Step-by-Step Guide to Riding an Electric Hydrofoil

Have you ever seen a surfer seemingly flying above the water? If yes, chances are you’ve witnessed someone riding an eFoil — an electric hydrofoil board. It looks like magic, but learning to do it yourself is actually quite simple. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps that will help you learn to “fly” on an eFoil. Even if you’re a complete beginner, the tips below will be enough to get you started confidently.

One of the most common questions people ask is how difficult it really is to learn to “fly” on an electric hydrofoil. As with any new skill, it depends on the person — but for most, it’s totally achievable. All you need is the right mindset, patience, and consistency. It may take a few sessions before you feel truly comfortable balancing on the board, but the learning process itself is exciting. The moment you feel that sensation of gliding freely above the water, you’ll be hooked — and grinning for hours afterward.

Start by choosing a clean, open area with enough depth — we recommend at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) — to make sure the foil doesn’t hit the bottom or any debris. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with local rules and restrictions. Always wear safety gear like a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet. Avoid crowded areas with swimmers or other riders. And remember: it’s always better to turn back early than to find yourself struggling to get home.

Book a session with a certified eFoil instructor — for example, through one of the global Fliteschool centers. They’ll teach you the basics: water safety, proper stance, and how to control the throttle with the remote. An in-person lesson makes the learning curve smoother and far more enjoyable. You can even watch our video guide “How to Ride a Fliteboard” in advance.

Lie on your stomach first, then move to your knees before standing up. Spend some time getting used to balancing — the key is to keep your weight slightly forward and stay relaxed. Once you find your center of gravity, the board will feel stable beneath you. From this point on, your goal is to maintain balance while gradually increasing speed.

Falling is part of the process — embrace it! When you start losing balance, try to fall away from the board and the foil, since those parts can be sharp. Avoid diving headfirst; instead, push off slightly to the side. With each fall, you’ll get better at recovering your balance and anticipating movements.

Once you can glide in a straight line, start experimenting with speed. Notice how the board lifts more smoothly as you accelerate.Be cautious and don’t push the throttle too far — even moderate speeds feel exhilarating. Pay attention to small body movements: even slight shifts in weight affect how the eFoil responds. Use your whole body to make gentle turns and keep practicing until the control feels natural. Before long, you’ll be carving across the water effortlessly — and smiling the entire time.