According to Torsten BjordIn 1986, an avid windsurfer named Tom Magruder created a non-motorized, wind-powered wing inspired by how seagulls fly. His invention was called the 'Wind Weapon', and was made by combining the aerodynamic contour of airplanes and bird wings. Then in 1981, Jim Drake and Uli Stanciu collaborated to create the first modern wing.
Today, wing foiling combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and foiling. In fact, many of the wingers I've met are former kiteboarders. Instead of a sail, riders use a handheld inflatable wing (similar to a small kite) to catch the wind. The wing provides both lift and propulsion, allowing the rider to glide above the water. You can practice this sport in very light winds.
Wing foiling is relatively new but rapidly gaining popularity. Wing foiling has increased ten-fold since 2019 according to Slingshot Sports. It offers a more direct connection to the wind and a unique riding experience. From my experience, the way to begin learning seems to be to blow up a wing and begin to maneuver it on dry land. This will allow you to experience way the wing reacts to the wind. Then prioritize stability. When hitting the water, use a big board, maybe even one without a foil, to learn how to ride both up and down wind. Most beginners find it to be more difficult to go upwind. I will say, the wing is nice and cushy to fall on while you're learning.
Selecting your wing size depends on the conditions in which you are sailing. A 4.5 meter wing is usually recommended for beginners, but I've seen riders use 3.5m to 5m on average. I even know someone who uses a 7 meter wing in light wind.
The boards used in wing foiling quickly evolved into smaller versions of windsurf boards with no tail. They also tend to be shorter. This makes for a little less float than a windsurf board, but it makes the gear easier to transport and handle. Wind foilers generally use a larger board and smaller sail whereas wingers use a smaller board and a larger wing, depending on the conditions of course. The foil consists of a mast, front wing, rear stabilizer and a fuselage to tie it all together. In general, wing foilers prefer to have the front foil wing farther forward of the foil mast to allow them to pump better because they can find added maneuverability on the smaller boards. For beginners, larger and more stable boards are recommended (around 120 - 160 liters). Most riders carry a battery powered air pump and a battery powered drill to blow up the wing and attach the foil to the board.