FREERIDE FOIL BOARD TEST 2023
NEW FOIL FRONTIERS
The test team ditch the fins this month and get flying on some of the finest freeride foil boards out there.
EDITOR: ROB YORK // TESTERS: JAMES HARDY, TIM CROSS, MAURIN ROTTENWALTER, LUKE WILLIAMS, TRIS BEST, SCOTT STALLMAN
TEST LOCATION: WEYMOUTH // PHOTOS: Simon Winkley and Mia Adcock
Insights
The relentless pursuit of innovation and performance in the world of foil windsurfing is ever-present as we dive into 2023. Enthusiasts and professionals alike are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and the newest crop of foil boards on the market is a testament to this relentless drive for improvement. From the casual cruiser to the dedicated racer, there’s a foil board in the 2023 lineup that caters to every windsurfer’s desires and ambitions.
Foil racing has an influence, as does the trend towards a versatile board, providing riders with the exciting opportunity of discovering new avenues of foiling. The differences between these two styles of design have a significant impact on performance qualities.
In the realm of manoeuvres, foil windsurfing continues to break new ground, exploring the limits of freestyle and flow-like foiling. This style of foiling has really opened up a playful arena for riders to jump into during light wind days, perfect for the summer months. As you read on, you will get a feel for where these boards are most at home and how foil board design, continues to push forward.
Summary
The Fanatic Stingray Foil Ltd 115 is a superbly versatile board, offering wing and windsurf foiling capabilities. Its highly responsive and manoeuvrable design provides a thrilling experience. Similarly, the Goya Airbolt 135 can handle wing, SUP, and windsurf foiling, delivering a playful experience, especially when sailed strapless or with smaller sails. The Patrik FoilRide 131 is an exciting option for those wanting to hunt for speed without the hair-raising aggressive feel of a race board. The Severne Predator 125 is a true freestyle powerhouse with outstanding acceleration and extraordinary manoeuvrability. The Starboard Foil Freeride 150 brings a freerace foil sensation, effortlessly locking in and pairing well with larger sails. Lastly, the Tabou Fifty 135 excels as a windsurf fin and foil crossover, giving a race-like experience on the fin and benefiting from the width in the tail for easy foiling access.
THE LINEUP