Have you ever wondered what it would be like to surf without waves or windsurf without wind? Enter the efoil!
Efoils are motorized boards with hydrofoil fins that allow you to fly over the water.
Whereas most watersports require either wind or waves, an efoil board provides an experience similar to surfing (but above the water). Efoiling is one of the most fun water sports available and it’s also a great way to practice your balance and coordination.
It’s relatively easy to stand up on these boards, making it accessible to most riders (assuming you have the money). You decide how fast you go, usually with a remote and you can even reach speeds of up to 35mph.
An efoil board is a new and exciting way to hit the water with little to no preparation. All you need is to charge your board up and go.
The Top 7 Efoil Board in 2023
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1
Easily Best Value: Waydoo Flyer One+ (EPP) -
2
All Round Favorite: Lift 3 eFoil -
3
Best Design: Awake Vinga 3 -
4
Premium and Customizable: Fliteboard 3 -
5
For Carving: Lift Pro eFoil -
6
Fastest: Lift Cruiser eFoil -
7
Most Advanced: Get Foil
All the Efoil Boards We've tested
Waydoo arrived on the electric board scene at a time when excitement for eFoils met with disappointment–they were all crazy expensive. The Flyer One+ continues Waydoo’s success in providing an eFoil at a little more than half the price of similar platforms.
We tested the EPP version of the Flyer One+ and experienced going from being cautious and critical about the product to being super stoked. The soft top, EPP model rather than the carbon version, seemed somehow less dazzling.
But the EPP covering–like soft top surfboards–makes it very forgiving when learning the ropes. It also protects your car and house when moving or storing it.
At its current price, this is probably the eFoil with the best bang for the buck on the market right now.
See why we think that in our full review here:
Specs & Features
- Weight: 62 lbs
- Ride Time: 120 minutes
- Capacity: 220 lbs
- Max Speed: 25 mph
- Power: 6000 W
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Most affordable eFoil in its class
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Beginner friendly
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Easy assembly and maintenance
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Quick charge time
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Good ride time
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Fun, fun, fun
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Foam coating is forgiving
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Storage box can be convenient for yachts
Things we don't like:
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Perhaps a little noisier than Lift and Fliteboards
The innovators and designers at Lift created one of the most simple, easy, and beginner-friendly eFoils on the market. The Lift 3 eFoil may be the best beginner board for all riders.
Its the larger of Lift’s Series 3 boards with a volume of 88 liters that gives riders a steady platform to get used to while navigating the learning curve of eFoiling. The Series 3 costs significantly less than the 4th gen board, the main difference being less flying time.
Customizing the Lift 3 to match the skills of the rider as they grow is also a major upside that Lift has made possible, with easily changeable wings and propellers.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: up to 29mph
- Ride Time: 100min
- Weight Incl. Battery: 30lbs (can vary due to wing size)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight and portable
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Versatile with excellent performance
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Stable and durable
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Great for all levels of riders
Things we don't like:
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Expensive
The Awake Vinga 3 is an eFoil experience that combines high performance and a beginner-friendly learning curve. It delivers one of the best-in-class jet-propelled eFoil boards on the market. It’s got the biggest sized jet engine, which offers specific benefits and is the easiest to assemble.
It’s also almost alone in requiring a leash for riding.
The quick assembly is made possible by its complete click-to-ride system to its ride time of 80 – 120 minutes at speeds around 30 mph / 50 km h.
Riders of all levels–with the appropriate wings–will appreciate its smooth flight, reduced noise, and range of riding and customizing options. Awake has set a new pace for the eFoil market with its Awake Vinga 3 eFoil board.
Specs & Features
- Hull Dimensions: 170 cm x 69.85cm x 17.018cm / 5’6” x 27.5” x 6.7”
- Mast Height: 70cm / 27.5”
- Hull Weight: 20 kg / 44 lbs
- Battery Weight SR: 18 kg / 40 lbs (1.9 kWh power)
- Battery Weight XR: 22 kg / 48 lbs (2.8 kWh power)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Most amazing, easy set up
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95 litre volume gives this eFoil board great buoyancy
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Long ride time
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Shielded linear jet propulsion is safe for beginners
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Three grab handles
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Big engine allows for slower cruising speeds (good for beginners)
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Interchangeable across Awake platforms
Things we don't like:
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Larger board doesn’t fit in every car
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Larger board doesn’t fit in every car
The Series 3 eFoil boards from Fliteboard, which includes the all round Fliteboard 3, demonstrates the culmination of the best aspects premium eFoils have to offer today. There are 5 models in the Series and the Fliteboard 3 incorporates a mixture of design principles with technical innovations worth noting.
