Who has tried foiling in strong winds?
I'm blown away by how much fun it is
The windswells become epic in 30 knots, so downwinding is a blast. Flying upwind is surprisingly cruisy when feathering the sail.
Foiling is definitely not just a light wind option
Simon in a 20 knot "lull"
3.7 & 4.2m - TimeCode 68 wings
Agree.
Went to Pozo in Cran canaria because it has constant wind, although very windy. Found a flat water area and used 4.2, down to 3.5m sails (I'm 110 kg) and it was exciting and very enjoyable once the scare factor went away.
You learn to handle the gusts and then really look forward to the lulls.
Found that it helped in the lighter winds too. don't seem to feel as vulnerable on a bigger sail when the wind comes up. A smaller front wing really helps.
Went out a couple of days ago at home spot on a 4.0 when fin surfers were out on 4.7m sails and flying. Looked horrible for the Finners as chop was close and steep and the outgoing wind with tide meant a lot had to do the walk of shame. We were out for an hour gliding over the mess and having to concentrate on coming down-wind to get back to the beach. Was on the SS Fwind1 and was averaging 20 mph board speed in winds from 20-35mph. 90cm mast was a must to stay clear of the chop. Very pleased I now know its a fun option on the windier days.
Since I have started using the SS wizard and infinity 76 combo I am also loving the stronger winds. I think I will add a smaller from wing at some point but am happy with this set up for now. It is probably an obvious one but the biggest breakthrough I have had for stronger winds is holding the boom further forwards. i.e. my hands are much closer to the mast. it stops me getting pulled onto by toes by the gusts. I can just keep my stance upright and feather the sail. so obvious now I know it
Had a few quick blasts on the river this past weekend. On the 4.2m both days fully powered up.
Heres a few tracks from Sunday.
Maxxed out the foil at 36.8km/h.
Just over 17km travelled in less than an hour.