Can I use a wing in the snow?
Of course! It's the best way to learn the wing and arguably more fun than wingfoiling. Michigan is a special place when it comes to snow winging. The dunes here are out of this world.
The wing acts like a chair lift saving you the long hike up. Imagine sailing up a snow-covered sand dune and looking over the vastness of lake Michigan. You can ride back down and flag the wing just like a regular snowboarder or skier! The dunes here kind of feel like winging a giant frozen wave.
With the wing, all terrain becomes possible from powered wall riders to ripping down trails powered solely by your wing or gravity when you choose. Some dunes will stack together forming natural halfpipes in fun jumps to get air. The possibilities are truly limitless.
Whether you're an adventure seeker from Chicago, Grand Rapids, or Southwest Michigan, snow winging here is an unforgettable way to embrace winter and discover the incredible beauty of the Great Lakes region. We offer wingsurfing lessons and group excursions catered to your level. You can learn more by emailing info@stokeriders.com to stay up to date on our trips or book a lesson here.
What Makes Snow Winging in West Michigan Special?
A rare combination of conditions: The quality of wind paired with the terrain that suits beginners to more advanced riders is pretty rare. Snow kiting is normally a gusty experience and that is one of the perks since winging is easier in gusty wind compared to kiting. That said, when we post up near the lake, we get to tap into butter smooth wind and diverse terrain that almost never happens anywhere else.
I remember my first-time snow kiting here over a decade ago and my mind was blown! The possibilities were endless and the vibes were all time! With wings coming onto the scene even more doors have opened from new locations to new people entering the community here.
The best snow toy: Wings are more friendly to beginners, and you can cut deeper into the trails without worrying about lines from a kite. The dunes range from small and rolling to steep and some have crazy terrain to explore.
The towering dunes of West Michigan, covered in a blanket of snow, create a playground like no other. With the vast expanse of Lake Michigan as your backdrop, snow winging here offers:
- Unique Terrain: The dunes act like frozen waves, perfect for climbing and carving down.
- Incredible Views: From the top of the dunes, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan and the surrounding winter wonderland.
- Versatility: Snow winging isn’t limited to dunes—you can ride trails, open fields, or even frozen lakes with the right equipment.
The combination of scenery and varied terrain makes this area a hotspot for winter sports enthusiasts looking to try something new.
Can I Snow Wing with Skis or a Snowboard?
Absolutely! Snow winging is incredibly versatile and works with a variety of setups:
- Skis: Perfect for long glides and smooth turns.
- Snowboards: Ideal for carving down dunes and trails.
- Ice Skates: Great for frozen lakes or smooth ice patches.
- Landboards with Snowblades or Ice Blades: A fantastic option for low-snow or icy conditions.
At Stoke Riders, we offer lessons tailored to your experience level and preferred equipment. Our team will help you find the setup that works best for you and get you winging with confidence.
Wing with Skis: Skis are nice because you can “Walk” or skate along easier as you’re first getting started. Once you get a handle on the wing, you’ll learn to edge against the wing and sail.
Wing with a Snowboard: Snowboards are closer to wing foiling and are a personal favorite. Especially when riding around on the dunes along the lakeshore. We love to use the wing like a chairlift to get snowboard runs down and across the dunes. Imagine an endless snowboarding run akin to something you would get from the vertical in Colorado. Except you’re getting a horizontal run!
Can I wing on lakes with ice skates?
Yes! Snow wings aren't limited to land. We can go out on frozen lakes with skates too. Sometimes, we’ll use ice skates, or a mountain board set up with snow blades or ice blades. We’ll play around with an ice buggy too! With the ice, you can get going crazy fast and flag the wing out to slow down. It’s incredibly fun but also controlled. We do recommend knee pads and helmets are mandatory for this.
How Late Can I Wingfoil on Lake Michigan?
While some experienced riders push the limits late into the season, beginners should be cautious of cold water and hypothermia. By February, large ice shelves often form on Lake Michigan, making it too dangerous to ride.
