Wingfoil Lessons in Chicago and West Michigan Beginner (Level 1,2,& 3) 

Take your winging skills to the next level with Stoke Riders’ Levels 1-3 lessons. Designed for beginners and intermediates, this package combines ground school, water starts, and efoiling to set you up for success.

We offer lessons all year round including snow wing lessons in the winter! Learn more about snow wing lessons here. 

Why Choose Wingfoil Lessons Levels 1-3?

 A Comprehensive Learning Experience

This package gives you the opportunity to:

• Master ground school and water starts (Levels 1 & 2).
• Build foiling skills in a controlled, flatwater environment (Level 3).

Level 1 - Ground School

Within the first hour, you will learn how to:

• Set up the wing and board.

• Hold the wing and set your stance.

• Propel yourself forward using the wind.

When water conditions aren’t suitable for beginners, we will use alternative methods like land or snow-based winging to continue your progress.

Level 2 - Board Starts

In Level 2, you will advance to:

• Starting on your knees on a paddleboard or wing foilboard.

• Working your way to your feet, standing steadily while holding the wing.

• Maintaining your course and learning how to go upwind.

If conditions don’t allow for water practice, we will adapt by using other winging modes on land or snow.

Level 3 - Efoiling

What is Efoiling?

Efoiling is the next step in wingfoil training. This involves riding an electric-powered foil board without using the wing, allowing you to focus on:

• Understanding balance and body control.

• Learning the nuances of foiling without managing wind or waves.

This step makes learning much easier and more fun. Learning to wing can take some coordination so focusing on just hydrofoiling will speed up your learning cure and it's a guaranteed regardless of the wind! 

Where Foiling Lessons Take Place

Efoiling lessons are conducted in flatwater locations near Chicago and Southwest Michigan, including Grand Rapids, ensuring optimal conditions for progression. Popular locations include Montrose Beach in Chicago and Holland State Park in Southwest Michigan.

Course Structure for Levels 1-3

Flexible Scheduling

• Sessions are 2-3 hours long and scheduled over multiple windy days.

• You’ll progress at your own pace, with one-on-one guidance from certified instructors.

Wind Updates

Please see the lesson information below, and sign up for our periodic wind updates via my newsletter. As an IKO-certified kiteboarding instructor, I can assure you of the most professional winging training, paired with local knowledge and top-of-the-line equipment to get you up and riding.

Gear Rental Fee/Credit

There is a $50 daily gear rental fee during the lesson if you don't own your own gear. This fee is credited back to you upon purchasing a new wing or board from our school.

Wing Gear Sale

Please email us if you are interested in purchasing winging gear. We have discounted 2021 through 2024 wings and boards ready for new homes!

Pre-Lesson Preparation

Wetsuits

If you need wetsuit gear, let us know your height, weight, waist, shoe, and glove size ahead of time. We are stocked on cold-water wetsuits, boots, gloves, hoods, and other winging accessories. Even in summer, Lake Michigan water temperatures can be cold, so it’s best to gear up with watersport-specific wetsuits.

What do I need to bring to the wingfoil lesson?

Please bring the following:

• Warm windbreakers

• Water

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• A hat

• A rashguard (if you have one)

Even in cooler temps, these items will help keep you comfortable during beach sessions before heading into the water.

Book Your Lessons Today

Contact Stoke Riders to schedule your Levels 1-3 lessons. Whether you’re in Chicago, Grand Rapids, or another Lake Michigan city, we’re ready to help you become a confident wingfoiler.

Email us at info@stokeriders.com with any questions!