The dual drive propulsion option, switching between jet and propeller highlights the modularity that we’re seeing with some other electric PWCs and presents pros and cons for specific riders. In particular when choosing the different board and battery options.
Compared to the best eFoils on the market, the Fliteboard 3 deserves pride of place at the top by continually improving the product in ways that directly benefit rider experience for both the novice and seasoned efoiler.
Specs & Features
- Weight: 44.5 pounds without battery
- Mast Height: 29 inches
- Battery life: up to 90 minutes (Sport), up to 150 minutes (Explore)
- Rider Capacity: 265 pounds
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Great power and speed with propeller system
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Flite Jet propulsion is quiet and safe for beginners
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Modular design with interchangeable power systems
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Flitecell battery tech is impressive and can be monitored from remote
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High-quality construction and elegant finish (Carbon)
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UX on the controller is outstanding
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Highly customizable features and colors/finishes
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Two-year warranty
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Fits all skill levels
Things we don't like:
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Nano battery not compatible
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True Glide propeller not compatible
The Lift 4’2 Pro is for more advanced eFoilers looking to take their eFoiling skills to the next level.
High performing, stable, and most importantly extremely manouvrable this board is responsive to the riders moves and excellent for riders looking to improve their foiling experience and skills. Lightweight, this board makes you feel like you are floating above the water. It carves well and has a long ride duration of up to 2 hours.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: up to 29mph
- Ride Time: 120min
- Weight Incl. Battery: 30lbs (can vary due to wing size)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Maneuverable
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Lightweight
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High performing
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Great for learning and mastering new eFoiling skills
Things we don't like:
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Expensive
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Smaller board size is not ideal for beginners and less experienced riders.
Unlike the previous boards on this list, the Lift eFoil 5’6” Cruiser uses motorized hydrofoil technology and a carbon fiber propeller. It provides the rider with exceptional performance and high levels of both stability and maneuverability.
Though it might be more difficult to master at first, surfing above the surface gives the rider of this jet board a smoother experience in choppy water.
Suitable for all skills and all water conditions this e-foil surfboard is a well constructed board. Durable and stable, this board offers an excellent riding experience. Its heavy-duty, thick, high-density, and hard-wearing core make it sturdy and buoyant. This board is one of the fastest electric surfboards on the market and can reach up to 34mph and the battery can last up to one hour.
With more than 10 years of experience in the electric surfboard market Lift Foils are of excellent quality, durability and are extremely reliable. This is also evident in the aesthetics, weight and feel of the boards, and gives this brand a competitive advantage over their competitors.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: 34mph
- Ride Time: 20-40min
- Weight Incl. Battery: 132lbs
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Long ride time
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Suitable for all skills and water conditions
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Very stable
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A great travel bag for board and all accessories
Things we don't like:
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Heavier than other electric surfboards on the market
With one of the largest eFoil batteries on the market the Get Foil claims to be the most advanced eFoil available and boasts high speeds and performance. The Get Foil has a wireless Bluetooth remote and the propeller and engine under the board give this eFoil a sleek look to match its high performance. Charging in only 2 hours, this board can take you up to 28mph and has a range of 15 to 18 miles.
Lightweight yet durable this board is great for all water surfaces from rivers, lakes to the ocean. The Mavericks Direct Drive Motor gives the board a lot of torque and can take you to 28mph. The eFoil’s Lithium-Ion batteries charge in 4 hours, which can be reduced to 2 hours with the Get Foil Supercharger.
