🪶 What Is Winging (or Wing Surfing)?
Winging, also called Wing Surfing, is one of the newest and fastest-growing watersports in the world. It involves using a handheld inflatable wing that’s not attached to the board. The rider holds the wing directly, controlling power and direction by simply moving their arms and body.
The wing harnesses the wind’s energy, while the board glides smoothly over the water — or even above it if equipped with a hydrofoil.
This sport combines the freedom of windsurfing, the flow of kitesurfing, and the simplicity of paddleboarding, all in one exhilarating experience.
🏄♂️ What Is Wingfoiling?
Wingfoiling takes Winging to the next level. It uses a hydrofoil board, which lifts the rider above the water once enough speed is gained. The foil reduces drag, creating a sensation of “flying” silently over the surface.
Because it’s so smooth and efficient, riders can glide across waves or flat water with minimal effort — feeling both peaceful and powerful at the same time.
📜 A Brief History of Winging & Wingfoiling
While the concept of a handheld wing dates back to the 1980s, the sport truly took off around 2019 when advancements in inflatable technology made wings lighter, stronger, and easier to control.
Hydrofoils, borrowed from surf and kite innovations, turned the idea into a revolutionary new sport.
Today, Winging and Wingfoiling are practiced worldwide — from tropical beaches to Canadian lakes. With Ukiteboard’s 15+ years of experience in watersports instruction, we’ve proudly introduced hundreds of students to this exciting, accessible, and fast-growing sport right here in Keswick, Ontario.
🎓 Learning to Wing & Wingfoil at Ukiteboard
At Ukiteboard, we make learning fun, safe, and confidence-building — no previous experience required!
Our lessons focus on:
- Understanding wind direction and safety basics
- Learning how to handle and control the wing on land and water
- Getting comfortable balancing on the board
- Progressing to riding, turning, and foiling smoothly
With our expert instructors and top-quality equipment, you’ll be flying across the water in no time.
❓ Top 10 FAQs About Winging and Wingfoiling
1. What’s the difference between Winging and Wingfoiling?
Winging is done on a regular board that stays on the water’s surface, while Wingfoiling uses a hydrofoil board that lifts above the water.
2. Do I need any previous experience?
No! Beginners can start with zero background. Experience in paddleboarding or windsurfing helps but isn’t necessary.
3. How long does it take to learn?
Most students can learn the basics in just 1–3 lessons, depending on wind conditions and balance skills.
4. Is Winging safe?
Yes — it’s one of the safest wind sports because the wing has no lines and is easy to depower instantly.
5. What equipment do I need?
You’ll need a wing, board, foil (optional), and safety gear such as a helmet, leash, and life jacket.
6. Can I Wingfoil on a lake?
Absolutely! Keswick’s Lake Simcoe is perfect — wide, open, and consistent winds make it ideal for all levels.
7. What kind of wind do I need?
For beginners, moderate winds around 12–20 knots (22–37 km/h) are best. Too little or too much wind makes learning harder.
8. What should I wear?
A wetsuit or drysuit depending on the season, plus booties for traction and comfort.
9. How fit do I need to be?
If you can balance and have average fitness, you can Wing! It’s more about technique and control than strength.
10. Why learn with Ukiteboard?
With over 15 years of teaching experience, certified instructors, and a proven training program, Ukiteboard offers one of the best environments to learn safely and confidently — right here in Keswick, Ontario.