Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:23:40 +0000

All Hype? Or Fully Locked & Loaded? Ride Engine HyperLock hot take review with Jake


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Jake here from MACkite, I recently got my hands on the new Ride Engine Hyperlock harness line, and spoiler alert—I’m impressed. Ride Engine, the OGs of the hard-shell harness game, are back with a vengeance, and this time, they’ve added a ratchet system that’s as satisfying as clicking into snowboard bindings.

I’ve always liked Ride Engine harnesses—except when they jabbed my ribs like a cranky toddler. But the new Hyperlock harness? Total game-changer. Thanks to softer, more flexible foam, I’m finally rib-pain free. Plus, that fancy dual-lock ratchet system keeps things snug and secure without the dreaded mid-session shuffle. Need to adjust while cruising? Easy. I even loosened it during a two-hour upwind slog in Key West—because comfort shouldn’t stop when the wind’s pumping.

The Hyperlock line-up comes in three flavors:

  • Light ($529): Softest and flexiest—perfect if you want freedom to wiggle.
  • Type Two ($559): The sweet spot—stiff enough for support but easier on the wallet.
  • Type One: Full 12K carbon for max stiffness and serious riders who want to feel locked in like Fort Knox.

Customization? You got it. Hook-style spreader bar comes standard, but you can swap to a rope slider, surf-style, or windsurf bar. Plus, no more piecing together your harness like a jigsaw puzzle—it’s all included.

Downsides? I wonder about the Hyperlock’s long-term durability—it’s new tech, after all. And yeah, the price might sting, but I’d argue it’s worth every penny for the added comfort and adjustability.

Bottom line: If you’re tired of harnesses that twist, shift, and bruise, the Ride Engine Hyperlock is your new best friend. I’m so hooked (pun intended), I’m not going back to regular strap harnesses anytime soon.


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Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:06:31 +0000

2025 Duotone Float Review | Specialized for Surf Sessions


The Float is a brand new wing model from Duotone, and as you might guess from the name, it's designed to float unobtrusively behind you as you play in the waves. Tucker's had a chance to get out on it and is back to talk about its design and whether it actually works.

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Design Features

Luffing/Surf Handle

The leading edge handle is a new design that's optimized for wave riding. It may be the most important handle in the surf, so it's stiffer and wider. This lets you control the wing while you're luffing by having the option to hold it in the middle or off to one side. If you catch a gust, it won't flex and you'll remain in control. If you ride in cold water and wear gloves, it's nice and roomy and you'll have no issues getting a grip as you switch between that and the boom.

Under the handle is an XL neoprene knuckle guard. You'll be using this handle a lot, so it's nice to know that you won't be catching your knuckles on any seams as you maneuver the wing.

Luffing/Surf Handle

Leash Attachment

There is a leash attachment right below the surf handle, but keep in mind that this wing doesn't include a leash. A lot of people already have a leash from another wing or like to make their own choice in a leash, so that helps keep the expense down by not including something a lot of people don't need or may not want.

Boom

If you want your wing to float, it needs to be as light as possible. To help meet this goal, the only handle option on the Float is a boom. Handle attachment points add quite a bit of weight, and by removing those and two stanchions, the wing can become much lighter. Any weight behind the leading edge makes more of an impact on the wing as you're maneuvering it around, so this really does make a big difference.

The boom is placed very far forward on all sizes of the Float. This makes it easy to transition between the two handles and gives you an ideal place to pistol grip the boom while luffing the wing.

Boom

Valves

This wing uses Duotone's Airport valve, so be sure to pick up an adapter if you don't have one already. It's not included, and you'll probably want to pick up a spare since they have an odd tendency to go missing and you can't ride if you can't pump up your wing. Do be sure to read the manual on how to use it since you'll want to be a bit gentle with it. You only need to turn the adapter a quarter turn to seal it as you pump it up; if you go any further you can damage it.

It's a one-pump inflation system with a hose running between the leading edge and strut. Remember to clamp off the hose to isolate the two in case you lose pressure on one while you're out so that your wing will still float as you self-rescue.

There are two dump valves; one on the leading edge and one on the strut. You can use these or you can deflate from the main valve.

Frame

The frame uses a high-quality Dacron that's really quite stiff compared to standard Dacron. It's lightweight yet affordable, especially compared to Aluula constructions. It's also much easier to repair if need be. An Aluula leading edge would cut a bit more weight, of course, but being so far forward it wouldn't have enough effect to justify the cost for most riders.

The frame uses a high-quality Dacron

Canopy

The canopy uses two different materials to maximize strength where it's needed and weight where it isn't. The section towards the front uses a 3x3 ripstop, and then the trailing section uses a 2x2 ripstop that's still very stiff and durable. Both are quite lightweight, and you'll notice that there aren't any windows, either. Windows add quite a bit of weight. Since the wing is flying behind you so much of the time, windows aren't as important for surf and just add weight that isn't needed.

The canopy uses two different materials

Battens

The battens are removeable/replaceable and do a good job of reducing flutter in the trailing edge. They help keep the wing stable by not allowing the canopy to catch the wind in random ways. The trailing edge itself uses just a narrow section of extra stiff ripstop, again, to keep the weight down.

The battens are removeable

Wingtips

The wingtips have a slight twist in them so they bend in toward the rider. These act as trim tabs like on an airplane and help to stabilize the wings and keep them from rocking back and forth. It tends to want to level itself out, leaving you free to focus on the wave.

