Riding in light wind is a challenge every kitesurfer faces at some point. But with the right techniques, suitable equipment, and by choosing the right destinations, you can turn calm days into fun sessions on the water. The secret? Embrace disciplines like kitefoil or wingfoil, which allow you to ride as soon as the wind reaches 10 to 12 knots.

In this article, discover the best tips for riding in light wind, the gear to choose, and the ION CLUB destinations where conditions are perfect even when the wind is light.

TECHNIQUES FOR KITESURFING IN LIGHT WIND

1. Optimize Your Position and Glide

The key to riding in light wind is to use the wind’s power efficiently. Keep a more upright position on the board to reduce hull resistance.

• Don’t overload the board: stay light on your feet to ride more efficiently
• Practice kite loops: in light wind, moving the kite in a figure-eight helps maintain enough power

💡 ION CLUB coaching helps you master these moves and improve your technique in marginal conditions.

2. Choose the Right Equipment

Light wind-specific kites are generally:

• Larger (12 to 17 m²) to make the most of the wind

• Lighter, for better performance in these conditions

• With a light but reinforced structure, making relaunching easier

Wide Board or Foil?

• Large and voluminous twin-tip: makes it easier to stay afloat and keep riding smoothly

• Kitefoil: the ultimate weapon for light wind. With the hydrofoil, you can lift off from 8–10 knots and ride effortlessly

Kitefoil is perfect for those who want to maximize every session, even in low wind conditions.

3. Try Wingfoil: The New Light Wind Trend

Wingfoil is becoming one of the best ways to ride in light wind. With a light wing and a foil under the board, you can fly from just 10 knots.

Benefits of wingfoil:

• Easy to learn

• Broad wind range

• Ideal for flat or slightly choppy waters

At ION CLUB, you can learn wingfoil with certified instructors who will guide your first rides or help you improve advanced techniques.

Best ION CLUB Destinations for Light Wind

Some destinations are particularly suitable for light wind kitesurfing, kitefoil, and wingfoil, thanks to stable thermal wind and ideal water conditions. Here are the top ION CLUB spots for light wind days:

1. LE MORNE, MAURITIUS

Le Morne is a top destination for board sports. Along with legendary waves, the lagoon offers perfect conditions for kitefoil and wingfoil, especially in gentle wind.

• Stable thermal wind, ideal for foiling

• Flat and safe lagoon to learn with confidence

• ION CLUB Le Morne offers wingfoil and kitefoil lessons with light wind gear

💡 Enjoy Mauritius between June and November to combine holidays and riding.

2. Golf de Roses, Spain

Golf de Roses is one of the best foil spots on the Catalan coast. Its consistent thermal wind and vast water area make it ideal for kitefoil, wingfoil, and wakefoil.

• Accessible water, perfect for foil progression

• Regular thermal wind from 12 to 20 knots

• ION CLUB offers foil-specific sessions with local wakefoil tryouts

💡 Best time to ride: May to September

3. SAFAGA, EGYPT

Safaga is one of the top foil spots on the Red Sea. Thermal wind blows nearly every day, offering ideal conditions for kitefoil and wingfoil.

• Super flat water – great for wingfoil
• Constant thermal wind between 12 and 20 knots
• ION CLUB Safaga offers foil-specific sessions with premium gear

💡 Ideal riding season: March to November

4. SAL, CAPE VERDE

Sal is a top foil destination in the Atlantic. The island enjoys steady trade winds, perfect for kitefoil and wingfoil.

• Varied waters: flat zones and long swells ideal for foiling
• Constant wind from 15 to 25 knots
• ION CLUB provides kitefoil and wingfoil gear and foil-focused sessions

💡 Best time to ride: November to April

5. FUERTEVENTURA, SPAIN

With over 300 windy days per year, Fuerteventura is a paradise for kitesurf and wingfoil. Costa Calma and Risco del Paso offer protected beaches, great for light wind days.

• Moderate morning wind, great for foil
• Customized ION CLUB lessons for all levels
• Calm seas make wingfoil easier

💡 Best season: April to November with steady thermals

• Always check the forecast – light wind can be unpredictable. Prioritize spots with reliable thermal wind.
• Practice kite relaunch skills – essential for low wind conditions.
• Use a foil – it’s the ultimate solution for maximizing every session in light wind.

With the right techniques, adapted gear, and support from ION CLUB coaching, you can turn light wind days into progression opportunities. Whether you’re in Mauritius, Fuerteventura, or Safaga, each session will reveal a new aspect of the sport… and help you push your limits—even in the gentlest breeze.