eFoil
Discover the thrill of eFoils at Bananaway! An electric foil (eFoil) is a hydrofoil surfboard powered by electricity, featuring an underwater hydrofoil and an electric motor that gently lifts you above the water’s surface, allowing you to glide effortlessly across the water.
Riding an eFoil is easy and can be mastered in under an hour. We offer some of the most advanced eFoils on the market, including top models like Fliteboard, Audi e-Tron, and the affordable Waydoo eFoil.
At Bananaway, you can test an eFoil as part of our exclusive eFoil course. If you choose to buy an eFoil, the course fee will be deducted from the purchase price. Experience the next generation of surfing with our premium electric foils today!
1. WHAT IS AN EFOIL?
Wondering what an eFoil is? It’s that amazing electric surfboard with a hydrofoil that lifts you above the waves, letting you experience what it's like to “fly” over the water’s surface.
Yes, you read that right! An eFoil is short for an electric foil or electric hydrofoil board. Thanks to advanced electric propulsion technology and innovative hydrofoil design, eFoils are revolutionizing the world of surfing by creating new possibilities and experiences.
This combination allows the board to lift above the water, providing a quiet, smooth, and fast ride. The eFoil can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h, guaranteeing an adrenaline-pumping experience.
On the flip side, eFoils add intensity and frequency to surfing, allowing surfers to catch waves they wouldn’t have been able to before.
2. HOW DOES AN EFOIL WORK?
Wondering how it’s possible to ride above the water?
How does the eFoil work?
The board lifts from the water thanks to the hydrofoil – a hydrodynamic wing and stabilizer mounted on the fuselage and mast under the board. The hydrofoil generates lift at a certain speed, raising the board above the surface, while the electric foil generates this speed using an electric motor.
Hydrofoil Technology The Difference Between Hydrofoil and eFoil
Hydrofoil technology has been rapidly developing in recent years, though it isn’t new. The first hydrofoil patent was filed in 1869 by Emmanuel Denis Fargot for a rowing boat.
Today, we see hydrofoil technology on boats, sailboats, windsurfs, kitesurfing, wingfoils, SUPs, and more. Hydrofoils provide greater efficiency as they allow the craft to glide above the water rather than through it.
While hydrofoils use wind and waves for propulsion, an eFoil uses an electric motor connected to a propeller. This means you can use an eFoil anywhere, at any time, without waiting for perfect weather conditions.
3. KEY COMPONENTS OF AN EFOIL
The essential components of an eFoil include the eFoil board, motor, mast, wing, stabilizer, battery, and remote control. Each of these elements plays a vital role in providing a unique experience of flying over the water’s surface.
3.1. eFoil
Board The volume of the eFoil board is a crucial factor when choosing the right board, as it must be tailored to your weight and skill level.
The volume of eFoil boards typically ranges from 60 to 120 liters, allowing users to find the perfect balance between buoyancy and stability according to their weight and abilities.
100-120L boards offer greater stability and buoyancy, making them ideal for beginners or heavier riders. 60-90L boards are perfect for experienced riders seeking more responsive boards for maneuvering.
These sizes allow quicker lift off the water’s surface, requiring more skill and balance. Materials used in eFoil boards vary greatly. Styrofoam provides lightness and buoyancy, while fiberglass and carbon fiber add strength and durability, which are essential for high speeds and maneuvers on the water.
3.2. Hydrofoil Mast
The hydrofoil mast is the component that lifts the board above the water. The mast's length determines how high you’ll rise above the surface – the longer the mast, the higher you can go.
Shorter masts (60-70 cm) provide greater stability and safety, making them preferred by beginners.
Longer masts (70 cm and above) perform better in rougher conditions and allow more freedom for carving and maneuvering, ideal for advanced surfers.
3.3. Electric Drive System
The eFoil motor or electric drive system is the heart of the board, allowing it to lift elegantly and silently above the water’s surface.
The eFoil propeller or eFoil jet are the most commonly used propulsion systems. The choice between the two depends on how you want your ride to feel and sound.
eFoil Propeller: Known for its power and ability to lift the board quickly. It responds directly to user commands, enabling precise maneuvering and quick acceleration.
eFoil Jet: This system is quieter and provides a safer ride since all moving parts are hidden. It offers a more relaxed experience while still delivering enough power for your eFoil adventures.
3.4. eFoil Wing and Stabilizer
The eFoil wing and stabilizer are key to performance and the overall feeling while surfing. These are made from high-quality materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber to ensure strength, durability, and lightness – all essential for a dynamic, responsive ride.
Larger wings provide more lift, making the board easier to get above the water, which is great for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. Smaller wings offer speed and efficiency but require greater skill to maintain balance.
3.5. eFoil Battery
The eFoil battery powers the system. eFoils typically use advanced lithium-ion batteries, with differences in size, cell quality, and battery management systems (BMS).
The most common questions users ask are:
"How long does the eFoil battery last?" and
"How far can I go on a single charge?"
The eFoil battery provides 1–2.5 hours of water fun and can cover a distance of up to 25 km per charge.
The battery's capacity, cell quality, and BMS affect the duration and range of the ride. Lithium batteries typically charge between 1.5 to 6 hours, depending on whether you're using a standard or fast charger.
3.6. Remote Control
The eFoil remote control allows you to manage the board’s speed, battery status, and range in real-time, making it an essential tool for safe and enjoyable riding.
Speed: View real-time speed to adjust your riding style based on the conditions.
