takuma wing ride – Foil Surfing UK

Takuma wings

What wing size should I take?

Our wing sizes range from 2.6 to 6 meters but how do you know which is the right size for you?

Having the right wing size is crucial for your wing riding progression no matter your level. Going out with a wing that is too small or too big for the conditions can cause more frustration than enjoyment.

We only want you to have fun on the water (or land depending on where you choose to take your wing) so we have put together this quick guide to help you choose the wing size best suited for you.

The larger wing sizes are best suited for lighter wind conditions, as their larger surface area can catch more wind.

The smaller wing sizes can be used in heavier wind conditions, they are more manageable and easier to hold, while at the same time generate adequate power to gain speed.

Your weight, riding level and wind conditions are key to determining the right wing size choice. It is important to have sufficient power for a steady start, it is much harder to learn or progress if you are too under or over powered.

Our WR Modell III wings have been designed with a high level of canopy tension meaning they deliver a lot of power, allowing you to take a smaller size to cover a larger wind range. The taught anti-slip handles along the central strut make for comfortable hand positioning and intuitive maneuvering.

Introducing our newest size to the Wing Ride range; 4.5m

Beginners

As a beginner, you'll most likely want to start with just one wing as you are less likely to venture out in very light or very strong conditions.

In general, a good starting wing size is to learn with is a 4m for anyone around the 70kg (155lbs) weight range or a 4.5m wing for anyone over that weight.

The WR Model III is very easy to learn on, its high stability gives you the confidence needed to make your first hesitant maneuvers. It depowers very effectively, therefore allowing you to quickly regain a comfortable speed.

Intermediate / Advanced

Once you have mastered the effective pump technique, your level of potential frustration reduces dramatically, and you can find yourself being able to cover a much larger wind range with just one or two wing sizes.

Based on a proficient 70-80kg rider with substantial experience in all conditions, a 4.5m is usually the ideal size.

Having developed the skills required to maintain power in light wind or hold your own in gnarly conditions you’ll be able to prolong your water time. For a full quiver, we recommend a 3m, 4.5m, and for those really light days a 6m.

We have created a guide based specifically for our WR model III to help you pick the best-suited sizes:

by Matt Barker-Smith

Takuma Wing Ride - Wing Surfing Tips

UPDATE - Wing surfing

So having had a very busy August period, welcomed by 2nd child into the world, been on the water teaching and in the shop 6 days out of 7 , I cant say I've had a lot of time with the Takuma Wind Ride wing or the whole wingsurfing phenomenon.

During the short sessions I have had, I have not ended in the smooth foiling experience I anticipated would occur !

Here are my tips to make you own wing foiling sessions as successful as possible !

ROLL ON WINDY SEPTEMBER!

Use appropriate board - don't get steered into getting a tiny board especially if it's your first time 'winging or foiling'. Board volume 20+litres above your weight in Kg.
Use / purchase the biggest front foil wing for greater lift at slower speed- additional smaller wings can be purchased later.
Avoid gusty conditions.
Don't get 'suckered in' too much on wing size a 4m will do the job if you have thought about point 1 & 2 comprehensively and you are under 85kg, over 90kg go 5 metre.
Try a session with the wing on an ordinary SUP first.
Know your chosen spot !
Fly the WING ...like a wing , not like a windsurf sail
Top/forward arm straight - back hand use as a pump ...Technique.

If you need any advise on foils or wings please get in touch !

by Matt Barker-Smith