This review is for anyone looking to upgrade their foil, doing research or curious about wind foiling or returning to windsurfing after kids.
The following notes are my honest initial impressions of the Aeon. I'm not sponsored, none of this is Ai.
For context, I'm 50, 6ft, 83kg's, semi-fit, started sailing at the end of March 2025 after an almost 20-year hiatus.
I originally started windsurfing in the late 80s, got into Slalom and a bit of Wave sailing, sailed in Perth mostly, also a bit in Lancelin, Margaret River, Geraldton, Hawaii and Bali, was no Dunkerbeck, got bored, life changed, moved interstate, jumped into cycling in the early 2000s.
Aeon Foil System purchased so far:
95 DIM-S mast,
Aluminium V2 Fuselage,
650 DNA-H 450 DNA-H Front wings,
160 DNA-H Backwing,
Shims, spare bag of bolts and Foil Bag, Torx thingo.
First impression.Wow,
Everything about the system has been carefully considered and thought through. From the fineness or thinness of the carbon foils, which are only millimetres in thickness, to the connection points. The Aeon is both a work of art to hold in your hands and to use on the water; unboxing is better than an iPhone or MacBook, each piece is like Lego, it just fits together perfectly. Interestingly, each piece sounds like a musical instrument when you hold it like a tuning fork and tap it with a fingernail.
Foil Bag:
The foil bag is sturdy and practical, wings in the main section, Fuselage along the side pockets - room for 6, Masts along the bottom with their own protective pouches, room for 3 or 4. shims, tools and bolts in the lid pockets, all with room to grow the set.
Foil Covers:
The foil covers all match the foil profile and can be used while getting ready for sailing on the board to protect the foil but also anyone around the gear on shore. They are sharp and almost invisible from some angles. Warning stickers are on each foil, the trail edge is pretty sharp.
Initial experiences:
On the water, once planning, which does take more physical commitment to each pump and sometimes a few extra pumps (not as passive like other foils) once up I quickly found the sweet spot,
The foiling sensation is mind-blowing, almost silent, smooth*, it is an effortless flying experience with predictable movement. Weirdly, it takes me back to the first time planning nearly 40 years ago, however, this time it's every time I go out.
*I say almost silent as each foil has a 'whistle' like someone left an old tap half on. Not impressed initially, I thought something was wrong, but after a few runs, I found I used the sound to find the best ride height as the pitch subtly changed. Thankfully, with foiling there is less "board-slapping" and bone-jarring. The wider boards tend to plough through the chop like an old school LT or 3 plus metre-long Mistral or Alpha board without the weight and shorter in length, keeping it nimble and easy to direct.
For me foiling almost 1 metre above the water at 20 plus knots, everything had to feel in balance, reliable and predictable to control; both front wings didn't disappoint.
650 DNA-H Front Wing
In two words, stable - powerful. The 650 feels powerful under the board. it's refreshing to take my foiling to the next level. It feels like a huge leap forward, but with a manageable learning curve. Initial short runs require deliberate movements to point upwind and downwind until the sensation of being locked in takes hold as things speed up, then it only needs subtle movements to lock in the balance point, which feels bigger or easier to find. Apart from the initial sketchy first runs, there is minimal proposing (up & down) unless I shift around too much looking for the harness lines or footstraps. The pumps to get on the foil felt longer than any foil I have tried, with a more physical push-down required to create a solid pump. Sounds obvious, but I found timing it with a long gust makes it easier, but the kick up onto the foil is awesome - it kind of feels steady but rapid, requiring only a slight front foot redirecting to where I wanted to go.
Downwind runs - exhilarating, point the board and hang on, it just keeps accelerating until my 50-year tenure flashed before my eyes. Too much too soon in my case and I didn't need any brown stains in the old wetty. I can still feel the chop, especially rolling chop, and it feels like subtle aeroplane turbulence, but it's more of a quick down-up motion, and not a holy **** porpourse motion.
Gybing took me a while to get used to, and tbh I am still working on it. Weirdly, It is counterintuitive - I was thinking you have to force it or control it to maintain ride height, but it's the opposite, it's more how I imagine a zen moment with Yoda or Spock would be - you have to go with the flow- Just point the board into a nice consistent arc and the foil wants to do the rest for you. I came to this zen-like realisation at the end of my last session, so I look forward to finding that place again next time.
450 DNA-H Front Wing
In one word the 450 wing is bonkers (in a good way)
It is beautifully made, shaped like a gull wing, It almost feels like being on slalom fin gear again . (without the slapping) where there are no excuses, it's game on, you have to be ready for the fast acceleration - whipping the sail in the right position and jump in the straps quickly. It feels like being on ice skates strapped to a rocket, locked in an endless straight-line speed in big gusts with minimal effort. I can feel the chop less than the 650, just a more subtle 'down-up' blip, but again, it doesn't change the straight line trajectory or ride height. Looking forward to trying the 375 & 350 in due course. Being narrower than the 650, feels like I could take tighter turns; however, it feels more comfortable to take gybes at speed, so naturally a similar arc to the 650 occurs.
With my limited experience, most foils feel like I'm balancing on a large invisible ball underwater - ready to let me slide off in any direction if a gust hits or chop arrives unexpectedly, but the Aeon feels more like riding a skateboard on smooth concrete, it has grip, it's predictably stable and awe-inspiring. (adrenaline chasing) Sailing across the wind Slalom style is excellent, pointing upwind is pretty good, but not as high as what a 'deeper' mast would achieve, like a Starboard 85 or IQ. In saying that, Patrik's logical idea to address this is sliding the fuselage (V1 fuselage) forward of the mast, creating more lift in front of the front straps and effectively creating more usable pumpable power.