It also pre-loads the frame. Since it's not Aluula, it does have a bit of flex, especially out towards the wingtips, but that's a good thing for a smooth-riding wing. With a pre-loaded frame, you're riding powered as soon as the wing catches wind. That's ideal on the waves, where you're constantly switching between riding powered and letting the wing drift. It also gives the wing a snappy feel and better upwind ability and great high-end range.

The wingtips have a slight twist

Wind Range

The Float handles well in a wide variety of winds. It's designed to be sized down from a typical wing at a given windspeed, more like a grunty wing than a race wing. You only need enough wing to get on foil and stay upwind; the smaller you can go, the easier the wing is going to be to handle while you're on the wave.

The wing can get quite grunty at the upper end of its range. It's got a big pocket in the forward foil section to get you up on the low end, but it's not so big that it keeps it from being fun and letting you go fast. It's not a race wing by any stretch, but it can get going when you need to get to a section.

The Float handles well in a wide variety of winds

Tucker's Thoughts

Tucker does think this is one of the better surf wings currently on the market. He actually preferred the Float over the Unit for riding overpowered. It's more stable and the power is a bit more balanced and controllable, especially for waves. It's a well-behaved wing in its wind range. But that's not to say you can't push it beyond its wind range a bit and still stay comfortable.

He found the decision to go with a boom interesting since most surf wings use handles, but he agreed that it helped keep the weight down. It's not quite as packable, but its bag accommodates it well. Being able to fly one-handed on a light day in small waves was perfect for getting a little bump whenever it was needed, or to cruise through a section to get to a better section.

You can definitely use the boom to build some speed

You can definitely use the boom to build some speed, and it's easy to transition between a pistol grip and the leading edge handle. If you're used to riding the Slick or the Unit with a boom, you'll feel right at home.

The construction to price ratio is spot-on. That can be a tough balance to strike, but the Float provides a lot of performance for its cost. Picking up a quiver of these will not be out of range for the average rider. Even as a rider who appreciates high performance, Tucker was perfectly happy with the Dacron construction.

You can definitely use the boom to build some speed

Tucker's Nitpicks

Anyone who's been following Tucker's reviews knows that he's not a fan of Duotone's proprietary Airport valve. It's temperamental and he doesn't understand why they don't include the adapter. He wishes Duotone would adopt something that's more standard across industries, like the HP valve. It works better and is something you're more likely to be able to replace if you're on vacation and not near a shop that stocks Duotone. Be sure always to have a spare adapter.

As someone who rides in cold conditions, he's also not a fan of Duotone's deflate ports. They're just too stiff and fragile in the cold. It's hard to get them to close properly, which means they could blow out during a session, and the pull tabs can snap off when the cold makes them brittle. It's best to use the main valve to deflate in the cold, and just leave the deflate ports alone altogether.

It's best to use the main valve to deflate in the cold

And, of course, Tucker still prefers pumping up the leading edge and strut separately. You can ride with different pressures, and it provides an extra layer of security against a leak forming in one bladder while on the water.

Summary

Overall, Tucker loves this wing. It's fun in the surf and for freeride. It might not be his first choice for serious racing, but against friends it's adequate. He feels it's a great addition to the Duotone lineup and complements the Unit well as a freeride/surf option. Each will suit different riders who want to cross over between the two disciplines but are more focused in one area. If you like to wing surf, the Float will not disappoint.

If you like to wing surf, the Float will not disappoint.


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Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:08:25 +0000

What Foil Works Best in Waves and Swells? | High-Aspect vs. Mid-Aspect


The MACkite Foil Crew sat down to talk about which foils they like best for waves and swells. As you can guess, there isn't one right answer to this question. In addition to personal preference, it depends on your skill level, the conditions that day, and what sort of wave riding you plan to do. However, they do hope to help you build the best quiver for yourself with these concepts and insights.

Waves... What's in a Name?

So you've been foiling for a little while now and are looking to get into the waves for your next step. Great! This is a ton of fun. But... what is a wave? It may seem like a silly question, but really there are two main types of waves in foiling, and you may not want the same foil for both.

A swell is a rolling wave in deeper water. It crawls along smoothly for a great distance. As the swell gets into shallower water, it becomes a wave, increasing in height and power before it folds in half and breaks. You'll approach these differently and will likely choose a different foil depending on which you will be surfing. Are you going to be proning in the surf, or are you heading out for a 10-mile downwinder in the open swell?

Wave Surf Foiling

Some areas get primarily one type of wave or the other, while others can see both. On Lake Michigan, we have mainly swell in the summer with the lighter breezes, making it ideal for downwinding. In the fall, the wind picks up and we get some nice breaking waves, which are also a lot of fun to play in. So foilers on the Great Lakes will probably want a quiver that's suited to both types of waves.

Wave Surf Foiling

For surfing breaking waves, a medium-high aspect foil works well. Look for wings around a 7-10 aspect ratio. These are less wide so that you can carve and make tight turns to stay in the pocket, yet can still glide and pump well enough to move between sections.

Downwind Swell Foiling

Downwinding in the swell is a much more mellow experience. You won't be doing that intense riding with tight carving. It's more important to be efficient and have plenty of glide and pump as you chase the swell and do some loose carves. High aspect ratio foils work well here; around 10-12 seems to be the sweet spot. If you go much lower, you may not have the efficiency to keep up with the swell and can fall behind it.

Downwind Swell Foiling

Wait, What Is Aspect Ratio?

The area of a wing is easy enough to understand; it's basically how much surface area a wing has, usually measured in square centimeters. In general, the greater the surface area, the more lift and stability a wing will have, but the more drag and resistance it will have to changing direction. But that's only part of the equation that determines how a wing will perform. So what is aspect ratio, and why is it important?

