Kite DNA in Wing Boards
Twin-tip influences from kitesurfing (symmetrical outlines, 38–41 cm widths) are infiltrating 2025 wingfoils via hybrid boards like North's Prime. These boards blend kite's pop with wing's glide for wakestyle crossovers, reducing the learning curve by 30% for kiters transitioning.
Shapes like the Slingshot Misfit V12's square tails enhance upwind grip via V-rails, echoing 2000s twin-tips' freestyle DNA, but adapted for foils with 20 cm wider stances for stability in 15–25 knots.
Hydrodynamics of the Hybrid
Planing Efficiency: Borrowing kite concave designs allows for 10% earlier planing. The water is channeled under the board, creating lift before the foil even engages.
Textreme carbon adds flex for buttery presses, unlike the stiff, jarring feel of pure foil boards on touchdowns.
Park Riding & Flatwater
Popularity spikes in flatwater parks: Duotone Jaime SLS (132 cm length) borrows kite concave for 10% earlier planing, ideal for 60–80 kg riders grinding rails or boosting.
The drawback? They are less wave-friendly than directional bricks. However, for wakestyle moves and 360° spins (thanks to curved tips), they offer a familiar feel for kiters.
Twin-Tip vs. Directional Foil Board
Sources & Further Reading
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