Eleveight WFS V2 tested in 5m by Fanch.

Eleveight WFS V2 5m 2022 wing foil wing test.

Unboxing this new model year reveals a meticulous finish; the wing feels quite stiff, and its profile is fairly shallow.

I first tested this Eleveight WFS V2 wing foil wing in challenging conditions: 18-knot winds, chaotic chop, and an oversized foil. I couldn't form an objective opinion, as gusts frequently caught the wing from the wrong side.

MORE INFO ON THE WFS v2

For the second test, the wind was 12-15 knots from the northeast, and the sea was relatively calm with small, occasionally surfable swells.

Choosing a boom for your Eleveight WFS V2 wing foil wing comes down to personal preference. When you're starting out, a boom is genuinely reassuring. It lets you slide your hands during maneuvers and various flight phases. In transitions, it helps pivot the wing more easily and gives a sensation of wing stiffness. The downside is the slight extra weight it adds to the wing, which you'll need to accept. As for wings with handles, you'll find a huge variety: thick, thin, long, short, with some being soft, and everything in between (yes, I'm talking about the handles themselves!).).

This wing foil wing features a boom and windows. Personally, I find the windows reassuring, even if visibility isn't perfect; they help monitor downwind. The first thing you'll notice is the boom "protrudes" like an outgrowth, and initially, I worried about my board. After two sessions, this fear dissipated, and the protrusion no longer concerns me. On the WFS, the boom remains permanently rigged, so you won't forget it, and it's one less thing to carry on the beach when you're parked far away! However, this means an elongated travel bag that's less practical than the backpacks offered by competitors.

While riding, I noticed that the ends of the boom, especially the luff, could use a small neoprene protection to safeguard hands and the board. During transitions and surfing, I often hold the boom by its end (luff), and I find it a bit uncomfortable, but you get used to it.

Jibes require passing through a progressive stall to help pivot the wing. Otherwise, you'll need to force it a bit to get it through. Once you get the hang of it, it's not a problem; it's reminiscent of windsurfing.

Every transfer maneuver is a breeze because the wing doesn't pull you backward when you change tack. It's a real pleasure to ride. You'll also find riding upwind incredibly easy with this wing.

My first freefly experience in strong wind was a bit mixed. I found the Leading Edge handle too soft, and the wing sometimes fluttered. This time, I didn't experience that at all. I think it's incredibly stable when positioned correctly in line with the wind. The Eleveight WFS V2 wing foil wing performs exceptionally well in the air during jumps, which is a huge plus. When pumping in light wind, I expected a bit more punch, but I was using a small foil. I'll need to try again with a foil better suited for 12 knots. While riding, the wing is quite pleasant, but it quickly reminds you if you make a mistake. The wing pushes against you, demanding vigilance. I believe this is due to the profile, which makes transfers, upwind riding, and sailing upwind so effortless.

The Eleveight WFS V2 wing foil wing is a bit disconcerting at first. I think the emphasis has been on performance, which requires a short adaptation period. Once you've adjusted, you'll enjoy a rather fast and efficient wing upwind. The windows are well placed, and the quality is undeniable. Its taut profile, which gives it its upwind performance, requires good vigilance from its rider.

MORE INFO on the WFS v2

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