Inflatable wingboards are made of PVC materials and can be inflated with a pump. They usually come in their own backpack and are easy to transport. They are often somewhat lighter, cheaper and less sensitive to damage than hardboards. However, due to their design, softboards do not offer the same directness/power transmission. In addition, the shape of the underwater hull cannot be adjusted as with hardboards, which can have a noticeable effect on the planing behavior and touch-downs.
Inflatable boards are particularly recommended for beginners and intermediates, who usually do not yet have access to the full performance potential of a board, as well as for people who travel a lot. If in doubt, it is advisable to choose a board one volume class higher in order to balance out the planing behavior and stability compared to a hardboard.
Choosing the right board volume:
Beginners: body weight plus 30 to 40 liters
For beginner boards, we recommend a volume that is 30 liters, or even 40 liters above body weight if one does not have relevant previous experience.
Intermediate: body weight = board volume
For many wingsurfers, we recommend a board volume that roughly corresponds to their own body weight. If you are wingsurfing on gusty inland waters, frequently go out on the water at the lower wind limit or have to take the shallow water depth into account, you should plan for a few liters more, or even significantly more depending on your spot.
Advanced: Weight minus 15 liters and more
As soon as you choose a volume that is significantly less than your own body weight, you should be able to perform basic maneuvers safely. You should also be able to sit-start and have a good pumping technique. The smaller the board, the more compromises you must make in lighter winds. Best for: agility of the board, jumping and freestyle moves.
Different foil boxes:
The board is connected to the foil via the foil box. A distinction is made between the double US box (track solution), which has now largely become the standard, and the deep tuttle box. The double US box consists of two rectangular tracks that are embedded in the board and on which the foil can be freely positioned via a base plate. The design enables precise adjustment of the foil position and therefore gives flexibility when trimming board and foil. With the deep tuttle box, the mast is inserted into a slot in the board via an attachment.
The type of foil box installed should be taken into account when putting together the foil.