Shims:
So far, I have only tried the +1mm and +1.25mm Shims, +1 feels like the right one so far. It's not a huge difference, maybe just more pressure required in the pumps with 1.25mm, speed and ride heights didn't appear to be affected.
95 DIM-S mast:
The 95 mast is incredible; it is thinner than expected, and when set up, there is minimal twist and bend. This becomes noticeable in the chop; it feels like a finely tuned futuristic daggerboard cutting through the water. The extra 10 - 15 cm is confidence-inducing compared to the 80 & 85 cm Aluminium masts I have learnt on. Riding higher in the water is definitely scary, but it feels right as I sped up and the locked-in feeling kicks in.
Gybing:
I'm not the best at gybing yet, on a good day, I can almost nail 40 - 60% of my gybes in the first hour, then it's a steady decline. It doesn't help sailing on the JP, the deck is too rounded and upsets the foot flow. Finding the right gybe arc seems to be key, and starting from a downwind run with commitment. There is no point hoping for the best, it's just a 100% mindset or another swim.
Interestingly and I'm not sure what this is called, it's that weird sensation of 'tripping over the board' and catapulting, or the foil suddenly rolls underfoot pointing upwind from any gust or board twitch now feels like it's been resolved, the foil doesn't ride up and under your feet like other foils, perhaps it's the reduced depth at the fuselage end of the mast minimiseing this effect or the stiffer mast means the mast twists less. Would need someone's feedback to describe this, and a camera underwater to record it.
Gear and Conditions:
For these tests I sailed in different wind conditions on the Swan River in winter, (10 - 15 & 15 - 25 with 30 knott gusts) it was tricky to balance on with such a narrow tail board and not quite the right set-up for the required control or leverage but once I was over 15 knots it felt like the foil slots into a groove and remains there in the gusts and lulls. In this review, I am temporarily sailing on a JP super ride 145L foil-ready board while I wait for a new Patrik foil board, Titanium V2 and Carbon Boom to arrive. I'll add to this review once this arrives, and I have been out a few times.
For this review, I used mostly Patrik gear, a second-hand Foil+ 6.0m 2023 sail, an old blue Neilpryde 160 - 220 Aluminium Boom, a new 380 (80% Carbon) mast and a 40 cm (100% Carbon) extender with the 35cm Carbon Mast extension & mast base. Not an ideal test board or boom, but I had to get out and try this foil. (Note: The Foilboxes in the new boards are flat head deep tuttle, my old Foil One is the older deep tuttle, and I didn't like the idea of cutting down the new Foil Mast for one board, more fun to upgrade)
Limited experience in 2025:
I have tried 4 types of foils, Neilpryde (Gen 2) the fuselage was too short and unstable at speed, Starboard Gen 1 & 2 and Severnes Redwing 1200. In hindsight, I should have started on the Patrik Foil Package Novice 1300 or 1600 foil system or the Severne Redwing, both really well made and thought through. A 85 or 90 wide Foil board, like the Patrik Foil Ride or Severne Alien. Both systems are balanced, easy to learn on and gets you to the next level faster.
Conclusions:
Being a somewhat discerning buyer, mismatched gear wasn't going to cut it; knowing the Patrik gear is designed to work together makes sailing so much easier and fun again, It just works. Less wasted money, frustration and time. Yes the gear is slightly more expensive compared to other manufacturers; however, in comparison to dropping 20k on a nice road bike, windsurfing seems better value, safer than the road and more fun in 2025. The future looks bright for the industry, especially as we're becoming aware of the time wasted on devices.
Yes I'm still beginning the Foiling journey and working towards 30+ knots, but I am enjoying the learning curve, new challenges, meeting other geat local Windsurfers, Windfoilers and Wingfoilers on the river, it's refreshing to experience life flying above the water and out in nature, while getting fit physically and mentally. This is huge!
Special thanks to, Mark at SurfSail Perth, Patrik for the dedication to making incredible gear and all the crew sailing on the Swan River! Lunny, Richard, JP, Greg, Nick as well as the online inspirational windsurfers and windfoilers like Nils Bach, SurfKasper T, Mario K?mpel, Nico Prien, Paul van Bellen to name a few. (more reviews to follow)
you might be interested in this thread
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/Foiling/New-Patrik-AEON-foil
Select to expand quotepowersloshin said..
you might be interested in this thread
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/Foiling/New-Patrik-AEON-foil
Thank you Powersloshin! great thread.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..
This review is for anyone looking to upgrade their foil, doing research or curious about wind foiling or returning to windsurfing after kids.
The following notes are my honest initial impressions of the Aeon. I'm not sponsored, none of this is Ai.
For context, I'm 50, 6ft, 83kg's, semi-fit, started sailing at the end of March 2025 after an almost 20-year hiatus.
I originally started windsurfing in the late 80s, got into Slalom and a bit of Wave sailing, sailed in Perth mostly, also a bit in Lancelin, Margaret River, Geraldton, Hawaii and Bali, was no Dunkerbeck, got bored, life changed, moved interstate, jumped into cycling in the early 2000s.
Aeon Foil System purchased so far:
95 DIM-S mast,
Aluminium V2 Fuselage,
650 DNA-H 450 DNA-H Front wings,
160 DNA-H Backwing,
Shims, spare bag of bolts and Foil Bag, Torx thingo.
