From Efoiling to Wing Foiling:

My Journey at 50

As a 50-year-old man who had never really mastered any board sports, learning how to wing foil seemed like a distant dream. However, my journey into this exhilarating world began with an unexpected catalyst: the efoil. Little did I know that this electric marvel would become the stepping stone that would not only introduce me to the thrill of hydrofoiling but also significantly shorten my learning curve.

Discovering the Efoil

It all started when I came across an efoil—a surfboard with an electric motor and a hydrofoil underneath that lifts you above the water as you gain speed. Intrigued by the concept, I decided to give it a try. The beauty of the efoil lies in its ability to provide a controlled environment for learning. With a handheld remote, I could adjust the speed and stability, allowing me to gradually get accustomed to the sensation of foiling without worrying about wind or waves.

As I got comfortable with the efoil, I began to understand the dynamics of the hydrofoil—the lift created by the wings, the balance needed to stay upright, and the subtle shifts in weight required to steer. This phase was crucial because it laid the groundwork for my future endeavors on the water. The immediate feedback and consistency of the efoil were invaluable in building my confidence and muscle memory.

Transitioning to Surfing Waves

After mastering the basics, I wanted to take my efoil experience to the next level by incorporating a folding propeller. This addition allowed me to catch waves and surf them without the motor's interference. The transition was surprisingly smooth, thanks to the solid foundation I had built with the efoil. Surfing waves with the efoil was a game-changer—it was like flying over the water, effortlessly gliding across the face of the waves with a sense of freedom I had never experienced before.

Riding waves on the efoil honed my ability to read the water, adjust my stance, and make quick decisions. These skills were not only thrilling to acquire but also pivotal for my next challenge: wing foiling.

The Challenge of Wing Foiling

Wing foiling introduced a whole new set of variables, the most significant being the wind. Holding onto a handheld wing while balancing on a hydrofoil board was an entirely different ballgame. Initially, I struggled to harness the wind's power effectively. Controlling the wing required a blend of finesse and strength, and coordinating this with the hydrofoil’s balance was daunting.

However, the efoil had equipped me with a thorough understanding of hydrofoil dynamics. I knew how to handle the lift and navigate the board, which gave me an edge. The real challenge was mastering the wing. I spent hours practicing on land and in light winds, learning how to position the wing to generate the right amount of pull. Gradually, I started to find my rhythm.

Once I got the hang of using the wing, combining it with the hydrofoil was pure magic. The feeling of harnessing the wind to propel myself across the water, lifting off the surface, and soaring above the waves was incomparable. The wing foil opened up a new dimension of riding, where I could dance with the elements in a harmonious blend of technology and nature.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back, I can't overstate how beneficial the efoil was in my journey to mastering the wing foil. The controlled environment of the efoil allowed me to understand and practice the core principles of hydrofoiling without external factors like wind or waves complicating the process. This foundational knowledge made the transition to wing foiling much smoother, despite the added complexity of wind dynamics.

Now, I cherish both forms of foiling. On windy days, I can't wait to get out with my wing foil, enjoying the exhilaration of being lifted by the wind. In all other conditions, especially when the waves are calling, the efoil remains my trusty companion, offering a unique way to surf with ease and grace.

At 50, discovering these sports has been a revitalizing adventure. The efoil and wing foil have not only kept me physically active but also provided a profound sense of accomplishment and joy. Each session on the water is a reminder that it's never too late to learn something new and that the journey is as rewarding as the destination.