Wing foiling winter safety: leashes. A reminder.

Stand up paddle boarding is going through a well documented and publicised safety drive currently. There’s a real issue surrounding all manner of SUP safety points with SUP leashes, and wearing the correct type, being at the forefront of the conversation.

Pics: Oli Lane-Pearce, Mike Pringuer.

But why are we talking SUP safety when this is a post about wing foiling? Mostly because we would hate to see winging suffer the same fate. During this summer (2022) there were a number of reports about wing board leashes and wing tethers failing. In most cases, riders got away unscathed. Some assistance was needed for a couple of foilers whilst others managed to self rescue. And that’s a big point. Most wing foilers have prior watersports experience and do have the nouse and know how to self rescue.

We are, however, heading towards the cooler months (in the UK at least). There’s certainly more chance of scoring great wing foiling conditions. But water and air temperatures will certainly drop. It’s therefore worth reiterating the importance of using quality leashes for both your wing and wing board. The last thing anyone wants is to be swimming in the brine, far from shore, with kit malfunction. Gear does break sometimes, it just happens. But narrowing the averages is worth doing.

Using a quality leash from a trusted brand will limit the variables. As will checking your gear frequently. Not just leashes but everything should be given a once over before going afloat. This is good practice at the best of times – not just the off season. And whilst this post is predominantly about wing foiling the same goes for all foiling disciplines and the kit you use.

https://foilshop.co.uk/product-category/accessories/

We have a choice of leashes in our accessories section (hit the link above). But if you need help with anything get in touch to discuss.

Don’t forget to check out our other wing foiling safety tips article here.