A kitesurfing or windsurfing vest will be designed to fit a large, bulky harness that you won't likely use wingfoiling. You can still use these vests but you don't need this accommodation for wingfoiling. There are starting to be wing-specific vests out there, such as [this RideEngine one](https://rideengine.com/products/sky-hook-wing-vest-v1) that accommodate hooking into a harness line if you want to.
I second this opinion. Not sure where you are based but here is a link just so you can check it out. Some of the locals use it here (SoFla) and like the layout of the protection. IMO the best thing they offer and is often overlooked is the hook. It rests flat if you're on your belly so no hook snapping or holes in your board!
[https://wind.dakine.com/products/shock-wing-vest?variant=41726319624375](https://wind.dakine.com/products/shock-wing-vest?variant=41726319624375)
For newbies get a vest with flotation and full body impact protection. The floatation is critical when you’re falling a lot; you waste energy sinking below the water and climbing back on your board so this keeps you closer to the surface and provides support if you’re tired or unconscious. The full body impact protection especially around the torso and shoulders will protect vital organs from board and foil impacts. It can get violent when you’re sending it. Two great options are the the [ION Booster X Vest](https://banxwatersports.com/ION-Booster-X-Vest-Side-Zip_p_529.html) combination flotation and impact vest with a storage pocket for tools and a hydration pack. Also the [Ride Engine Defender HF Impact Vest](https://banxwatersports.com/Ride-Engine-Defender-HF-Impact-Vest-High-Vis-Orange_p_544.html) has an internal impact shell construction for maximum protection in key areas. This vest has less flotation than the ION Vest and more robust impact protection. I highly suggest high visibility colors for added safety.
Dakine just came out with a wing foil specific impact vest with a harness hook. I’ll let you know what I think when it arrives
As far as helmets go I can vouch for the Simba surf helmets, provide plenty of protection without feeling restricted
Overall the vest fits me well, and it feels like it offers protection but I haven’t had to test that (thankfully).
I like the line to clip my board leash too in the back so it slides to either side
My only negative is that there’s no support for the harness part, all the power of the wing goes though that one small strap, I thought there would be more support/padding. So when I go for a few hours I can get a little sore
A kitesurfing or windsurfing vest will be designed to fit a large, bulky harness that you won't likely use wingfoiling. You can still use these vests but you don't need this accommodation for wingfoiling. There are starting to be wing-specific vests out there, such as [this RideEngine one](https://rideengine.com/products/sky-hook-wing-vest-v1) that accommodate hooking into a harness line if you want to.
>ION Booster X Vest Thanks, will take a look
Get one the protects your ribs and kidneys. Dakine makes a nice one that doubles as a harness.
I second this opinion. Not sure where you are based but here is a link just so you can check it out. Some of the locals use it here (SoFla) and like the layout of the protection. IMO the best thing they offer and is often overlooked is the hook. It rests flat if you're on your belly so no hook snapping or holes in your board! [https://wind.dakine.com/products/shock-wing-vest?variant=41726319624375](https://wind.dakine.com/products/shock-wing-vest?variant=41726319624375)
For newbies get a vest with flotation and full body impact protection. The floatation is critical when you’re falling a lot; you waste energy sinking below the water and climbing back on your board so this keeps you closer to the surface and provides support if you’re tired or unconscious. The full body impact protection especially around the torso and shoulders will protect vital organs from board and foil impacts. It can get violent when you’re sending it. Two great options are the the [ION Booster X Vest](https://banxwatersports.com/ION-Booster-X-Vest-Side-Zip_p_529.html) combination flotation and impact vest with a storage pocket for tools and a hydration pack. Also the [Ride Engine Defender HF Impact Vest](https://banxwatersports.com/Ride-Engine-Defender-HF-Impact-Vest-High-Vis-Orange_p_544.html) has an internal impact shell construction for maximum protection in key areas. This vest has less flotation than the ION Vest and more robust impact protection. I highly suggest high visibility colors for added safety.
thank you!
Dakine just came out with a wing foil specific impact vest with a harness hook. I’ll let you know what I think when it arrives As far as helmets go I can vouch for the Simba surf helmets, provide plenty of protection without feeling restricted
Update!
Overall the vest fits me well, and it feels like it offers protection but I haven’t had to test that (thankfully). I like the line to clip my board leash too in the back so it slides to either side My only negative is that there’s no support for the harness part, all the power of the wing goes though that one small strap, I thought there would be more support/padding. So when I go for a few hours I can get a little sore