Meet waterwoman Jessica Gent! Jessica is an accomplished wingfoiler and water sports enthusiast based on the South Coast of the UK. With a background in kiting and a passion for wave riding, Jessica has transitioned into wingfoiling, sharing her love for the sport. Alongside her husband Neal, a supportive local community and fantastic brands, Jessica continues to push her limits and inspire others in the world of wingfoiling. Dive into her exclusive interview with Jen Tyler right here.

Hi Jess, it’s great to have you here! We have loads to ask you, but let's start from the beginning! How did you first get into wingfoiling, and what drew you to the sport? You were kiting for a long time before that. Do you still kite?

I first got into wingfoiling when it first emerged; I was immediately drawn to its accessibility and being able to get out in various states of tide. Before that, I had been kite foiling, but my progress could have been more impressive. Transitioning to winging opened up exciting opportunities for wave riding and made manoeuvres like tacking and jibing easier. The social side of winging has also grown much faster and puts fun into my sessions. Getting out with my mates and husband Neal and being able to ride together is what makes this sport special. Kiting has been a longstanding passion for me, and I kitesurf regularly during trips to the Caribbean and on the south coast of the UK. When the conditions are right, like with favourable cross-shore winds and waves over shoulder high, there's nothing quite like a kite session! In the past, anything over 30 knots meant packing away the wing for a kite. However, with the introduction of smaller wings and building my confidence in stronger winds, my decisions now revolve more around the waves rather than wind strength, giving me more buzz and time out on the ocean.

What are some advantages and challenges of wingfoiling or foiling compared to other watersports?

Wingfoiling feels more accessible and easier to get up and going, especially for those who haven't tried it before. Even if you have some experience with other water sports, wingfoiling feels different. It's one of the easiest ways to start foiling. Some fantastic communities are emerging around wingfoiling, including mixed-gender groups and women's base communities like our local wittering crew and She Flies. They recently organised an event at Hayling Island, which was a really fun experience and introduced new women to wingfoiling and those already doing it to each other. Another advantage, particularly here on the south coast of the UK, is that we rarely have epic wave conditions. When we do, it elevates the sessions to a whole new level. But foiling and wingfoiling can be incredibly enjoyable even on smaller, bumpier days. One of the challenges of wingfoiling is the cost of equipment, which tends to be quite expensive. This can be a major hurdle for many individuals trying to get into the sport. Additionally, when you start, there is a fear factor, as it seems like a longer way to fall. However, this fear passes relatively quickly with the right equipment and practice! I've also ventured into downwind foiling, flat water paddle-ups, and prone foiling, which have proven to be real challenges. Despite enjoying a longboard surf, the pop-up element of wave riding in prone is challenging, and the physical fitness required to flat water paddle up is intense. Those are some things I'm currently working on.

Compared to kiting, the equipment for wingfoiling is a bit more complex and cumbersome to put together and carry around. But it is still easier than windsurfing, and thankfully, it all fits easily in a mini! But what I love about wingfoiling is the sense of freedom & serenity, especially when riding waves. It gives you that gliding and carving sensation, even in onshore conditions.

As a talented wingfoiler, what are some of your favourite spots in the UK and around the world?

Thanks for calling me talented, that's really nice! I live in Brackleham Bay in the Witterings on the South Coast, and it's an incredible hub for water sports and a truly special place on our planet. Among the different water activities, wingfoiling has rapidly gained in popularity here. We're fortunate to be near Hayling Island and Pagham both offer extra excellent opportunities for flat sessions as well as long-wave rides when the conditions are right. My absolute favourite second home, though, is Barbados. Whether you're into watersports or simply enjoying the beauty, there's something for everyone, including kiting, surfing, and all the foiling disciplines. You can make unforgettable memories by swimming with turtles, exploring the wonders of freediving and hiking, and there is a wonderful community of watersports enthusiasts to hang out with when there. I have also had the pleasure of visiting Viana De Costello in Portugal this year, and let me tell you, it's an exceptional spot. With a fabulous activity-based hotel right on the waterfront, the whole experience was incredible. Even though many of my most loved locations cater to wave riders, there are also spots nearby where beginners can comfortably venture into calmer waters.

What role does Ozone play in your wingfoiling setup, and what is your go-to setup?

