Reasons to use straps:
- Increased control: Straps provide a secure connection between your feet and the board, giving you better control over the foil and the board itself. This is especially important when riding at higher speeds or in choppy conditions.
- Stability: Straps help to stabilize your feet on the board, reducing the likelihood of slipping or losing balance, which is crucial when riding a foil board, as the balance dynamics are quite different from regular surfboards or kiteboards.
- Ability to push boundaries: With the added stability and control that straps provide, riders can push their limits and try more advanced maneuvers, such as jumps, aerials, and aggressive turns, knowing that their feet are securely attached to the board.
- Energy efficiency: By keeping your feet firmly in place, straps allow you to exert less energy trying to maintain balance, which can lead to longer sessions on the water and less fatigue.
- Learning aid: For beginners, straps can be helpful in learning how to ride a foil board, as they provide a sense of security and make it easier to focus on mastering the foil without worrying about foot placement.
However, it’s worth noting that using straps on a foil board is a matter of personal preference, and some riders may prefer the freedom of riding strapless, especially for certain styles of riding such as wave foiling.
Reasons to not use straps with a foil board:
- Freedom of movement: Riding strapless allows for greater freedom of movement, enabling riders to adjust their stance and foot position more easily. This can be particularly advantageous for maneuvers such as pumping, carving, and riding waves, where the ability to shift your weight dynamically can enhance performance.S
- Preference for a challenge: For experienced riders seeking a greater challenge or a different sensation on the water, riding strapless can offer a more engaging and dynamic experience. It requires a higher level of skill and balance to maintain control without the added stability provided by straps, which can be rewarding for those looking to test their abilities.
- Variety in riding style: Some riders enjoy the versatility of being able to switch between riding with straps and riding strapless, depending on the conditions or their mood. Riding strapless allows for a different style of riding and opens up opportunities for experimentation and creativity on the water.
- Preference for simplicity: Straps add complexity to the setup of a foil board, requiring adjustments to be made for individual preferences in foot placement and strap tension. Some riders may prefer the simplicity and minimalist aesthetic of riding without straps.
I personally use straps to learn new tricks then go back to strapless. Pumping with out straps is definitely easier. Try both to find out what your preference is!