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What is Downwinding?

Downwind foiling, or downwinding, is one of the more challenging disciplines in foiling. The goal is to harness the energy in the water, typically generated by wind swell or wind ‘bumps,’ to travel from point A to point B purely on this energy. This is most commonly done using a wing or SUP foil setup, which allows you to paddle up on foil or use your wing if you come down off the foil. It’s also possible to ‘chip in’ on a wave while prone and pump out into the wind line to then downwind, but if you come off the foil, the swim back can be long.

How to Start (SUP Foil) Downwinding

 

Essential Skills and Tips

Learn Wingfoiling

Wingfoiling is likely the easiest way to get airborne on a foil. Once you master getting on the foil, you’ll spend significant time on it—potentially up to 50 minutes in a one-hour session, unlike other foil sports.

Proficiency in Freewinging

Before diving into downwind SUP foiling, it's crucial to be comfortable wingfoiling. Ideally, practice freewinging in the ocean waves or lake bumps to understand wave energy. Release the wing with your backhand and try to ride the waves as far as possible without using the wing. Aim to downwind for a kilometer without using the wing.

Practice Dock Starting

Dock starting is beneficial because it can be done close to home, without relying on specific wind or wave conditions. It’s an excellent pump training method. Use a small, old board for dock starting to avoid damaging a new one.

Improve Your SUP Paddling Skills

While some use hand paddles, a SUP paddle is the best and safest option. You need to reach top speed within eight paddle strokes and maintain it for another ten strokes. Practice paddling straight without changing sides or turning.

Flat Water Paddle Ups

The goal is to learn to accelerate without turning or pumping. You might need a long, narrow board and a large foil. Mastering this can be challenging but is crucial for downwinding.

Choose the Right Downwind Run

Start with a short, safe run of about five kilometers. Even if you’re proficient, shorter runs allow for experimentation with equipment and techniques.

Use a Suitable Board

Board design has evolved rapidly. Opt for a long, narrow board that builds speed easily and gets on the foil quickly. Be cautious with older designs labeled as downwind boards, as newer models are significantly better.

Select the Right Foil Set

Foil choice is personal, but starting with a larger foil (1600-2000 cm2) is recommended. As you improve, you can switch to smaller foils (1000-1500 cm2). The foil should perform well at both low and high speeds.

Where Can I Downwind?

Downwinding can be done on any sufficiently large body of water. You typically need some distance for the wind to create bumps (fetch). The longer the fetch, the better the bumps. Deeper water and stronger wind also result in better conditions. Always reach out to locals for the best conditions, as nothing beats local knowledge. Beginners should start with bay or lake runs, where bumps are more consistent and currents are minimal compared to the open ocean.

 Do you want to know more about downwind foiling? Contact the store Wake-style.com or pass by in Loosdrecht, we are happy to assist you and to guide you in the right direction so you can achieve max success in the shortest time possible

 

See you on the water!!!

Wake-style.com Sabfoil Leviathan 1350 Review

After several months of experience with the Sabfoil Leviathan 1350, I'm excited to share my insights. This review aims to assist you in making an informed choice, especially if you're considering a wing that excels in various disciplines.

 

**Introduction:**

The Sabfoil Leviathan foil line is tailor-made for riders seeking exceptional pump and glide performance. This is achieved through the wing's wide span and high aspect ratio (A/R), combined with a generously thick leading edge. These characteristics facilitate impressive glide and pumping capabilities, proving valuable in disciplines such as pump foiling, wing foiling, and "SUP Downwind." The Leviathan range offers five different sizes: 950, 1150, 1350, 1550, and 1750, with each size denoted by its width in centimeters.

MAIN SPECS

• Surface: 1870 cm2
• AR: 9,75
• Wingspan: 1350 mm
• Volume: 2423 cm3

**Setup:**

As an 85 kg rider with substantial foil experience, my setup primarily consisted of the 380s stab, a 73p mast, and a 669K fuse.

**Mast:** Due to the wing's width, I recommend using the specific thicker 73p or 83p mast. While it's possible to ride with a regular mast, you may notice some flex, affecting stability. The added stiffness of the thicker mast reduces energy dispersion and enhances direct foil control. I advise against using older generation masts with M6 screws, as they are more prone to breakage under the pressure generated by the wing.

**Fuselage:** I've experimented with the 703 fuse, but I've found that this wing performs optimally with the shorter 669k version. It adds playfulness and ease to pumping maneuvers. If you already own a 703k fuse, it can be used, but I believe investing in the 669k fuse is worthwhile for an improved foil experience.

**Stabilizer (Stab):** The 380s stab is an ideal match, offering a balance of stability and maneuverability during back foot pumping. For those looking to enhance endurance or beginners, a larger stab like the S 425, with its flat profile, can be a great addition. The 483 stab is recommended primarily for newcomers due to its exceptional stability but may compromise turning ability.

 

 

**Disciplines:**

- **Pump Foiling:** The Sab 1350 Leviathan is an excellent choice for those venturing into pump foiling. Its lift and glide capabilities make it suitable for various pump foiling techniques, including run starts, dead starts, and jump or rock starts. The width is noticeable but manageable for making carve turns. Riders above 90 kg may consider the larger 1550 as a safer option for pump foiling.

 

- **Wing Foiling:** This wing boasts substantial lift, making it ideal for light wind conditions. Paired with a downwind board and a 6-meter wing in as little as 6 knots of wind, you're good to go. However, the experience in very low wind conditions may be less exhilarating, as top speed and turning ability are somewhat limited. Consider it a session saver rather than a top choice for pure wing foiling speed.

 

- **SUP Downwind:** The Leviathan 1350 is an excellent platform for beginners entering the challenging discipline of SUP Downwind. It provides sufficient lift for flying on lake swells and learning flatwater paddle-ups. However, it may not be suitable for medium to large sea swells, where you may find yourself over-foiled. Smaller Leviathan sizes like the 1150 and 950 or the Razor 980 are better suited for waves with more push.

**Final Conclusion:**

In my opinion, the Sabfoil Leviathan 1350 is the ultimate crossover front wing for those seeking versatility across multiple disciplines. This is especially true for beginners. Its design outshines the competition in terms of lift, glide, and user-friendliness. Stay tuned for a pump foil comparison with its larger sibling, the Sabfoil Leviathan 1750, and a SUP foil comparison with the smaller Leviathan 1150 and Razor 980. If you have further inquiries, want to try it out, or wish to share your thoughts, please don't hesitate to reach out to the shop.

See you on the water!

Wing Ozone Flux v1 5m

Test rider infos:

• Tested with 80L Takoon Glide V2 40L AppletreeSlice v2 Kujira V2 800
• No other foils tested, I am a bit addicted to the 800 as it is fast, agile, stable, and better for pumping than expected.
• Spots Wijk aan Zee, Lelystad Lathum
• Rider 52 years old 82kg weight Winging since August 2020
• Skill level I don't do jumps, just enjoy making smooth turns, tacks, 360s, and the basics. As an average Joe, I can say this is my personal experience. I can't comment on jumping and freestyle characteristics due to my lack of ability.

Out of the bag The most noticeable thing for me is that the Flux comes with a hip leash as standard. I got used to it with my Anchorman and actually prefer it to a wrist leash. It provides more freedom of movement and more options in maneuvers. Lately, I've been practicing a lot with the tack behind the back, and in that case, a hip leash is much more convenient. There's a nice swivel on the connection to the wing.

The finishing of the Flux is really impressive. The seams are super tight, and the materials are top-notch. The only thing I noticed is that the front edge of the fill panel (the piece of fabric between the strut and canopy) is simply cut straight and lacks further finishing. The materials used for the frame are a lighter type of Dacron but stiffer. The strut and LE (Leading Edge) are inflated separately with a relatively large valve. The 5m strut can be inflated up to 8 psi, and the LE up to 7 psi. That is more than enough for a wing that feels rigid. I'm a fan of the two-pump system for several reasons. It's not much slower when inflating, but it's definitely faster when packing up. There can be differences between the LE and strut, which may give the strut a stiffer feel, and it's less vulnerable. The valves work very well, the caps close easily and securely, and there's a nice cover over them. Although I like the valves on other wings like the Reedin and Takuma RS, I find their caps difficult to tighten, and they tend to go crooked. Ozone has done a good job with the Flux valves, and they haven't sacrificed the airflow.

The front handle has a slight angle and is covered with an extra rubber coating at the front to protect your board. The handles themselves are very comfortable. They are round but have a nice grippy surface and feel good in the hand. They are not as spacious as the handles of the Takuma RS, which offer a little extra in terms of quick grabbing. While riding, I noticed something else. The legs of the handles seem to be loosely housed in sleeves and are not directly connected to the strut, so there can be some small movement in them. The flag handle looks nice but could have been a bit stiffer in my opinion. It has a patch behind it, and although the material is not rough, I prefer a softer neoprene-like patch. In practice, however, it works very well.

The wing has windows made of a soft and thin material, as I have seen on Reedin wings, making folding the wing no problem. The windows are reasonably well-placed and usable. I had to hold the wing slightly lower to have a good view. There's a thin layer of extra material on the seams of the segments of the LE for protection. The trailing edge contains a total of 6 small and thin fiberglass rods. Simple and light, but perhaps a bit too simple, time will tell.

The bag is spacious enough, but you need to fold your wing neatly. Inside the bag, there's an extra compartment with a zipper containing a repair kit. I am a fan of a well-sealed extra compartment in a bag; it's very useful for carrying extra screws or a screwdriver, for example. There's also a bottle opener attached to the zipper itself, nice little detail.

In terms of weight, the wing weighs just over 2600 grams without a relatively heavy hip leash, which is very acceptable. Yes, there are lighter wings out there, but most of them are heavier.

Riding All those details are nice, but ultimately, it all comes down to one thing: how does the wing ride? The short answer? Fantastic, what an incredibly enjoyable wing!

My first session with the Flux was at Wijk aan Zee. Good wind, nice waves, sun, and great weather; it couldn't have been much better. The wing required very little adaptation and had good, but more importantly, nicely balanced power. Normally, I don't tack much on the sea, but this time I started tacking in no time, as this wing made it so easy and instilled a lot of confidence from the beginning. Paired with the Kujira v2 800, I made the surprising discovery that I was faster and could easily go higher upwind than many kite surfers. That was a new experience for me. When off the wave, the wing flagged incredibly well, incredibly stable, and felt great in the hand; you hardly feel the wing, it requires little attention but provides a lot of confidence. The flag handle performed better than expected. The transition from flag handle to front handle is not as smooth as the Takuma RS, and the slanted side of the handle is more usable on the RS, but apart from that benchmark (for me), the Flux performs very well. The Flux can still be gripped on its slanted side. The chosen material for the grip is really nice, providing a lot of grip and a comfortable diameter. What I noticed is that I started pushing myself quite quickly because the wing invites you to do so. The wing itself is nicely stable and well-balanced in the hand.

During another session at the Rotonde Spot (RS for insiders) in Lelystad, I tried the Flux in flat water and windswell. Here again, I had the same impression. Fast, very intuitive, good upwind performance, and very balanced and stable. What caught my attention there was the large sweetspot where the wing delivers power. Right after a tack or jibe, you have the full power of the wing back at your disposal.

I also rode the Flux back-to-back with the Naish ADX during another session. The ADX felt slightly better in terms of upwind performance and speed, and it was already top-notch when it came to tacking. However, the Flux feels a bit more stable, especially harmonious, and distinguishes itself by having a larger sweetspot, making it easier and faster to accelerate after a turn, which is also a benefit during tacks. I found the Flux to be smoother during jibes as well. This says a lot about the Flux because the ADX is a very fine wing.

Where I always felt that the Takuma RS (confusing, all these RS references) didn't provide enough pressure just above the water, I didn't feel that with the Flux during my test with the 40L board. I got onto the foil quickly with good power, so for me, it's a clear improvement even for sessions with the 40L board.

There's one aspect I want to highlight a bit more, which is the overall experience, especially during tacking. I noticed that with the switch into a tack, I started pushing more and tried to make the turn more radical, going harder, and at a steeper angle, coming out of the turn with more speed. The Flux is so easy/intuitive/autopilot-like that I feel more possibilities to do that. The tack itself almost happens automatically, so I feel the potential to push myself further. This applies more broadly to all riding with the wing. I noticed that I'm more daring and willing to try new things because I can rely on the wing so much. This is also evident during the 360 maneuvers. Due to the large sweetspot, I know I can generate power very quickly again.

Conclusion So far, this wing has been a great joy for me. The finishing, handles, power, riding characteristics, both in waves and, especially, during tacking. There are still more wings I haven't tried than ones I have, even though I've tried quite a few by now. However, the Flux is the most intuitive and complete wing for my level that I've ridden. It feels so familiar and challenges me to push my limits.

Kind regards, Raymond Witvoet

Introduction

About the tester: I am 49 years old, weigh 97kg, sail on an AK5.6x90l and a KT5.4x22x56l with foils ranging from 1440 to 800cm2, with the 1000 being the most commonly used size. For me, it's all about wave riding. I'm not particularly interested in maximum speed, but glide and turning are important to me. If I jump, something has gone terribly wrong because I sail strapless :) I think my sailing level is advanced, I can jibe, tack, enjoy riding in the waves, but there are many people who understand the game better. I used to do a lot of windsurfing at sea and also helped with material testing and development for other brands.