First impression.Wow,
Everything about the system has been carefully considered and thought through. From the fineness or thinness of the carbon foils, which are only millimetres in thickness, to the connection points. The Aeon is both a work of art to hold in your hands and to use on the water; unboxing is better than an iPhone or MacBook, each piece is like Lego, it just fits together perfectly. Interestingly, each piece sounds like a musical instrument when you hold it like a tuning fork and tap it with a fingernail.
Foil Bag:
The foil bag is sturdy and practical, wings in the main section, Fuselage along the side pockets - room for 6, Masts along the bottom with their own protective pouches, room for 3 or 4. shims, tools and bolts in the lid pockets, all with room to grow the set.
Foil Covers:
The foil covers all match the foil profile and can be used while getting ready for sailing on the board to protect the foil but also anyone around the gear on shore. They are sharp and almost invisible from some angles. Warning stickers are on each foil, the trail edge is pretty sharp.
Initial experiences:
On the water, once planning, which does take more physical commitment to each pump and sometimes a few extra pumps (not as passive like other foils) once up I quickly found the sweet spot,
The foiling sensation is mind-blowing, almost silent, smooth*, it is an effortless flying experience with predictable movement. Weirdly, it takes me back to the first time planning nearly 40 years ago, however, this time it's every time I go out.
*I say almost silent as each foil has a 'whistle' like someone left an old tap half on. Not impressed initially, I thought something was wrong, but after a few runs, I found I used the sound to find the best ride height as the pitch subtly changed. Thankfully, with foiling there is less "board-slapping" and bone-jarring. The wider boards tend to plough through the chop like an old school LT or 3 plus metre-long Mistral or Alpha board without the weight and shorter in length, keeping it nimble and easy to direct.
For me foiling almost 1 metre above the water at 20 plus knots, everything had to feel in balance, reliable and predictable to control; both front wings didn't disappoint.
650 DNA-H Front Wing
In two words, stable - powerful. The 650 feels powerful under the board. it's refreshing to take my foiling to the next level. It feels like a huge leap forward, but with a manageable learning curve. Initial short runs require deliberate movements to point upwind and downwind until the sensation of being locked in takes hold as things speed up, then it only needs subtle movements to lock in the balance point, which feels bigger or easier to find. Apart from the initial sketchy first runs, there is minimal proposing (up & down) unless I shift around too much looking for the harness lines or footstraps. The pumps to get on the foil felt longer than any foil I have tried, with a more physical push-down required to create a solid pump. Sounds obvious, but I found timing it with a long gust makes it easier, but the kick up onto the foil is awesome - it kind of feels steady but rapid, requiring only a slight front foot redirecting to where I wanted to go.
Downwind runs - exhilarating, point the board and hang on, it just keeps accelerating until my 50-year tenure flashed before my eyes. Too much too soon in my case and I didn't need any brown stains in the old wetty. I can still feel the chop, especially rolling chop, and it feels like subtle aeroplane turbulence, but it's more of a quick down-up motion, and not a holy **** porpourse motion.
Gybing took me a while to get used to, and tbh I am still working on it. Weirdly, It is counterintuitive - I was thinking you have to force it or control it to maintain ride height, but it's the opposite, it's more how I imagine a zen moment with Yoda or Spock would be - you have to go with the flow- Just point the board into a nice consistent arc and the foil wants to do the rest for you. I came to this zen-like realisation at the end of my last session, so I look forward to finding that place again next time.
450 DNA-H Front Wing
In one word the 450 wing is bonkers (in a good way)
It is beautifully made, shaped like a gull wing, It almost feels like being on slalom fin gear again . (without the slapping) where there are no excuses, it's game on, you have to be ready for the fast acceleration - whipping the sail in the right position and jump in the straps quickly. It feels like being on ice skates strapped to a rocket, locked in an endless straight-line speed in big gusts with minimal effort. I can feel the chop less than the 650, just a more subtle 'down-up' blip, but again, it doesn't change the straight line trajectory or ride height. Looking forward to trying the 375 & 350 in due course. Being narrower than the 650, feels like I could take tighter turns; however, it feels more comfortable to take gybes at speed, so naturally a similar arc to the 650 occurs.
With my limited experience, most foils feel like I'm balancing on a large invisible ball underwater - ready to let me slide off in any direction if a gust hits or chop arrives unexpectedly, but the Aeon feels more like riding a skateboard on smooth concrete, it has grip, it's predictably stable and awe-inspiring. (adrenaline chasing) Sailing across the wind Slalom style is excellent, pointing upwind is pretty good, but not as high as what a 'deeper' mast would achieve, like a Starboard 85 or IQ. In saying that, Patrik's logical idea to address this is sliding the fuselage (V1 fuselage) forward of the mast, creating more lift in front of the front straps and effectively creating more usable pumpable power.
Shims:
So far, I have only tried the +1mm and +1.25mm Shims, +1 feels like the right one so far. It's not a huge difference, maybe just more pressure required in the pumps with 1.25mm, speed and ride heights didn't appear to be affected.
95 DIM-S mast:
The 95 mast is incredible; it is thinner than expected, and when set up, there is minimal twist and bend. This becomes noticeable in the chop; it feels like a finely tuned futuristic daggerboard cutting through the water. The extra 10 - 15 cm is confidence-inducing compared to the 80 & 85 cm Aluminium masts I have learnt on. Riding higher in the water is definitely scary, but it feels right as I sped up and the locked-in feeling kicks in.
Gybing:
I'm not the best at gybing yet, on a good day, I can almost nail 40 - 60% of my gybes in the first hour, then it's a steady decline. It doesn't help sailing on the JP, the deck is too rounded and upsets the foot flow. Finding the right gybe arc seems to be key, and starting from a downwind run with commitment. There is no point hoping for the best, it's just a 100% mindset or another swim.