I use the Ozone Flux V1 wing, which is an exceptional setup. The stability it offers is truly remarkable. A well-designed handle system, including a flag handle specifically for wave riding, provides great control and manoeuvrability. Its bottom end and overall power characteristics are top-notch, delivering an outstanding performance. Given my height and weight, I'm comfortable using this wing up to around five meters, which is usually the maximum size I prefer. My go-to is the 3.6 or 4.3, but I’ve also tried and loved the three-meter wing. Considering recent epic sessions in stormy conditions, I'm contemplating investing in the 2.4-meter wing for those windier days. I also want to mention other women associated with Ozone, such as Wren Dougherty, Stella Gro, and Cynthia 'Sinbad' Brown. Cynthia, in particular, is an absolute inspiration for the Ozone team and everyone. As a woman in my 40s, it's truly awesome to witness her shredding and always progressing in freestyle, wave riding, and downwind foiling.

How did you become involved with Armstrong Foils, and what do you like most about their equipment?

I got involved with Armstrong Foils right from the beginning when they arrived in the UK. Neal connected directly with Armie and New Zealand back then, which enabled us to get our hands on their earliest kit. I’ve been incredibly impressed by their dedication to research and development, resulting in remarkable progress in shape, materials, and design. My go-to choices are the medium-aspect front wings that, coupled with the excellent glide and flow tails, elevate the entire session. They provide a perfect balance of carving and gliding ability, giving you the natural feel you desire and allowing longer rides in smaller conditions. Moreover, you can confidently take on waves of various sizes with enough speed to keep up. I ride the Wing FG 40 litre, which is fantastic for just enough volume in light winds while keeping a loose, responsive feel on the waves. Paired with the performance 795 mast A+ system, it truly enhances my overall performance on the water. Typically, I opt for the surf 205 cm rear tail, but the glide tail offers something better for those smaller, less powered days. I’m currently transitioning to the 2nd iteration of the high-aspect wings, and I must say, they're feeling pretty impressive so far.

I also have the downwind board, which, at 97 litres, has its challenges! Since I'm just starting and weighing in at around 57 kilos, navigating requires some skill! It’s perfect to learn to prone and is a dream for a super light wing session, but I hope to progress well on it standing up soon, or I may have to trade up in sizes!

What advice would you give beginner wingfoilers looking to progress in the sport, particularly regarding equipment selection?

Getting those first few lessons is worth considering unless you already have a strong background in water sports. It can make a real difference between giving up out of frustration or receiving those brilliantly timed hints and tips that quickly get you up and riding. From a safety perspective, it is essential to assess how easy it will be to get back upwind when heading out. Typically, you'll start by heading downwind, so understanding the conditions allows you to plan accordingly. It also allows one to try out different equipment without making massive purchases immediately. Those smaller boards may feel a little unstable when starting, but you'll likely want to downsize your board size as you progress. Going out alone can be great if you have a lot of self-motivation. But if you prefer the company of friends, I recommend exploring your local wingfoiling community. You'll often find supportive wingfoilers passionate about the sport in these communities. If you’re looking for someone to foil with on the water in the south of the UK or even in beautiful Barbados, feel free to look me up on Instagram. I'm always happy to have more people to go foiling with!

Choosing the right equipment is essential when it comes to wingfoiling! While older equipment may be more affordable, it's worth noting that modern equipment offers a smoother learning experience. Starting with a larger front wing, typically around 1850 or even bigger, allows for easier progression. However, some do begin with even larger wing sizes. Finding the right weight and balance for your board is essential. Starting with a smaller board can initially be frustrating, but it depends on your style and resolve. If you persist with stubborn determination, you can learn on a smaller board, but bigger is easier to start.

Are there any particular achievements or milestones in wingfoiling or foiling that you still hope to accomplish?

Yes, there are some exciting milestones I still want to accomplish in wingfoiling and foiling. One of my goals is to master jumps in wingfoiling and start learning rotations. Wave riding is truly my passion, and I constantly strive to enhance my carving skills. I'm also determined to build my confidence in taking on bigger waves and having longer downwind experiences. It's all about pushing myself and gradually building that confidence. I still have a long way to go regarding getting to my feet and putting what I can do on the wave in prone foiling, but I'm committed to the journey! Discovering the world of downwind foiling and exploring flat water paddle-ups is a recent endeavour, and the possibilities are endless. Inspired by riders like Olivia Piana, I set my sights on joining some clinics and learning from the best. And, of course, one of my ultimate goals is to overcome my fear of venturing into the deeper open ocean. It's a challenge I'm determined to conquer!

What has been your experience as a female wingfoiler in a male-dominated sport, and have you encountered any challenges or opportunities?

