Duotone Wing Academy | Mastering the Heel to Toe Jibe

Music is often likened to dance - the rhythm, the flow, the harmonious connection between elements. In the world of wing surfing, one such dance is the heel-to-toe Jibe. This basic maneuver is the first step in mastering control over your board and wing, ultimately leading to limitless flight time.

Preparing for the Heel to Toe Jibe

Music provides an enriching backdrop as we explore the nuances of executing a perfect Jibe. Before venturing into your first Jibe, ensure your body weight is perfectly balanced above the board, with your feet planted securely on the center line.

Initiation of the Jibe

With a reasonable amount of speed gained, gently shift your weight towards your toes to direct the board downwind. Just before the board is completely pointing downwind, release your backhand. Simultaneously, maneuver the wing slightly downwind of you, positioning it above your head using your front hand. Continue to steer through the Jibe in a consistent radius, merely surfing the foil.

Navigating Through the Jibe

About eighty percent into the Jibe, it's time to change hands. Reach out to the front of the boom, or the front handle, with your free hand, then move your other hand towards the back of the boom or the rear handle. Position the wing at a 45-degree angle, both above and ahead of you.

Finishing the Jibe

At this stage, you have two options, depending on your skill level:

1. For beginners, lean your weight forward to bring the board down to the water's surface. Upon making contact with the water, promptly switch your feet and reignite the wing to regain speed for a quick take-off. For more details, refer to our video "Switching Feet, Touching Down".
2. For the more experienced riders, try maintaining flight by empowering your wing to regain speed, flying into the new direction - toe side. For further assistance, our "Riding Toeside" video can be helpful.

Patience is Key

While it might take some time to master flying through your Jibes, don't be discouraged. Once you've mastered this move, the toe to heel Jibe will be a breeze.

Key Elements to Remember

Finally, let's recap the key elements of the heel to toe Jibe:

1. Gain speed while ensuring your feet are positioned on the board's center line.
2. Turn downwind and release your back hand.
3. Elevate the wing above your head, directing it into the new riding path.
4. Switch hands on the boom while maintaining a 45-degree wing angle.
5. Complete the Jibe by either touching down (for beginners) or maintaining flight (for advanced riders).