eFoil vs Wingfoil: Which Water Sport Should a Beginner Try in Miami?

eFoil vs Wingfoil: Which Water Sport Should a Beginner Try in Miami?

When I first moved to Miami 10 years ago, I was here to chase the wind—teaching kitesurfing every chance I got. But as any local will tell you, the wind isn’t always there when you want it. That’s when I started looking for something I could teach on the no-wind days.

That search led me to eFoils—electric hydrofoils that let anyone fly above the water, powered by a quiet motor instead of the breeze. Then, a few years later, wingfoiling hit the scene. It was wind-driven, pure, and technical… but also incredibly fun. The two sports couldn’t be more different—but both offer a unique way to fly across Miami’s crystal-clear water.

If you’re new to both and wondering which to try first—this guide will break it all down: gear, learning curve, safety, cost, and local Miami spots. Let’s help you pick your perfect ride.

 

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What is the difference between an eFoil and a wingfoil?

An eFoil is a battery-powered board that lifts you out of the water with a remote throttle—no wind required. A wingfoil is a foil board powered by holding an inflatable wing to catch the breeze.

With an eFoil, you simply press the throttle and ride. With a wingfoil, you're managing power, balance, and wind—all at once.

 

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Is eFoil easier to learn than wingfoil?

Yes. Most people can stand and fly on an eFoil within 1 hour or less. Some teens figure it out in just 30 minutes with the right instruction. Some older students might take 3 hours. You’re riding, falling, laughing, and usually flying—all in one afternoon.

Wingfoiling takes more time to master. Most beginners start with beach drills, then practice kneeling, and finally attempt water starts and foiling over several sessions. Its more of a commitment and often takes 2 or 3 lessons to become self-sufficient. That said, everyone is different so it always depends on the student. 

Average Beginner Learning Time:

eFoil: 2–3 hours to confident riding

Wingfoil: 6–10+ hours depending on wind and gear

 Book your first eFoil lesson today and fly in a single session. Or give wingfoil lessons a try! 

 

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Do you need wind to wingfoil?

Yes. Wingfoil requires steady wind—ideally 15–20 knots—to get up and ride. No wind = no ride. We can teach you how to ride without the foil in 10 knots so there is some grace for the first lesson or so. When it’s time to get up on the foil, you will want at least 15 - 20 knots or it will be difficult. 

 eFoils don’t need wind at all. You can ride them any day, in any calm water. That’s why eFoiling is the go-to choice for Miami's lightwind days and visitors who want a guaranteed session. We love to set wing students up on the eFoil to learn basic foil control. It helps way more than you think. 

 

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What’s the best spot in Miami to learn each sport?

 eFoil Locations:

Calm canals in North Miami Beach

Read our full guide on the different locations here.

Protected zones near Virginia Key

These areas are ideal for powered learning—flat water, no current, low chop.

 Wingfoil Locations:

Biscayne Bay (especially from Key Biscayne)

Crandon Park (great wind exposure)

Check out our full guide on where to eFoil in Miami

These spots offer wide-open water and side-onshore wind exposure—perfect for wing drills and progression.

 

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How much does it cost to do a lesson?

💸 Want to learn more? Explore our lesson packages →

 

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Which sport is safer for beginners?

eFoiling is generally safer for total beginners:

No wind or waves required

Built-in speed limiters and motor cutoff

Falls are low-impact into water

We provide helmet + flotation vest for every rider

Wingfoiling is still safe—but it adds variables like gusts, board swing, and wind drift. It's better suited for those with some board sport experience or who want a challenge.

 

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What are the benefits of eFoiling?

Freedom: Ride anytime on calm water

Social: Group rides, photo ops, and shared stoke

Fitness: Balance and leg strength without hard impact

Confidence:  Progress quickly and feel in control

Adventure: Cruise canals, bays, and sandbars with no wind required

eFoiling is like riding a silent, electric surfboard that floats above the water—it’s one of the most surreal feelings you’ll ever have.

 

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What should you bring to your first lesson?

eFoil:

- Swimwear or board shorts

- Sunscreen

- Towel

- That’s it — we provide the helmet, vest, and all the gear

Wingfoil:

- Same as above, but bring a rash guard or windbreaker if it’s breezy

- Booties or water shoes optional, depending on launch site

 

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eFoil vs Wingfoil: Quick Comparison Chart

 

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So... Which Should You Try First?

If you're looking for pure fun, fast progression, and guaranteed ride time, go with the eFoil. No wind, no frustration—just throttle and fly.

If you're chasing a wind-driven challenge, love the purity of no motor, and don’t mind the extra sessions to get it right, wingfoiling is for you.

Either way, we’ve got you covered.

 Book Your First Ride Now

 Book an eFoil Lesson → eFoil Lessons in Miami 
  Book a Wingfoil Lesson → Wing Foil Lessons in Miami 

Or check out our full lesson packages to see what’s best for you or your crew.

 

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FAQ 

Q: How long until I fly on my eFoil?
 A: Most people fly an eFoil in ~2 hours. Teens often do it in under 60 minutes. Seniors might take 2 hours. 

Q: Do I need wind or waves?
 A: Not with an eFoil—just flat water. Wingfoil does need 12–20 knot wind depending on the stage of your lesson. 

Q: What do I need to bring to efoil and wingfoil lessons in Miami?
A: Just sunscreen, a towel, and boardshorts—we’ve got the rest covered.

 

Written by Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic and Chris Bobryk.  

Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, digital marketing expert and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. The founder of Rygo Labs an agency specializing in SEO and SGE for websites. He's An avid waterman, he's passionate and knowledgeable about all things watersports from wing foil to wake. When he's not writing articles, you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym.