Foil surfing is a new type of surfboarding that involves adding a hydrofoil to your surfboard. It is much harder to learn than traditional surfing but offers an exhilarating ride once mastered.

Foil surfing has become popular after Kai Lenny blew up the internet with footage of him gliding and hopping on small, non-breaking waves. Foiling opens up a new range of locks for surfers and is incredibly fun to watch from the beach. For more information about surf foiling, click here.

How it works

It combines hydrodynamics and Newton’s third law (for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction). The curved top surface of the front wing accelerates water molecules under it and generates upward lift. The rear wing counteracts this lift with its opposite profile and angle.

Foil surfers can ride waves that would otherwise be impossible because the foil absorbs much of the wave’s power, allowing riders to sit comfortably on the board. Foils can also catch crumbly small waves and even ride straight from the beach without requiring any ‘monkey pumping’ to generate speed.

Having the right equipment to start surfing is essential, especially if you want to avoid hurting yourself or others. You’ll need a surfboard that can handle the extra stress of a hydrofoil, a foil system, and a suit (we recommend a helmet for beginner surfers). If you fall off your foil, you’ll also need a leash, life jacket and possibly a second pair of shoes to wear on the beach.

Techniques

When learning foil surfing, levelling up your regular surfing skills first is essential. Foils require a completely different approach to the water and can be extremely dangerous with the sharp blade of the hydrofoil in action. Foils, especially the heavier metal ones, are capable of inflicting serious injury if they hit a surfer or swimmer in crowded surf. For more information about surf foiling, click here.

Small crumbly waves offer the best learning opportunity when ready to start foiling. The key is to keep the foil low in the water to create lift. Then, once you have the hang of this technique, you can begin to hop/glide and cut back.

Foils made for surf can pump much better than other foils because they don’t lose energy to friction in the water as regular boards do. This makes connecting a multitude of waves more possible. Pumping is the repetitive motion of shifting weight from foot to foot on your foil board to generate thrust.

Equipment

The most essential equipment for foiling is a surfboard that can take off on small waves. You also need a hydrofoil, which can be retrofitted to your regular board or ordered from a specialist. Foiling requires a lot of balance and fitness. You’ll need to paddle efficiently and not shake the foil.

Foils are sharp, and a collision with them can cause injury to the rider and nearby ocean users. It’s crucial to know your location and the depth of the water. Foilers can reach high speeds and may be challenging to see, which could pose a risk for other ocean users.

The best conditions for foiling are a consistent wind of about 18-25 mph, flat water, and no chop or waves. It’s essential to avoid extensive reefs and crowded breaks. Instead, search for spots that provide a soft and crumbly wave to practice on. This will help you level up your surf skills while minimising risks. For more information about surf foiling, click here.

Safety

While foil surfing has opened new ways of riding waves and enjoying the ocean, it carries certain risks. The hydrofoil fin (not a blade, mind you) should not be messed with, especially by an inexperienced surfer.

Foils have long, sharp wings that can cut marine life in half and are equally dangerous to humans. If a surfer loses control and comes down on the foil, it’s a lethal weapon able to inflict severe injuries.

That’s why it’s essential to wear a full wetsuit, impact vest or helmet and to practice foiling only in a safe environment. Foiling behind a boat or jet ski can be a great way to get used to the foil, board, and mast movements. Starting with a short mast and small crumbly waves is also good. That way, you avoid getting dragged by your equipment, and the initial, often brutal wipeouts are minimised.

With so many options on the market, it’s difficult to know where to start. It may sound easy, but buying a backpack for the first time could quickly overwhelm you. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with a backpack that doesn’t suit your needs—or worse, hurts your back.

Types of Backpacks

Backpacks come in all shapes and sizes. The first thing you need to do is decide what type of backpack you want. Do you need a large pack for extended backpacking trips or a smaller daypack for short hikes?

Meanwhile, you could be looking for something intended for a general purpose, i.e., school or work. Keep in mind that your goal of using the backpack has a lot of weight in figuring out which one to buy.

You don’t need a mountaineering backpack to go on a day hike. Conversely, you’ll be miserable carrying a small daypack on your back for days or weeks. 

When you’re ready to buy OutdoorPlay backpacks, look for one that has the following features:

Comfortable Fit

The backpack should fit snugly on your back, with the straps positioned to distribute the weight evenly. The straps should also be adjustable so you can find the perfect fit.

Not many people realize that backpacks can cause back pain if they’re not properly fitted. If you carry a too big or heavy backpack for you, it can strain your back and shoulders. 

So, before you make a purchase, be sure to try on the backpack and adjust the straps. And if you’re buying a backpack for a child, be sure to have them try it on.

A Good Suspension System

A good suspension system is essential for a comfortable backpack. It helps to distribute the pack’s weight evenly and prevents it from pulling you backward. 

Look for a backpack with an adjustable suspension system so you can customize the fit. The suspension system also helps keep the backpack from shifting around as you move, which can throw off your balance and cause pain in your back and shoulders. And be sure to try it out before you buy it to make sure it’s comfortable and feels good when you’re wearing it.

Plenty of Pockets and Compartments

Pockets and compartments are important for organizing your gear. They help keep everything in its place and make it easy to find what you need. 

Look for a backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments, both inside and out. And be sure to check that the zippers are strong and durable.

Padded Straps

This is an important feature, especially if you’ll be carrying a heavy load. Padded straps will help distribute the weight more evenly and prevent the straps from digging into your shoulders. 

Look for straps that are adjustable so you can find the perfect fit. And be sure to check that the padding is comfortable and doesn’t add too much bulk to the backpack.

Water-Resistant Material

If you are using your backpack in wet or humid conditions, look for one made from water-resistant material. This will help to keep your gear dry and protected from the elements.

Some backpacks even come with a built-in rain cover for extra protection. If you plan to use your backpack in extreme conditions, such as mountaineering or backpacking in the rainforest, you’ll need this feature.

Reflective Accents

This is a good feature to look for if you’ll be using your backpack in low-light conditions. Reflective accents help to make you more visible to other people, which can be important for safety.

Furthermore, if you get a backpack with reflective accents, it will help you to find it more easily in the dark. This is especially useful if you’re an avid hiker or hunter who likes to hit the trails early in the morning or late at night.

Price

Of course, price is an important consideration when buying a backpack. But it’s not the most important thing. You can find a great backpack at any price point. So, don’t be afraid to spend a little extra to get a backpack that has all the features you need and want.

Be sure to consider the specific use when weighing how much you intend to spend. For example, if you plan to use your backpack for hunting, you’ll need one specifically designed for that purpose. 

These backpacks tend to be a little more expensive than the average daypack. But they’re worth the investment because they’re built to last and can carry all the gear you need for a successful hunt. 

Final Thoughts

When you’re ready to buy a backpack, keep these things in mind to help you find the perfect one. And be sure to try it on before you make your purchase to ensure a comfortable fit.