A foil is a hard, fast wing under the water, and in the first sessions you will fall a lot. The right gear and a few habits make those falls a non-event. Here is what to wear, why, and how to fall well.
📖 3 min read · Updated September 2026 · By Sergei Sharvarok · Founder & Head Instructor
The Essential Kit
- Helmet — protects against the board and foil in a fall. Standard in every Kite Club lesson.
- Impact vest — buoyancy and protection for the ribs and back.
- Wing leash — keeps the wing attached to your wrist or waist so it cannot blow away.
- Board leash — keeps the board close; a coiled leash avoids tangling with the foil.
- Foil and mast covers — for carrying and storing, so edges do not damage the board or people on the beach.
How to Fall
- Fall away from the foil — sideways or backwards, never over the front of the board.
- Let go of the wing and let it drift on its leash.
- Protect your head with your arms if you fall near the board.
- Surface calmly and locate the board and foil before swimming back.
Where to Ride
- In water deeper than the mast, well away from swimmers, boats and moorings.
- In cross-shore or cross-onshore wind, never offshore.
- Inside the riding area your instructor sets for the day.
Kite Club has no rescue boat. Safety in our lessons comes from instructor supervision, a defined riding zone close to the beach and beach support — an instructor or beach boy can assist in case of an incident.
Safety in Our Lessons
Helmet and impact vest are included in every IWO wing foil lesson, and the first part of the intro is about wing control and safe falls. On Koh Samui we teach at Nahai Beach from December to April and at Nathon Beach from May to October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a helmet for wing foiling?
We strongly recommend it and it is standard in all Kite Club lessons. Falls near the board and foil are common while learning.
Is wing foiling dangerous?
It is safe with the right gear and habits: helmet and impact vest, falling away from the foil, riding in a set area in onshore-side wind.
What is the most important safety habit?
Always fall away from the foil and never over the front of the board.
Is safety gear included in lessons?
Yes. Helmet, impact vest and leashes are included in every Kite Club wing foil lesson.