Mathematically speaking, the aspect ratio is calculated by taking the square of the wingspan and dividing it by the wing area but, even if that number isn't printed on the wing, you can look at it and get an idea of its aspect ratio since it defines the general shape of the wing. Some wings have a short wingspan, or side-to-side length of the wing, but are wider along the chord, or the front-to-back length of the wing. These have a lower aspect ratio number. A fighter jet with stubby wings that run nearly the length of the fuselage is highly maneuverable but still has plenty of lift when powered.

Aspect Ratio

A high aspect wing is long and slender, like a passenger jet or a glider. It's stable and won't roll easily from side to side. It's incredibly efficient and generates lots of lift for its speed and glides well. A glider plane with its very long, thin wings has an aspect ratio of 30 or more so it can stay aloft and stable at low speeds. The fighter jet with its aspect ratio of 4 or 5 values maneuverability and speed.

Your wave foil should perform more like a fighter jet. You'll be moving quickly enough to give up efficiency for maneuverability, so a low aspect wing works well here. On the other hand, your downwind swell foil won't have the power of a breaking wave to speed it along, so you'll need something that's efficient. You'll be trading off maneuverability, but that's ok since you won't need to carve the way you do on a wave. Riding swell is more about getting that nice, long glide.

These are, of course, very general guidelines, and foil wings come in a spectrum of sizes and shapes to suit any style and conditions.

foil wings come in a spectrum of sizes

What's in Your Car?

For downwind swell, Ryan has been riding Axis Art V2 wings in the 900-1000 square cm range, and the Spitfire for waves. If he's prone riding he'll bump up a bit, but if he's riding the wind with a wing he can size down his foil.

riding the wind with a wing

Not surprisingly, Tucker keeps a range of foils in his car since he'll ride something different on a 2-foot breaking wave vs. a 10-foot overhead wave, but in general he'll use a Code 720S or 850S in head-high waves. With an aspect ratio of 9.5, these are still quite efficient, but are also fast, surfy, and carve well.

On a downwinder, Tucker will bump up the aspect ratio to 12 with the F-One Eagle X foil or Code R Series. Since the rolling swell doesn't pack as much punch, he wants to be able to make his turns without being on the verge of stalling, but he can still rip the swell on these.

In rolling swell, especially if it's moving fast, Jeff likes something in the 9-10 aspect ratio range like the F-One Eagle. He finds that as long as he's got the aspect ratio dialed in, he can size down, so he'll go out on the 890. It does help that there is usually wind to help generate speed since that's what creates the swell on the Great Lakes, so you may need to size up if you don't have that with your swell.

wind to help generate speed

In the surf, Jeff will opt for something around an aspect ratio of 8, like the F-One SK8 750 or 850. He also enjoys the Axis Spitfire and the North SF 830.

Ow, My Wallet!

While the guys have the luxury of a room full of demo gear they can use to fine-tune their foil to the conditions, most people need to buy what they ride, and having a foil that's fine-tuned to every situation just isn't realistic. Fortunately, the crew doesn't just ride for fun; they're also out there figuring out what they can recommend to customers on budgets of all sizes, and there are indeed foils that can walk the line between riding rolling swell and crashing surf.

Foils like the AFS Enduro and the Code S series perform very well in both breaking waves and downwind swell. If you don't have the skills to make tight, critical turns in the waves, you can even pick a foil that leans towards downwind swell a little more. These will pump and glide better.

riding rolling swell and crashing surf

What About the Rest of the Foil?

Foils are more than just wings, and the stabilizer and fuselage you choose can make a big difference in the waves, too. While your front wing is doing the heavy lifting, your choice of stabilizer and fuselage is going to affect your carving and turning performance.

The best downwind stabilizers are very flat and efficient but can be squirrely or unpredictable in turns. However, the surfier ones can feel a little draggy, so it's important to find the right balance if you're looking for something you can use in both types of waves.

If you can get two different stabilizers, choose one that has a narrower span and some shape to it for breaking surf. That shape will give you some traction and something to push off of when you're turning. Out in the swell, go for a wide, high-aspect stabilizer with a flatter shape for efficient gliding and pumping.

downwind sup

A bit shorter fuselage is helpful in breaking waves. It'll give you the ability to do tighter, twitchier turns. A longer fuselage is great in the swell, though. It'll keep you flying efficiently and improve your glide and pumping ability. Since you're doing more yaw-oriented turns out there, it won't hold you back. Turns will be powerful, open turns rather than the tight, rolling turns in the surf.

breaking waves

Don't be afraid to mix and match your foil components. Experiment and see what you like. Want to try making tighter turns out in the swell? Put a shorter fuselage and a stabilizer with some anhedral on your gliding wing and go for it! The great thing about foiling is that there are no hard and fast rules. Play around and see what happens. You may stumble upon some combination that's magical for you.

Where your mast is mounted on the fuselage can change the feel of your ride as well, though you won't typically be able to change this on a given foil. If this is important to you, you'll want to look at what each brand does before buying into their ecosystem. If you can get to a demo event or borrow a friend's setup, that may help you find one you like. In general, the closer the mast is to the front wing, the more surfy and loose it's going to feel. The further apart they are, the more upwind drive and stability you'll get.

Where Should I Start?

Since wave riding isn't for beginners, we assume you've already got a foil setup. Take it out in some small waves and see how it feels. Then give us a call and tell us about your area and your riding goals. We love making recommendations- it's why we ride everything we can set our feet on! (Well, it's part of the reason, anyway...) Wave foiling is a ton of fun and never gets old since no two waves are exactly alike.