Interestingly and I'm not sure what this is called, it's that weird sensation of 'tripping over the board' and catapulting, or the foil suddenly rolls underfoot pointing upwind from any gust or board twitch now feels like it's been resolved, the foil doesn't ride up and under your feet like other foils, perhaps it's the reduced depth at the fuselage end of the mast minimiseing this effect or the stiffer mast means the mast twists less. Would need someone's feedback to describe this, and a camera underwater to record it.
Gear and Conditions:
For these tests I sailed in different wind conditions on the Swan River in winter, (10 - 15 & 15 - 25 with 30 knott gusts) it was tricky to balance on with such a narrow tail board and not quite the right set-up for the required control or leverage but once I was over 15 knots it felt like the foil slots into a groove and remains there in the gusts and lulls. In this review, I am temporarily sailing on a JP super ride 145L foil-ready board while I wait for a new Patrik foil board, Titanium V2 and Carbon Boom to arrive. I'll add to this review once this arrives, and I have been out a few times.
For this review, I used mostly Patrik gear, a second-hand Foil+ 6.0m 2023 sail, an old blue Neilpryde 160 - 220 Aluminium Boom, a new 380 (80% Carbon) mast and a 40 cm (100% Carbon) extender with the 35cm Carbon Mast extension & mast base. Not an ideal test board or boom, but I had to get out and try this foil. (Note: The Foilboxes in the new boards are flat head deep tuttle, my old Foil One is the older deep tuttle, and I didn't like the idea of cutting down the new Foil Mast for one board, more fun to upgrade)
Limited experience in 2025:
I have tried 4 types of foils, Neilpryde (Gen 2) the fuselage was too short and unstable at speed, Starboard Gen 1 & 2 and Severnes Redwing 1200. In hindsight, I should have started on the Patrik Foil Package Novice 1300 or 1600 foil system or the Severne Redwing, both really well made and thought through. A 85 or 90 wide Foil board, like the Patrik Foil Ride or Severne Alien. Both systems are balanced, easy to learn on and gets you to the next level faster.
Conclusions:
Being a somewhat discerning buyer, mismatched gear wasn't going to cut it; knowing the Patrik gear is designed to work together makes sailing so much easier and fun again, It just works. Less wasted money, frustration and time. Yes the gear is slightly more expensive compared to other manufacturers; however, in comparison to dropping 20k on a nice road bike, windsurfing seems better value, safer than the road and more fun in 2025. The future looks bright for the industry, especially as we're becoming aware of the time wasted on devices.
Yes I'm still beginning the Foiling journey and working towards 30+ knots, but I am enjoying the learning curve, new challenges, meeting other geat local Windsurfers, Windfoilers and Wingfoilers on the river, it's refreshing to experience life flying above the water and out in nature, while getting fit physically and mentally. This is huge!
Special thanks to, Mark at SurfSail Perth, Patrik for the dedication to making incredible gear and all the crew sailing on the Swan River! Lunny, Richard, JP, Greg, Nick as well as the online inspirational windsurfers and windfoilers like Nils Bach, SurfKasper T, Mario K?mpel, Nico Prien, Paul van Bellen to name a few. (more reviews to follow)
Thanks for the review - Patrik's kit is top notch 
Yeah its good stuff. Probably the best foils out there at the moment. Ive got the Phantom Iris R and Spark stuff and although they look similar in design, they dont have the stability that the Patrik has in my experience. Glad you're enjoying them mate. I'll see you out there again soon I'm sure. :)
Select to expand quoteazymuth said..Lukesta said..
This review is for anyone looking to upgrade their foil, doing research or curious about wind foiling or returning to windsurfing after kids.
The following notes are my honest initial impressions of the Aeon. I'm not sponsored, none of this is Ai.
For context, I'm 50, 6ft, 83kg's, semi-fit, started sailing at the end of March 2025 after an almost 20-year hiatus.
I originally started windsurfing in the late 80s, got into Slalom and a bit of Wave sailing, sailed in Perth mostly, also a bit in Lancelin, Margaret River, Geraldton, Hawaii and Bali, was no Dunkerbeck, got bored, life changed, moved interstate, jumped into cycling in the early 2000s.
Aeon Foil System purchased so far:
95 DIM-S mast,
Aluminium V2 Fuselage,
650 DNA-H 450 DNA-H Front wings,
160 DNA-H Backwing,
Shims, spare bag of bolts and Foil Bag, Torx thingo.
First impression.Wow,
Everything about the system has been carefully considered and thought through. From the fineness or thinness of the carbon foils, which are only millimetres in thickness, to the connection points. The Aeon is both a work of art to hold in your hands and to use on the water; unboxing is better than an iPhone or MacBook, each piece is like Lego, it just fits together perfectly. Interestingly, each piece sounds like a musical instrument when you hold it like a tuning fork and tap it with a fingernail.
Foil Bag:
The foil bag is sturdy and practical, wings in the main section, Fuselage along the side pockets - room for 6, Masts along the bottom with their own protective pouches, room for 3 or 4. shims, tools and bolts in the lid pockets, all with room to grow the set.
Foil Covers:
The foil covers all match the foil profile and can be used while getting ready for sailing on the board to protect the foil but also anyone around the gear on shore. They are sharp and almost invisible from some angles. Warning stickers are on each foil, the trail edge is pretty sharp.