Neilpryde is really a household name in windsurfing and has been one of the leading brands for years. They entered winging quite late: they previously released two foils. The first one was okay for its time, but nothing special. The HA was good, but it was also released at a time when developments were moving quickly and therefore became quite dated. NP is undergoing major innovation and has just launched the Swift carbon.

Click here for the product page

 

Marco from Wake-Style had the 1000cm2 demo and asked if I wanted to try it.

Specs of the Swift: 1000cm2 foil with a wingspan of 91cm and AR of 8.3 210 stab that is HUGE! 71cm Fuse (a bit longer than I'm used to). 85cm carbon mast with a sturdy block where the fuse is fixed with M8 Torx bolts.

I always enjoy trying out equipment and the mast looked nicely finished, but the plane was, let's say... different! The middle of the front wing is much thicker than the tips, the Fuse is longer and there is a huge old school looking stab on it. Everything is nicely finished in carbon (Fuse is Alu and everything including stab is fixed with M8 bolts), but based on the shape my first thought was: strange and can't be much. How wrong I was!

After experimenting with the Cabrinha H-series MKII for a few days, I met up with Adriaan van Dijk on a windy Sunday at the IJsselmeer at a spot where surprisingly fun bumps/swell roll in with West! I screwed the Pryde Swift 1000cm2 under my AK5.6x90l board and picked up a 4m. With my Cabrinha Hseries foils, the front wing is .5cm closer to the mast than with the Swift, so based on that I set the mast 1.5cm further back than "normal".

The wet experience: The 4m was nicely powered and the first thing I noticed was that the mast was spot on. Perfect balance between the front and rear foot and the foil was off very quickly. Upwind he went like crazy and everything felt very reassuring and seriously stiff! In the knee to hip high swell where we could just surf, I started off fairly calmly to get used to the foil, and then it particularly stood out that it has a low stall speed and a lot of glide. Once a bit more used to it, I made some turns and that gave so much grip and confidence while maintaining speed that it kept getting better. Front to back, back to front turns with full pressure... power surfing on the IJsselmeer who would have thought that! Even when pumping from one bump to the next, the Swift responds extremely well. The cadence is a bit slower than with my Cabrinhas, but the glide I got out of it was really more than good and I was truly flabbergasted by how well the Swift surfed in the slow IJsselmeer waves and how much confidence the set up gave me in everything I did. I switched to my 56l board for a while as the wind was strong enough for it, and it brought the foil even more to life. I'm not a Speeder, but saw a windsurfer making nice laps so thought something like let's see how fast the set runs. Half wind he hits a good 35km p/h... which was faster than the windsurfer :)

 

 

Day 2: Westeinderplassen: 4m full on with small board: again the same experience. A lot of glide, a lot of grip and confidence and in the Westeinder chop the mast is stiff enough for my 97kg to not give an inch.

Day 3: Wijk aan Zee: 90l board to get away quickly (in retrospect the 56l would also have been sufficient) with 4m wing and good waves 3m waves at the back. Also at sea the foil gives full confidence and you can really carve quite a bit on a wave/long swell. I never had a moment of spin out or anything like that which I had with the much less stiff Cabrinha mast and the foil sometimes runs scarily fast down a wave.

 

Author: Jeroen Van Gessel

Downwind (DW) SUP Foiling: Unleashing the Power of Wind and Waves

Introduction:

Down wind (aka DW) sup foiling    is the new trend in watersports and at wake-style.com we are ready to fully embrace this new discipline. Here is a useful guide 

for everyone who is still not familiar with Down wind Sup Foiling :)

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has gained immense popularity over the years, attracting water sports enthusiasts with its perfect blend of adventure, exercise, and connection to nature. However, as the sport continues to evolve, a new and exciting variation has emerged: downwind SUP foiling.  This cutting-edge discipline combines the thrill of foiling with the power of wind and waves, taking the SUP experience to exhilarating new heights. In this article, we will dive into the world of downwind SUP foiling, exploring the techniques involved and the equipment required to embark on this thrilling journey.

Understanding Downwind SUP Foiling:

Downwind SUP foiling involves riding a stand-up paddleboard equipped with a hydrofoil fin in downwind conditions. Unlike traditional paddleboarding, where the main effort comes from the paddler's strokes, downwind SUP foiling capitalizes on the energy generated by the wind and ocean swells or bumps on bigger lakes and inlets. By harnessing these forces, riders are once on the foil able to achieve incredible speed and glide effortlessly across the water's surface.

Equipment Required for Downwind SUP Foiling:

1. Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP): Choosing the right SUP board for downwind foiling is crucial. 

2. The board should be long enough to be able to accelerate on the bumps and swell, but short enough to be able to pump. The width and volume is always a balance between being wide enough to stand on and paddling full power, but not too wide because that adds drag makes it harder to get on the foil. This makes the DW boards look very different from a traditional sup.

3. The boards are as light as possible to minimise the swingweight when pumping and narrower to reduce drag. To achieve a low weight all boards are build in premium constructions.
   Some boards feature a recessed deck to enhance stability and/or come with attachment points for foot straps, providing added control during the ride. 
   Keep in mind that these boards might look big compared to a Wingfoil or prone board, but that they are really small compared to traditional wave sups that are most of the time over 8ft long and 30 wide...So don,t get fooled by the sizes and think big! 

4. As a bonus: these boards double as the perfect super lightwind wing board allowing you to use allowing you to use smaller wings and foils than you would have to use in similar conditions with a conventional wing board.
   As a rule of thumb we advise starters to take at least 30l buoyancy above their weight but contact us for advice.

5. Foil: The hydrofoil, the most critical component of downwind SUP foiling, is responsible for lifting the board above the water's surface. It consists of a mast, a front wing, and a stabilizer wing. The mast is attached to the board while the wings are submerged beneath the water. The front wing generates lift, while the stabilizer wing provides stability and control. Usually, bigger hydrofoils are used for the practice of this discipline as they offer more glide and are easier to start when compared to traditional wingfoiling  foils. Smaller foils are faster and have a more lively feel, but only when you're able to get on the foil so think Large!

6. Paddle: A high-performance paddle designed specifically for wave SUP  is recommended. Preferable with a slightly bigger blade and adjustable length.
   Because getting on the foil is hard work and puts a lot of stress on the paddle shaft and blade Carbon fiber construction is common, offering a perfect balance between strength and weight.

7. Leash: A coiled leash designed for SUP foiling is essential for safety. This leash connects the rider to the board, preventing separation in case of a fall. It's important to choose a leash that is specifically designed for foiling to ensure it can withstand the forces and potential tangles with the foil.

8. Personal Flotation Device (PFD): While not directly related to the equipment for downwind SUP foiling, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Wearing a suitable PFD is strongly recommended, as it provides buoyancy and increases visibility, ensuring a safer experience on the water.

9. Foot Straps: Foot straps are optional but highly beneficial for downwind SUP foiling. They provide added stability and control, allowing riders to fully utilize the power of the wind and waves. Foot straps are attached to the board and securely hold the rider's feet in place.

Hi Foilers,

After a month of intensive use, I wanted to share my review of the Armstrong MA1000 foil. I had the opportunity to test this foil in various conditions, ranging from light wind to stormy weather. For reference, I weigh 85 kg and typically use boards with a volume of 60-65 liters.

Here's the setup I used recently:

• Mast: Performance Mast 935 and 795
• Stabilizer: Armstrong Surf 205 Stabilizer
• Fuselage: Armstrong TC60
• Boards: Fanatic Sky Style 65, Appletree Jazz 62, Appletree Skipper 60lt

Wind Range: The MA1000 is a versatile foil suitable for a wide range of wind conditions. I found that I could ride it comfortably in wind speeds ranging from 11-13 knots with a 7m wing, all the way up to 40-45 knots with a 3m wing. However, the sweet spot for this foil seems to be between 14-30 knots. Beyond that, using a smaller foil like the MA800 would provide better performance.

 

Speed: The front wing of the MA1000 offers impressive speed. While it may not be as fast as a high aspect or race wing, it allows you to cruise at great speeds without compromising stability. It accelerates quickly, and you can maintain control even when pushing the limits. The stall speed is relatively low for a foil of this size, and you can easily recover by giving it a quick pump. Additionally, after landing a jump, the foil quickly regains stability, allowing for effortless flight.

I'm sure that a "Speed 180" stab will increase dramatically the speed of this foil

Startability: It took me a few sessions to understand the optimal pumping technique for the MA1000. Being a mid-aspect foil, I found that a technique similar to starting a high aspect foil worked best, where I needed to go slightly more downwind to generate speed. However, once you gain a bit of speed, the foil lifts effortlessly, and you'll be flying in no time.

Turning: The MA1000 is incredibly responsive and excels in turns. It feels like it was specifically designed for carving. The foil responds immediately to input, allowing for tight turns. You don't need to worry about breaching as the MA1000 maintains control and continues exactly where you want it to go, despite the typical breach sound.

Pump & Glide: I'm genuinely impressed with the pump and glide capabilities of the MA1000. It feels snappy and reactive, but it requires some speed to achieve a decent glide. Once you reach the necessary speed, the foil maintains a smooth glide, making it easy to connect with waves and small bumps. It pumps efficiently, and a couple of quick pumps are sufficient to recover speed. Check this video of me gliding for minutes on a lake swell with the MA1000

Construction: The build quality of the MA1000 is superb, and its aesthetic appeal is outstanding. Unlike other foil brands, I've noticed that the MA1000 can withstand considerable impact without sustaining significant damage.

My Takeaway: If you're seeking a versatile foil that performs well in all conditions, including choppy water, flat water, and waves, look no further than the Armstrong MA1000. While it may not be the fastest foil available, it allows for enjoyable rides in various conditions. It's an excellent choice for travelers or those looking to minimize gear. Thanks to its easy breach recovery, you can even use a shorter mast and enhance your wave riding skills. The forgiving nature of the MA1000 will leave you smiling after every session. In my opinion, owning the MA1000 may render a larger foil like the MA1225 unnecessary (for winging), but having an MA800 for stormy days might be beneficial.

If you're interested in trying out this foil or would like more information, feel free to contact us via mail info@wake-style.com

Super stiff & light

North Kiteboarding, a renowned brand in the kiteboarding & wing industry, has recently released their new N-weave material for their wings. This innovative material has been designed to offer several advantages over traditional materials and is quickly becoming a popular choice among wingsurfers. One of the primary advantages of N-weave is  its strength and durability. The material is made from high-quality, ripstop polyester and has been woven in a unique way that creates a tight, dense structure. This structure helps to prevent tears and punctures, which is essential in a sport like wingfoiling where wings are subject to intense forces and potential damage from the environment and the hydrofoil.

In addition to its strength, N-weave is also incredibly lightweight. This is an important factor for wingsurfers as it allows for better control and maneuverability of the wing . The lighter weight also makes it easier to handle especially in big sizes.

Another advantage of N-weave is its ability to maintain its shape and stability even in high winds. This is thanks to the unique weave structure which helps to reduce deformation and fluttering of the wing . This means that the wing maintains a steady, predictable flight path, making it easier for the rider to control and maneuver.

N-weave is also highly water-resistant. The material has been treated with a special coating that helps to repel water, preventing the wing from becoming waterlogged and heavy. This, in turn, helps to maintain the wing's performance and maneuverability, even in wet and windy conditions.

Finally, N-weave is also highly resistant to UV damage, which can be a major problem for the wings. UV rays can cause materials to weaken and degrade over time, reducing the lifespan of the wing. N-weave has been designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight, ensuring that the wing remains strong and durable for years to come.

In conclusion, the new N-weave material from North offers several advantages over traditional kiteboarding / wing  materials. Its strength, lightweight, shape stability, water-resistance, and UV resistance make it a popular choice among wingfoil addicts who demand the highest level of performance and durability from their equipment. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, N-weave is a material that is definitely worth considering for your next wingsurfing purchase.

 

Advantages over traditional material

The N-weave material from North Kiteboarding offers several advantages over regular kiteboarding / wing materials, including:

• Strength and Durability: The N-weave material is made from high-quality, ripstop polyester and has been woven in a unique way that creates a tight, dense structure. This structure helps to prevent tears and punctures, which is essential in a sport like kiteboarding where kites are subject to intense forces and potential damage from the environment.
• Lightweight: N-weave is also incredibly lightweight. This allows for better control and maneuverability of the wing.
• Shape Stability: The unique weave structure of N-weave helps to reduce deformation and fluttering of the kite, making it maintain a steady, predictable flight path. This, in turn, makes it easier for the rider to control and maneuver the wing.
• Water-Resistance: N-weave has been treated with a special coating that helps to repel water, preventing the kite from becoming waterlogged and heavy. This helps to maintain the kite's performance and maneuverability, even in wet and windy conditions.
• UV Resistance: N-weave is highly resistant to UV damage, which can cause materials to weaken and degrade over time. This ensures that the kite remains strong and durable for years to come, even with prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Overall, the advantages of N-weave make it a popular choice among wingsurfers who demand high performance and durability from their equipment.

If you want to experience the n-weave materials properties it is possible to test a North Mode by us. Contact the team and book your ride :)

Titouan Galea, a top-ranked foil and wing surfer, has joined forces with Cabrinha. This major industry announcement features the talented rider from New Caledonia, recognized for his stunning wing surfing videos in massive waves. A standout on the GWA world tour, Titouan will continue pursuing his passions in the sport, including riding the largest waves in the world. Excitement builds for the future of Titouan and the Cabrinha and Dakine brands.