Wave foiling


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Mr. Jeff



Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:50:09 +0000

Foil Drive: 40% longer run time with High Power Motor and Battery!

 

Foil Drive has launched an exciting new product lineup featuring the High Power (HP) Motor and HP Battery, designed to enhance thrust, efficiency, and overall performance. This tech talk aims to break down the key features, benefits, and practical applications of the HP motor and battery, helping riders make informed decisions before purchasing.

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Foil Drive High Power Battery

  • Maximized energy capacity within an optimized form factor.
  • Approximately 20% more capacity than the Max Power Battery.
  • Designed to provide extended ride times and increased efficiency.
  • Can be used with both standard and HP motors.
  • Unlocks up to 28% boost when paired with the HP motor.

Foil Drive High Power Motor

  • 20-25% more torque than the standard Gen 2 motor.
  • More efficient energy consumption, producing higher thrust for the same power input.
  • 10mm longer stator and rotor, resulting in increased torque.
  • Allows for more prolonged session times by optimizing power usage.
  • Improved stability and smoothness during water entry/exit.
  • Compatible with both 2-blade and 3-blade propellers, with the 3-blade prop maximizing the motor’s torque potential.

Performance Gains of High Power Motor and Battery

Efficiency and Power Comparison

  1. When using the standard motor at high power, riders achieve approximately 27 kg of thrust.
  2. Switching to the HP motor without any app changes results in 29 kg of thrust using the same battery power.
  3. Pairing the HP motor with the HP battery at max settings can exceed 30 kg of thrust.
  4. The motor operates at the same RPM but with greater torque, leading to smoother, more predictable power delivery.

Session Time Comparisons

SetupSession Time
Standard Motor + Max Power Battery ~40 min
Standard Motor + HP Battery ~48-49 min (+20%)
HP Motor + HP Battery ~58 min (+40%)

How to Use the Foil Drive HP Motor and Battery Effectively

Maintain Existing Settings

  • Use the HP motor with the same app settings as before.
  • Experience a noticeable increase in thrust without additional power consumption.
  • Ideal for riders looking for more punch and responsiveness.

Unlock Higher Power

  • Increase boost levels in the app (up to 28% boost when using the HP battery).
  • Maximize thrust for smaller foils, lighter winds, or extra lift when needed.
  • Best suited for heavier riders or those pushing the limits of performance.

Fine-Tuning for Maximum Efficiency

  • Adjust boost levels and power settings to find an optimal balance.
  • Lower power settings + efficient throttle use = longer ride times.
  • Avoid constantly relying on full power; instead, adapt riding technique to maximize session duration.

Additional Benefits of the HP Motor

Smoother Power Delivery

  • Less drastic RPM fluctuations when exiting and re-entering the water.
  • More predictable thrust when making quick adjustments.
  • Ideal for riders looking for refined control in technical conditions.

Better Performance in Headwinds

  • Increased torque allows riders to push through upwind sections more efficiently.
  • Offers better stability in choppy water conditions.
  • Higher authority when maintaining speed in less favorable conditions.

Improved Recovery from Stalls

  • The HP motor generates more low-end torque, allowing for quicker recovery after losing speed.
  • Helps maintain flight when transitioning between waves or making tight turns.

Propeller Compatibility and Tuning

3-Blade vs. 2-Blade Propellers

  • 3-Blade Prop: Best for utilizing the HP motor’s extra torque, providing smoother power delivery.
  • 2-Blade Prop: Unlocks higher top speeds, useful for riders aiming to match high-speed ground swells.

Battery and Motor Tuning Tips

  • Set boost levels to the minimum required to foil efficiently.
  • Adjust power levels and throttle use to optimize energy consumption.
  • Test different configurations to find a balance between power output and session longevity.

Final Thoughts and Considerations

The HP battery and motor are designed to work seamlessly together, delivering enhanced performance, but they can also be used independently. Riders looking for longer sessions, higher thrust, and smoother power control will see the most benefit from the upgrade, while those already finishing with ample battery may not need the HP battery unless extra thrust is required. With Foil Drive’s app, switching between battery modes is effortless, ensuring optimal power mapping for any session. Though the HP motor adds approximately 160g of weight and extends the motor by 10mm, the performance gains far outweigh these minor changes, making it a worthy upgrade for those seeking peak efficiency and power.

✅ HP Battery provides 20% more capacity for extended ride times.

✅ HP Motor delivers 20-25% more torque, improving efficiency and power output.

✅ Pairing both provides over 40% more ride time compared to the standard setup.

✅ Improved thrust and power efficiency allow for better wave riding, smoother water transitions, and increased responsiveness.

✅ Adjustable power settings allow riders to fine-tune their experience based on conditions and riding style.

The new Foil Drive High Power Range is a game-changer for riders seeking longer sessions, more power, and improved performance. Whether upgrading just one component or both, the benefits of the new HP lineup are undeniable.


Ready to elevate your ride? Explore the new Foil Drive HP Battery and HP Motor to push the boundaries of your foiling experience!

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:03:58 +0000

Foil Drive Tech Talk: High Power Battery and Motor Upgrades


Foil Drive has not one, but two exciting upgrades to announce. If you've been wishing you could get just a little more power and runtime from your Foil Drive sessions, these may scratch that itch.

Foil Drive is releasing a High Power battery for the MAX Gen2 unit, as well as a High Power motor. These can be upgraded together or independently, and will each provide a boost to your sessions.

