Is Buying a Used Wing Foil Wing Worth It? | Poole Harbour Watersports

Wing foiling kit is flying (literally off the shelves and on the water!), but the prices of the kit are also flying up too each year! Going for the second-hand option seems the most reasonable route for most of us, but there can be hidden catches! In this blog, we will go through whether second-hand is actually good value or if you are better off investing in new for the long-term...

 

Why buy a second-hand wing?

In today’s market, a brand-new wing foil wing can easily cost between £700–£1000, which is a big investment for gear you might not use every day. The second-hand wing foil market, on the other hand, is booming — full of great deals as more riders upgrade and refine their setups.

Used wings can often be found at 30–60% off retail prices, making them a seriously attractive option for anyone looking to get started or expand their quiver without overspending.

Buying a second-hand wing is especially popular with beginners who are just getting into wing foiling and aren’t yet sure how much they’ll ride or what style suits them best. It’s a smart way to experiment — trying different brands, wing sizes, and handle styles — before committing to premium gear. And if you’re still learning, it’s often better to use a cheaper wing that you won’t stress over if it takes a knock or two during early sessions.

 

 

Why should you not go for second-hand?

Of course, the main advantage of buying used (saving money) can quickly disappear if the wing turns out to be in poor condition. After all, even a “bargain” isn’t a good deal if you end up spending more on repairs, or it doesn't last long.

When buying a used wing foil wing, you should always check carefully for any damage, leaks, or poor-quality repairs. A small canopy repair can cost around £60, and if the tear reaches the bladder, you’re looking at £100 or more. Make sure the valve is secure, you can attach your pump to it, and the leash and bag are in good condition.

 

One of the biggest risks when buying a used wing foil wing—especially one you can’t inspect in person—is that it may be “blown out.” This happens when the canopy has stretched or lost its original tension after extensive use, resulting in noticeably less power and efficiency on the water. A blown-out wing can feel sluggish, harder to pump, and less stable in gusty conditions, and essentially won't do what it's meant to do.

This inflated wing shows crinkles over the canopy, which is a sign of the used wing being 'blown out' and without much life left.

Modern wings now feature mini battens, improved canopy materials, and reinforced frame designs to reduce fluttering and extend the lifespan. While an older model might seem like a bargain, it could end up feeling underpowered or lifeless once you’re on the water—making it a poor value overall if you have to replace it sooner than expected.

It’s also worth remembering that wings sold second-hand are often being replaced for a reason. As design and performance continue to improve each year, older wings can quickly feel outdated. For first-time riders, a used wing might be fine for getting started, but you should think about how long it will meet your needs before you outgrow its capabilities.

Comfort and handling are also key considerations. Your wing should feel natural and easy to control, with well-spaced handles that make pumping and gliding effortless. Many riders now prefer hard-handle wings for this reason—they offer better feedback, more control, and a more efficient transfer of power.

Finally, consider resale value. A newer, higher-spec wing often retains more of its worth over time. For example, spending around £700 on a newer wing that you can later resell for £500 is often a better investment than buying a £300 used wing that might only resell for £100 once it’s more worn out.

 

5 Tips for Buying Used Wings

 

1. Check the Brand and Model Reputation

Some wing foil brands and models are simply built to last. Duotone, Naish, Ensis, and F-One are well known for their high-quality materials and long-term durability. Before buying, research how the model has performed in reviews and forums to ensure it’s known for reliability.

2. Inspect the Condition Carefully

A visual and functional inspection is essential. When possible, inflate the wing and check for:

> Canopy wrinkles or stretched fabric (a sign of wear or a “blown out” wing)

> Leaks or slow deflation in the bladder or leading edge

> Handle wear, loose fittings, or broken stitching

> Seam repairs, patches, or tape marks

> Discoloration from excessive UV exposure

A wing that looks tired probably performs that way too — so be cautious if the canopy has lost its crispness.

3. Compare the Price vs. Repair Potential

If repairs cost more than ~25% of the wing’s value, it might not be worth it.

4. Buy From Trusted Sources

Local surf or foil shops often check and grade their used gear. At Poole Harbour Watersports, we will check over any second-hand items in-store, inflate and repair professionally any wings that require work to sell on.

Avoid unverified sellers who can’t provide photos or condition details.

 

So, what is the right choice?

Buying a used wing foil wing can be a brilliant way to save money and get on the water faster — especially if you’re just starting out or want to try different sizes and brands before committing to a full-price setup. The second-hand market is full of opportunities, and with the right checks in place, you can find high-quality gear that performs almost like new.

However, as with any big purchase, it pays to be cautious. Wings that look like a bargain can end up costing more in repairs or lacklustre performance if they’re blown out or outdated. Always inspect the canopy, handles, and valves carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask about how the wing has been stored and used.

For riders who plan to progress quickly or spend lots of time on the water, investing in a new or nearly-new model can deliver better long-term value — offering improved materials, stiffer performance, and higher resale potential.

At Poole Harbour Watersports, we regularly check, grade, and service our second-hand wings so you know exactly what you’re buying. Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly setup or your next high-performance upgrade, we can help you find the best option for your riding level and budget.

Check out what we have in used foiling kit here!

Check out what we have new in wings (with some great deals to be had) here!