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Introduction to Downwind SUP Foiling
2024-06-15
Downwind foiling offers an exciting way to enjoy the water by using wind swells to move you along. It blends surfing, foiling, navigation, and stand-up paddling (SUP) for a unique adventure and excellent exercise.
But many people are left asking, "How do I downwind SUP foil?" Whether you're an experienced athlete or new to water sports, this guide and Matt's video provide insights into how to downwind SUP foil. Learn why you should consider getting on foil and experiencing downwind for yourself.
Why is Downwind SUP Foiling Becoming More Popular?
- The Thrill: A unique experience of gliding over waves powered by natural wind swells.
- Full-Body Workout: A great workout while enjoying the freedom of the water and freshness of the outdoors.
- Freedom and Flexibility: Benefit from the freedom of not having to manage a wing, allowing for more dynamic and spontaneous movements.
- Deep Connection with Nature: A rare connection to the water and natural elements learning to read and understand the water’s patterns.
- Continuous Improvement: Challenge yourself with new skills and techniques, leading to a sense of accomplishment and progression
Freedom from Wings on Downwind Foils
Downwind SUP foiling offers unparalleled freedom compared to wing foiling. Without managing a wing, you can focus entirely on the waves and your movements, allowing for more dynamic and spontaneous turns.
It's like surfing but with extended rides through the use of wind swells. Without a wing, you experience the joy of flying over the water while taking in your surroundings.
What is Surf Foiling?
Surf foiling involves riding a hydrofoil mounted below a surfboard, allowing you to glide above the water's surface. This setup reduces drag and ensures a smooth, fast ride. The hydrofoil consists of a mast, fuselage, front wing, and tail wing. As water flows over these components, they generate lift, similar to how an airplane takes flight, enabling the board to rise above the water's surface.
Key Concepts in Down Wind SUP Foiling
HOW TO GET ON FOIL
Generate Speed:
Begin by paddling or using a paddle to gain forward momentum and pump. Speed is essential as it creates the necessary conditions for the foil to generate lift.
Angle the Foil:
As you gain speed, angle the front of the board slightly upwards, similar to how an airplane lifts off by tilting its nose up.
Lift Creation:
The hydrofoil, submerged underwater, acts like an underwater wing. As water flows over the foil's surface, it creates lift.
Maintain Balance:
Once enough lift is created, the board will rise out of the water. At this point, balance becomes crucial. Use subtle shifts in your weight to control the angle of the foil and maintain a steady lift.
Adjust Speed and Angle:
To stay on foil, continuously adjust your speed and the angle of the board. Too much angle or too little speed will cause the board to drop back into the water. Conversely, too much speed or too steep an angle can make the board unstable.
PUMPING AND USING SWELLS TO SURF
Start with Speed:
Begin with sufficient forward momentum by paddling hard to catch a bump or swell. Speed is crucial for initiating and maintaining lift.
Maintain a Staggered Stance:
Position your feet in a staggered stance, with your back foot over the foil and your front foot slightly forward. This stance provides better control and balance.
Use Your Legs:
Bend your knees slightly and use a rhythmic up-and-down motion, similar to squatting. Push down firmly with your legs to compress the board and then allow it to rebound upwards. This motion helps to generate lift and keep the foil moving.
Engage Your Core:
Use your core muscles to stabilize your body and maintain a steady pumping rhythm. A strong core helps in transferring energy efficiently from your legs to the foil.
Timing and Coordination:
Pumping requires precise timing. As the board rebounds upwards, prepare for the next downward push. Coordinate your movements so that each pump builds on the previous one, maintaining a consistent speed and lift.
Short and Quick Pumps:
Focus on short, quick pumps rather than large, forceful ones. Small, rapid movements are more efficient and help maintain a smoother ride.
Stay High on the Foil:
Aim to keep the foil high in the water. Staying high on the foil reduces drag and makes it easier to maintain speed and lift.
Link into Swells:
Harness the power of the water. Look for a series of bumps or swells and aim to link them together. Use the energy from each bump to push you to the next, keeping your momentum going.
Practice and Adjust:
Pumping efficiently takes practice. Continuously adjust your technique based on the conditions and your own comfort level. Pay attention to how your body movements affect the foil and make necessary adjustments to improve your efficiency.
Mastering the Art of SUP Foil Surfing
Watch Matt’s tutorial on Down Wind SUP
Is Down Wind SUP Foiling Hard?
Short answer, hell yes, it's hard. But it it’s one of the most rewarding forms of foiling. The ability to connect to the water is unparalleled. It's not impossible for a newcomer, but it will take a lot of practice. Don't give up, remember someday isn't a day of the week and the best day to start is today. There are other ways to get on the water, and if you are keen to get on foil and an eFoil isn't in the budget, wing foiling and wake foiling are great entry points.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Setup
Stability on the water is key. A larger board and wider foil span helps accomplish this and a longer fuselage helps maintain pitch stability. For beginners start with big foils and work your way down as your skill improves.
SUP Foil Boards
Opt for long, narrow boards specifically designed for downwind foiling. Being a surfer-owned and operated business means our team consists of fellow riders who play a crucial role in designing our downwind boards. They continuously incorporate real-time ride feedback to enhance and improve future board designs, ensuring you get a board we would ride.
Check out our downwind boards:
Masts and Wing Setups
For downwind foiling we recommend our high modulus carbon masts. Our proprietary carbon blend offers unparalleled stiffness, ensuring a responsive and stable ride.
When selecting wing size, we suggest beginners start with larger wings, using a combination of our High Aspect Front Wings and Flow Back Wings. The Flow Back Wings feature a longer fuselage, essential for maintaining glide while downwinding, and our High Aspect Front Wings provide the optimal ratios for glide and lift.
Below are a few recommended setups specific to downwind foiling. As your skill progresses and you find your flow, you can always swap wings to find the perfect setup for your riding style.
Beginner
- 28" M2 Mast with the 220 HA-X and the 31Flow Back Wing
M2 Series Mast - 28"
$1,499.00
Front Wing - 220 High Aspect X
$1,139.00
Back Wing - 31 Flow
$315.00Intermediate
- 28" M2 Mast with the 180 HA-X and the 26Flow Back Wing
M2 Series Mast - 28"
$1,499.00
Front Wing - 180 High Aspect X
$1,059.00
Back Wing - 26 Flow
$310.00Advanced
- 32" M2 Mast with the 150 HA-X and the 21Flow Back Wing
Front Wing - 150 High Aspect X
$899.00
Back Wing - 21 Flow
$305.00When considering mast sizes, keep the following factors in mind:
- Skill level: Longer masts require more skill to handle because of the additional drag involved in getting them on foil.
- Wave conditions: The size of the waves or swells you ride will determine the ideal mast size. In general, larger waves call for longer masts to keep your board above water and prevent it from submerging.
- Location: If you often find yourself in the open ocean with big swells, opting for a longer mast is advisable. This will help maintain stability and keep your board elevated. However, be aware that it will require more effort and skill to get on foil with a longer mast.
Conclusion
Downwind SUP foiling offers an unmatched combination of excitement, skill, and freedom on the water. Whether you're a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner, the thrill of gliding over waves using natural forces is like no other experience on the water. With the right setup and enthusiasm, you can experience the rewarding thrill for yourself and start exploring your waterways. Start today and experience the freedom and sense of exploration that downwind SUP foiling brings.
See you on the water!
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