Hi all,
Has anyone here did the switch to foil wing? I have a bit of a lower back problem due to a rapture disc 20 years ago while getting into windsurfing back then. I haven't done any windsurfing since then as I was worried to hurt my back again but recently I came across wing foiling videos and it completely blow me away. It looks so much fun and I would love to get into this amazing new sport. It doesn't look that the pressure on the lower back is as bad as windsurfing as the sail is so much smaller and lifting it from the water from the videos I have watched is not as difficult as windsurfing. I have no clue really... I would like your advice before investing in a full gear. Thank you!

it needs a fair amount of wind to get the most out of it.

give it a go and see how it feels.

Uphauling instead of water starts is not so great for a bad back.

Also, consider regular windfoiling. We are using 2 or more meters less sail in the same conditions. It's much easier to pop a 5.5 or less out of the water.

Yes, the wings look fun. There's a fair amount of pumping required at the low end so make sure your back is up for that, too. Either way, the hardest part is likely carrying the gear to the water.

wingfoiling is easier on the back than windfoiling.

forgetting the foil and just using the wing is even lower impact and much easier. although slower top speed.

why not start there then add the foil later.

I would go and have some foiling lessons first. Pay someone to use their gear and tow you behind a boat.

If you haven't windsurfed for 20 years, and it sounds like you did it wrong the first time, then you're in for a serious learning curve.

Our local wing foilers are just getting out of the beginner stage 3 months down the track. At least one of them is a very proficient SUP and kitesurfer. I have seen moments that look like fun, mixed with lots of grim determination.

I am strongly in the use it or lose it camp when it comes to health and backs in particular. Kite foiling certainly keeps my back healthy (especially after years of chronic back pain and three crushed vertebrae). I would think the movements involved in waving the wing around without a harness would strengthen and mobilise your back. One way to find out.

Thank you guys!
I am getting too old to live with regrets so I will take your advice and carefully try it. I don't know if there is anyone around Sydney that gives lessons but if not, then I will invest in gear and hope for the best

Sam from WSS Boards can help with gear and maybe lessions.
There's a few us using the wings down at Botany Bay, first Carpark after cooks river in a NE breeze.You welcome have a fly on the beach.

Thank you. I will check it out