Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Wingfoiling means holding an inflatable wing in your hands to catch the wind while you ride a board fitted with a foil, a winged fin that lifts the board out of the water at a certain speed. It is the newest of the wind sports, and in Tenerife it is taught mainly in El MĂ©dano.
This page explains what the progression is like, what requirements schools set and how it compares with kitesurfing and windsurfing.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Where | El MĂ©dano (Granadilla de Abona) and other windy areas |
| Equipment | Wing, foil board, wetsuit, buoyancy vest and helmet |
| Lesson duration | Usually about 2 hours |
| Progression | Handling the wing → gliding without flying → first flights on the foil |
| Requirements | Being able to swim; good balance; age and weight depending on the school |
| A helmet | Recommended because of the foil |
| Price | Depends on the hours and the format |
Wingfoil, kitesurfing and windsurfing
| Aspect | Wingfoil | Kitesurfing | Windsurfing |
|---|---|---|---|
| What you hold | A wing in your hands | A kite with a bar and harness | A sail attached to the board |
| Equipment | Compact | Compact | Bulky |
| First steps | On the board from the start | Kite on land first | On the board from the start |
| Specific risk | The foil, which is sharp | Lines and kite pull | Knocks from the rig |
| Feel | Flying over the water, almost silently | Speed and jumps | Classic sailing |
How you learn
- Handling the wing on land: position, power and safety.
- Board without a foil or with a low foil, to learn to move around and use the wing on the water.
- First flights: lifting off a few centimetres and keeping your balance.
- Progression: riding in both directions and turning.
Who it suits
- People with good balance, especially if they come from surfing, paddle surfing or snowboarding.
- Anyone who wants to try the newest wind sport.
- Anyone who prefers equipment that is easy to carry.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim.
- Young children: it depends on the age and weight set by the school.
- Fear of falling: there are plenty of falls at the start.
- Be careful with the foil: it is sharp; that is why a helmet and caution are recommended.
How to choose well
- What equipment do they use for beginners? Large boards and small wings make it easier to start.
- Are a helmet and buoyancy vest included?
- How many students per instructor?
- What qualifications does the instructor have?
- Is there support on the water?
- What happens if there is no wind?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Wing and foil board | Included | Right size |
| Wetsuit | Included | Sizes |
| Helmet and buoyancy vest | Recommended | If they provide them |
| Insurance | Usual | That it is included |
Safety
- Keep your distance from other water users: the foil can cause cuts.
- Always fall away from the board and protect your head.
- Do not practise on your own until you can control take-off and stopping.
Wind and when to go
Wingfoiling needs wind, although in some conditions less than classic windsurfing. El MĂ©dano is windy for much of the year; for learning, days of moderate intensity are better.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Hours or number of lessons.
- Group or private.
- Equipment.
What to bring
- Swimwear, towel and a change of clothes.
- Water-resistant sun protection.
- Sunglasses with a strap.
- Water.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Kite and jumps | Kitesurfing course in El MĂ©dano |
| Classic sail | Windsurf lessons in El MĂ©dano |
| Waves without wind | Surf lessons in Tenerife |
| Calm water | Paddle surf in Tenerife |
Frequently asked questions
What is wingfoiling?
Riding a foil board while holding an inflatable wing in your hands; the foil lifts the board out of the water.
Is it difficult?
It requires balance and several sessions. People who come from surfing or paddle surfing usually progress faster.
Where can you do it in Tenerife?
Mainly in El MĂ©dano.
Do you need a helmet?
It is highly recommended because of the foil.
Do the lessons include equipment?
Yes: wing, foil board and wetsuit.