HY-Wing Omega

The direct supplier from Saarbrücken has taken two years, but now it's finally here: the Omega, the second Wing in the product range. Designer Renato Morlotti worked intensively on the design before Tarifa. At first glance, the effort seems to have paid off: A flat profile, high cloth tension in the canopy and hard handles are all details that look good on a modern wing. But what does it look like at second glance?

ON THE BEACH: Renato Morlotti relies on a compact design for the Omega. The tested 4.0 m² wing has a span of 2.98 meters with a strut length of 180 cm. The diameter of the tubes was also chosen with restraint, so the wing tips are kept very thin. Windows are nowhere to be found and the canopy is strongly tensioned throughout. Without wind pressure, the profile is very flat overall, with the lowest point relatively far forward in the wing. The Omega is supplied with two rigid handles, the front one being longer, as with most current wings. A matching carbon boom can be ordered as an option. Unscrewing the handles and attaching the boom works in a similar way to the Vayu: two screws must be loosened at each attachment. The unused fastenings are covered. The material mix is based on proven Ripstop in the canopy and Dacron in the leading edge and strut. For greater torsional rigidity, 165 gram and 125 gram thick fabric is used, which is additionally reinforced in the areas subject to the highest stress. The tension in the canopy is high throughout, only easing slightly at the trailing edge. The canopy cloth is highly segmented and the cross seams ensure that the intended profile is maintained for a long time. The grip on the leading edge is stiff, well dimensioned and of course lined with neoprene to protect the knuckles. The Strut and Leading Edge are each inflated via an easy-to-operate push-pin valve. Eight PSI pressure is recommended here.

ON THE WATER: Similar to both Duotone units, the PPC or the Vayu Aura 3, which all have a fairly flat profile without wind pressure, the Omega can be easily and quickly pulled out of the water using the forward-reaching handle and guided in front of you. When standing up, the wing builds up pressure in a very controlled manner, making it easy to control even in strong gusts. When pumping up, it needs a little more wind or advanced riding skills in the lower wind range in order to get onto the foil quickly with good pumping technique. As soon as you are on the foil, the flatter profile accelerates very well and you have little pull on your hands. This set-up is perfect for modern, flatter and faster foils that allow higher top speeds. The Wing is also convincing when cruising, you have to fly it sensitively upwind so that the current doesn't suddenly break off. In terms of maneuvering, the compact and flatter wing is in its element: it can be jibed and tacked very quickly and precisely. The handles ensure direct power transmission, which also makes it a good choice for freestyle tricks - especially with the optional boom. What it lacks in “pop” it makes up for with good speed values, especially in the medium and higher wind range.
In strong gusts, however, the Dacron frame becomes a little spongy, which results in slight pressure point shifts, but these can be easily compensated for. Thanks to its compact dimensions and calm drifting behavior, the Omega is also in good hands in the waves. It remains a reliable companion even in gusty conditions. As with the Naish and Vayu, a pistol grip on the front handle or on the boom would make the wave fun even more grippy.

FOR WHOM? Playful, compact and very neutral across a wide wind range, the Omega is recommended for freeriders, maneuver enthusiasts and wave lovers. Beginners and intermediates can also have fun with it, but should - as with the Duotone Units, the PPC or the Vayu Wing 3 - choose a size larger in order to feel more feedback in their hands, especially when launching and taking off. Overall, the Omega is an all-round successful wing with little to complain about, especially considering the price. The extra charge for the carbon boom (125 euros for the 4.0) is also moderate. However, neither the boom nor the grips have a pistol grip at the front. Windows, especially for the sizes from 5.0 m2, would be a desirable add-on for more safety in crowded spots.

+ Handling, balanced, variable handle system, price
- No windows, less feedback at take-off for beginners, somewhat unsteady in the upper wind range