Initial experiences:
On the water, once planning, which does take more physical commitment to each pump and sometimes a few extra pumps (not as passive like other foils) once up I quickly found the sweet spot,
The foiling sensation is mind-blowing, almost silent, smooth*, it is an effortless flying experience with predictable movement. Weirdly, it takes me back to the first time planning nearly 40 years ago, however, this time it's every time I go out.
*I say almost silent as each foil has a 'whistle' like someone left an old tap half on. Not impressed initially, I thought something was wrong, but after a few runs, I found I used the sound to find the best ride height as the pitch subtly changed. Thankfully, with foiling there is less "board-slapping" and bone-jarring. The wider boards tend to plough through the chop like an old school LT or 3 plus metre-long Mistral or Alpha board without the weight and shorter in length, keeping it nimble and easy to direct.
For me foiling almost 1 metre above the water at 20 plus knots, everything had to feel in balance, reliable and predictable to control; both front wings didn't disappoint.
650 DNA-H Front Wing
In two words, stable - powerful. The 650 feels powerful under the board. it's refreshing to take my foiling to the next level. It feels like a huge leap forward, but with a manageable learning curve. Initial short runs require deliberate movements to point upwind and downwind until the sensation of being locked in takes hold as things speed up, then it only needs subtle movements to lock in the balance point, which feels bigger or easier to find. Apart from the initial sketchy first runs, there is minimal proposing (up & down) unless I shift around too much looking for the harness lines or footstraps. The pumps to get on the foil felt longer than any foil I have tried, with a more physical push-down required to create a solid pump. Sounds obvious, but I found timing it with a long gust makes it easier, but the kick up onto the foil is awesome - it kind of feels steady but rapid, requiring only a slight front foot redirecting to where I wanted to go.
Downwind runs - exhilarating, point the board and hang on, it just keeps accelerating until my 50-year tenure flashed before my eyes. Too much too soon in my case and I didn't need any brown stains in the old wetty. I can still feel the chop, especially rolling chop, and it feels like subtle aeroplane turbulence, but it's more of a quick down-up motion, and not a holy **** porpourse motion.
Gybing took me a while to get used to, and tbh I am still working on it. Weirdly, It is counterintuitive - I was thinking you have to force it or control it to maintain ride height, but it's the opposite, it's more how I imagine a zen moment with Yoda or Spock would be - you have to go with the flow- Just point the board into a nice consistent arc and the foil wants to do the rest for you. I came to this zen-like realisation at the end of my last session, so I look forward to finding that place again next time.
450 DNA-H Front Wing
In one word the 450 wing is bonkers (in a good way)
It is beautifully made, shaped like a gull wing, It almost feels like being on slalom fin gear again . (without the slapping) where there are no excuses, it's game on, you have to be ready for the fast acceleration - whipping the sail in the right position and jump in the straps quickly. It feels like being on ice skates strapped to a rocket, locked in an endless straight-line speed in big gusts with minimal effort. I can feel the chop less than the 650, just a more subtle 'down-up' blip, but again, it doesn't change the straight line trajectory or ride height. Looking forward to trying the 375 & 350 in due course. Being narrower than the 650, feels like I could take tighter turns; however, it feels more comfortable to take gybes at speed, so naturally a similar arc to the 650 occurs.
With my limited experience, most foils feel like I'm balancing on a large invisible ball underwater - ready to let me slide off in any direction if a gust hits or chop arrives unexpectedly, but the Aeon feels more like riding a skateboard on smooth concrete, it has grip, it's predictably stable and awe-inspiring. (adrenaline chasing) Sailing across the wind Slalom style is excellent, pointing upwind is pretty good, but not as high as what a 'deeper' mast would achieve, like a Starboard 85 or IQ. In saying that, Patrik's logical idea to address this is sliding the fuselage (V1 fuselage) forward of the mast, creating more lift in front of the front straps and effectively creating more usable pumpable power.
Shims:
So far, I have only tried the +1mm and +1.25mm Shims, +1 feels like the right one so far. It's not a huge difference, maybe just more pressure required in the pumps with 1.25mm, speed and ride heights didn't appear to be affected.
95 DIM-S mast:
The 95 mast is incredible; it is thinner than expected, and when set up, there is minimal twist and bend. This becomes noticeable in the chop; it feels like a finely tuned futuristic daggerboard cutting through the water. The extra 10 - 15 cm is confidence-inducing compared to the 80 & 85 cm Aluminium masts I have learnt on. Riding higher in the water is definitely scary, but it feels right as I sped up and the locked-in feeling kicks in.
Gybing:
I'm not the best at gybing yet, on a good day, I can almost nail 40 - 60% of my gybes in the first hour, then it's a steady decline. It doesn't help sailing on the JP, the deck is too rounded and upsets the foot flow. Finding the right gybe arc seems to be key, and starting from a downwind run with commitment. There is no point hoping for the best, it's just a 100% mindset or another swim.
Interestingly and I'm not sure what this is called, it's that weird sensation of 'tripping over the board' and catapulting, or the foil suddenly rolls underfoot pointing upwind from any gust or board twitch now feels like it's been resolved, the foil doesn't ride up and under your feet like other foils, perhaps it's the reduced depth at the fuselage end of the mast minimiseing this effect or the stiffer mast means the mast twists less. Would need someone's feedback to describe this, and a camera underwater to record it.