High Power Battery

The High Power battery is the same size as the current Power battery and uses the same "A" size nose cone, but it holds a roughly 20 percent higher capacity charge. The standard Power battery holds a charge of 498WH, and the High Power battery holds a charge of 594WH.

Foil Drive High Power Battery

If you upgrade just the battery and change nothing else, you'll get more runtime out of your system. The High Power battery will also unlock a higher boost level in the app, so you can opt to get more torque out of your existing motor, though this will of course reduce how much extra runtime you'll get.

higher boost level

High Power Motor

While the High Power Motor does deliver more power, it really accomplishes this by being more efficient. The Foil Drive team lengthened the magnets and copper wires by 10mm. If you upgrade just your motor, you'll go from around 27 KG of thrust to 29 while consuming the same amount of power. You'll get more powerful boost and torque without sacrificing your session length.

High Power Motor

HP Battery + HP Motor

If you combine both upgrades and turn the boost up to its highest setting in the app, you'll be able to get over 30 KG of thrust. This can be handy for getting up while riding upwind or with a smaller board or foil, but if you don't need it and can limit yourself to about the same amount of power you're used to, you'll get significantly longer sessions. Paul from Foil Drive was getting 40-50 minute sessions depending on how heavily he was using the throttle, but now with the upgraded motor and battery, he's able to stay out for nearly an hour.

longer sessions

Other Benefits

One interesting perk to the new HP system, and especially the motor, is related to something called the RPM delta. If you're an experienced Foil Drive rider, you've probably noticed that when you dip the spinning motor back down into the water, there's a little surge effect. This is because the motor spools up once the load from the water is removed, then returns to its normal RPM after it dips back in. But there's that brief moment where it's spinning faster than usual as it first enters the water and creates a little jerk forward.

surge effect

The HP motor, being more efficient, reaches a lower max RPM when it leaves the water. The surge effect of re-entering the water is still there, but it's much less, giving the ride a smoother feel as you dip in and out while powered up.

While the 3-blade prop is best suited to the HP motor in most conditions since you'll be able to make full use of its torque, the 2-blade prop will actually allow you to achieve quite high speeds. If you're trying to match the cadence of faster waves, the HP motor and battery with a 2-blade prop will get you there.

faster waves

The 3-blade prop with the HP motor delivers predictable thrust on demand. If you overdo a turn on a wave and bleed off too much speed, you can punch it and pop back up out of what would have been a stall situation.

punch it and pop back up

The Trade-Off

With a gain, there's always a tradeoff, but fortunately it isn't too harsh for either the HP battery or motor. Together, the battery and motor add about 160 grams or 5.6 ounces of weight, and the motor is 10mm/ .4" longer. This does add a small amount of swing weight, but it isn't much in the grand scheme of your setup.

a tradeoff

Paul is 96 kilos/ 211 lbs and likes to ride 720 - 850 foils on a small prone board, so the extra torque and runtime is a no-brainer for him, but maybe you've got plenty of power and are coming off the water with a charge still on your battery, so for you the benefits might not be worth the added weight.

The High Power battery does have a slightly different voltage curve, so you'll notice that you don't get quite as much power as the battery becomes depleted. You can see this happening when you look at the remaining charge readout when you're actively pulling the trigger vs. a few seconds afterwards. It may read 70 percent, then dip down to 50 percent while under load. The more accurate reading is the one while power is not being drawn from the battery. All batteries have these effects to some degree, and you've probably noticed it with the current battery as well, but it's something to keep in mind.

plenty of power

One thing that's important to be vigilant about is to make sure you've got the correct battery selected in the app. If you get the HP battery but use your Power battery as a backup, you must change that in the app so it's using the right power map for the current battery. It just takes a moment and will prevent damaging your system.

What Else Is Coming?

If you like integrated masts, those are coming from a variety of brands, including some sweet carbon masts. There isn't much news to share about those yet, but be patient and know that they're on the way!

integrated masts

Summary

With the HP battery and motor and the added boost that they unlock in the app, your Foil Drive Gen2 MAX is going to feel like a whole new system with a lively feel that's going to let you push your boundaries to new limits. You'll have even more options to extend your session, add thrust, or a combination of both. Happy foiling!

push your boundaries to new limits


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Thu, 06 Feb 2025 11:22:03 +0000

Why I Chose the Foil Drive Gen 2 Assist Max for Prone Foiling


Since Foil Drive is an accessory that can be fitted to virtually any foil setup, the options are nearly endless. If you're already a foiler and love your setup, adding a Foil Drive to that is a no-brainer, but what if you're starting from scratch or want to reboot your setup? Ryan from MACkite has been Foil Driving for a while with the shop's gear and is ready to share what he ultimately settled on and why.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

1. Foil Drive Gen2 Assist Max

The Foil Drive Gen2 Assist Max gives you the most runtime on the water. Ryan mainly prone foils, so he needs the assist to get from wave to wave. He also enjoys winging to get into the swell, but sometimes the wind isn't right, and then the Foil Drive takes the place of the wing. (He could also paddle, but his shoulder isn't a fan of that.)

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

2. Max Power and Max Sport Battery

Depending on the session, Ryan will use either the Power or the Sport battery. If it's a shorter session close to shore, he'll opt for the lighter Sport battery. He feels like he gets a bit more performance out of his board with the reduced weight.

A lot of the time, though, the extra runtime is more important and he'll rock the Power battery. He can catch more waves and even downwind with it.

