Hi just wondering if anyone is using this mast for windsurf foiling and what are the impressions re rigidity, speed. Is it really more rigid and faster compared to 2020 models? I am 85kg on Naish 145 board trying to improve upwind sailing. They have introduced carbon mast this year but it is over 2 times more expansive.
Good question.
Almost every other company makes a wider chord, and thicker mast than Naish.
That alone should suggest something.
At shorter length and lightweight riders, the old '18--20 masts are fast and plenty stiff.
Lots of heavyweights are foiling now.
Upwind. More sail power with your current foil.
Not sure how much upwind you need, but powered windfoil goes up higher than anything short of Formula or Windfoul course race.
Even my 600 Kitewing goes upwind incredibly well in 15 knots, 5.5 sail, 73 kg.
Will it make a measurable difference to your ability to sail upwind? I'd say that's an easy no.
S series is wider and thicker, better for big dudes and big foils.
Iightweights do fine with '18-'19 masts, but the 90 does give a wandering feel with 1220 foil. With 600, it's fine.
My problem is getting too far upwind, then needing to ride back downwind unstrapped and unhooked.
It would be good to have an opinion from someone that has actually sailed with one of the new carbon masts to know if they might be worth the extra expense. At the moment I can see there are 3 options:
S25 aluminum : the attachment to the board is one piece with the mast, plate or deep tuttle available
S26 35 Carbon: 35% carbon, the attachment to the board is one piece with the mast,
S26 Carbon: 100% carbon, the attachment to the board is one piece with the mast,
Carbon masts have a shorter cord and narrower profile, so are supposed to be faster
prices in Australia vary from around $700 for aluminum to $1500 for 100% carbon
My thinking was that s25 or s26 mast are wider so it should help upwind. Also I could use 95cm to have more flexibility in the chop /waves (this would mean going faster). The only thing I am not sure if aluminum 95cm would work with my weight.
But I appreciate advice re powering up to get upwind- for the moment I can only get upwind when borderline overpowered
Weight is a consideration, as is foil size and mast length.
At my 72 kgs, I guess my 90 cm '19 mast is fine with the 600 foil, and has been passable with the 1220, making gradual instead of carving turns.
But alu being somewhat stiff, has relatively slow reflex.
Carbon is softer, but reflex rate is higher, giving more control when fully loaded.
As far as upwind, how much more do you need?
Are you course racing?
Why go soooo far upwind that you spend equal time trying to get back downwind?
I am not into racing. Upwind is just to be able to go around the harbour rather than back and forth. I am using Naish 1150 wing with 85cm mast at the moment
Your upwind issue is 100% not board and foil related. You should be able to crank upwind if you are foiling. What sized sails and wind speed are you sailing in?
Time on the water, and sailing with other good foilers is the key.
Some of the advice in this thread might help you: www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/Foiling/Need-upwind-advice
I agree with Swoosh.
I get too far upwind every reach, and have to ride swells back downwind unhooked and moving back foot around.
If it foils, upwind is never the problem.
Select to expand quoteswoosh said..
Your upwind issue is 100% not board and foil related. You should be able to crank upwind if you are foiling. What sized sails and wind speed are you sailing in?
Time on the water, and sailing with other good foilers is the key.
Some of the advice in this thread might help you: www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/Foiling/Need-upwind-advice
i was out today on 6.7 sail (cambered,biggest sail I use). The wind was 7-14 knots. The smallest sail I use is 4.2 when it is 20 knots.
When it is solid 5 bft I use 5.3
