Kitesoul Magazine #21 International Edition

70
ITW
Charles Bertrand: "No boring days in F-One!"
CHARLES, YOU ARE ALSO A GOOD RIDER. CAN YOU GIVE
SOME SUGGESTIONS TO THOSE BEGINNERS WHO WANT
TO PUT A FOOT IN THE FOIL DISCIPLINE?
First advice would be to start with the right gear: a short
mast (55 or 65cm) and a large wing (1000/1200cm).
When you want to buy yourself some gear you might
want to go for a longer mast (90cm) and an average
size wing (800/1000) so, it’s good to use a school to
learn with the right gear or perhaps rent a beginner
foil through a shop. When you’re all geared up, be prepare
to change your habits. Foiling takes some front
foot pressure which isn’t always very natural for some
riders that have been pushing on their back legs for
many years. But if you accept to change your way, you
will be just fine. Start on a day with enough wind to
relaunch your kite without too much hassle and before
trying to fly, take some time to ride while keeping firmly
the board in the water. When you are familiar with
the stance and leg balance to keep the board in the
water for a bit of time, let it come out gently and let the
magic happen.