Gear and Conditions:
For these tests I sailed in different wind conditions on the Swan River in winter, (10 - 15 & 15 - 25 with 30 knott gusts) it was tricky to balance on with such a narrow tail board and not quite the right set-up for the required control or leverage but once I was over 15 knots it felt like the foil slots into a groove and remains there in the gusts and lulls. In this review, I am temporarily sailing on a JP super ride 145L foil-ready board while I wait for a new Patrik foil board, Titanium V2 and Carbon Boom to arrive. I'll add to this review once this arrives, and I have been out a few times.
For this review, I used mostly Patrik gear, a second-hand Foil+ 6.0m 2023 sail, an old blue Neilpryde 160 - 220 Aluminium Boom, a new 380 (80% Carbon) mast and a 40 cm (100% Carbon) extender with the 35cm Carbon Mast extension & mast base. Not an ideal test board or boom, but I had to get out and try this foil. (Note: The Foilboxes in the new boards are flat head deep tuttle, my old Foil One is the older deep tuttle, and I didn't like the idea of cutting down the new Foil Mast for one board, more fun to upgrade)
Limited experience in 2025:
I have tried 4 types of foils, Neilpryde (Gen 2) the fuselage was too short and unstable at speed, Starboard Gen 1 & 2 and Severnes Redwing 1200. In hindsight, I should have started on the Patrik Foil Package Novice 1300 or 1600 foil system or the Severne Redwing, both really well made and thought through. A 85 or 90 wide Foil board, like the Patrik Foil Ride or Severne Alien. Both systems are balanced, easy to learn on and gets you to the next level faster.
Conclusions:
Being a somewhat discerning buyer, mismatched gear wasn't going to cut it; knowing the Patrik gear is designed to work together makes sailing so much easier and fun again, It just works. Less wasted money, frustration and time. Yes the gear is slightly more expensive compared to other manufacturers; however, in comparison to dropping 20k on a nice road bike, windsurfing seems better value, safer than the road and more fun in 2025. The future looks bright for the industry, especially as we're becoming aware of the time wasted on devices.
Yes I'm still beginning the Foiling journey and working towards 30+ knots, but I am enjoying the learning curve, new challenges, meeting other geat local Windsurfers, Windfoilers and Wingfoilers on the river, it's refreshing to experience life flying above the water and out in nature, while getting fit physically and mentally. This is huge!
Special thanks to, Mark at SurfSail Perth, Patrik for the dedication to making incredible gear and all the crew sailing on the Swan River! Lunny, Richard, JP, Greg, Nick as well as the online inspirational windsurfers and windfoilers like Nils Bach, SurfKasper T, Mario K?mpel, Nico Prien, Paul van Bellen to name a few. (more reviews to follow)
Thanks for the review - Patrik's kit is top notch
Most welcome azymuth! 100%
Select to expand quoteMaddlad said..
Yeah its good stuff. Probably the best foils out there at the moment. Ive got the Phantom Iris R and Spark stuff and although they look similar in design, they dont have the stability that the Patrik has in my experience. Glad you're enjoying them mate. I'll see you out there again soon I'm sure. :)
Thanks Maddlad! Yeah the Phantom Gear looks good, I haven't tried it yet. It would be good to compare the 'feels' on the water. Another plus for the Aeon and Patrik's gear is the service, communications and solution finding; any questions I had were dealt with within 48 hrs, sometimes 3.. I acknowledge the laid-back nature of the industry or just WA (Wait a-while), but waiting over a week or two?
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Select to expand quotebel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Cool, bel29, yeah, they look awesome as well! It would be great to 'feel' the differences of Patrik & Phantom on the water side by side, same day, same conditions, settings, etc.
Control and speed are both important, but at this point (age and experience), it's control over speed.
I'd be interested to understand what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik. Does anyone have the stats?
Select to expand quotebel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Ive got the Spark 650 wing set up and i prefer the 550 Iris R to be honest. It has more stability and better lift. The spark is hard work
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Cool, bel29, yeah, they look awesome as well! It would be great to 'feel' the differences of Patrik & Phantom on the water side by side, same day, same conditions, settings, etc.
Control and speed are both important, but at this point (age and experience), it's control over speed.
I'd be interested to understand what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik. Does anyone have the stats?
3 Patrik's in Busselton. A few SBs available here now too
Select to expand quoteBSN101 said..Lukesta said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Cool, bel29, yeah, they look awesome as well! It would be great to 'feel' the differences of Patrik & Phantom on the water side by side, same day, same conditions, settings, etc.
Control and speed are both important, but at this point (age and experience), it's control over speed.
I'd be interested to understand what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik. Does anyone have the stats?
3 Patrik's in Busselton. A few SBs available here now too
Thanks BSN101, I definitely have to get down to Busselton this year for Windfoiling, perfect place to sail.
Select to expand quoteMaddlad said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Ive got the Spark 650 wing set up and i prefer the 550 Iris R to be honest. It has more stability and better lift. The spark is hard work
I don't have that one; I'm mostly using 560 (simply because most of my sessions are on 7.5) but also have 950, 800, 475 and 410. I also can't compare to Iris R. I'd say key is to be powered up and engaged (both feet in the straps, locked in, etc.); the Phantom doesn't really do relaxed sailing 
Select to expand quotebel29 said..Maddlad said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Ive got the Spark 650 wing set up and i prefer the 550 Iris R to be honest. It has more stability and better lift. The spark is hard work
I don't have that one; I'm mostly using 560 (simply because most of my sessions are on 7.5) but also have 950, 800, 475 and 410. I also can't compare to Iris R. I'd say key is to be powered up and engaged (both feet in the straps, locked in, etc.); the Phantom doesn't really do relaxed sailing
It would be interesting to see what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik on the PWA too. I haven't seen much on YouTube yet.