Tested Neilpryde Fly 5m 2023 wing

Click here for the wing specs

The better we get at the wing game the smaller equipment we want to have, but what is better, to size down first the board or the foil?

 

For the majority of wingsurfer, it is a common concern of deciding which item should be downsized first - the board or the foil. However, there are a variety of factors which need to be taken into consideration before making this decision. Firstly, make sure you're confident in your skills as a beginner wing foiler. Once this has been assessed satisfactorily then it is possible to start deciding  on which item needs downsizing first, but it will depend on how big both items (foil and board) are. If your board is 110 liters or bigger and you are using a1800cm2 foil or bigger, than is better to downsize the board first. If your board is smaller than 110 liters and your foil is around 1500cm2 or bigger than is better to downsize the foil first and than the board, but this is not a rule that applies always and can be different for every rider. Each of the two options brings some advantages

 

Advantages of sizing down the board:

• Less swing weight
• Easier transitions
• Better pumping and carving
• Less resistance to the wind and less turbulence in high winds
• Easier to carry around & travel

Some people say that is more difficult to get on a foil on a smaller board . So how do you know when you're ready to trade out your larger board for something smaller? Look for two things: First, balance - being able to easily kneel on the board, stand on it and pump yourself up so that you can get onto foiling. If everything goes smoothly in choppy waters or waves with light wind - you are on the right track. Second, efficiency - knowing how to use the wing efficiently and maximising its potential by pumping at exactly the right moment . If you are able to get going on your foil after just a few pumps, than yes , you are ready for a smaller board

 

Advantages of sizing down the foil

• Better performance
• More speed
• Increased carving ability
• In some cases better pumping

Don't forget that with a smaller foil, you need more speed than usual in order to get going and create pressure to release the surface tension . But one good way to get ready for this is becoming better at pumping. The more efficient you become at this the sooner you will be ready for a smaller foil. It is also recommended to practice first all moves as tacks/jibes on a bigger foil before sizing down. Once confident with your transitions, you are ready to enjoy a smaller setup. 

 

Considerations

The above mentioned factors are not a rule. Sizing down between 10-18 liters form a large board is kinda of safe,  keep 20-30 liter as the maximum. Regarding the foil, reducing  200-300 cm2 is a safe  option while keeping 400-500cm2 reduction as the max.

Personal experiences

According to my personal experience i can say that a bigger foil helped me sizing down liters. I found easier taking off also in lighter winds,  i felt the board more stable while kneeling and also during the pump/start  process. I have personally used a Fanatic HA 1750  front wing  when i first moved the first time to a smaller board. The easy lift & stability characteristics of this foil helped me getting going and having fun a also in mid-light wind conditions. I personally enjoy more a more playful board at the cost of a little more slow foil than having a rocket but is a bulky size. 

Written by

Marco Angilella

Wing enthousiast

Getest: Cabrinha Mantis V2  5m met ramen.
Testperiode:
Goed 2 weken, 7 sessies verdeeld over 2x binnenwater, 2x choppy Bloemendaal aan zee over en underpowered, 1 epic sessie bij IJmuiden en 2 prima sessies op Wijk.