Get Foil also has two eFoils in their range, the Long Range and the Performance. The Performance is faster as the 9 HP Mavericks Direct Drive engine takes the board to 28mph. On the other hand, the Long Range only reaches 22mph. The Performance board is also lighter with a battery that weighs 77lbs, making it 3lbs lighter than the Long Range model.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: 24mph
- Ride Time: 90min
- Weight Incl. Battery: Depends due to board size, mast size and battery choice
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Designed by Red Wood Paddle, the PWR e-Foil was created for those looking for a more exciting extension of their SUP and foil experiences. A solid and sturdy board that is lightweight makes the PWR eFoilgreat for floating over the water’s surface. Powered using a remote control, the board has 3 speeds and modes. PWR, with Red Wood Paddle, have 4 eFoil sizes so there is a board fit for everyone and all levels, making this eFoil great for first time foilers to advanced foilers.
After two years of product developments, PWR have created a reliable, durable and lightweight eFoil in 4 various sizes and 3 different colours. As customisable as they get in this new market, when purchasing a PWR board you can choose board size, along with the size of the mast and wing, either 1500cm2 or 2000cm2.
With two choices of battery from the classic to the long range model these boards can be made to fit your specific requirements, guaranteeing fun and comfort whilst on the water. The battery charges quickly taking 1.5 to 2 hours maximum, great for charging quickly and using the board for long periods of time.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: 24mph
- Ride Time: 90min
- Weight Incl. Battery: Depends due to board size, mast size and battery choice
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Various board, wing and mast sizes
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Lightweight
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3 Speed modes
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Customizable through size and battery selection
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Fast charging
Things we don't like:
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Slower speed than others on the market
The EasyGoat eFoil is the cheapest eFoil board on the market. At the least the most reliable one. Because it’s inflatable, it’s also the most lightweight and transportable electric hydrofoil board too. With a weight of 20kg including the battery, along with a transportable bag with wheels, this board is excellent to take along on adventures.
The mast and wings are detachable and the board only takes 5 minutes to install once you are at the water’s edge. The lightweight battery is efficient and can take you on rides for over an hour.
Made in Czech Republic, the EasyGoat foil is lightweight. High performance paired with efficient battery and usage means you can ride for over an hour and charge the board relatively quickly. Wireless and compact, this board is ideal for travelling and easy to use and assemble.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: 18mph
- Ride Time: 80min
- Weight Incl. Battery: 44lbs
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Transportable bag with wheels
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Very lightweight (one of the lightest on the market)
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Efficient power usage
Things we don't like:
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Slower speed than other models on the market
Lift 3 5’9” Explorer eFoil is smaller and although this is the biggest size in the Lift 3 range, this eFoil is a much more manageable size than its predecessor. Ideal for beginners this board is lightweight whilst remaining stable on the water.
Thanks to its stability this board is great for beginners and those who are new to foiling and eFoiling. With an efficient battery this eFoil boasts a ride time of 120 minutes, making it amazing for exploring or trying out with your friends without having to recharge it often.
Newest model in the Lift eFoil range, the Lift 3 5’9 explorer, is durable, reliable and powerful. It’s long ride time makes it ideal for exploring and learning new tricks.
The board is customizable with varying front and back wing sizes. The largest wing size makes the board extra stable and is great for beginners and those new to foiling, along riders to learn moves and tricks whilst keeping their stability on the water.
Specs & Features
- Max Speed: up to 29mph
- Ride Time: 120min
- Weight Incl. Battery: 30lbs (can vary due to wing size)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Long ride time on one battery charge
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Stable and lightweight
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Customizable wing sizes
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Beginner friendly and perfect for more laid-back riding and cruising on the water
Things we don't like:
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Expensive
We’ve made the most comprehensive guide to the efoil. Here you can find the answer to any questions you may have about efoil. You can also discover how to get started, how to find the right efoil and general tips for starting your efoil journey. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions that this beginner’s guide to efoil will answer.
What is an efoil?How does an efoil work?
How to efoil?
What happens if I fall off?
How are efoils different to surfboards?
What is an efoil?
An efoil is a type of hydrofoil that uses an electric motor to push the board, rather than a sail. Also known as electric foil, electric hydrofoil, and e-hydrofoil, this new niche of water sport is exciting because it allows you to go faster than windsurf boards (that are only equipped with a sail) and surfboards that require waves.
How does an efoil work?
Most efoils work through a lithium-ion battery that powers a motor that is attached to a hydrofoil. The motor has propellers that push the hydrofoil forward creating lift and thrust by displacing the water behind the hydrofoil.
How to efoil?