Also, how users are going with returns, factory faults, and ongoing service. Who does it best? What's everyone's experience so far?
From what i was hearing, most guys were buying Aeon themselves if they could because it was the best, however i believe Goyard was still the quickest and he was on Phantom. That could be mostly his talent though coz hes quick on any foil.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..bel29 said..Maddlad said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Ive got the Spark 650 wing set up and i prefer the 550 Iris R to be honest. It has more stability and better lift. The spark is hard work
I don't have that one; I'm mostly using 560 (simply because most of my sessions are on 7.5) but also have 950, 800, 475 and 410. I also can't compare to Iris R. I'd say key is to be powered up and engaged (both feet in the straps, locked in, etc.); the Phantom doesn't really do relaxed sailing
It would be interesting to see what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik on the PWA too. I haven't seen much on YouTube yet.
Also, how users are going with returns, factory faults, and ongoing service. Who does it best? What's everyone's experience so far?
From what it was seen at PWA level (and for PWA needs) the Aeon is most solid and consistent performer for many different riders.
But, i thinl, the Phantom has still a little edge in pure speed. When perfectly used by a very skilled rider it can easily win.
No feedback about the new Spark R...
....too little events yet to rate both F4 and Z foil
yes, Aeon definitely dominates PWA, but keep in mind too that the objective there is to be first around the course which doesn't simply equate to top speed. and now that Phantom has left/been kicked out, that isn't likely to change anytime soon...
Hi Lukesta,
thanks for the detailed review. What Starboard foil have you tried?
also, the PWA show the list of gear each individual racer has registered so you can check there (it takes me forever to find the page, maybe someone can share it).
Select to expand quoteWillyWind said..
Hi Lukesta,
thanks for the detailed review. What Starboard foil have you tried?
also, the PWA show the list of gear each individual racer has registered so you can check there (it takes me forever to find the page, maybe someone can share it).
Thanks, WillyWind,
No worries, great to be using awesome gear!
I'm not sure of the Sarboard model, I bought it second hand from Seabreeze. I added a couple of photos.
Link to the PWA-registered gear:
Sails, Boards and Foils link: www.pwaworldtour.com/index.php?id=1373
Sails:drive.google.com/file/d/1qXURw-NIEYEz5jl8yT_GmZMncAWBo3v-/view
Boards:drive.google.com/file/d/1nXRHkhsbY5NoT9d3xoFRUoojG4IIlO05/view
Foils:drive.google.com/file/d/14V9eQgk0vGNYoU2weuKo45q9Pdaub6sS/view?pli=1
If anyone is interested, I'll add some more findings on this thread as I figure things out (as a newbie)
Went out again on the weekend, 'shifty' gusty conditions 6 - 25 kts, 6m Patrik Foil+ sail.
(couldn't gybe to save myself: Gybes = 0, Gear testing =1)
Help, advice and criticism are always welcome!
I tried a few different setups, all with the Stab set to the rear position.
0 Degree rear shim with both the 450 and 650 wings.
Top Speed 20.6 kts and 19.6kts respectively.
Not feeling confident enough to push it through the gusts and was completely overpowered, I can only blame my lack of strength and guts here, but... (laughs) the narrow JP board doesn't help. I can see that the wider leverage and less deck curve both don't help here. (New Patrik board expected anytime this week or next)
Shim testing:
The 0 Shim just required one more pump than usual to get onto the 450, no difference in pumping with the 650.
At this stage, the 0 and 1 Shims are both subtle in their differences at these types of speeds; if I felt anything, the 0 Shim seems to hold the waterline height more consistently, will need a few more sessions to verify.
(Has anyone tried the shims?, interested to hear findings)
I might have to try the extremes 2.25 & - 0.5 to appreciate the effect of the Shims.
Masttrack:
Interestingly, I found moving the mast foot forward in 1cm increments was the best way to quickly find the balance of the board, foil and sail combo, increasing the control and finding the locked-in position. (This also had an impact on pumping, with less tendency to pull the board upwind.)
Boom Height:
Lowering the boom in the strong squalls also made a huge difference to the control of the sail and pointing the board upwind/ downwind. The board didn't want to ride up as much and made it easier to get into the harness lines and footstraps.
Raising it again in between the big squalls helped to get on and remain on the foil for longer. (This made the rig feel lighter and easier to pump, but also pulls the board into the wind easier))
There are heaps of YouTube videos on this, all seem to contradict each other so I had to try for myself.
Harnes:
Lastly, I tried both a waist (Severne PK1) and a Seat Harness (Mystic).
For some reason, not sure exactly, foiling feels more in control with a Seat Harness (with less back muscle strain)
Even though the catapult risk is higher, being in control offsets the fear.
At this stage, the foil seems to respond quicker with less hip movement forwards and backwards - this could be attributed to the swing weight off the boom; however, it does force one to be more aware of the approaching swell and gusts. Adjusting the Harness line length also helped maintain control.
I might look at getting the Liberty or Drake Slalom Harness this summer. It could be the ideal compromise between the two.
Other thoughts:
Still learning to ride the foil higher in the water, I tend to ride it 200 - 250mm above the waterline in the bigger gusts and wind swells.
Taking it up to 350 - 450mm once things are more manageable or heading into gybes. Hoping with experience to ride higher. The PWA guys appear to ride at 700 or 800mm above the waterline.
I am still loving the experience of foiling, the silence and smoothness on the Aeon foil has to be felt and I think worth the investment. The big differences I find from other foils: no porpoising, locking in as speed inceases (all be it only 20 kts so far) and the control. This really does feel like the future for this sport.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said.. or Drake Slalom Harness this summer. It could be the ideal compromise between the two.
