I think we’ve seen a few videos on the internet where we see someone gliding above water, effortlessly carving through waves. That’s a sport called “kite foiling.” It’s a water sport that gained popularity after its debut in the recently-concluded Olympic Games Paris 2024.
In this article, I also talk about the differences between kite foiling and traditional kiteboarding. After, you’ll see a comprehensive buying guide for the right kite foiling gear, to get you started. We hope this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to take flight on your first foil!
So, what is kite foiling?
Kite foiling can be described as an improved version of kiteboarding where you introduce a hydrofoil, a wing-like structure on a mast beneath the board. This little gem of an addition gives some lift as you go, lifting the board out of the water and greatly decreasing drag. The result? A more comfortable and quicker movement that can be compared to gliding or even flying and that does not require much wind to start moving.
Basically, this sport is the product of kitesurfing plus hydro foiling which equals a completely different experience with more control, more speed, and almost limitless maneuverability. That is why it is already gaining popularity among those who want to feel adrenaline and lovers of high-quality equipment for water activities.
Why is kite foiling popular?
Kite foiling is slowly being adopted by enthusiasts in the water sports industry, and for good reason.
It’s deemed “easier” than kiteboarding.
Old school kiteboarding demands that you are always flying and jumping on the water surface. On the other hand, kite foiling has the rider using a hydrofoil, which elevates the board from the water. This is intentional, added to provide a very smooth ride. Yup, even when the water’s choppy! It does this by keeping the board elevated and minimizing contact with the waves. The result? The opportunity to fly above the water, which is as close as humans can get to flying. Once you get into a rhythm, it’s seriously addictive.
It’s amazing, even in light wind.
One of the coolest perks of kite foiling is how great it is in light wind. Thanks to that foil under the board, you can generate lift with just a whisper of wind, letting you cruise along while others are stuck on the beach waiting for a gust. This means more time actually on the water and less time dreading the weather forecast.
And because the board is hovering above the water, you also get insane maneuverability. You can pull off new tricks, try different movements, and basically reinvent your ride every time, keeping things fresh and challenging no matter how long you’ve been at it.
Better for your body!
Plus, kite foiling is much kinder to your body. Since the foil helps you float above all that bumpy, choppy water, you won’t be hammering your knees and back like in traditional kiteboarding.
This low-impact aspect makes kite foiling perfect for a wide range of ages and fitness levels — so you get all the thrill of flying across the water without feeling like you’re going to need an ice bath afterward.
Kite foiling vs. kiteboarding: What’s the difference?
While both propel you across the water by a kite, they are different in more ways than one. They differ in equipment, experience, and the skills required. So, in kiteboarding, the rider usually uses a flat or slightly “concave” board that’s designed to glide on the water’s surface. The concavity is important! While kite foiling, on the other hand, requires a specialized board fitted with a hydrofoil. This hydrofoil pushes against the water to generate lift as the board gets faster. This is what makes the board float above the water’s surface and reduces drag.
The difference in board design leads to varied experiences. In terms of wind conditions, kite foiling excels in light winds where traditional kiteboarding might struggle. The hydrofoil’s ability to create lift with minimal wind allows for extended sessions even in less-than-ideal weather. And though this benefit sounds exciting, it does come with a steeper learning curve. Balancing on a hydrofoil board above the water requires more finesse and coordination than traditional kiteboarding.
Kite Foil Boards & Packages: Our Buying Guide
Do you feel ready to take on this new adventure? Or are you an experienced kite foil athlete that wants better gear? Regardless, you’ve come to the right place. I want to make sure you’re well-equipped before heading into battle, so keep scrolling for recommendations:
Liquid Force POD Foil Foilboard 4’4″
Ideal for: Those who want a board good for multiple water sports.
The POD Foil Foilboard is a versatile board that combines the best of both worlds: kite foiling and wakesurfing. Exciting! Its unique design features a quad fin setup for wakesurfing and a foil track system for foiling, making it a perfect all-rounder for water sports enthusiasts.
Features to note:
- Dual-purpose, built for both foiling and wakesurfing.
- Foil Track system that allows direct mounting of the foil.
- Corduroy Deck Traction for optimal foot placement.
- Durable DuraSurf construction for amazing longevity and performance.
- Multiple sizes available suitable for beginners to intermediate riders.
Liquid Force Launch Foilboard 4’5″
Ideal for: Anxious kite foiling beginners who want a stable and forgiving board.
This 4-foot, 5-inch Launch Foilboard is for beginners and intermediate riders looking for a user-friendly entry into foiling. With its larger surface area and exaggerated nose rocker, any user of this board is assured stable take-offs and smooth flights.
Features that’ll win you over:
- Easy-up design for flying at lower speeds.
- Adjustable foil positioning. 4″ range of motion for different weights and skill levels.
- High-density foam core.
- Oversized EVA traction pad for comfort and grip.
- Includes foot straps for secure footing and confidence-boosting!
Liquid Force Flite 120 Black Foil Set
Ideal for: Beginners who want to learn quickly and smoothly.
The Flite 120 Foil Set is for riders looking to advance quickly through the learning stages. Consider it a “Mastering kite foiling speed run.” This set has a low-speed lift front wing and a 27″ alloy mast, for enhanced stability and control.
Features that you’ll love:
- TC 28 Stabilizer for stability and control.
- Customizable Shim Kit for tailored adjustments.
- Durable 27″ Alloy Mast, which means stiff construction for long-lasting use.
- Low-speed lift front wing, so it sarts working below standard wakesurf speeds. Ideal for beginners.
- Convenient carry case for easy transport.
What’s your next move?
I hope you’re buzzing with excitement on the other side of the screen, future kite foiling rider! Now that you know what is kite foiling, why it’s popular, and the gear you need, I hope you feel well-ready for what’s ahead. Be safe in kite foiling and remember to have fun!
