Top 5 Reasons To Windfoil
Top 5 Reasons To Windfoil
Windfoiling is an up and coming sport that is similar to windsurfing, with the main difference being the fin on the board. In windfoiling, the fin is a hydrofoil which allows the board to hover above the surface of the water. Because windfoiling gives the sensation of flying, it has been gaining popularity, so much so that it will now be a sport in the 2024 Olympics.
- Less Wind is Required to Windfoil
In regular windsurfing, the wind has to be between 15 and 20 knots. This is not the case for wind foiling as it can take place at only 10 knots. Because wind foiling can take place at lower wind speeds, athletes can practice and compete more often which is very beneficial for them.
- More Locations Have Suitable Conditions
Because less wind is required to windfoil, windfoiling can take place in more locations than windsurfing. Locations with less wind and calmer water are still able to be used for both practice and competitions which greatly expands the accessibility of the sport. The two most famous places to windfoil are Cabarete, Domincan Republic and Golf De Roses, Spain.
- Windfoiling is Easier on the Body
Because of the hydrofoil, windfoiling has a smoother ride than windsurfing. There is less impact with waves which means there is also less impact on the bodies of athletes. In addition to having a smoother ride, the sails are smaller than the sails of windsurfing. This means it is lighter and less strenuous on athletes.
- You Don’t Have to Give Up Windsurfing
While the two sports are different, they can share equipment. Athletes can use boards that allow the fins to be changed. Even though the sports use different size sails, both are able to fit on the same size board. This gives athletes the flexibility to do both sports and to choose which of the sports is optimal for each situation.
- It’s Fun
Have you ever wanted to fly? This is the sensation that is described by athletes that windfoil. Romain Jourdan describes windfoiling as “creating amazing sensations of freedom whilst flying silently above the water.” Not only does it feel like flying, but it is able to be done all over the world and on not very windy days.
