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Foiling (or foil surfing) is one of the most exciting developments in modern watersports. A hydrofoil - a long hydrodynamic fin with underwater wings - is attached to the underside of a board. As you gain speed, the wings generate lift and raise the board clear of the water's surface, giving you the sensation of flying above the water rather than sliding through it. Many riders describe it as snowboarding through deep powder or floating on a cloud.

It spans multiple disciplines including surf foiling, wing foiling, kite foiling, downwind foiling, SUP foiling, and e-foiling. Read more in our complete guide to foil surfing.

All foiling disciplines use the same core hydrofoil technology - a board fitted with an underwater wing that generates lift and raises you above the water's surface - but the way you generate power differs:

• Wing Foiling — you hold an inflatable handheld wing to harness wind power. No lines, no attachment to the board — just you and the wing. The most accessible entry point into foiling and one of the fastest growing watersports in the world.
• Kite Foiling — a large kite on lines generates power, similar to kitesurfing but on a foil board. Capable of significantly higher speeds than wing foiling and highly technical to master.
• Surf Foiling — wave energy propels you with no external power source. You paddle or pump onto a wave and ride the foil's momentum. The purest and most challenging form of foiling.
• Downwind Foiling — you harness ocean swell and wind energy to cover long distances without paddling. Can be done prone, on a SUP, or with a wing. One of the most technically demanding disciplines but delivers an unmatched sensation of gliding across open ocean.

Read more in our guide to foiling disciplines.

Foiling is a high-intensity, high-impact sport that demands gear built for both performance and protection. Vaikobi designs tops, pants, and safety gear specifically for wing foiling, surf foiling, downwind foiling, and kite foiling, across two core ranges:

• UV Clothing — UPF50+ sun protection for warm water sessions, including rashies and UV tops that won't weigh you down if you hit the water
• Thermal Clothing — warmth and wind protection for cooler conditions, with layering options to suit the temperature

Given the frequency of falls in foiling, an impact vest or PFD is strongly recommended alongside your clothing — even for experienced foilers. Read more in our guide to foil surfing gear and safety, or shop the full foiling range.

The V4 Ocean Racing PFD is Vaikobi's most popular choice for foiling - lightweight, breathable, and built for freedom of movement with no side panels to restrict your arm movement. It features a hydration bladder pocket for longer sessions and comes in high-visibility fluro colours, making it ideal for offshore downwind runs. ISO 12402-5 certified. See the full foiling PFD range.

At minimum, a bump hat and a PFD or impact vest are non-negotiable for foiling - even for experienced athletes. The foil mast is rigid and sharp, and falls at speed can result in serious impact with the water or foil hardware.

Vaikobi's Impact Protection Series includes:

• V-Impact Vest: a slimline front-zip impact vest with segmented foam panels and flexible neoprene that protects your chest and back during crashes without restricting movement. Harness-friendly with a removable spine pad. Note: not ISO certified as a PFD.
• Bump Hat: EN 812 certified head protection with 6mm moulded foam. Essential for protecting against contact with the mast and foil hardware. Our bump hats comes in three styles: Bucket, Hydro (with cord or strap) and Surf (with strap).

Foiling exposes you to intense sun and reflected UV off the water for extended sessions — so UPF50+ coverage is essential. Vaikobi's UV range has three key options for foilers:

• Hooded Rashies — the most popular choice for foilers. A close-fitting stretch lycra top with an integrated hood and foam-reinforced mini peak to protect your face and neck from direct and reflected UV. Extremely lightweight with minimal water absorption, so it won't weigh you down when you hit the water. Features a rear zip pocket for stashing essentials on longer sessions.

• Long Sleeve Rashies — the same close-fit lycra construction without the hood. Sits tight against the body like a second skin, preventing equipment abrasion and providing full arm and torso UV protection. A great option for foilers who prefer a cooler feel or already wear a hat for head coverage.

• UV Ocean Tech Tees — made from Vaikobi's VLight technical fabric, the Ocean Tech range has a slightly more relaxed fit than a rashie. Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, ideal for foilers who want a top that works on and off the water. Available in short sleeve, long sleeve, hooded, and ¼ zip styles.

For full sun protection on the water, pair with VIZE+ polarised sunglasses and a Vaikobi hat/visor or bump hat. Shop the full UV range.