foilboard

A foilboard is a board used in hydrofoil sports that carries a winged foil beneath the board. When the board reaches sufficient speed, the foil generates lift, raising the board and rider above the water surface. This reduces drag and allows sustained glide at speeds that would plane a conventional board.

A typical foilboard comprises two subsystems: the board and the hydrofoil. The board resembles a short surfboard or stand-up paddleboard, often with a textured deck and foot straps. The hydrofoil consists of a mast mounted to the board, a fuselage, and two wings—a large front wing and a smaller stabilizing rear wing. The foil is usually adjustable in height to optimize takeoff and ride height for different riders and water conditions.

Operation involves accelerating or using wind or a tow, then lifting off once lift exceeds weight. The rider can steer by shifting weight and adjusting board orientation; height can be adjusted by trimming the foil and changing stance. The result is a quiet, smooth ride with reduced spray and drag, capable of long-distance travel and rapid acceleration relative to non-foil boards.

Uses include windfoil (powered by wind with a sail), kitefoil (towed by a kite), foil surf, and foil stand-up paddleboarding (SUP foil). Variants differ in board size, foil wings, and mounting systems; some foils are detachable for travel, while others are integrated into the board.

History and development: hydrofoil technology originated earlier but gained popularity in the 2010s as brands introduced consumer foils and training gear. The sport is evolving with new wing designs, lighter materials, and improved safety gear. Training, appropriate protective equipment, and suitable water conditions are important for new riders.