ION are leading the way with their specific Wingfoil Protection range. We fill you in on everything you need to know.

We’re excited to see ION introducing a new range of protective gear for the wingfoil market. It’s something that we feel is really important in this sport as, unfortunately, there is some genuine potential for injury. If you’re new to the sport we’d highly recommend some protective gear as you never know where that board & foil are going to land when you come off (which you will!). Equally on the other side of the progression window if you’re trying new tricks like backflips or winging into waves you’ll again 100% be in need of protective gear!

ION have done a great job of creating a range of products that will work really well specifically for wingfoiling & keep you looking stylish on the water.  We’ll look at the new products in detail below to help you make that important decision of how best to keep yourself safe.

Hardcap 3.2 Select

Available in both black & grey this helmet comes with a magnetic ‘Fidlock’ buckle that will make putting it on easy, even when you’ve lost feeling in your fingers mid winter. It has an adjustable fit system to allow the helmet to hold to the shape of your head. There are 3 sizes - XS-S, M-L, XL-XXL, so no matter your head size ION have got you covered. The Hardcap 3.2 Select features a weight-optimised yet robust construction & has comfortable materials on the inside. It is also CE 1385 certified. We really like the simple yet eye catching pattern at the back of the helmet.

Protection Suit Steamer

ION developed the Protection Suit Steamer for fearless progression and we think that’s a great idea! It comes with a 10-mm-thick, PVC-free protection foam padding at the shoulders, upper back, back of the thighs, crotch, and shins. Making sure that your adrenaline rush is the only thing that makes you shiver, ‘Hot_Stuff 2.0’ inside lining was added for extra warmth. In spots without thermal lining, super soft ‘Silk_Stuff’ increases next-to-skin comfort to the max. We really feel that this wetsuit design is something that will catch on, why wouldn’t you want your wetsuit to provide a bit of extra padding when you take those those hard slams? Good work ION!

Protection Vests

ION have created two impact vests: the Lunis Vest Women FZ for her & the Collision Vest Select FZ for him. Now you can get that little bit of extra confidence you need for your Wingfoil progression! The Lunis Vest Women Front Zip provides extra protection all wrapped in a hassle-free wearing experience thanks to its easy-entry front zipper and tacky hem that keeps everything in place. 

The Collision Vest Select FZ sophisticated material mix is made for ambitious riders who want to push the limit. It features a unique panel design for seamless rib and spine protection. Slightly thinner paddings, light foam and highly flexible materials provide a comfortable and snug fit as well as great freedom of movement. Since 2011, ION have made impact vests that meet CE standards and pass their rigorous testing processes according to PPD89/686/EEC. 

Our tester Jack Galloway has actually found impact vests really useful recently and not just for their protection! He’s been attaching a safety beacon to his when doing downwinders & also tucking his GoPro into the vest when not using hit. Even more reasons to get one!

Shin Protectors

The ION Shin protector guards the shin against sharp hydrofoil edges. This is something we’ve not really seen yet in foiling sports but it’s a welcome idea, even swimming next to your foil you know about if you accidentally kick your foil! The shin pads are characterised by their lightweight and yet robust construction. Whether it’s foil, mast, fuselage or board – none of these will hurt your shins again. Carefree riding is bound to equal fun and progression.

Safety Footstrap

Ever got stuck in your binding when going for a new trick? Prevent nasty ankle injuries and get off your board quickly. The new ION safety footstrap offers an adjustable emergency opening during crashes. We’ll provide a detailed explanation of how this works when we get a pair on test!

Wing Boardbag Core Stubby

It’s not just your body that needs protecting! ION’s board bag provides protection for your board when travelling against those nasty dings & bumps.

By Tonic Mag

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