
However, aluminum is strong, durable, generally stiffer but heavier. Heavier underwater helps stability and glide (lighter isn’t always better). Everything above water needs to be as light as possible.
For the speeds we are aiming for with the NSP Airwave foils, the aluminum mast works amazingly well and offers lots of advantages with very similar performance to carbon.
We learned early on that stiffness is critical for stability and performance and the attachment points are very important. Any movement in the wings or mast connection causes control problems. Also since most of the foil is underwater, the weight is mostly important for handling while out of the water, however contributes to stability while in the water.
We’ve greatly simplified the design based on flat connecting surfaces; goes together easily with most of the angles built in with CNC machining tolerances. Modularity is built in and any of the parts are easily replaceable.
Best riding foil – best combination of price and performance. Super stiff and easy to ride foil. Excellent wave riding performance with many tuning options.
Stiffer and more modular – modular design with bolt on wings – easily change mast, wings without a hammer. Slip on fit designs are very difficult to get right, they are either too tight or too loose.
Tune performance with rear wing shims – change turning and balance with interchangeable rear wing shims.
Easily upgradable and maintainable – any part can be easily replaced or changed.
Carbon prepreg wings – positively buoyant and super strong and stiff
Beginners – FW 78 is an all-around awesome wing, some might start on the 60 mast and use the 3-degree shim. Best to learn behind a boat, jet ski or on a 2.0 cable if your local cable park has one. Bigger riders (90kg +) will want to start on the FW 85.
Weekend foilers – same as above
Downwind – riders will want the bigger FW 85
Surf – FW 78 (Try the M Wing)
Sup – FW 78