What Is an eFoil? The Complete Guide to Electric Hydrofoils and the Hydroflyer Revolution

What Is an E-Foil

E Foiling is a  blend of surfing and flying, powered by an electric hydrofoil surfboard that lifts riders above the water on a wing. This comprehensive guide covers everything from how eFoils work and their origin to why the Hydroflyer is redefining eFoiling as a brand new sport.

Whether you are a curious beginner or an adrenaline seeking rider, read on to explore the history of eFoils, how to ride them safely, the different types of boards, advanced tricks, and why Hydroflyer opens limitless progression for anyone. Throughout this guide, we will also share in depth tutorials, FAQs, and Hydroflyer resources to give you the clearest path into this sport.

Why the Hydroflyer Is in a Category of Its Own

Maybe you’ve seen someone flying above the water on what looks like a surfboard with no waves in sight and wondered, what is that thing? That’s an e-foil, part of the growing family of foiling sports that includes kiteboarding, wing foiling, and surf foiling.

An e-foil combines a board, a high capacity battery, an electric motor, and an underwater wing. As the motor pushes you forward, the wing creates lift and raises the board above the surface. Instead of dragging through chop, you’re gliding smoothly and quietly. Many riders say it feels like floating through fresh powder snow.

The Hydroflyer was born from that foundation, but it’s not just another e-foil. Founder Jerry MacArthur spent years building and riding traditional e-foils until he hit a wall. “I wanted to go faster, do jumps, and ride in rougher conditions,” he explains. So he strapped a foil to a mountain bike frame, rode it into the ocean, and instantly realized it was a whole new sport. That experiment became the Hydroflyer, the only e-foil designed to ride like a mountain bike across the water.

If you’re brand new to the sport, our Beginner’s Guide to E-Foiling is the perfect place to start. Already know you want the safest, most progression ready board out there? See Why the Hydroflyer Is the Only E-Foil You’ll Ever Need.

The History of Hydrofoils and the Rise of E-Foiling

From Speed Records to Surfing’s Future

Hydrofoils have been around for decades. The same principle that lifts a sailboat in the America’s Cup is what lets a board rise above the surface: a wing under the water creates lift, reduces drag, and makes it possible to move faster with less energy. At first it was sailors and engineers chasing speed records. Then surfers started bolting foils to boards so they could glide on rolling swells that never even broke. That’s where the magic appeared—that quiet, floating feeling that feels more like flying than surfing.

The Birth of E-Foiling

E-foiling took that magic and made it possible anywhere, in almost any conditions. A handful of early tinkerers, part engineer, part dreamer, began strapping electric motors to their foils. No wind, no tow rope, no wave required. Just a board, a battery, and a wing under the water. In the beginning it was pure DIY: garage builds, borrowed parts from other sports, and endless trial and error.

By 2018, companies like Lift and Fliteboard introduced polished designs, and the sport took off. At the same time, electric surfboards were also evolving as a separate category. If you’re comparing the two, see Electric Surfboards vs. eFoils: What’s the Difference in 2025?. Suddenly, e-foils were showing up on lakes, harbors, and open ocean. Riders discovered they could carve in glassy water or explore miles of coastline without waiting on perfect conditions. It was a revolution, but still centered on cruising. The equipment wasn’t built for progression.

Thinking about starting your own program? Here’s our full guide on How to Start an eFoil School or Shop.

Where the Hydroflyer Story Begins

That’s where we come  in. Jerry  had been riding and building my own e-foils for years, thousands of hours on the water. I could carve, cruise, and ride small waves, but I wanted more. I wanted to go faster, hit jumps, throw harder turns, and ride in rough conditions without feeling like I was always on the edge of crashing.

One day, I grabbed an old mountain bike frame, bolted it to a foil, and took it into the ocean. It looked ridiculous, but the first ride told me everything: more control, more leverage, more confidence. I could charge into chop, launch off ramps, and land without the sketchy wobble of a surf-style e-foil. In that moment, I knew—this wasn’t just a new kind of e-foil. It was the start of a new sport. - Jerry 

From that prototype we refined everything: stronger materials, a board shape that could pop back on foil after splashdowns, and handlebars integrated into the frame for zero flex. A larger battery kept riders on the water for hours. The Hydroflyer was born from that vision: an e-foil that’s not only more accessible for beginners, but also limitless for riders who want to progress.

We didn’t just join the history of e-foiling. We decided to write the next chapter.

If you’re new and want to see where the journey starts, check out our Beginner’s Guide to E-Foiling. Ready to understand why this board is built for the long haul? Read Why the Hydroflyer Is the Only E-Foil You’ll Ever Need.

 

Understanding eFoils: What They Are and How They Work

What Is an eFoil

 An eFoil is an electric hydrofoil surfboard. At first glance it looks like a surfboard, but underneath is a hydrofoil wing and motor that lift the rider above the water. When you throttle up, the foil generates lift so the board glides instead of plowing through chop. Riders often describe it as “a mix between flying and surfing” because of the smooth, floating sensation.