3. 3-blade Prop Upgrade

Ryan finds the 3-blade prop to be a worthwhile upgrade because he not only enjoys the extra torque and power, but the positions of the blades means that there's always at least one blade in the water as he transitions from the Foil Drive being in or out of the water. This keeps the propulsion smooth and predictable.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

4. CWS Foil Drive Wingnut Set

Two words: No tools! Put the bolts in your tracks, lower the Foil Drive onto them, and secure them with the wing nuts. It's simple and it makes setup at the beach fast.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

5. Cedrus Integrated Mast

A Cedrus integrated mast may be the most important piece of the setup. The cable for the Foil Drive propulsion unit runs through the hollow mast to reduce drag. You'll also never need to re-tape your cable to the mast. It's clean and efficient.

Ryan went with the 8-inch spacing due mainly to the choppy conditions that are typical on the Great Lakes. This leaves just enough room where he can keep the motor in the water without having a lot of water hitting the bottom of the board. If he rode in smooth conditions a lot, he might reduce the cable length and get the motor closer to the board, so take your riding spot into account as you build out your own setup.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

The 8-inch spacing is also just right for when you need a little boost to stay on a wave. You can dip down without touching down, get your boost, and pop back up to finish your run. Below the motor, you'll also have plenty of mast open for pumping.

Another huge advantage of the Cedrus mast is that it has adapters so you can use a wide range of foil brands with it. Ryan has been swapping among the Axis, North and Code adapters, and there are many others available. If you've got access to more than one brand of foil, you can easily switch, even at the beach if conditions change. For Ryan, it's a huge time-saver since he might be riding multiple foils in a single session to review them.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

The top plate of the Cedrus mast has a couple bolt holes you can tap through to keep your Foil Drive unit attached to the mast. Between that and the toolless CWS track bolts, setup is simple and fast at the beach.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup

The Cedrus mast is very high quality and can often be considered an upgrade in and of itself. It's designed to be efficient, lightweight, and low-drag.

Ryan has been very happy with this setup and plans to continue using it this spring. He's even planning to create it in a beginner-friendly setup to try to get a few more of the guys out on the Foil Drive.

Ryans Foil Drive Setup


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Huggybear


Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:13:03 +0000

Why the Airush Lithium V14 Kite is Perfect for Progression


As you can tell from its "V14" designation, Airush's Lithium kite has been around a while. It's a staple of their lineup as an all-around kite, and after this many versions, it's become quite refined. Rather than release a new version with minimal changes every year, Airush takes their time to develop a Lithium with impactful and meaningful changes every two years. Kristen is familiar with the V13 Lithium and has spent some time on the new V14, so she's got some insights to share about what's new.

Who Is the Lithium For?

Kristen really liked the V13, so she was glad to see that they kept its heart intact for V14. Both are fun and lofty to jump on, but versatile enough for any discipline. The V14 has some adjustments to the bridle and wingtip to make it a bit better optimized for big air, so if you like to do a variety of things but especially love to go big, you'll appreciate this change.

This is not to say it's just for advanced riders. In fact, it's very beginner-friendly. It's forgiving, it relaunches easily, and it's very stable in all conditions, even when it's gusty. The bar pressure is medium-light, which won't give you arm fatigue but will still provide enough feedback to know where the kite is and what it's doing.

While some kites like the Switchblade or the Reach are pull-and-go easy to learn on, the Lithium acts as a bridge between kites that cater heavily to beginners and big air kites. It still leans towards being beginner-friendly, so if you want to start working on kiteloops and getting more height, this kite may make those more accessible and less intimidating to you than a dedicated big air kite. While the Lithium is not a pull-and-go kite, it's very responsive and fun to fly, so it's good for experienced and advanced riders as well.

Updates for V14

The bridle on the Lithium V14 is now a micro bridle with a stopper ball like the Lift uses. This allows for a faster and smoother loop. The Lithium V13 had a longer bridle and was a little slower to catch, and that's now noticeably faster. The loop is still very forgiving, but is snappier and gives you the confidence that it's going to catch you, making it less intimidating to throw a kiteloop.

The wingtips on the V14 are a bit more square to make the kite more performance-driven. The V13's wingtips were slightly more swept back for user-friendliness. Squaring off the wingtips makes the kite feel a bit snappier and responsive with a more direct feel. However, they were able to accomplish this without losing any of the kite's stability, and it's still very easy to relaunch.

These two changes together have resulted in a kite that wants to pivot fast. When you initiate a downloop or even a kiteloop, you can see how much faster it wants to turn. Airush wanted the kite to be able to hold down as much power as possible, especially for heavier riders. Being located in Cape Town, South Africa, they were able to put it through the wringer in their testing.

Kristen's Review

Kristen was impressed with how stable the V14 was in spite of its updates. When she was out in gusty, up-and-down wind, the kite still handled very well when it was overpowered. She was able to get a lot of loft out of it, and it was responsive yet manageable. Although she's a lighter rider, she was able to get some feedback from heavier riders who tested it, and many said they could feel the difference in how the V14 handled while riding overpowered.

If you're not yet dialed in with your timing when jumping, you won't be able to get the full benefit of the loftiness and hangtime from the V14. The V13 was more forgiving for those just learning to jump. Your timing could be off or you might lose your edge, and you'd still get incredible hangtime. However, once you're more efficient and nail down your timing, you'll be able to get more out of the V14 than you could the V13.

That said, the V14 doesn't sacrifice much in terms of beginner-friendliness. As you become more experienced, a pull-and-go kite can begin to hold you back. The Lithium is very accessible to beginners, but is a bridge between dedicated beginner kites and dedicated big air kites and will help you progress in that direction.

