You don’t strictly need either to try pump foiling — most lessons focus on the board and foil — but a properly fitted wetsuit and impact vest make a real difference to comfort and safety, especially in the early stages when you’re falling more often.
Why a wetsuit matters more than you’d think
Even in summer, Swiss lake water is noticeably cooler than the air temperature suggests, especially below the surface where you’ll spend plenty of time while learning. A wetsuit keeps you comfortable for longer sessions and means cold water doesn’t cut a lesson short before you’ve had the repetitions you need.
Thickness
For summer lake sessions, a 3/2mm wetsuit (3mm on the torso, 2mm on the limbs for more flexibility) is a common, versatile choice. Cooler-season sessions call for thicker suits, generally 4/3mm or above.
Fit
A wetsuit that’s too loose lets water flush through and cools you down fast; one that’s too tight restricts the exact leg movement pumping depends on. A snug-but-mobile fit, particularly through the legs and hips, matters more than brand or thickness alone.
Why an impact vest is worth wearing while learning
An impact vest — a low-profile, buoyant vest with some impact protection — does two jobs at once: it softens falls (which happen a lot in the early stages) and adds a bit of extra buoyancy, which helps with confidence and energy conservation during a long learning session.
When it matters most
Impact vests are especially worth it in your first several sessions, when falls are most frequent and your fall technique is still developing. Many riders keep wearing one indefinitely simply for the added confidence and comfort, even once falls become rare.
What’s included in our lessons
Our beginner and improver lessons include the board, foil, and a helmet — we recommend bringing your own wetsuit and impact vest if you have them, though it’s entirely possible to start a first lesson without either.