How fast is an eFoil? Learn all about average and maximum speed, performance, and range. Tips for beginners and pros!
Introduction
Electric surfboards with foil technology—known as eFoils—have become a trend in water sports. They glide almost silently over the water, offer a unique riding experience, and are a sustainable alternative to jet skis or motorboats. But many people ask themselves: How fast is an eFoil really?
Below, you can find out everything you need to know about the speed of eFoils, the factors that influence it, and the differences between models for beginners and pros.
Average speed of an eFoil
An eFoil usually travels at 20 to 30 km/h. This speed is ideal for most riders, as it is sporty and controllable at the same time. On the water, a speed of 30 km/h feels much faster than on land because you are close to the surface and seem to glide weightlessly over it.
We recorded the following video for the E-SURFER YouTube channel:
So, the next time you see an eFoil gliding across the water and wonder, “How fast is an eFoil?”, it will probably be hovering above the water at around 25 km/h.
What is the maximum speed of an eFoil?
Premium models can even reach speeds of over 50 km/h. This makes eFoils one of the fastest electrically powered water sports devices approved for private use. In addition to performance, the wings are also crucial for speed:
- Beginner wings: 20–30 km/h
- Standard wings: 25–40 km/h
- Race wings: 40–55 km/h
If you want to reach speeds in the upper range, you not only need the right wing, but also experience and a very, very good sense of balance.
The following eFoil brands have established themselves in eFoil racing so far: Aerofoils, Fliteboard, and Lift Foils. In these eFoil races, a buoy course is completed against the clock.
Factors that influence eFoil speed
- Motor power and battery capacity: More power enables higher speeds but reduces battery life.
- Foil wing size and shape: Large wings mean stability, small wings mean speed.
- Rider weight: Less weight often means more speed.
- Water conditions: Smooth water is better than choppy waves.
- Riding modes: Eco mode = longer ride, sport mode = higher speed.
Comparison: eFoil vs. other water sports equipment
- SUP board: 5–8 km/h
- Kayak: 6–10 km/h
- Surfboard: 15–25 km/h (depending on wave height)
- Wakeboard: 25–40 km/h (pulled by a boat)
- Kiteboarder: 30–50 km/h (possible to exceed 100 km/h in strong winds)
- Windsurfer: 25–40 km/h (professionals on speedboards up to 100 km/h)
- Jet ski: up to 120 km/h
- eFoil: 25–50 km/h
This puts the eFoil in the middle of the pack when it comes to fast water sports. It combines a high fun factor with quiet and sustainable technology.
Safety at high speeds
- Helmets and life jackets are mandatory for safe eFoil riding.
- Beginners should stay below 30 km/h.
- Keep your distance from swimming areas and boats.
- Use the automatic motor shut-off in case of falls.
How fast is an eFoil: Range
The battery life is between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on riding style and speed. Riding in Eco mode gives you more range. At full power, the riding time is significantly reduced.
At a speed of 20 to 25 km/h, a range of 2 hours is realistic. If you drive at full throttle, the battery will be empty in less than an hour.
Conclusion: How fast is an eFoil?
An eFoil travels at an average speed of 25 to 35 km/h, with premium models reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h or more. It therefore offers a combination of speed, safety, and efficiency. The speed depends on the model, rider weight, wing size, and water conditions.
Compared to wakeboarding, surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, the eFoil is just as fast as many classic water sports, more independent, and particularly versatile. Compared to jet skis and sports boats, it is quieter, emission-free, and does not produce any waves.
I hope I have answered the question “How fast is an eFoil?” in a way that is easy to understand.
Speed is not what matters when eFoil. It's similar to snowboarding, where you don't race down the mountain at full speed. What counts is casual turns at moderate speeds.
It's different with jet-boards, where you want to step on the gas 😉 That's why they require a license and have to follow the rules for personal watercraft.
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