If you're learning or you want a do-it-all kite that's really fun to jump and is lofty, the Lithium V14 might be a good option for you. The micro bridle with the stopper ball and the squared-off wingtips optimize it for big air and make it more responsive, so it's a kite experienced riders will enjoy as well.


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Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:46:03 +0000

David's Top 5 Kiteboarding Accessories for the Daily Shred


We all know about the basic gear you need to get out for your session: a kite, a board, a harness, and a wetsuit if it's chilly, but what else might you want out there, and how essential is it? Dave is here to share his top 5 items that he uses for most, if not all, sessions.

Sunscreen

This one is a must. Even if you're in a full wetty, you'll still want to protect your face, as well as your hands and feet if you're not using gloves and boots. Some people like the zinc ones because of the thickness and the physical barrier they offer, and Dave does use that kind for extra long sessions or downwinders where it isn't practical to come in and reapply. For everday kiting, he uses a sunscreen with SPF and PA. You can use whatever sunscreen works for you, but don't forget to use it.

Surf Ears

Dave has been using Surf Ears since he began kiting. When he started in New Zealand, his friends told him how important it was to protect his ears from the cold water. Exposing your ears to cold water can cause growths that close up your ear canal ("surfer's ear"), and some of his friends had to have surgery to fix that when they were only in their late 20s and early 30s. Dave rides with Surf Ears every session and feels like something is missing if he forgets to put them in.

They've got a mesh screen that keeps water out but lets sound and air through. Dave has friends who use them while diving and say they can still equalize with them in. They come with multiple tips so that you get a snug, comfortable fit that feels custom, and everything packs into a little case with drying holes and a carabiner to clip it to your gear bag or whatever you have with you every session. They're on a leash you wear around your neck, though Dave's never had them fall out while he's on the water, even during a big wipeout. Still, it's nice knowing you won't lose them if you do manage to pop them loose.

Headwear

Dave always rides with something on his head, whether that's a cap or a helmet. You can get a hat with a strap, though Dave likes to play with his hat and incorporate it into his hand-- er, hat drags, so he rocks the MACkite hat.

Depending on the type of riding he's doing, he may opt for a helmet instead, especially for big air tricks where he's looping or doing board-off tricks. He had to get stitches in his head last year after a Heli Loop where he had to throw the board away... but he threw it in his direction of travel and caught a fin in the head. If he'd been wearing a helmet, it would have saved his noggin from needing the needle. Find one that's comfortable so you actually wear it. It doesn't work when it's sitting in your car.

Impact Vest

Impact vests come in various thicknesses so you can decide how much flexibility vs. protection you want. Most of the time you won't even realize you've got it on after you've been out a while, especially if you're wearing a wetsuit. It can really save your ribs, and you'll have more confidence to push yourself without being afraid of crashing.

Surfr App

This item isn't essential and Dave doesn't use it every session, but a smartwatch with the Surfr App installed can be a lot of fun and help you improve your tricks. While you can use it to track your big airs, Dave prefers to use it for feedback when a trick doesn't go quite right. Sometimes you think you were higher than you really were, and this will tell you that so you know why you ran out of time to land it. It wasn't necessarily your form; you just need to get higher next time.

You'll need to pay for the Pro version to put it on your watch, but you'll also get insights like your speed and angle of takeoff when jumping relative to the wind. How far upwind you're pointing can make a big difference, and this will give you that feedback so you can adjust to a more optimal angle.

Of course, this isn't a comprehensive list of everything you might want with you on the water, but you also don't want to have too much, and these are Dave's go-to items for kiting.


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Fri, 24 Jan 2025 17:16:51 +0000

Ensis Roger Review | Is This the Ultimate Parawing for Your Kit?


Tucker just got off the water with the Ensis Roger parawing and... wait. Didn't we just have that Arctic blast? Wow, that's... dedication? Madness? A bit of both? Anyway, the pictures don't lie, and neither does Tucker. Here are his honest thoughts after a bit of a breezy, hectic session in the frigid Lake Michigan water.

Ensis Roger Features

The molded plastic bar is sturdy and has a nice oval-shaped grip that's very easy and comfortable to hold onto without sliding around. It gives you a good sense of where your hand is indexed on the bar, which is especially important to know on parawings. If you're overpowered, you'll want to grip a bit higher.

The big red ball in the center is the safety brake line. The bar isn't long enough to stall out the wing, so they designed this center line to fold the parawing in half and collapse it when you pull the safety. It's easy to reset by simply re-seating it by pulling the line back through. It's simple and effective.

The bridle design is unique among parafoils. There are no splits in the lines; a single line runs straight from the bridle anchor all the way out to the canopy. It's smooth and makes it less likely to tangle, and if you do get a tangle, it's that much easier to work out.

The lines that go to the leading edge are blue, while the rest are white. That side of the bar is blue as well. This makes it a no-brainer when you're gathering up your lines to relaunch the wing after riding with it tucked away.

The canopy colors aren't just there to be pretty, either. They actually give you a visual cue as to what's what. The leading edge is pink, and the right side wingtip is blue. This is a huge help when you're getting ready to toss the wing back out or if you get a bit washed about after a tumble into the waves. The rest of the canopy is a classy dark grey color.

The canopy material is 3x3 ripstop. It's not the lightest material out there, but these wings are made to be scrunched up and relaunched multiple times during a session, and Ensis did a great job of picking a material that will stand up to that and hold its shape and performance while still being quite light and easy to fly. It's durable and stiff enough to stand up to the constant yanking on the bridle attachment points and being eaten by waves.

