How do I crash safely with the Foil Assist?Updated 2 months ago
Falling off the board is part of the game, especially during the learning process. There are several key warnings and tips to keep in mind to help prevent serious or even fatal injuries.
Understanding the risks
Using the Foil Assist involves specific risks, including:
- Sharp edges: The mast and wings have sharp edges that can cause injuries during falls.
- Rotating propeller: The propeller blades are sharp and spin at high speed and with considerable force.
- Leash and eHarness: The board leash attached to your waist harness keeps the board and foil close to you when you fall.
Prioritizing safety
While falls are inevitable, the right safety gear can significantly reduce the impact. Essential gear includes:
- Helmet: Crucial for protecting your head from injuries upon impact.
- Wetsuit and impact vest: Offers extra protection against the sharp edges of the foil.
Tips to crash safely
1. Let go of the ring controller immediately
When you feel yourself beginning to fall, let go of the ring controller immediately. This will stop the propeller and prevent the board from shooting toward you, other people, or objects in the water. Practice this by performing an emergency stop. You can do this from a lying, kneeling, or standing position, whether you are cruising or foiling. Begin by accelerating, then release the controller and shift your weight slightly back to maintain balance.
2. Commit to the fall
If your board starts to tip, don’t try to save it by leaning in the opposite direction. This can often lead to landing directly on the foil. Instead, allow yourself to fall with the board at almost a 90-degree angle, ensuring the foil stays directed away from you. Avoid jumping off the board, as this can cause the board to spin awkwardly, bringing the foil dangerously close to you.
3. Ride at a comfortable speed
While learning, use a larger front wing and take it slow. Crashing at high speeds can be painful. Larger wings are generally slower, more forgiving, and have rounder edges.
4. Avoid too much pressure on your back foot
When getting up on foil, putting too much pressure on your back foot can cause the foil to shoot out of the water and toward you. Practice taking off, flying low and only for short distances, then aim to land gently on the water. Shift your weight forward to help the board touch down smoothly.
5. Ride within your limits
Avoid strong winds, heavy shore breaks, and choppy waters. Stay away from crowded areas. Flatwater and gentle waves are your best friends.
6. Don't use front footstraps in the beginning
The larger sizes of the Midfish boards come with optional front footstrap placements. While footstraps can provide better control, they can also pose a risk if your foot gets stuck during a fall, leading to twisted ankles or worse injuries. It is advisable to avoid using them until you feel more confident.
7. Risks of the board leash
The Foil Assist must be used with a board leash to prevent over-extension and potential damage to the power cable. One clear advantage of the leash is that it keeps your board within reach after a fall, reducing the risk of losing it in the water. However, this also means the board and foil remain close to you when you fall, which can increase the chance of impact. For this reason, wearing proper protective gear such as a helmet and impact vest is essential. In the event of a fall, raise your arms above your head to protect it.
8. Dodge the harness during heavy wipe-outs
If you find yourself in a heavy wipe-out and need to get away from the foil, dodge the harness by pulling on the red quick-release safety strap. A loose foil can pose a danger to other people in the water, so make sure to maintain a safe distance from swimmers, surfers, divers, and others in the area when using the Foil Assist.
Over time, you will gain a better understanding of how your board and foil will react during a crash. So, if you sense a fall coming, remember especially these two tips: let go of the ring controller and go with the fall.