Battery Status: Know when to return or take breaks for recharging.
Range: Get information on how far you can go with the current battery level.
Riding Mode: Some remotes let you choose between different modes that adjust power and responsiveness to your experience.
4. HOW TO CHOOSE AN EFOIL BOARD
Choosing the right eFoil board is essential for the best experience on the water. Factors to consider include your weight, skill level, and riding style.
4.1. Volume of the eFoil Board Based on User Weight
The volume of the board is directly related to the user's weight and how well the board can support that weight above the water.
Larger volume boards provide more buoyancy, making them ideal for beginners or heavier users.
Here’s a general guideline based on user weight:
- 120 kg = 110l
- 110 kg = 100l
- 100 kg = 90l
- 90 kg = 80l
- 80 kg = 70l
- 70 kg = 60l
4.2. eFoils for Beginners
For those just starting or still developing skills, choosing a beginner-friendly eFoil is key to a smooth learning curve.
Larger volumes offer greater stability, and low-aspect front wings (1100 to 1800) provide easier lift and stability.
Best beginner eFoils include the Waydoo eFoil, Fliteboard Air, and Audi eTron Adventure.
4.3. eFoils for Experienced Riders
Experienced riders looking to step up their skills should opt for smaller, lighter boards with increased responsiveness.
Smaller boards (70-90L) allow for greater agility and precision, making them perfect for carving and advanced maneuvers.
For experienced riders, Fliteboard PRO eFoil and Audi eTron Performance are great options, offering responsive wings with sizes ranging from 700 to 1100.
4.4. When to Upgrade Your eFoil
If your skills exceed the capabilities of your current board, it might be time to upgrade. Advanced models offer better motors, wings, and batteries for higher speeds, improved maneuverability, and longer rides.
4.5. eFoil for Wave Surfing
For wave surfers, smaller boards equipped with suitable wings provide greater agility and smoother turns.
Folding propellers, such as those found on the Fliteboard, reduce drag, allowing for a more fluid surf experience.
4.6. Benefits of Inflatable eFoil Boards
Inflatable eFoils combine comfort, durability, and ease of transport. They're more resistant to impacts and scratches, making them ideal for fluctuating conditions.
These boards are stable where the battery is placed, and the inflatable ring around the board increases buoyancy and safety. They’re perfect for schools, rentals, or travelers looking to explore new waterways.
5. WHAT IS THE PRICE OF AN EFOIL?
The price of an eFoil is one of the key factors potential buyers need to consider when making a purchase. On the market, eFoil board prices range between €6,000 and €15,000, reflecting differences in materials, technology, and performance across models.
Affordable eFoils
At the lower end of the price range, you’ll find budget-friendly eFoil boards like the Waydoo eFoil or Fliteboard Air.
These models use more affordable materials, such as styrofoam and inflatable structures, which help lower costs compared to fiberglass and carbon fiber constructions. Fiberglass wings are cheaper but still provide good performance.
Premium eFoils
More expensive models use carbon and super-carbon materials for maximum strength and hydrodynamic efficiency.
In the higher price range, advanced eFoil models like Fliteboard offer premium features, such as:
- Hydrodynamic masts and fuselages – lighter materials improve performance.
- More powerful and efficient motors, allowing for longer rides.
- Better batteries with longer lifespan and higher capacity.
- Advanced remote controls providing more information and customizable functions.
- Integrated mobile apps for tracking stats and optimizing performance.
- More upgrade and component replacement options for long-term use.
Additionally, the higher price often includes better customer support, servicing, and easier access to spare parts.
Why Are eFoils So Expensive?
Many people wonder: "Why are eFoils so expensive?"
- The answer lies in advanced technology and high-quality materials that must function in demanding marine environments.
- The electric motor and battery are designed with durable, waterproof materials.
- eFoil development involves extensive testing, prototyping, and innovation.
- Production volumes are low, preventing economies of scale.
- High demand keeps prices at a premium.
Although eFoils require a higher initial investment, they provide an unmatched experience that traditional surfboards or SUPs simply cannot offer.
6. THE BEST eFOILS ON THE MARKET
The eFoil surfing industry is rapidly evolving, with some brands standing out for their innovation, performance, and design.
Waydoo eFoil – Best Budget
Friendly Choice The Waydoo eFoil is a great choice for beginners looking for a high-quality yet affordable eFoil board.
Durable design, easy handling, long battery life With robust materials and extended battery autonomy, the Waydoo eFoil allows for long and enjoyable water adventures.
Fliteboard eFoil – Best Overall
eFoil The Fliteboard eFoil is a high-end eFoil that combines cutting-edge technology, outstanding performance, and a timeless design.
Unmatched speed and agility, wide range of configurations – customize your eFoil to your needs, precision and stability when turning Fliteboard offers configurations for different riding styles, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.
Fliteboard Air eFoil – Best Inflatable eFoil
The Fliteboard Air is a revolutionary inflatable eFoil, offering:
- Easy portability – convenient for storage and transport
- Extra safety and stability – perfect for beginners
- Durable materials capable of withstanding greater impact
This is the perfect choice for adventurers who need a compact and versatile eFoil.
Audi e-tron Foil – The Ultimate Luxury eFoil
- The Audi e-tron Foil brings premium technology to the eFoil world: Exclusive design with meticulous craftsmanship
- Advanced battery for longer rides
- High speed and precision maneuvering This is the perfect eFoil for those who demand the best, both in terms of performance and aesthetics.