E-foiling gives you the unique feeling of gliding above the water. Thanks to the forgiving design of the Jobe Epix E-Foil, getting started with e-foiling is more accessible. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take you step by step from your first meters on the water to your first lift-off.
Building your technique step by step helps you get familiar with the board, speed and foil. How quickly you actually get the board flying depends on your experience and ability. With the right preparation, a gradual approach and enough practice, you’ll get closer to that magical moment when you start gliding above the water.
Want to learn more about the Jobe Epix E-Foil first? Discover everything about the unique dual-board system, inflatable design and Waydoo technology in our complete introduction to the Jobe Epix E-Foil.
5 steps from your first ride to lift-off
Step 1: Connect & get on the water
Turn on the wireless controller and pair it by holding the bottom of the remote against the power button on the battery.
Carry the board into the water while it is upside down (with the foil facing upwards). Only turn the board over once you are in sufficiently deep water (at least waist-deep). This prevents the mast, foil or propeller from hitting the bottom.
Take your time to check that everything is connected correctly before you start riding. Good preparation allows you to focus fully on balance and control during your first meters on the water.
Step 2: Get comfortable in the prone position
Always start by lying flat on your stomach. Use the remote to select a low speed setting (gear 2 to 5). Gently squeeze the throttle and feel how the board responds to acceleration and steering.
You steer by shifting your body weight slightly to the left or right. At this stage, focus mainly on getting a feel for the board, the speed and the way it moves across the water. Don’t try to lift off just yet.
Step 3: Find your balance on your knees
Once you have mastered the throttle control, slowly bring your knees underneath you. Stay low and keep your weight as centered over the board as possible.
Keep your speed steady and get used to the feeling of gliding across the water. At this stage, focus on developing control and balance. Small, smooth movements are better than large corrections.
Step 4: Stand up on the board
Once you feel comfortable on your knees, you can try standing up. Place your feet down one at a time and slowly come up. Position your feet slightly wider apart and relatively far forward to keep the nose of the board down.
Keep your knees slightly bent and look towards the horizon rather than at your feet. Stay low over the board and keep your movements as smooth and controlled as possible.
The goal at this point is not to get airborne as quickly as possible. First, make sure you feel comfortable riding upright and controlling your speed.
Step 5: Lift-off
Now comes the magical moment. Increase the speed setting (gear 7 to 10) to build up enough speed.
Shift your weight slightly backwards onto your back foot.
As the foil starts generating lift, the board will rise out of the water.
Important: as soon as you feel yourself lifting, shift your weight slightly forward again to stay level and prevent the nose from climbing too steeply.
Stay calm when the board leaves the water. Small movements of your body have an immediate effect on the height and direction of the foil. The more experience you gain, the better you’ll learn to feel how much correction is needed.
See how to use the Jobe Epix E-Foil
Prefer to see how it works? In this video, we show you how to use the Jobe Epix E-Foil and how to work your way step by step towards your first lift-off.
When should you switch from 115L to 85L?
One of the biggest advantages of the Jobe Epix E-Foil is that you don’t need a different board as soon as you improve. The Epix comes with two different inflatable boards, each with its own characteristics.
The 115L board is extra stable and ideal for getting started with e-foiling. Its larger volume gives you more stability while learning and helps you master your first meters on the water.
The 85L board is more compact, agile and performance-oriented. Once you feel comfortable starting, accelerating, steering and foiling under control, you can switch to the smaller board. This gives you a more direct and dynamic feeling on the water.
Switching between the two boards takes only around four minutes. This means your setup can grow with your skills without having to buy a completely new e-foil.
Common mistakes when learning to e-foil
One of the most important things when learning to e-foil is to take it step by step. Don’t try to fly straight away. Take the time to get familiar with the board and controls first.
Trying to go too fast: learn to control your speed and balance before attempting to lift off.
Making large movements: a foil responds strongly to shifts in body weight. Small corrections give you more control.
Looking at your feet: look ahead towards the horizon to maintain your balance more easily.
Standing too tense: keep your knees slightly bent and stay relaxed on the board.
Switching to a smaller board too soon: make sure you have mastered the basics before moving from the 115L to the 85L.
Safety on the water
An e-foil combines speed, electric propulsion and a foil underneath the board. That’s why it’s important to pay extra attention to safety while learning.
Jump away if you lose your balance: don’t try to fight a fall. Immediately jump away from the board (to the side or towards the back) to avoid landing on the mast or foil.
Automatic emergency stop: as soon as the remote control hits the water, the propeller stops rotating almost immediately.
Protection: always wear a life jacket/impact vest and a helmet during your first sessions.
Give yourself plenty of space: keep a sufficient distance from other watersports enthusiasts, boats, docks and other obstacles.
Maintenance after your session
To keep the electronics and motor in top condition, follow this short routine after every session:
Rinse with fresh water: thoroughly rinse the board, mast, propeller and remote control with clean tap water to remove salt and sand.
Clean the battery compartment: remove the battery and rinse the edges and connector points.
Store dry:fully dry the contact points and battery housing with a cloth before charging or storing the battery again.
Frequently asked questions about e-foiling for beginners
Is e-foiling difficult to learn?
E-foiling takes some practice at first because you need to learn how to control your balance, speed and foil at the same time. By gradually progressing from lying down to kneeling, standing and finally lifting off, the learning process becomes much more accessible.
How long does it take to learn how to e-foil?
It varies from person to person. However, most people get the hang of e-foiling within one to a few sessions. It naturally helps if you already have experience with watersports and board sports.
Which e-foil board is suitable for beginners?
For beginners, a stable board with plenty of volume is the best choice. That’s why the Jobe Epix comes with a 115L board that provides extra stability while learning. Once you gain more experience, you can switch to the 85L board.
How deep does the water need to be for e-foiling?
Make sure you ride in sufficiently deep water so the mast, foil and propeller remain clear of the bottom. When entering the water, keep the board upside down until you reach sufficiently deep water.
When can I switch from the 115L to the 85L board?
Once you feel comfortable starting, accelerating, steering and foiling under control, you can try the 85L board. The smaller board is more compact, agile and performance-oriented, making it suitable for riders who want to develop their skills further.
Ready for your first e-foil?
The Jobe Epix E-Foil is designed to grow with you. Start with the stable 115L board, learn the basics and switch to the more performance-oriented 85L board later. Thanks to its modular design, you don’t need to buy a completely new e-foil as your skills improve.
From your first meters on your stomach to your first lift-off above the water: take your time, build your skills gradually and, most importantly, enjoy the process.
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