Getest: Cabrinha H-Fusion 1200 Inzet bereik: lichtweer foil. Specs H1200- 1200cm², WS 900, AR 6.7, Chord 185mm Mast: 80cm Stab: 420mm, 180 cm², AR 9.8 Disclaimers: Ik ben een niet gesponsorde 48 jarige middelmatige wing foiler,er zijn veel handigere gasten op het water. Ik wing strapless dus springen doe ik ook al niet, maar wel gek op golfrijden en sjizle proberen. Andere sjizle waarop ik mijn referentiekader baseer: Board: AK5.8, Project Cedrus mast, div Sabfoils waaronder de 940,945,1000,1110,1100, Takuma Kujira1210 en heb het nodige geprobeerd. Ik ben goed bevriend met Marco van WakeStyle waar ik veel spullen haal en die belde mij een 2 weken geleden op: Jeroen, ik heb een Cabrinha Fusion 1200 demo geprobeerd, echt een supergoeie lichtweer foil waar ik heel enthousiast over ben, die moet je ook proberen. Nou ben ik een enorme sjizlefetishist dus wil je iets proberen moet je geen 2x tegen mij zeggen. :) 5-6 bij Trintelhaven met afnemende wind eerst ff een rondje gedaan met mijn eigen set: AK5.8x90l (ik ben 96/97kg), 5m en SAB1110 high aspect foil en 5m. Set sprong prima aan en heeft bizare glide, maar beperkt door de enorme wingspan. Geruild met Marco zijn Cabrinha Code 88l met de Cabrinha H Fusion1200 foil. Opvallend, in lichtweer is de Cabrinha met 90cm spanwijdte sneller weg als mijn Sab 1110 die bij vrijwel hetzelfde oppervlak 21cm!! meer spanwijdte heeft. De wind nam snel af maar ik kon er ff een half uurtje mee spelen en wat al meteen opviel is het High aspect gevoel: alsof je nauwelijks geen drag hebt. Tegelijkertijd is de Cabrinha veel heel wendbaar als mijn 1110 en doet hij er maar weinig voor onder qua glide en had een hele lage stall speed . Interessant! Wind was al snel helemaal weg en Marco vroeg of ik hem ff een weekje wil lenen om verder te proberen. Ja graag natuurlijk! Smiddags thuis de foil eens goed bekeken. Dan valt op dat hij erg mooi is afgewerkt, erg licht van gewicht, dun profiel en afgeronde veilige hoeken. De mast is erg dun en a piece of art,maar verder is er eigenlijk niks bijzonders aan de set te zien. Nik in het plaatje waardoor je denkt Lichtweer foil, want in alles ziet het er uit als een midwind foil a la Kujira1210/Sab945 maar de schijn bedriegt blijkbaar.. De afgelopen week heb ik de foil onder mijn AK5.8x90l 6x kunnen varen in wisselende omstandigheden: 4m op de Westeinderplassen, 6m op Bloemendaal in de klots, 5m op Wijk in kleine bumps, 5m, op wijk met onshore schouderhoge deining, 5m Bloemendaal met een 5m in wat mega chop/bumps zonder echte lijn 5m Westeinderplassen. Wat opvalt: aanspringen en baantjes trekken: De foil is ondanks 1200 oppervlak echt een lichtweer foil. Lekker met een 5m, maar met een 4m is hij groot en minder op zijn plek als met een 6. Als je even de 1200cm2 en 90cm oppervlak vergeet en gewoon denkt lichtweer foil dan is hij verrassend snel weg, eerder dan een Kujira 1210 wat voor mij meer een midweer foil is, eerder dan mijn Sab1110 en doet maar weinig onder voor de 1100 die een whopping 2100cm2 heeft! Vlieg je dan heeft hij voor een lichtweer foil maar weinig drag. De meeste foils voor licht/ midweer voelen meer draggy aan, deze is bij lichtweer ronduit slippery, Hoe harder je gaat/het waait des te meer je wel iets van drag gaat merken, maar dan nog is het best een bijzonder gevoel Of dat de foil is of de combo met de dunne mast weet ik niet. Nu heb ik zelf een Project Cedrus mast die bokkestijf is, maar de de dunne Cabrinha mast voelt voor mijn "lichtgewicht" wel erg flexibel. In de westeinder klots vind ik dat te slap, op zee merkte ik er weer veel minder van, maar het lijkt de set wel wat nerveus te maken. Draaien en Stallspeed: De meeste lichtweer foils hebben een lage stall speed, maar kenmerken zich ook door een grotere draaicirkel en zijn in de bochten weinig reactief,De Cab kan heeft ook een lage stall speed, maar onderscheidt zich doordat zijn turns gelijkwaardig zijn aan midweer foils als Kujira1210 en Sab945. Glide is super waardoor golfrijden een feestje was. Als je een golf denderd heb je over het algemeen naarmate je harder gaat steeds meer druk opbouw op je voorste voet. De Cab heeft hier veel minder last van wat in het begin best een bijzonder gevoel is. De in mijn beleving behoorlijk flexibele mast die ik in de chop rechtdoor varend minder fijn vond lijk je in de turn ook echt te kunnen loaden waarbij de energie er later weer uit terug lijkt te komen. Gevolg zelfs op een zeer slappe heup hoge Wijk en Bloemendaalse windgolfjes ik er echt leuk mee kon draaien tot op een nivo dat gewoon niet past bij lichtweer. Conclusie: Het vaart het gewoon als een midweer foil maar dan bij weinig wind met de lage planneer drempel en stall speed die past bij een veel grotere lichtweer foil. Nogmaals naar de foil kijkend zie ik niks bijzonders, en de enige logische verklaring voor hoe hij vaart is dat Keahi de Aboitiz de foils heeft besprenkeld met een beetje Magic Dust. :) In het kader van foils heb je nooit genoeg :) heb ik dus maar een 1200 set met stab besteld (en de 1000 ook). Ik ga die set wel met mijn beduidend stijvere ProjectCedrus mast varen