far more session options and gives a lot of confidence once you’re comfortable on the foil.
Lakes and reservoirs become playgrounds
Inland waters across Wales work brilliantly. Even when the wind is gusty or full of holes, the foil allows you to glide smoothly through the lulls.
Small waves, big fun
Foils unlock tiny waves and rolling swell, making downwind runs and small-wave sessions far more engaging than you might expect.
Accessible and Quick to Progress
You don’t need lessons (although they certainly help), and progression can be surprisingly fast—especially if you start on a larger, more stable board. Brands like Starboard, NSP, AXIS, and AK Durable Supply Co all offer confidence-inspiring setups that make learning far more approachable.
One of the biggest advantages of winging is where you can do it. You don’t need a huge launch area like kiting—if there’s water and wind, there’s usually a way to get out.
Easy on the Body, Big on Feel
Wing foiling is relatively kind on the body. Because you’re flying above the chop, you don’t feel the constant impact through your legs, and the wing itself doesn’t put excessive strain on your arms. Instead, it delivers a balanced, full-body workout, using your legs, core, and upper body together.
Then there’s that feeling—lifting off like an aeroplane, everything going quiet as the foil rises out of the water. It’s hard to beat, and even harder to forget.
Fast to Rig, Simple When the Wind Drops
Rigging up can be extremely quick. If you keep your foil mostly assembled (a bit of Teflon gel on the threads goes a long way), it’s often just a case of attaching the foil and pumping up the wing.
And if the wind drops completely? No drama—you can simply paddle the board back in.
So… Is Wing Foiling Worth It?
Wing Foiling, Wing Hydrofoiling, or Wingsurfing—whatever you choose to call it—when people ask us what wind watersport to get into these days, the answer is simple: go winging.
It’s accessible, versatile, and hugely rewarding. Starting on a larger board makes it surprisingly approachable, and even sessions where you don’t quite get up on the foil are still great for time on the water. You can also wing on a paddleboard using a centre fin or strap-on daggerboard, which is great fun in its own right.
Hopefully this page gives you a clear insight into why so many people love winging—and why it’s become such a big part of what we do here at Môr Watersports in North Wales.