What is an eFoil? How much does one cost? [2022 Update] – WindFoil Zone

Foil surfing is one of the newest and most exciting extreme sports. It’s taking surfers to formerly unknown waves and offering unforgettable sessions on days that were formerly unrideable.

The board flies above the ocean’s surface due to a hydrofoil, which creates lift similar to an airplane wing. This allows surfers to catch even the smallest waves. 

An eFoil is a surfboard with an electric propeller just above the wing of the hydrofoil, which powers the board to move through any water. The eFoil is powered by a nearly silent electric motor and rechargeable battery. It’s controlled by a handheld wireless remote that syncs to the eFoil via Bluetooth.

The eFoil rider doesn’t need to paddle for waves or pump with their legs to keep the board in motion. An eFoil is basically the world’s smallest personal, motorized watercraft.

How Much Does an eFoil Cost?

Complete eFoil setups vary in price anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000. Similar to surfing, the price of the board is based on the quality, technology, and size you’re seeking. There are currently two major brands in the sport of eFoiling — Lift Foils and Flite Board. Both companies are known for providing quality foil setups with excellent warranties and a variety of safety and performance features. For a more complete list, check out our article on the best eFoils on the market.

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Lift Foils

The Lift company has spent more than 10 years developing top-quality eFoil setups. The motors are silent, emission-free, and can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. Lift eFoils can run for up to 90 minutes at a time, and the rechargeable battery needs just 20 minutes to reach full capacity for another session. 

Right now, Lift Foils offers four eFoil models; the eFoil 4’4″ Pro Model, the eFoil 5’0″ Sport, the eFoil 5’6″ Cruiser, and the eFoil 6’2″ Explorer. Each model can be purchased with one of four-wing options, which can be chosen based on the type of eFoiling you wish to do. Those who want superior stability and lift will prefer the 250 Surf wing, while those who want the highest levels of maneuverability and speed will prefer the 110 Classic. Consult the Lift eFoiling experts if you’re concerned about which foil model or wing is best for you.

All Lift eFoil models start at a price of $12,000 plus shipping and tax. 

Flite Foils

The Flite eFoil company was stated by David Trewern, an Australian who has been windsurfing and surfing his entire life. His years of racing hydrofoil kiteboards combined with years of software and design experience is what has driven Trewern to create one of the best eFoils on the market. 

Flite currently offers three models; the Fliteboard, Fliteboard PRO, Fliteboard Ultra, and Fliteboard Air. Flite also offers the purchase of the eFoil board and the propulsion system separately, so you can customize your package. All models of the Fliteboard are available for a price of $12,935 plus tax and shipping.

Other Brand Options

The eFoil market is becoming flooded with brands offering eFoil setups for drastically lower prices than Flite and Lift. However, these boards are typically available via Alibaba.com and do not come with any quality or warranty guarantees. We suggest reading reviews, thoroughly researching, and consulting your local eFoil retailer to determine which brand and type of eFoil is best for you. 

Try Before You Buy

The sport of eFoiling is becoming increasingly popular, and this means there are more chances to try an eFoil before you spent upwards of $12,000 on one. The Lift brand website allows you to search your location to find a Lift representative near you. These representatives allow you to test the eFoil experience before buying. Flite offers their unique Fliteschool, which allows those interested in eFoiling to try the sport and advance their skills.

EFoil experiences are also popping up in tourist destinations around the globe. Many destinations offer eFoil rentals, which allow you to enjoy the eFoil experience and discover if it’s the water sport for you. 

The Future of Water Sports

EFoiling is often deemed the “future of water sports.” The unique propulsion system can reach speeds of up to 20-28 mph, depending on the type of eFoil you purchase. The electric motor can typically run up to one hour, but this timeframe can vary based on the size of the rider and the speed they wish to travel. 

The sport of eFoiling is becoming increasingly popular around the globe, and is serving as a unique substitute for other personal watercraft. Unlike jet skis, eFoils are silent and environmentally conscious. Unlike surfing, eFoiling does not rely entirely on weather conditions. EFoiling allows you to get on the water more often, move at faster speeds, and enjoy a unique feeling that is described as a mixture of floating and flying. 

Frequently Asked Questions About eFoiling

Can anyone eFoil?

The sport of eFoiling is not recommended for everyone. The experts at Lift suggest that the sport is for participants 16 years old and up. Most eFoil boards can handle riders of up to 250 pounds, so surfers who are over this limit, should consult with the maker of the board they desire before purchasing.
Keep in mind that heavier riders will experience slower foiling speeds and a shorter battery lifespan. 

Is eFoiling dangerous?

EFoiling is not an extremely difficult sport, and even the newest beginners will find that eFoils are easy to use. You’ll likely fall off of the board several times throughout the learning process; however, most eFoil models are designed to automatically turn off when the controller trigger is released or the controller touches the water. 
Experts always suggest using protective equipment, including a helmet, booties, and a life vest to avoid injury when using an eFoil. 

Do eFoils require maintenance?

Quality eFoil setups are designed to resist corrosion and other damage caused by water. They generally require little to no maintenance but should be cleaned thoroughly with fresh water after every use. Store your eFoil in a shaded, dry place until your next session and always inspect it for damage before use. 

Is eFoiling similar to snowboarding or surfing?

EFoiling is a very different sport from surfing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and other board sports. However, balancing and turning the board requires a lot of the same skills. Experience in other board sports will likely help you master eFoiling more quickly, but you don’t need any experience to get started. 

Where can I ride an eFoil?

EFoiling can be enjoyed on any body of water, from lakes to rivers and the ocean. You do not need waves to propel the eFoil, as the motor performs the propulsion for you. Use your eFoil to discover unique marine wildlife, explore new waterways, or to surf ocean waves. The opportunities are endless when you’re able to fly above just about any body of water. 
The only limitation is how deep the water is. It should be as deep as the mast of the eFoil so you can’t bottom out, which will cause you to crash and possibly damage the wing of your foil.