How do you choose your wingfoil !

Discover our tips for choosing between a carbon or aluminium mast, the ideal size for your wingfoil practice, and the best wings.

1- Two approaches: carbon mast vs aluminium mast

The logical answer in terms of performance is undeniably carbon, which offers low weight and maximum stiffness in torsion, but do you really need unfailing stiffness?

 

On the other hand, aluminium masts are heavier and often less stiff (though still functional), but much cheaper to buy, making them a great choice for someone who is progressing and will change equipment quickly (see point 2)!

 

Result of the match: It already depends on your budget. If you can afford it: Carbon. In terms of your level of practice (excluding budget), if you already have a good level (e.g., you can jibe, tack, and surf), the carbon mast will give you more responsiveness and support through turns. If you're just starting out and/or practicing occasionally, the less expensive aluminium mast is a great option, as it doesn’t limit your progress as much as you might think!

2 - Does size matter?

It's a big question, and one that gets a lot of discussion! There are masts on the market ranging from 40 to 110 cm! As usual, the extremes are reserved for marginal uses:

 

• 40 cm masts, originally developed for first flights, are useless for wingfoiling.

• 110 cm masts come from kitefoil racing and are sometimes used in wingfoil racing. They are excellent for gaining leverage and improving placement and speed on a specific race course but have very niche applications.

   

Focus on the 75 to 95 cm masts:

• Shorter masts (75 cm) make it easier to manage curves and transitions. However, in heavy conditions, it's harder to keep the front wing in the water, and going upwind is trickier due to the limited angle you can heel without taking the front wing out of the water.

• Longer masts (85 cm and up) are more versatile, particularly in rough seas, for upwind sailing, and efficient speed. On the downside, handling curves and transitions is more demanding, and the rigidity of the mast becomes more important.

   

Result of the match:

• A 75 cm mast is perfect for beginners or those practicing on flat water.
• An 85 cm mast is balanced and versatile.
• 90/95 cm masts demand more skill and precise handling, but excel in heavy conditions, upwind, and at higher speeds.

3 - Front wings: from 500 to 2000 cm²

Let’s simplify:

• Smaller front wings (500 to 1200 cm²): These are more responsive, faster, and more maneuverable, but they require more wind and/or skill to take off and maintain flight.
• Larger front wings (1400 to 2000 cm²): These provide natural lift and make launching easier with less wind or technical effort. However, they are less maneuverable and slower, making them ideal for beginners or those focusing on progression.

In summary: Choose based on your skill level, intended use, and conditions.

 

PRO TIP :

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from your local shop or, better yet, your instructor, who will be best qualified to guide you in choosing the right equipment! And of course, nothing beats testing the gear before buying. With the Tarifa Wing Crew, you can test carbon and aluminium foils with front wings ranging from 430 cm² to 1950 cm²!