Not sure how eFoils compare to electric surfboards? Our guide Electric Surfboards vs. eFoils: What’s the Difference? breaks down the key pros and cons so you can see which one is right for you.

Key Components of an eFoil

 Every eFoil has a few main parts that work together:

• Board – The surfboard style platform you stand or kneel on, available in different sizes and volumes.
  

• Mast and Foil Wing – The mast (or strut) connects the board to the foil wing underwater. Like an airplane wing, the foil generates lift as water flows over it, raising the board and rider above the surface.
  

• Electric Motor and Propeller – A battery powered motor, usually mounted on the mast or fuselage, drives the propeller or jet to propel the board forward.
  

• Battery and Electronics – A high capacity lithium ion battery supplies power. The sealed battery compartment also houses a computer for throttle management and safety shut offs.
  

• Remote Controller or Throttle – Most eFoils use a wireless handheld remote. The Hydroflyer takes this a step further by integrating the throttle into its handlebars, making speed control more intuitive.
  

Want to dive deeper? See our full guide on What Kinds of eFoils Are There? to compare different styles and find the best fit.

How eFoils Move and Lift

 As the rider applies throttle, the motor accelerates the board through the water. Once the board reaches about 8 to 10 miles per hour, the foil wing generates lift and raises the board above the surface. With drag reduced, the board glides efficiently and can reach higher speeds with minimal noise. Steering is done by shifting body weight or using built in mechanisms, similar to surfing or snowboarding.

The eFoiling Experience

 What sets eFoiling apart is the silence and freedom. Because the board rides above the waterline, there is almost no sound or surface chop. Many compare it to “riding powder snow on water” thanks to the smooth, effortless glide. Even newcomers can learn quickly since eFoils do not require big waves, wind, or a tow rope.

The Rise of eFoiling: A Brief History and Evolution

Early Experiments in Electric Hydrofoils (2000s to 2010s)

The idea of a self-propelled hydrofoil has been around for decades. In the early 2010s, inventors and riders began experimenting with adding electric motors to foil boards. One of the first documented concepts was the 2009 Evolo Project in Sweden, where researchers tested an electric-powered hydrofoil prototype. Around the same time, garage builders and hydrofoil enthusiasts were working on similar DIY projects.

By 2016, well-known waterman Don Montague (kiteboarding pioneer) introduced the Jetfoiler, one of the first one-person electric foiling boards to actually fly above water under its own power. These early successes showed that the eFoil idea was “expressed simultaneously and independently” by innovators across the globe.

The First Commercial eFoils (2018)

 The year 2018 marked the true birth of eFoiling as a sport. Two separate teams released the world’s first production eFoils almost at the same time:

• In Australia, David Trewern launched the Fliteboard, a premium design with the motor mounted on the fuselage.
  

• In Puerto Rico, Lift Foils, already known in the surf and kitefoil world, introduced the Lift eFoil, with the motor placed on the mast.
  

Both boards proved that an electric hydrofoil could be stable, efficient, and fun without a boat or a kite. This watershed moment sparked the modern eFoil industry.

Explosive Growth of eFoiling (2018 to 2025)

After 2018, eFoiling grew from niche curiosity to global phenomenon. Riders of all backgrounds — surfers, wakeboarders, kiteboarders, even complete beginners — were drawn to the idea of flying silently above the water. New brands entered the market, offering everything from high-end carbon fiber builds to more affordable beginner models.

Advancements came quickly:

• Longer ride times thanks to bigger, safer batteries.
  

• Improved safety features like propeller guards and automatic shut-offs.
  

• Smoother controls for steadier throttle management.
  

What started as DIY shed projects became polished boards that anyone could ride. By the mid-2020s, eFoils were one of the fastest-growing watersports worldwide. Curious about the current options? Our guide What Kinds of eFoils Are There? breaks down the main categories.

Lingering Challenges Before Hydroflyer

 Despite rapid progress, traditional eFoils still came with challenges. Most required solid balance and prior board-sport experience. Beginners often spent more time kneeling, falling, or struggling with throttle control than actually flying. And while great for cruising, most commercial eFoils weren’t built for jumps, tricks, or aggressive riding — pushing too hard risked damaging the board or foil.

That gap in progression and accessibility set the stage for the next leap forward in design. The answer came with Hydroflyer, which reimagined what an eFoil could be.

The Birth of the Hydroflyer: A New Sport Is Born

• Meet the Visionary – Jerry McArthur

 The Hydroflyer’s story starts with its founder, Jerry McArthur. Jerry is an engineer and lifelong thrill-seeker (mountain biker, surfer, foiler) who fell in love with eFoiling early. He built his first custom eFoils around 2016–2017, essentially DIY projects to push performance. After thousands of hours riding regular eFoils, Jerry “reached a plateau” – he felt he’d hit the limits of what a surf-style eFoil could do. He wanted to go faster, carve harder, jump higher, and ride in rough conditions that would trouble a normal eFoil. Instead of waiting for someone else to solve it, Jerry took matters into his own hands.

