Once you can ride upwind on both sides, the next goal is to turn without touching down. Foiling jibes and tacks keep you flying through the whole session — and open the door to toeside riding and the first jumps.
📖 3 min read · Updated September 2026 · By Sergei Sharvarok · Founder & Head Instructor
The Foiling Jibe (Downwind Turn)
- Build speed, then start a smooth carve downwind with pressure on your toes (or heels, depending on direction).
- As you pass downwind, the wing goes light — flip it over your head to the new side.
- Switch hands on the wing, keep carving and bring the board out on the new tack.
- Switch your feet only once the board is stable — or ride out toeside first.
The Foiling Tack (Upwind Turn)
- Carve upwind with speed until the board points almost into the wind.
- Step quickly around the front of the board to the new stance while passing the wing across.
- Power the wing on the new side before the board slows too much.
Tacks need more speed and a quicker footwork than jibes, so most riders learn the jibe first.
Toeside Riding
Riding with your back to the wind (toeside) is often the easiest way to finish a jibe without an immediate foot switch. It also teaches balance that helps every other manoeuvre.
First Jumps
Small jumps come from speed, a pop from the back foot and a sheet-in of the wing at the right moment. Learn over deep water, well away from others, and with a helmet and impact vest.
Common Mistakes
- Turning too slowly — the foil drops before the turn is complete.
- Looking at the wing — look through the turn to where you are going.
- Switching feet too early — stabilise first, then switch.
- Rushing the wing flip — the wing is lightest when you are pointing downwind; flip it there.
Practise each part separately: carve without flipping the wing, flip the wing while taxiing, switch feet on a big board. Put them together only when each piece feels easy.
Advanced Course on Koh Samui
Our advanced wing foil course covers upwind riding, tacks, jibes and toeside riding: 10 hours (5 × 2 h), 20,000 THB, all equipment included — see the IWO wing foil lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I learn to tack or jibe first on a wing foil?
Most riders learn the foiling jibe first — it needs less speed and gives more time for the wing flip.
Why do I drop off the foil in turns?
Usually not enough speed going in, or carving too tightly. Build speed and make the turn wider.
When can I start jumping?
Once you ride upwind and turn confidently on both sides. Start small, over deep water, with a helmet and vest.
How long is the advanced course?
10 hours in five 2-hour lessons, 20,000 THB, with all equipment included.
Turn Without Touching Down
Book the advanced wing foil course on Koh Samui.
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