Step 2
Choosing Your Parawing
You already have a foil, a board, and experience on the water. Now you need a parawing. The good news is that this is likely the only new piece of equipment you need to get started.
Size matters more than brand
The most important decision is size, not brand. Every parawing manufacturer publishes wind range charts based on rider weight, and they are reasonably consistent across brands. Get the wrong size and no amount of skill will save you.
As a rough guide for crossover riders:
| Rider weight | Light wind (10-16 kts) | Medium wind (16-22 kts) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 70 kg | 4.5-5.5 m | 3.0-4.0 m |
| 70-85 kg | 5.0-6.5 m | 4.0-5.0 m |
| 85-100 kg | 6.0-7.0 m | 4.5-5.5 m |
| Over 100 kg | 7.0 m | 5.5-6.5 m |
These are starting points. Your foil size, board volume, and local conditions all factor in. For detailed charts from every brand, read our parawing size guide.
What to look for as a crossover rider
If you have been wingfoiling, you are used to a rigid, handheld wing. A parawing is a different category of equipment. Here is what matters:
Line length and bar setup. Parawing lines are typically 2 to 4 metres long — far shorter than a kite. The exact length varies by brand and model. Shorter lines give quicker response, longer lines offer more depower range. Most parawings come with a fixed line length optimised for the wing size.
Construction type. There are two main types: single-skin (one layer of fabric, lighter, more compact, faster to pack) and double-skin or ram-air (two layers with air cells, better upwind drive, more aerodynamically efficient). No parawing has an inflatable bladder or rigid frame — they are all soft canopy wings.
Ease of relaunch. This varies significantly between brands. Some parawings self-relaunch easily from the water. Others need more technique. If you are riding solo, prioritise this.
Included harness system. Some brands sell the wing and harness/spreader bar as a package. Others sell them separately. Check what you are getting before you buy.
The main brands
There are currently ten brands making parawings, each with a different approach. Here is a quick orientation:
- BRM (BoardRiding Maui) pioneered the sport. Multiple models including the Ka’a, Kanaha, Maliko, and the double-skin Paia. Proven, well-documented, strong community support. Read our BRM review.
- Ozone brings paragliding expertise. The Pocket Rocket is refined and well-engineered. Read our Ozone review.
- F-One entered with the Frigate, targeting riders who want a polished, integrated system. Read our F-One review.
- Duotone launched the Stash, bringing their kite design heritage to parawing foiling. Read our Duotone review.
- Gong offers the Lowkite range at a competitive price point, including single-skin and double-skin options. Read our Gong review.
- Ensis has the Roger, designed with paragliding precision. Read our Ensis review.
- Flysurfer brings their foil kite expertise to the POW. Read our Flysurfer review.
- Flow Paragliders makes the D-Wing, a double-skin design with a reflex airfoil that resists collapse. Read our Flow review.
- Aeryn offers the P1 at an accessible price point. Read our Aeryn review.
- North has the Ranger, one of the most affordable entry points. Read our North review.
For a full comparison of every wing on the market, read our best parawings guide.
One wing or two?
If you are just starting, buy one wing in the size that covers your most common wind conditions. Most crossover riders ride in 10-18 knots, so a mid-range size is the safest bet.
Once you know you enjoy the sport, a second wing for lighter or stronger days makes sense. But do not overbuy upfront. The market is evolving quickly, and next season’s models will likely improve on what is available now.
Where to buy
Availability varies by region. Some brands sell direct, others through dealers. Our where to buy parawing gear guide lists every retailer by region.
Watch: 18 parawings compared
Matt Kauffman (@mattonfoil) reviews 18 different parawings in the most comprehensive comparison available. Covers the Ensis Roger V2, North Ranger, Flysurfer POW, and many more, with detailed analysis of performance, stability, weight, and fit for different skill levels.
Watch: Matt on Foil: 8-parawing comparison with specs
Matt Kaufmann takes a data-driven approach, weighing wings, measuring leading edge thickness, and comparing low-end power, upwind performance, and handling across 8 parawings including the Ensis Roger V2, North Ranger, and Flysurfer POW.
Watch: Understanding parawing components
The Flysurfer POW Academy breaks down the key components of a parawing and how they interact. Even if you are not buying a Flysurfer, understanding leading edge design, bridle systems, and the wind window applies to every parawing on the market.