The Efficiency Revolution
28–32" widths (e.g., Starboard Above's 30" at 100L) exploded in 2025 for their 25% efficiency gain in 8–15 knots. They are narrower than 34"+ bricks, allowing them to cut through 2–4 knot speed bumps, yet stable via length (6'6"+) for easy waterstarts.
Carbon builds (e.g., F-One Rocket DW PRO at 29") slash swing weight 15%, suiting downwind/wing hybrids for 70–90 kg riders chasing 20 km runs without fatigue.
Physics of Displacement Hulls
Froude Number: Long, narrow hulls have a higher "hull speed" limit before they get trapped by their own bow wave. This allows them to accelerate to foiling speed (8-10 knots) with much less power than a short, wide board which pushes water like a bulldozer.
Beveled rails in 2025 models fix the "tippy" feeling by providing secondary stability when the board rolls.
Trade-offs
The drawback? They are tippy in swells compared to 34" boards. However, modern beveled rails retain 80% of the carve ability once up on foil.
Board Shape Comparison
Sources & Further Reading
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