In spite of being a little more robust than other canopy materials, it still packs down very small. Even if you're just wadding it into a ball to ride a wave unpowered, it's still tiny and gets out of your way. It's even smaller when you pack it carefully after a session or for travel.

Tucker's Review

Right now only the 3m is available, so as a heavier rider at 200 lbs Tucker could only go out on higher wind days, 20 knots or above. He was on a mid-length downwind board and a mid-size foil. Even though it was gusting up to 35-40 knots, he was completely comfortable and having a lot of fun. It had a wide wind range and the wing was well-behaved, controllable, and surprisingly stable for a parawing in those conditions.

Compared to other parawings, the bar pressure was a bit softer and didn't feel like it was trying to yank his arm off. It tended to slide forward in the wind window a bit easier, which gave it more range and easier upwind ability. Both of these characteristics made it easier to ride one-handed without a harness line.

While a harness line isn't necessary for this particular wing most of the time, Tucker tried a few and found that a hard harness line, a mono line, or a windsurf-style line worked best. The rope style tended to slide around too much and get up into the bridles since there's nothing on the bar to stop it from moving.

Tucker was really amped on the Ensis Roger and is looking forward to getting out this spring on the bigger sizes that are in the works.


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Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:55:11 +0000

The North Learn-to-Foil Program | Step 2: Tow Foiling


North Foils, in collaboration with North Sails, has designed an innovative program to help beginners master the art of wing foiling. In this session, led by North Foil Pro Instructor Jeremiah McDonald, participants will learn the essential skills for tow foiling—a crucial step in gaining confidence and control with a foil board.

Tow foiling introduces riders to the unique sensation of flying a foil above water. It helps them build foundational skills for balance, steering, and weight distribution. Let’s explore this exciting lesson in detail.


Understanding Tow Foiling

Tow foiling allows riders to experience the sensation of lifting the foil while remaining tethered to a tow rope. This safe and enjoyable practice helps riders develop balance and steering skills before moving to advanced wing foiling techniques.

Safety First

Before you start, always prioritize your:

  • Helmet: Protects against accidental falls.
  • Impact Vest: Adds buoyancy and shields the torso.
  • Wetsuit: Keeps you warm and protected in the water.

Determining Your Dominant Foot

Knowing your dominant foot is critical for proper board positioning. Follow these steps:

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and close your eyes.
  2. Have a friend gently push you from behind.
  3. The foot you instinctively step forward with is your dominant foot.

For example:

  • If you step forward with your left foot, you are "regular."
  • If you step forward with your right foot, you are "goofy."

Foot Positioning on the Board

Proper foot placement is essential for balance and control:

  • Front Foot: Place near the board's midline, with the heel slightly angled back at 45 degrees.
  • Back Foot: Align it straight forward, slightly offset toward the board’s toe side.

Pre-installed foot strap inserts on boards like the North Seek make finding the correct positions easier.


Transitioning to a Standing Position

To move from kneeling to standing on the board:

  1. Begin on your knees, with your dominant knee closer to the board's nose.
  2. Gain speed and move your front foot into the correct position.
  3. Push off your back foot and rise into a low, balanced stance.

Tow Foiling Basics

As you gain speed, the foil generates lift. Controlling this lift requires precise weight distribution:

  • To Keep the Foil Down: Shift hips forward and apply pressure on your front leg.
  • To Lift the Foil: Shift hips backward to transfer weight onto your rear leg.

Riding the Board

Before attempting to foil, practice riding the board comfortably:

  1. Hold the tow rope with one hand.
  2. Get into a kneeling position, then move to a low-standing stance.
  3. Maintain a balanced posture with knees bent and body relaxed.

Tips for Balance and Steering

  • Leaning on Toes: Turns the board toward the wake.
  • Leaning on Heels: Turns the board away from the wake.
  • Avoiding Turbulence: Stay clear of wake turbulence for smoother rides.

First Flights on the Foil

Begin experiencing lift by gradually shifting weight from the front to the back foot. Focus on these steps:

  1. Slightly reduce pressure on the front foot while increasing speed.
  2. Allow the foil to rise momentarily out of the water.
  3. Push hips forward to bring the foil back down.

Building Confidence

  • Start with short "skims" where the foil briefly lifts.
  • Gradually increase the duration and height of each lift.
  • Remember, balance is key—too much weight forward prevents lift, while too much backward causes instability.

Steering the Foil

Mastering steering involves subtle weight shifts:

  • To Turn: Lean on your toes or heels.
  • Crossing the Wake: Practice transitioning from one side of the wake to the other.
  • Riding Outside the Wake: Progress to riding smoother water beyond the wake.

Steering on the foil mirrors the principles of steering on the board during earlier stages, requiring refined balance and body control.


Key Takeaways

  • Safety Gear is Essential: Always wear a helmet, impact vest, and wetsuit.
  • Dominant Foot Identification: Knowing your stance is critical for proper positioning.
  • Foot Placement Matters: Align feet for optimal balance and control.
  • Standing Transition: Practice moving smoothly from kneeling to standing.
  • Controlled Lifts: Focus on gradual weight shifts to experience controlled foil lift.
  • Steering Proficiency: Practice turns and transitions to gain confidence steering the foil.

Conclusion

Tow foiling is a thrilling way to build foundational skills for wing foiling. By practicing balance, weight distribution, and steering, riders develop the confidence to progress to more advanced techniques.

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, the North Learn to Foil Program provides a structured and safe environment for success.

Credits to: mackiteboarding

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