• The “Mountain Bike on Water” Idea
  Inspired by his background in downhill mountain biking, Jerry had a bold idea: what if you could ride a foil like a bike? Around 2018, he literally strapped a foil onto an old mountain bike frame and took it out on the water. It sounds crazy, but that first experiment was a lightbulb moment , even though it was rudimentary, it proved combining a handlebar with a foil could open up a whole new riding style. “The first day I got it working, I knew it was a whole new sport, the next revolution in surfing and foiling,” Jerry recalls. With handlebars for leverage and a bike-like stance, he could immediately ride more aggressively: “I could go faster, do jumps, and ride in the roughest conditions” that would have been near impossible on a regular eFoil. 

• From Prototype to Product

Over the next few years, Jerry and a global team of foilers and engineers refined this concept into the Hydroflyer. The goal was clear: make eFoiling easier for beginners, but also unlock higher performance for experts. After extensive R&D, they settled on a unique design: a high-volume eFoil board with a patent-pending handlebar system integrated into a super-strong carbon fiber frame. They even collaborated with America’s Cup boat designers to craft a special hull that pierces water smoothly for takeoffs and touchdowns. By 2021–2022, the Hydroflyer was launched as a commercial product, “a category-defining machine” that doesn’t fit the mold of any eFoil before it.

• A Category of Its Own
  The Hydroflyer isn’t just a new eFoil model, it created an entirely new category of watersport. Think of it like this: if a traditional eFoil and a stand-up jet ski had a baby, you’d get something like the Hydroflyer. It combines the quiet, flying-above-water vibe of eFoils with the stability and control of a jet ski or dirt bike. In fact, riders often say “riding the Hydroflyer feels more like mountain biking on water than traditional hydrofoiling”. By adding a bicycle-style handlebar, the Hydroflyer gives the rider four points of contact (two hands plus two feet) instead of the usual two, massively increasing balance and confidence. Jerry’s vision was to “build an eFoil that rides like a mountain bike”, and that’s exactly what he did. That reputation even caught the attention of Wired, who dubbed the Hydroflyer the Mountain Bike of the Sea. The result is a machine that “doesn’t just belong in the eFoil category – it expands it”, blurring the line between eFoiling, jet skiing, and even motocross. For a deeper comparison of how Hydroflyer stands apart, see eFoils vs. The Hydroflyer. This is why many riders call it more than just a board — it’s the start of a new sport. Our blog A New Sport Is Born: The Next Revolution in Surfing & Foiling explores what that means for the future. It’s eFoiling evolved – so novel that many simply call it a “Hydroflyer” rather than an eFoil.

• From Personal Project to Movement

What started as Jerry’s personal quest has grown into a movement. Early adopters around the world – from pro watermen to 55-year-old weekend riders – have hopped on Hydroflyers and felt that same spark of something new. It’s not only a high-tech product, but the catalyst for a budding community of riders who see Hydroflyer as “the platform of a new sport”. As we’ll explore, Hydroflyer’s design changes have huge impacts on how people ride and who can ride. It’s making eFoiling more inclusive for beginners and more exciting for experts, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a foil.

Inside the Hydroflyer: Key Features and Innovations

What exactly makes the Hydroflyer so different? This section breaks down its unique design elements, many of which address the limitations of traditional eFoils.

Handlebars with Integrated Controls

The most obvious difference is the handlebar system. Check out Why Handlebars Are the Future of eFoiling. Instead of a small handheld remote, the Hydroflyer uses motorcycle-style handlebars mounted on the board’s front. The throttle trigger is built into the right grip, and turning the bars helps steer the foil.

These bars are not an afterthought or training tool — they’re a structural part of the board. A carbon fiber monocoque connects them directly to the foil mast, which means no flex or wobble. You can literally hang your full weight on these bars and they won’t budge.

Why it matters: Handlebars give riders a stable touchpoint and leverage, especially at low speeds or during maneuvers. Beginners love them for balance when starting, and advanced riders use them to carve harder and even land jumps with control. For more on pushing performance with bars, see Can You Do Tricks on an eFoil?.

High-Volume, Hydrodynamic Board

The Hydroflyer board is thicker than the thin surfboard-style eFoils and has a carefully shaped hull. The V-shaped nose cuts through water on takeoff and landing instead of slapping it. Its high volume keeps it floating higher when stationary.

Why it matters: The added buoyancy makes it much easier to start and remount after falling — the board doesn’t sink under you. The hull shape means when you touch down off-foil, the board “pierces the water” smoothly and can pop back up with little effort. This design shines in choppy water or when crossing boat wakes.

The Hydroflyer lineup is tuned for different riders: the Cruiser model review shows how stable it feels for bigger riders or relaxed sessions, while the Cruiser vs Sport comparison highlights why the Sport version is lighter and quicker for aggressive carving.

Strong, Modular Construction

Everything about Hydroflyer is beefed up for performance and longevity. The board and mast are aerospace-grade carbon fiber, with aluminum or steel reinforcements where needed. The mast and foil are designed to handle jump landings and high torque, while cables and connectors are rugged and watertight.

