Wing SUPing is an exciting blend of stand-up paddleboarding and wind-powered sailing, using a lightweight inflatable wing to harness the wind and cruise across the water. It’s a thrilling, surprisingly accessible way to add wind power to your paddleboarding sessions, no prior sailing experience required.
All you need is a SUP board (or even a longboard) and a handheld inflatable wing. While foils are popular with wings, you don’t need one to start. With the right wind conditions and some balance, you can glide with ease, no waves or motors necessary.
Step 1: Master the Basics
Before adding the wing, get comfortable paddling your SUP while standing. Balance is key, start without the sail, then practice holding it. A board with fins or a daggerboard helps keep you on course and prevents drifting straight downwind.
Step 2: Choose the Right Gear
To begin, pick a smaller wing, around 4 meters is perfect for beginners in 15-knot winds. Don’t skip safety gear: use leashes for both your board and wing to avoid chasing them if you fall.
Step 3: Add the Wing
Start on your knees. Grab the wing’s handles and let it hover above you, keep it neutral so the tips don’t dip into the water. Once balanced, shift to your feet: rear foot first for stability, then step your front foot forward. Keep both near the centerline for control.
Step 4: Learn to Turn
Turning is the trickiest part. To turn into the wind (tack), lean back and pull the wing behind you. To go downwind (jibe), lean forward and push the wing ahead. It’s easier to start turns while kneeling.
Quick Tips for Success
- Use the wing for balance and steering, your rear hand controls power.
- Keep your grip relaxed to avoid fatigue.
- Point your body where you want to go.
- Always position the wing so the wind hits the front edge first.
Wing SUPing is pure freedom on the water, simple, powerful, and endlessly fun. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever paddled without wind!