FANATIC STINGRAY FOIL LTD 130 2022 TEST REVIEW
VERDICT
With just the right mix of ease, balance and response, the Stingray Foil 130 is a true foiling chameleon, ideal for those that are looking for the one platform that can cater for both wing and sail.
THE LOWDOWN
Once Fanatic’s wind-foiling specific centrepiece for the recreational sailor, the Stingray Foil LTD was repurposed last season as a crossover contender for both foiling with a sail and a wing. Shorter and wider than its predecessor, it sports an extended deckpad and a multitude of strap inserts, to be compatible with both foiling disciplines. The mast track is extended for maximum sail size/type compatibility, as are the foil tracks on the underside, sitting either side of the Deep Tuttle foil box. Whilst the new design is said to bring benefits in swing weight and manoeuvrability, Fanatic are conscious that this development won’t be to everyone’s liking, namely those that are steadfast wind foilers above all else. For these clients, the brand keeps the two larger original designs (125 and 140) in their range, re-classifying them as the Stingray Foil HRS. On test here is the 2021 Stringray Foil LTD 130, which was released a bit too late for our foil board test last year … the same fate unfortunately hampering the 2022 version this year too. On the plus side, there is little change for 2022, save for a graphical update, a new leash plug on the deck for winging, plus the introduction of a carry-handle in the hull, just in front of the foil boxes. This 130 is the middle sibling of a three-board range, and is produced in a full PVC Biax Fibre construction. At 9.52 kg, it’s not light, yet it’s small wonder considering the number of features and fittings supplied to provide the added versatility. Supplied with the brand’s excellent Premium Velcro straps, the large mono-pad has extra recessed diamond grooving, providing extra adhesion, particularly useful, we suspect, when going strapless. With its parallel rails said to provide “comfort and performance”, it has a low apex to its rail profile, with subtle bevels in the nose, leading to a mono-concave from the mid-section to the tail.
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- 2022 board shown here
BRAND CLAIM
“The Stingray Foil LTD closes the gap between wind foiling and wing foiling! Use a wing in lower wind ranges and switch to a regular windsurf rig when the wind picks up or vice versa depending on your preferences? No problem, the Stingray Foil LTD is up for everything!”
PERFORMANCE
As with all short and compact designs, the Stingray Foil initially feels a little smaller than its quoted volume, being quite pivotal underfoot. Engage the sail’s power and push through the front foot however, and it tracks fine, the foil providing the directional stability, whilst the extra width assists weight/rig carrying. Used with Fanatic’s Carbon Foil, the versatility of the Stingray Foil’s fittings is realised straightaway in the setup, the plate head of the foil being able to be placed far enough back, as the US boxes run alongside the Tuttle Box. Pumping the foil is much easier too, the board’s short length showing its worth by reducing swing weight and improving the frequency and ease of the pitching/rocking movement as the foil is worked. Once flying, the 130 feels balanced and responsive underfoot, the deckpad providing plenty of traction as predicted. The subtle dome of the deck is super comfortable and the Stingray is a pleasure to sail for long periods and large distances. In transitions there’s still plenty of volume in the nose of the board for support during tacks; and in the gybe, the wide outline provides the room for the foot change mid-transition. Change the straps’ positioning (or take them off completely) before shifting the foil forwards in the tracks, and the Stingray Foil is an ideal platform for a spot of winging. A great tutor for the novice, its fittings and riding posture certainly make it feel like a genuine winging board, rather than a convenient afterthought, the additional 2022 fittings improving its practicality further.
VITAL STATS
Price: £1899.00
Volume (Quoted): 130L.
Length: 209 cm.
Width: 76 cm.
1ft off: 60.0 cm.
Bottom shape: Starts with a vee with double concave and subtle bevels, which then transitions into a mono-concave from the mid-section all the way to the tail.
Weight (‘Naked’): 9.52 kg.
Boxes: Deep Tuttle and Foil Track (35cm)
Sail Range (Quoted): <9.0m
Sizes Available: 115, 130, 145.
FANATIC STINGRAY FOIL LTD 130 2022 TEST REVIEW
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