Why it matters: Traditional eFoils can crack or bend under stress. Hydroflyer was built from the ground up to ride like a dirt bike across water. That includes wave punching, carving, and even moderate jumps without worry. Want to explore this side of riding? Start with Can I Jump on an eFoil? or check out Top 3 Beginner eFoil Jump Tricks to Master on the Hydroflyer.

Powerful Battery and Drive

Hydroflyer packs a high-capacity battery with up to 2+ hours of ride time, often longer during casual cruising. The motor and prop are tuned for lift-off torque and top-end speed. Riders have clocked Hydroflyer at 45 km/h (28 mph), which is at the upper end for eFoils.

Why it matters: The big battery means no “range anxiety.” Instructors report 3+ hours of teaching on a single charge, while heavy riders or wave riders can count on steady power. For those comparing ride styles, it’s also worth reading Electric Surfboards vs. eFoils: What’s the Difference (and Which Should You Get in 2025?).

Built-in Safety Features

Safety was a core design focus. Hydroflyer includes a full prop guard, automatic kill switch, and a handlebar system that naturally distances riders from the foil in a fall. Rounded edges and soft padding in critical areas further reduce risk.

Why it matters: Poorly designed eFoils can be intimidating, but Hydroflyer makes falls more predictable. As one instructor put it, “by holding onto the handlebars while you fall, the foil always goes away from you.” That’s why it stands out among the safest eFoils. Curious about wipeouts? See What Happens When You Fall Off an eFoil?.

Wrapping Up the Tech

From handlebars to hull shape, the Hydroflyer’s innovations address real pain points in older eFoils. It’s no wonder Wired dubbed it “the mountain bike of the sea”. Some even argue it marks a brand-new sport in foiling’s evolution.

Traditional eFoils vs Hydroflyer: Key Differences at a Glance

These contrasts explain why many riders land on Hydroflyer as their forever board. For the full head to head, see eFoils vs. The Hydroflyer

Starting Out

 Most eFoils require kneeling or prone starts. Hydroflyer lets you begin standing thanks to buoyancy and handlebars.
Why it matters: you fly on day one instead of burning sessions learning to stand. 

Balance and Control

 Traditional eFoils rely only on weight shifts and a handheld remote. Hydroflyer adds a four point stance with bars and integrated throttle.
Why it matters: more control equals faster progression. See Why Handlebars Are the Future of eFoiling

Falling and Recovery

 Standard eFoil falls often mean chasing a drifting board. Hydroflyer falls are cleaner. Hold the bars, the board moves away safely, and remounts are easy.
Why it matters: safer learning keeps riders motivated. Deep dive: What Happens When You Fall Off an eFoil? and What is the Safest eFoil?

Performance Ceiling

 Many eFoils top out at cruising and light carving. Hydroflyer was built to erase that ceiling with confident carves and real jump potential.
Why it matters: one platform for beginners and experts. Explore What Kinds of eFoils Are There?, compare Cruiser vs Sport, and read the Cruiser review

Ride Experience

 A remote in one hand and nothing to hold can feel minimalist but twitchy. Handlebars turn efoiling into a full body ride and even allow stand, kneel, or seated options.
Why it matters: a more inclusive sport that fits more riders. Full comparison: eFoils vs. The Hydroflyer

Safety and Learning Curve: Why Hydroflyer Is the Easiest and Safest eFoil

One of the Hydroflyer’s biggest promises is that anyone can learn to eFoil on it and do so with confidence. This section covers common questions about learning and safety, and how the Hydroflyer addresses them.

For answers to the most common concerns, from falling to gear and safety tips, check out What Happens When You Fall Off an eFoil? & Other Pressing Safety Questions.
And if you’re wondering more broadly What is the Safest eFoil?, we break that down in detail in a dedicated guide.

Is eFoiling hard to learn?

Easier than you might think. For a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect when you first try an eFoil, check out How Hard Is It to eFoil? A Complete Beginner’s Guide.

E-Foiling has a learning curve, but with the right equipment, most beginners can get the hang of basic riding in under an hour. With traditional eFoils, the hardest part is the first 30 minutes: balancing while managing the trigger and trying to stand. The Hydroflyer eliminates a lot of that struggle. Beginners don’t need any prior board-sport experience. The handlebars and stable board let you focus on throttle and steering while your balance catches up.

In practice, we’ve seen complete newbies go from zero to foiling in 5–10 minutes on the Hydroflyer. The design accelerates the learning curve so you’re standing up from the very first moment. This is why many eFoil schools and demo instructors prefer Hydroflyers: students succeed faster and leave the water feeling like riders, not students.

If you’re curious about how this compares to other designs, our Hydroflyer Cruiser vs Sport comparison dives into which setup is best for different learning styles.

Starting out on Hydroflyer vs others

With other eFoils, a newbie typically wobbles on their belly, then knees, and maybe stands after dozens of attempts. On Hydroflyer, you can start standing on Day One. You have a handle to hold (huge for confidence) and a throttle that’s easier to modulate. There’s no awkward Bluetooth remote to fumble or weight-shift dance required.

