Terms & Glossary
Wing Foiling Basics
New to wing foiling? This glossary explains some of the basic terms you’ll hear during your lessons and while learning the sport.
Wing
The handheld inflatable wing used to generate power from the wind.
Foil
The hydrofoil system beneath the board that creates lift and allows the board to rise above the water.
Mast
The vertical part of the foil that connects the board to the rest of the foil.
Fuselage
The section that connects the mast, front wing, and rear stabilizer.
Front Wing
The larger front part of the foil that generates lift. Front-wing size is measured in square centimeters (cm²).
Rear Wing / Stabilizer
The smaller rear foil that helps provide stability and control.
True Wind
The actual wind moving across the water before your movement is taken into account.
Apparent Wind
The wind you feel as a combination of true wind and the wind created by your movement.
Roll
The side-to-side tilting of the board or foil.
Pitch
The up-and-down angle of the board or foil, with the nose moving higher or lower.
Yaw
The rotation of the board or foil from side to side.
Neutral
A position where the wing is aligned with the apparent wind and produces minimal forward power.
Upwind
Riding toward the direction the wind is coming from.
Downwind
Riding in the direction the wind is blowing.
Foot Position
Where you place your feet on the board affects balance, foil control, and riding direction.
Want to learn the terminology on the water?
Our instructors explain the equipment and techniques during your lesson so you can build confidence step by step.