Being a female wingfoiler when it first started was more unusual in a predominantly male-dominated sport. But the tides are changing! Locally, a thriving community of women is actively involved in wingfoiling and other water sports. We support and encourage one another in all aspects, whether it's those who are just starting or those of us looking to advance our skills. Fortunately, I have Neal as a salty soul mate who shares my adventurous spirit and constantly explores new sports, encouraging me to do the same. He is hands down my biggest inspiration and also my greatest supporter. We’re both part of a wonderful group of local riders who are mates and many now best friends, so there's always someone to join us for a session. I don't think gender plays a big role in whether wing foiling is for you; it's more about how we prefer to learn that either enables or holds us back. What matters most is finding a tribe of people who inspire you, motivate you to have fun, and allow you to progress at your own comfortable pace.

The watersports industry, including wingfoiling, still faces ongoing challenges when elevating and encouraging a wider diversity of people to get involved. Achieving true equality in sports is a journey that still has a long way to go. While we have witnessed positive changes in professional and paid sports, work still needs to be done. Brands must take an active role in promoting equality and inclusivity. By appealing to and promoting a wide range of people across different genders and age groups, brands can significantly inspire more women and people of all ages to enter the sport. This will help create a more diverse and inclusive community. We must continue to push for progress in promoting equality in the watersports industry. We must work together to create a welcoming environment that encourages people from all backgrounds and identities.

Are there other waterwomen or athletes who inspire you in your wingfoiling journey, and why?

So many inspiring women are making their mark in the world of wingfoiling and foiling, including Cynthia Brown, who I’ve mentioned and other talented Maui riders like Annie Reichert, Olivia Jenkins, and Carolina Dickinson. Moona White is particularly impressive with her beautiful carving style and multi-skill in wingfoiling, prone, and tow foiling. Olivia Piana also stands out with her exceptional approach, progression, and records in downwind foiling. I love that there are these exceptionally talented people, but I get equally as motivated by foiling with my best mates Nancy and Jules, amongst others, seeing their progress, and sharing the stoke.

What ethical and environmental considerations do you keep in mind as a wingfoiler, especially regarding equipment choices and sustainability?

Considering ethical and environmental factors as a winning formula is a significant challenge for the watersports industry and those of us heavily involved in water sports. With consistent advancements in research and development, it's not uncommon to see frequent kit and apparel changes in recent years. As a supported rider for Mystic Boarding, I'm grateful for the more accessible access to quality waterwear and gear. There has been a noticeable shift in the industry's approach to packaging, focusing on recyclable materials and reducing the use of plastics. However, improving sustainability practices is still a long way to go. Another consideration is the impact of long-haul travel, which is often a regular part of our hobbies. Finding ways to offset this impact or incorporating more environmental considerations into our routine is an ongoing challenge. It's essential to acknowledge these issues and continue to explore ways to minimise our environmental footprint while enjoying our passions.

Are you working on any projects, collaborations, or events you're excited about that you can share with us?

Regarding projects and collaborations, there's an ongoing event that I'm excited about — the She Flies Hayling Island wing event. It was organised by Rachel Dubrovnik and the She Flies crew to bring together women on the South Coast who are already passionate about wingfoiling and inspire others to join the community. The event will be running again in April this year. Additionally, we’ve had the opportunity to work with Jim Gaunt at Ozone. We've been reviewing the Ozone Flux V1 wing, looking at how you look after your wing and ensuring it stays in great condition to keep its top performance. Furthermore, I’m keen to shed more light on the incredible achievements of women in the wingfoiling community worldwide.

Can you describe your most memorable wingfoiling session and what made it stand out?

One of the most vivid wings sessions that stands out recently is the one on New Year's Eve at Pagham. It was pretty cold, even in a hooded suit, boots, and gloves. The gusts were 35-plus knots, and there were decent-sized waves to get the pulse pumping! As I looked around, there were about 30 guys out there or on the beach ready, windsurfing, kiting, and winging. I was the only woman! I'll never forget laughing when my friend James whizzed past me on his wing, shouting that it was all my fault he was out there battling the elements. But despite the tough conditions, we both had a brilliant wave riding session. With our three-meter wings, it felt like we were transported to a cold Hawaii or Barbados. It was epic!

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring female wingfoilers?

My advice to aspiring female wingfoilers is simple: get out there and give it a go! If you can find like-minded people to join you, that's fantastic. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can make all the difference. If that's not possible, consider booking yourself a lesson or plan a holiday where you can try it out. And if you're hesitant about the foiling element, let me assure you that so many people have told me how much fun it is. It's often much easier than they initially expected, and it truly is accessible to anyone willing to give it a shot. So, don't hold back. Take the leap, try it out, and know that a whole community of us is cheering you on from the water!

Thanks again, Jess! See you soon!

Thank you, Jen!

By Jen Tyler
Italian/Egyptian Jen Tyler grew up on the sandy beaches of the Red Sea and has been on the IKSURFMAG & Tonic Mag team since 2017.

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