The phrase we hear a lot: “It’s more intuitive than it looks.” Many people expect eFoiling to be extremely hard until they try the Hydroflyer – then they’re shocked at how naturally it clicks. This isn’t just marketing; it’s an intentional design outcome. We wanted a setup where an 80-year-old grandparent or a 12-year-old kid could foil on day one. And guess what – both have done exactly that on the Hydroflyer.

As Jerry shares, “I’ve taught 80-year-olds to ride the Hydroflyer in under half an hour,” something unheard of with older eFoils. Age or experience truly isn’t a barrier now. This is especially true on the Cruiser model, which we cover in depth in our Hydroflyer Cruiser Review.

For riders who want to push further, see Top 3 Beginner eFoil Jump Tricks to Master on the Hydroflyer.

Mental confidence and fun factor

Another element to learning is psychological. A lot of beginners are nervous about falling or “doing it wrong.” Hydroflyer’s extra stability removes much of that fear. You can ride at a slower speed without losing balance (traditional eFoils often require some speed to stabilize). And if you do start to tip, the handlebars give you a chance to recover, or at least fall in a controlled way.

This means instead of fearing the foil, you’re having fun right away. People tend to progress faster because they’re not constantly wiping out,  they can actually practice maneuvers in the first session (turns, stops, maybe even little hops) rather than just trying to stand up straight.

As one user said after learning on a Hydroflyer: “Instead of spending the whole session just trying to stand up… you’re learning how to ride. That’s a big difference.”

For inspiration, see Can You Do Tricks on an eFoil? to get an idea of what’s possible once you’re comfortable.

Are eFoils dangerous?

They certainly can be, but good design makes all the difference. Any time you mix a powered board, a foil wing, and water, there’s potential for injury. The main risks in eFoiling are: hitting the foil or board during a fall, cuts from an open propeller, getting tangled or knocked by a runaway board, or colliding with a hard object.

Traditional eFoil riders must learn proper falling technique (fall away from the board, never toward the nose) to avoid the foil behind them. Accidents have happened – from minor cuts to more serious gashes – usually when a rider falls incorrectly or something malfunctions.

However, with advances like prop guards, auto-shutoff, and improved stability, modern eFoils are much safer than the early DIY days. In fact, with responsible use, eFoiling can be one of the safer motorized watersports (you’re typically moving 10–20 mph, and falling into water).

For a full breakdown, see our deep dive: What is the Safest eFoil?.

Hydroflyer = maximum safety

We purposely over-engineered safety features on Hydroflyer to make it the safest eFoil on the market.

• Foil Away Falls: If a Hydroflyer rider loses balance, they can just hold the bars and let themselves fall to the side or back. The board (with the foil) will shoot forward away from the rider in almost every scenario. This drastically reduces the chance of the board or wing hitting you.
  

• Tether Kill Switch and Braking: Hydroflyer includes a safety tether (like a key on a jetski). If you fall and this cord disconnects, the system engages an emergency brake on the propeller. The board rapidly slows to a stop to prevent runaways.
  

• Fully Guarded Propeller: Hydroflyer’s prop is encased in a robust guard ring. No exposed blades means far lower risk of cuts if you contact it.
  

• High-Visibility, Buoyant Board: Its bright surface and volume make it easy to spot and unlikely to flip foil-up.
  

• Predictable Handling: Smooth acceleration and stability prevent nasty surprises that can lead to injury.
  

For more context on Hydroflyer innovation, see Why Wired Calls the Hydroflyer the Mountain Bike of the Sea.

Safety gear and best practices

Regardless of eFoil model, smart riders follow safety best practices: wearing a helmet and impact vest, using a leash/tether, riding away from swimmers, and learning proper falling technique.

We encourage all new riders to take at least a basic lesson, even on the forgiving Hydroflyer, to build good habits. The good news is, the Hydroflyer makes it easy to focus on skill progression because it takes care of balance and basic safety for you.

Many first-timers report that after a short session they felt “totally in control and safe” and could start focusing on fun goals like making smooth turns.

If you’re choosing your first board and wondering What is the Safest eFoil?, our full guide has the answer.

Taking Flight: Jumps, Tricks, and Advanced eFoiling on the Hydroflyer

When eFoils first hit the scene, most people viewed them as cruising toys, meant for serene gliding rather than aerial antics. Hydroflyer changed that paradigm. If you’ve ever wondered whether tricks are possible on an eFoil, the short answer is yes — and our guide Can You Do Tricks on an eFoil? explains how. One of Jerry’s driving motivations was to create an eFoil you could jump and stunt like a dirt bike or snowboard.

Can I Jump on an eFoil?

Yes, with the right equipment. On a traditional eFoil, jumping off a wave or wake is extremely difficult and not recommended by most manufacturers. The boards aren’t reinforced for hard landings, and without handlebars, controlling an eFoil mid-air is like trying to ride a unicycle while jumping, very unstable.

