What size wing? Weight, wind and the North Sea

The two criteria that matter

The heavier you are and the lighter the wind, the more area you need. Skill matters too: when learning, a slightly bigger wing helps you get up, but it soon becomes tiring as the wind picks up. Brand, profile and canopy fine-tune the choice without changing it.

Weight × wind guidelines

These ranges apply to riders who already fly on their foil. They are guidelines, not rules: a beginner will rather take the size above, an experienced rider on a big foil the size below.

Weight	8 to 12 knots	12 to 18 knots	18 to 25 knots
55 to 65 kg	5 m²	4 m²	3 m²
65 to 80 kg	6 m²	5 m²	4 m²
80 to 95 kg	7 m²	6 m²	4.5 to 5 m²
over 95 kg	7 m² and more	6 to 7 m²	5 m²

What about the Netherlands and Belgium?

On the North Sea coast, 15 to 25 knots with waves and current is common: home ground for 4 to 5 m² at an average weight. On the IJsselmeer and inland waters the water is flatter and light-wind days are frequent, so 6 m² or more is welcome, especially above 80 kg. In offshore wind, always keep a size that gets you back easily.

One, two or three wings?

• One wing: take the middle size of your row. You will ride most days, a little overpowered in strong wind.
• Two wings: about 1.5 m² apart (for example 4 and 5.5 m²). The most common quiver.
• Three wings: mainly useful for heavier riders or those who go out in all conditions.

Used gear is ideal for completing a quiver: a second size one or two seasons old often costs half the new price. Check its condition with the checklist on every wing listing.

The foil changes everything

A big foil (1,500 to 2,000 cm²) takes off earlier and lets you use a smaller wing. A small, fast foil needs more power. If you change foil, your ideal wing size moves with it.

Found your size? Browse the used wings, or set an alert to hear as soon as a matching listing appears.