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What is the ratio aspect?

The aspect ratio is a coefficient which allows to characterize the elongation of a wing. It is the squared length of this wing divided by its surface.

→ Aspect ratio = length² ÷ area

On a square, one could take the length of the square in relation to the other side of that square but on a wing, there are different chord variations to consider. 

01

The ratio aspect of a wing

A wing is characterized by its length (span), its chord (width) and its surface. The ratio aspect is the ratio between these elements that give a coefficient that allows to compare the wings between them.

For example, between a Carver 1700 (AR=5.5) and a Flyer 1300 (AR=7), the latter has less string compared to its length, so its aspect ratio is higher. So the more aspect ratio we have, the more span we have!

02

The influence of the ratio aspect on navigation

The higher the aspect ratio of a wing, the less drag it will have in relation to the same area. For example if I have a 1500 Carver and a 1500 Flyer, the latter having a higher aspect ratio, it will drag less and therefore will perform a little better in terms of speed.

On the other hand, Carver type wings with more moderate aspect ratios will allow you to evolve, to turn much more than a Flyer type wing which will have a better glide and a better flight.

In windfoil, there is a search for lift in light airs. It is therefore necessary to work with higher aspect ratios to minimize drag and have maximum lift. In slalom, we are looking for tolerance and maneuverability, so we have to work with slightly weaker ratio aspects

For the wingfoil it’s exactly the same, you want to make the wave a Carver will be perfect, you can take it in all directions, it will never stall. On the other hand, on flatter water for pumping or for slalom wing practice, a Flyer will be perfect with a higher aspect ratio. Less drag compared to lift, so more speed and more long flights.

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