The Hydroflyer was designed from the start for aerials. Its rugged mast and hull can absorb re-entry impacts, and the handlebar gives you crucial control authority in the air. If you’re just starting out with aerials, our guide Top 3 Beginner eFoil Jump Tricks to Master on the Hydroflyer highlights the easiest tricks to begin with. For a full breakdown of why Hydroflyer makes jumping possible (when most eFoils can’t), see Can I Jump on an eFoil? The Hydroflyer’s Unique Approach to Jumping. Think of a motocross bike jump: the rider holds the bars to keep the bike aligned. Hydroflyer offers that same ability, letting riders do hops, wake launches, and even flat-water “pop-offs.”

As Jerry puts it, “I originally made this to be like riding a mountain bike on waves – something you could do jumps on, charge full speed and hard turns.” Now that vision is reality. The Hydroflyer holds its shape and catches air with confidence, whereas most eFoils would flex or nose-dive.

Advanced Maneuvers Unlocked

Beyond straight jumps, the Hydroflyer opens the door to a new world of tricks:

• Aerial Spins & Grabs: With a handlebar, spinning the board 180 or 360 in the air becomes thinkable. Some riders are experimenting with bar-twist tricks and board grabs, exactly why we say Handlebars Are the Future of eFoiling.
  

• One-Handers / No-Handers: Taking one or both hands off for style points. Hydroflyer riders find one-handers straightforward, while no-handers are the next step up.
  

• No-Footer: A crowd favorite where riders lift both feet off mid-jump. Hydroflyer’s handlebar makes this possible, keeping the board with you instead of drifting away.
  

• Raley (Superman): An extreme move where you extend your body horizontally behind the board. Riders like @efoilgc in Australia have been landing these, proving Hydroflyer hardware can handle it. Our Top 3 Beginner eFoil Tricks guide walks through the basics of a Raley step by step.
  

Wave Carving & Re-entries

Hydroflyer isn’t only about aerials — it’s also redefining what eFoils can do in waves. Experienced foilers are now using Hydroflyers in real surf, not just gliding but carving hard turns, powering back onto the wave face, and re-entering after cutbacks. In our Hydroflyer Cruiser Review: The eFoil That Redefines the Sport, riders called out how stable the board feels when punching through whitewater or chasing waves that would normally be “unsurfable.”

The combination of throttle control and foil lift means you can surf average conditions with confidence, blending powered foiling and wave riding into something entirely new. As we said in A New Sport Is Born: The Next Revolution in Surfing & Foiling, Hydroflyer erases the old limitations of eFoiling.

A New Trick Frontier

Perhaps the most exciting thing is that the trick playbook is still unwritten. Unlike snowboarding or skateboarding, freestyle eFoiling is so new that there’s no standardized trick list. Today’s Hydroflyer riders are inventing the future, naming tricks, pushing boundaries, and shaping a culture of innovation.

Every week new clips appear of riders attempting creative stunts, from spins to grabs to aerial re-entries. If you’re worried about wipeouts, our guide What Happens When You Fall Off an eFoil? & Other Pressing Safety Questions explains what to expect and how to stay safe.

The bottom line: Hydroflyer turns eFoiling into a limitless playground. Jumps, spins, grabs, flips. Iit can handle them all, giving intermediate riders the tools to attempt things that used to be reserved for elite experts. As one of our most-read blogs puts it: Yes, You Can Do Tricks on an eFoil (And Hydroflyer Makes Them Easier).

(Hungry to start trick riding? Don’t miss Jumping with an eFoil: Tips for Catching Air alongside our Top 3 Beginner eFoil Tricks article for step-by-step advice on aerial basics. Always progress gradually and wear protective gear when pushing into new territory.)

Building the eFoil Community: From New Riders to New Careers

The explosion of eFoiling and the advent of Hydroflyer have given rise to more than just cool videos – they’re creating an entirely new community and culture. In this section, we look at how riders can get involved beyond just riding: from getting sponsored in eFoiling, to starting an eFoil school or rental business, to helping shape the very future of the sport.

A Sport in Its Infancy

It’s not often that a brand-new sport emerges where the pioneers are active on Instagram and you can directly talk to the inventors. eFoiling is at that exciting stage right now. There are no decades-old governing bodies or established pro circuits – those will likely come, but they’re still on the horizon. What this means for the average enthusiast is opportunity. “This sport is wide open,” as we often say – if you have passion and initiative, you can make a real name for yourself in eFoiling today. Early kiteboarders and skateboarders from the ’80s and ’90s can attest: getting in on a sport at its genesis is special. You’re not just a participant, you’re a co-creator of the culture.

Make Your Mark – Get Sponsored or Become an Ambassador

If you’re pushing the boundaries on a Hydroflyer, we will notice. Unlike mature sports where sponsorships are locked behind pro contests, Hydroflyer is actively looking for passionate riders to join the family. You don’t have to be a 20-year-old superstar – “it’s not just 19-year-old TikTok kids… there’s space for Gen X, ex-MTB guys, watermen… people who want something new to master.” If you ride hard, innovate tricks, or build a local following, you could become a Hydroflyer team rider or ambassador. We’ve outlined how in our guide on how to get sponsored in eFoiling.

