I finally crossed over to the Dark Side and started foiling. I am using the Hoverglide NF2 with the Slingshot Simulator board. I've only been out 2 sessions so far, but they were loads of fun. My initial impressions are that the equipment combination will be perfect for me. The board is larger, but I'm tall and, as a beginner, I really like the extra volume and size. The NF2 seems easy to ride. I'm getting long rides on the foil in both directions and will begin working on basic transitions next session.
I delayed taking the plunge primarily because I kept hearing about how hard it is to learn to foil. So far, I haven't had that experience. I've been kiting 12 years, have advanced twintip skills, and beginner level skills on a directional. From what I'd been told, I honestly expected to get beat up badly in my first foil session. After 30 minutes of surface riding, I was able to lift up on the foil and get some nice long rides. I'm using a 24" mast, and wouldn't want to start with a shorter mast.
My advice to anyone thinking about foiling is similar to junebug's. Give it a try. You may find that the first session is a lot easier than you expect. If you do try it, my (beginner's perspective) advice for the initial sessions is:
1. Stay relaxed.
2. Stay focused on your front foot. I don't need a lot of front foot pressure with my setup, but I do need to focus on my front foot to avoid reverting to twin-tip muscle memory.
3. Go out in moderate wind 13-15 knots with a large enough kite to make it easy to pop up on your board.
4. Use a short mast (24") and, when on foil, try to ride roughly 12" over the water.
5. Stay relaxed.
So far, I'm pretty excited about this new toy. If I can learn to transition, I expect it will become addictive quickly.
