Hey dudes and dudette foilers, I have about 5 hours into the learning curve. Been kiting in the bay but getting cross chop, been out in 12 to 18 or so knots. I can get up and ride comfortably one way, starboard on my regular foot, but coming back I am constantly getting pitched over the rail as a swell hits on my goofy side. It's not my preferred side, however it is never an issue with a surfboard. Any idea on foot placement or how to keep the foil engaged etc. Any help or feedback, or pointers to any vids would be great. I am currently only riding with a VERY loose front strap more to keep the board in position while starting. Goal is to ride it strapless one up riding both ways.Cheers

Are you controlling your ride height as the swell drops and rises. ??

not really because the swell/chop is broadsiding me. I am struggling on that side :)

Hi dafish,

riding the foil in chop/waves definitely adds a level of difficulty. The key is to lower the foil mast/wings deeper in the water which is done by adding front foot pressure. Slowing your speed down will help a lot as well.

Over time you will start using your front foot a lot more to control the pitch of the foil. With large chop you really need to constantly work in anticipation and start pressuring the front leg before coming over the top of the wave in an effort to keep the wings from lifting up too high.

Personally I prefer foiling in very low (sub 12 knots) winds as the water is flat and you can push hard and go fast without constantly having to work your legs and adjust to the chop.

Christian

Thanks Christian, will focus on that. I am trying to get out in lighter winds, usual plan is to get out and cop my beatings for an hour, hopefully progress a bit, then as the wind picks up move back to the surf board. Hopefully the next 5 hours will see my port side riding improve. Cheers

Patience and practise,it will come.another 5 hours it won't be an issue.how good is foiling ??

Patience you must have my young Padawan

haha, for sure.. And yes, it is fun. The first time you get lift and everything goes quiet is really awesome! I am enjoying learning this despite the head bangs, couple cuts and a few body slams, it's all good :)

Took me 10 hours to go out and back with some confidence. From what I can tell you are well on your way. Enjoy the new frontiers !!