The gist: show us your skill or your ability to grow the sport (through content, community leadership, etc.), and you could earn free or discounted gear and support. Today’s sponsored Hydroflyer riders range from young guns throwing the first eFoil flips, to seasoned surfers who teach lessons and promote the brand. It’s all about being a rider who can elevate and represent the sport.

Starting an eFoil School or Rental Business

One of the coolest opportunities in this new space is to teach others and get paid for it. If you love eFoiling and have an entrepreneurial spark, you can open up your own eFoil school, tour company, or rental operation. We’ve seen kiteboarding instructors, surf schools, and even marina operators successfully add Hydroflyers to their lineup.

Why Hydroflyer? Because it’s “the easiest eFoil to teach on” students get that dopamine rush of success in minutes, which means happy customers and great word-of-mouth. Our blog on how to start an eFoil school or shop breaks down the business model: from becoming an authorized Hydroflyer dealer (we offer training, wholesale pricing, marketing support), to figuring out lesson pricing and safety practices.

Some key points: you don’t need a huge upfront investment – a few boards can get you started with demos and lessons. And the earning potential is real: “One of the easiest ways to make a living as an ambassador is to open an eFoil school… You can make $150 an hour leading people into a new lifestyle… It’s something riders could only dream of 25 years ago, and now it’s obtainable.”

Hosting Events and Building Community

Maybe you’re not into formal lessons, but if you have a crew of riders or a prime location, you can become a community catalyst. Organize local eFoil meetups, fun “foil jam” sessions, or small friendly competitions. We’ve heard of Hydroflyer owners hosting weekend demo days at lakes, where curious people can try the board (often leading to sales, which the host can earn commission on).

Others have started informal clubs where riders share tips and explore new spots together. These grassroots events not only spread the stoke, but can also be monetized. Hydroflyer’s team is eager to support such initiatives “If you have a lake, a crew, or even just a board, you can create that space… We’ll help promote it if it aligns. You bring the energy, we back riders who take initiative.”

The ultimate payoff: “This is your chance to become the person people remember,  not just the one who rides well, but the one who brought the sport to their town… make money, make memories, and make history, all in one move.”

A Rider-Driven Culture

At the core of all this is our belief that Hydroflyer’s future is shaped not just by us (the company), but by you – the riders. That’s why we feature people like Jerry (our founder) and JP (our COO and a passionate rider) in blogs and videos – not as corporate talking heads, but as fellow eFoil lovers sharing knowledge.

We highlight community stories, whether it’s a 55-year-old charging overhead waves or a young kid landing their first eFoil tricks. As a new Hydroflyer owner or fan, you’re part of the family. We encourage you to reach out, share your ideas, and ask questions. You can literally chat with Jerry via our website or social DMs – how many sports let you speak directly with the inventor of the gear?

This close-knit, open communication is something we cherish and aim to maintain even as we grow. Because at the end of the day, the sport will be defined by its community. Ten years from now, eFoiling could be in the Olympics, or have pro tours, or massive forums of riders – and those future realities depend on the seeds we (all of us) plant now.

So we invite you: get involved! Teach a friend to eFoil, start a local Facebook group, tag us in your content, come to a demo event, or just drop us a line with your stoke or suggestions.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Efoil in Top Shape

Owning an eFoil like the Hydroflyer is an investment in fun, and like any high performance gear, a little care goes a long way to keep it running smoothly. Fortunately, basic eFoil maintenance is straightforward. Here are the essentials to ensure your board and battery last for many seasons:

Rinse After Each Ride

Saltwater is the enemy of electronics and metal. After every session, especially in the ocean, thoroughly rinse your Hydroflyer with fresh water. Focus on flushing the foil, motor area, and any hardware to remove salt and sand. Do not use high pressure directly on seals, but a gentle hose or bucket rinse is perfect. Do not forget the handheld parts: rinse the throttle or brake levers on the handlebar and any leashes or the remote if you used one. This prevents corrosion and salt buildup that could affect performance.

If you are new to the sport, our guide on what happens when you fall off an eFoil covers other simple safety habits that keep your board in good shape.

Dry and Drain

After rinsing, let your gear dry. Open the board’s battery compartment and ensure no water has entered. Wipe down the board, foil mast, and other components with a towel. Pay attention to crevices around the battery hatch, handlebar base, and connectors. Water can hide in there, so towel dry and allow a bit of air drying time. Keeping everything dry before storage prevents mold and corrosion.

Check for Damage or Loose Bolts

Make it a habit to do a quick visual inspection when you finish or before the next ride. Look over the board for any cracks or dings. Check the foil mast and wings for any chips or bent parts, especially if you hit something underwater. Ensure the propeller is clear of debris such as seaweed or fishing line. Also, periodically tighten all screws and bolts. Foil attachment screws and the handlebar bolts can loosen over time with vibration. A once a week tighten can prevent a part from coming loose mid ride.