For your first ride make sure to take things slow and become familiar with the controller and handling of the board in order to build confidence and comfort with the efoil. Make sure to set your controller to a low setting and turn it off before taking your efoil into the water.
Find a wide open water area that has smooth water and no obstructions such as swimmers, buoys, or boats. It’s important that the water is flat as riding your efoil on rough water will make it difficult for you to find your balance and stand up.
Additionally, make sure the water is deep enough for your board to float before placing your efoil, so that the hydrofoil doesn’t get damaged by coming into contact with the sea bed.
Slide onto the board and lie on your belly and turn the controller on to ride. Gently engage the throttle and slowly accelerate while still lying on your belly.
Make some gentle turns and get comfortable with both the board and throttle. From there move to your belly to your knees and increase acceleration until the board becomes more stable.
Once you are comfortable with the speed and stability, slowly transition from your knees to your feet while maintaining the throttle. Try to take a wider stance when standing for additional stability when riding.
What happens if I fall off?
If it’s your first time on an efoil you will probably fall off when trying to stand up. Don’t worry if you fall off, as you should hit the water relatively softly, and assuming you’re wearing a personal flotation device, you should be fine.
Do make sure to use the last bit of control you have when riding the board to bail, by pushing or jumping away from the board. It’s important to put as much distance as possible between you and the board when falling off to avoid getting hit by the propeller.
It’s important to remember to stop your board after you’ve fallen into the water as the efoil will only stop if you release the trigger found on the controller. The efoil doesn’t have a leash (for safety reasons) meaning you will have to swim back to it.
How are they different from surfboards?
Efoils are different to surfboards in a number of ways. Firstly, you don’t need a wave to ride an efoil, all you need is a charged battery and waves might actually make it harder to ride the efoil.
Secondly, you can go much faster than on a surfboard and your board won’t be making contact with the water at faster speeds, giving you a smoother and more comfortable ride.
For surfboard enthusiasts, electric surfboards offer an alternative to efoils, however they maintain contact with the water and do not have hydrofoil technology. Instead, electric surfboards offer a motorized version of a surfboard.
If you’re interested in an electric surfboard check out our guide to electric surfboards here.
If you’re more likely to take up traditional surfing make sure you check out our guide to surfboards here.
Frequently asked questions
We’ve tested and reviewed more than 10 different efoils for all the major brands.
Over time we’ve gotten to love these 5 the most:
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Easily Best Value: Waydoo Flyer One+ (EPP)
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All Round Favorite: Lift 3 eFoil
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Best Design: Awake Vinga 3
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Premium and Customizable: Fliteboard 3
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For Carving: Lift Pro eFoil
Glad you asked.
We’ve created an extensive guide on efoiling with some pointers for you:
The ride time you have on the efoil depends on how long the charge lasts. Of course, the charge lasts a different amount depending on the brand of efoil you are using and the selected settings. Generally, you should be able to get between an hour and a half to two hours out of a single charge.
The size of efoil you should buy depends on a number of different factors. The rider’s size and weight should be taken into consideration for choosing a size as bigger efoils tend to have a higher weight capacity. Additionally, the rider’s experience level is also a factor that plays into choosing the right efoil size. Efoils with large surface areas will have more stability and are prefered by beginners to the sport. On that note, if riding an efoil is a bit daunting for you, you may want to start with something with a much shallower learning curve, such as riding a classic bodyboard.
Depending on battery size and efficiency the charge can last anywhere between 60 to 120 minutes on the water, or 1-2 hours.
To power an eFoil the battery of the board will need to be anywhere between 6kW and 10kW.
E-foil prices vary anywhere between $5,000 to $15,000. Cost depends on materials, battery power, as well as size, design and wings.
If you are an experienced foiler any size will fit and for beginners wider and larger boards, with larger wings, tend to provide more stability when on the water. A smaller board size will be more manoeuvrable, making it easier to carve and learn tricks.
Comments
Hi there I have purchased my efoil from SiFly 4 months ago and I am very satisfied with the Board it has an excellent battery range about 2 hours of riding, perfect handling and also it has a mobile app so you can keep an eye on your sessions (tracking, time, speed and so on). I strongly recommend!
Hi Dan,
Any of the e-foils in the guide would do for most needs. I’d suggest you start at the top of our list here and go down.
Which E-foil do you recommend