That’s where snow winging comes in. With West Michigan’s ample snowfall, you can keep riding all winter without the risks of open water. Snow winging is safer, warmer, and just as thrilling as winging on the lake. While you won’t be using a hydrofoil, you will be developing massive wing control and potentially having even more fun. It’s the same sport but different. With all the different tools to ride and the diversity in the terrain, you’ll be fully engaged and exploring the coast in a way that you never imagined.
A lot of people in Chicago drive north to ski resorts in Wisconsin or Michigan to get their weekend fix but this is a cheaper, arguably more fun alternative for you and the family.
Snow Wing Lessons in West Michigan
At Stoke Riders, we specialize in introducing people to the joys of snow winging. Our lessons are designed for all skill levels and use a variety of tools to ensure maximum fun and progress:
- Skis or snowboards for classic snow sports enthusiasts.
- Ice skates or buggy setups for frozen surfaces.
- Land Boards with snow blades for light-wind or low-snow conditions.
- Mountain boards in parking lots to master the basics in light wind.
Our expert instructors will teach you how to handle the wing, flag it in light wind, and ride confidently across diverse terrain. Whether you're completely new or looking to advance your skills, we have the tools and techniques to make it happen.
Snow winging is safer than wingsurfing and the perfect time to start learning. It will prepare you for the spring and help you master the fundamentals before getting in the water with a hydrofoil. It’s a smart move and just as fun if not more.
How Much Wind Do I Need to Snow Wing?
About 7 knots! The beauty of snow winging is that it doesn’t require much wind to have fun. With Stoke Riders’ variety of equipment, we can tailor lessons to almost any conditions. Light wind days are perfect for learning the basics, such as flagging the wing and finding your balance. Stronger winds open up endless possibilities for carving up and down dunes or gliding across frozen lakes.
We can get riding back and forth in as low as 8 knots and have you riding back and forth and working on transition! For the stronger days, we have small wings so we can ride most days within reason and the rider's ability level.
Why Choose Stoke Riders for Snow Winging?
Stoke Riders is West Michigan’s premier wingsurfing and snow winging school. Here’s why riders from Chicago to Grand Rapids choose us:
- Expert Instructors: Our team is passionate about teaching and helping you progress at your own pace.
- Top-of-the-Line Equipment: We provide all the gear you need to get started, from Airush wings to land boards and buggies.
- Versatility: No matter the conditions, we have the tools to keep the fun going, whether on dunes, trails, or frozen lakes.
Community: Most importantly you’re not just taking lessons. You’re tapping into the community. We host events, group rides and trips to the outer banks and beyond. Tyler is one of the most outstanding watermen I’ve ever met and his dedication to the sport and our community has always stood out to me. You’re learning a sport and making new friends at the same time.
Book Your Snow Wing Lesson Today
Spots fill fast. Reserve your snow wing lesson here.
Winter is the perfect time to experience the fun of snow winging in West Michigan. Stoke Riders has everything you need to get started—from expert instruction to top-tier equipment. Whether you’re carving down snow-covered dunes or gliding across frozen lakes, we’ll help you make the most of this incredible winter sport.
Contact us today to schedule your snow winging adventure and discover why riders from Chicago to Grand Rapids choose Stoke Riders. info@stokeriders.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Winging
Q: Can I wing with skis or a snowboard?
A: Yes! Skis and snowboards are the most common setups for snow winging. Both offer excellent control and allow you to carve through snow-covered terrain effortlessly.
Q: Is snow winging safe for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Snow winging is a great introduction to the sport, and our lessons ensure a safe, fun experience tailored to your skill level.
Q: How much wind do I need to snow wing?
A: Not much! With the right equipment, you can start learning in light wind conditions, and we’ll adjust your lesson to the day’s conditions.
Q: Can I wing in a parking lot?
A: Yes! We use mountain boards in parking lots to teach the basics on days with light wind or no snow. It’s a fun and accessible way to practice.
Written by Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic:
Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, digital marketing specialist and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. When he's not writing articles, you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym. Ryangoloversic@gmail.com