If you ride hard, you will notice details others miss — our Hydroflyer Cruiser review highlights what frequent riders keep an eye on after back to back sessions.

Battery Care

The battery is a critical and expensive component, so treat it well.

• Charging: Always use the official charger and follow guidelines. Charge in a dry, cool area. Make sure the connectors are dry before plugging in. Avoid leaving the battery on the charger for days on end. Once it is full, disconnect it.
  

• Storage Charge: If you will not ride for more than a week or two, store the battery at about 50 to 70 percent charge. Lithium batteries last longest when stored around half charge in a cool place.
  

• Physical Handling: Do not drop the battery or expose it to high heat. After rides, let it cool down before charging. Inspect the seal on the battery case and keep it clean from sand or grit to maintain the waterproof integrity. A light application of silicone grease on the O ring occasionally can help keep it supple

Lubricate Moving Parts

The Hydroflyer does not have many moving parts, but a few areas benefit from occasional lubrication: the propeller shaft or bearing, folding prop hinges if your foil uses a folding prop design, and the handlebar steering mechanism where it pivots. Always use marine safe, waterproof greases or sprays, and keep lubricant away from the electronics or battery contacts.

Proper Storage

Store your Hydroflyer in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If you have a bag or case, use it to protect from dust and UV light. Avoid leaving the board in a hot car or shed for extended periods. For the battery, ensure it is not exposed to freezing temperatures or high heat. Many riders remove the battery from the board between sessions to reduce weight and avoid any slow drain.

Routine Maintenance

Over time, you might need to replace foil wing screws if they show corrosion, swap out a propeller if it gets dinged, or update firmware on the controller. We provide maintenance guidelines in the user manual and have how to videos on tasks like changing a prop or fixing a small paint chip. The good news is, eFoils are relatively low maintenance compared to gas engines. Just keep everything clean and tight.

If you are deciding between platforms, our guide on electric surfboards vs. eFoils explains which designs are easiest to maintain and why.

The Future of E-Foiling, Join the Revolution

From its early invention to the cutting-edge Hydroflyer, eFoiling has proven to be more than a trend – it’s the next evolution of watersports. We’ve traveled through the basics, the history, the tech, and the culture, and one thing should stand out: this is just the beginning. The Hydroflyer has turned eFoiling into a platform for innovation and progression, a sport where you can still be a pioneer. Whether you’re drawn by the sheer joy of flying over water, the challenge of mastering new tricks, or the prospect of shaping a young sport’s community, there’s a place for you here.

In 5 or 10 years, people will talk about “the early days” of electric hydrofoiling – the days happening right now. They’ll remember the first names who pushed the limits, the first tricks landed, the first schools opened, the first local foil fest that drew a crowd. That could be you. If you’ve ever wondered How to Start an eFoil School or Shop, now is the time to explore it. Or maybe you’re dreaming about How to Get Sponsored in eFoiling — building your presence early in this sport gives you a head start on opportunities that will only grow as the community expands. Right now, there’s a real opportunity to make your name, to be the rider people point to and say “that’s where it started.” The Hydroflyer was built to give you the platform to push it – to go faster, go bigger, and bring others along for the ride.

So, if you’re excited, don’t just sit on the sidelines. Experience it: try a Hydroflyer at a demo near you, or connect with us to chat with Jerry or our team. Learn and progress: start with our guide on How Hard Is It to eFoil? A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started with Electric Foilboards, then challenge yourself with Top 3 Beginner eFoil Jump Tricks to Master on the Hydroflyer and see for yourself Can You Do Tricks on an eFoil? (Short Answer: Yes—With the Right Board). Share it: whether it’s teaching a friend, posting your ride on social, or organizing an outing, every bit helps grow the stoke. And above all, enjoy the journey. The feeling of foiling – that magical flight – is something even words can’t fully capture. It’s why from Jerry to every new rider we meet, the verdict is the same: the first time you start to fly on one, you’ll be instantly hooked.

The Hydroflyer has opened a new frontier on the water. It’s not just an eFoil, but a completely new sport, with an opportunity for you to play a part in innovation. Curious about how the Hydroflyer stacks up in the media and whether the price matches the experience? See Why Wired Calls the Hydroflyer a “Mountain Bike of the Sea” — Is It Worth $15K?. If you’re deciding between the two main Hydroflyer models, check our breakdown of Hydroflyer Cruiser vs Sport: Which Electric Hydrofoil Should You Buy? to see which one fits your riding style. And if you’ve ever worried about wipeouts, our guide on What Happens When You Fall Off an eFoil? & Other Pressing Safety Questions will put your mind at ease. If safety is your first priority, we’ve also answered the question What is the Safest eFoil? to help you choose confidently.

Ready to Ride? If you have any questions or want to see the Hydroflyer in action, reach out to us or check our website for demo event schedules. We’re riders just like you, and we’re here to help you take flight on the world’s most exciting eFoil. Welcome to the Hydroflyer revolution – let’s make some history together.