Hi Lukesta, seen you around at the beach, but i've not had the chance to say hi yet.
i have a hardly used drake slalom harness here in WA that i'm looking to sell, you're welcome to try before you buy if you want. Pm me if you're interested.
Select to expand quoteSubsonic said..Lukesta said.. or Drake Slalom Harness this summer. It could be the ideal compromise between the two.
Hi Lukesta, seen you around at the beach, but i've not had the chance to say hi yet.
i have a hardly used drake slalom harness here in WA that i'm looking to sell, you're welcome to try before you buy if you want. Pm me if you're interested.
Awesome thank you Subsonic!
PM sent.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..Subsonic said..Lukesta said.. or Drake Slalom Harness this summer. It could be the ideal compromise between the two.
Hi Lukesta, seen you around at the beach, but i've not had the chance to say hi yet.
i have a hardly used drake slalom harness here in WA that i'm looking to sell, you're welcome to try before you buy if you want. Pm me if you're interested.
Awesome thank you Subsonic!
PM sent.
I had a couple of sessions with the Drake Slalom Harness (hybrid). In short, it is perfect for foiling! Thanks again Subsonic!
I have set the harness hook down low making it feel more like a seat harness but it has the convenience of a waist harness. Meaning it doesn't get in the way around the front of the hips and groin especially when getting up onto the board or up hauling squatting. I have had no lower back pain or cramps and feels like a no thought bit of kit allowing me to focus on foiling. If there is a downside.. it does look like a nappy! 
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..BSN101 said..Lukesta said..bel29 said..
agree re the phantom (infinite ltd, in my case); it has an incredible speed potential but requires more of the rider. also, new stabs have increased ease of use.
phantom's own description is spot on I think (if you read through the marketing): www.phantom-foiling.com/latest-news/blog-post-title-two-nlzyk
Cool, bel29, yeah, they look awesome as well! It would be great to 'feel' the differences of Patrik & Phantom on the water side by side, same day, same conditions, settings, etc.
Control and speed are both important, but at this point (age and experience), it's control over speed.
I'd be interested to understand what Percentage of riders are using Phantom V Patrik. Does anyone have the stats?
3 Patrik's in Busselton. A few SBs available here now too
Thanks BSN101, I definitely have to get down to Busselton this year for Windfoiling, perfect place to sail.
Yep hit us up for a weekend sesh. It's starting to show summery patterns after a very poor winter. Sometime we have extra Patrik's out when he gets his boys over for R& D.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..
This review is for anyone looking to upgrade their foil, doing research or curious about wind foiling or returning to windsurfing after kids.
The following notes are my honest initial impressions of the Aeon. I'm not sponsored, none of this is Ai.
For context, I'm 50, 6ft, 83kg's, semi-fit, started sailing at the end of March 2025 after an almost 20-year hiatus.
I originally started windsurfing in the late 80s, got into Slalom and a bit of Wave sailing, sailed in Perth mostly, also a bit in Lancelin, Margaret River, Geraldton, Hawaii and Bali, was no Dunkerbeck, got bored, life changed, moved interstate, jumped into cycling in the early 2000s.
Aeon Foil System purchased so far:
95 DIM-S mast,
Aluminium V2 Fuselage,
650 DNA-H 450 DNA-H Front wings,
160 DNA-H Backwing,
Shims, spare bag of bolts and Foil Bag, Torx thingo.
First impression.Wow,
Everything about the system has been carefully considered and thought through. From the fineness or thinness of the carbon foils, which are only millimetres in thickness, to the connection points. The Aeon is both a work of art to hold in your hands and to use on the water; unboxing is better than an iPhone or MacBook, each piece is like Lego, it just fits together perfectly. Interestingly, each piece sounds like a musical instrument when you hold it like a tuning fork and tap it with a fingernail.
Foil Bag:
The foil bag is sturdy and practical, wings in the main section, Fuselage along the side pockets - room for 6, Masts along the bottom with their own protective pouches, room for 3 or 4. shims, tools and bolts in the lid pockets, all with room to grow the set.
Foil Covers:
The foil covers all match the foil profile and can be used while getting ready for sailing on the board to protect the foil but also anyone around the gear on shore. They are sharp and almost invisible from some angles. Warning stickers are on each foil, the trail edge is pretty sharp.
Initial experiences:
On the water, once planning, which does take more physical commitment to each pump and sometimes a few extra pumps (not as passive like other foils) once up I quickly found the sweet spot,
The foiling sensation is mind-blowing, almost silent, smooth*, it is an effortless flying experience with predictable movement. Weirdly, it takes me back to the first time planning nearly 40 years ago, however, this time it's every time I go out.
*I say almost silent as each foil has a 'whistle' like someone left an old tap half on. Not impressed initially, I thought something was wrong, but after a few runs, I found I used the sound to find the best ride height as the pitch subtly changed. Thankfully, with foiling there is less "board-slapping" and bone-jarring. The wider boards tend to plough through the chop like an old school LT or 3 plus metre-long Mistral or Alpha board without the weight and shorter in length, keeping it nimble and easy to direct.
For me foiling almost 1 metre above the water at 20 plus knots, everything had to feel in balance, reliable and predictable to control; both front wings didn't disappoint.
650 DNA-H Front Wing
In two words, stable - powerful. The 650 feels powerful under the board. it's refreshing to take my foiling to the next level. It feels like a huge leap forward, but with a manageable learning curve. Initial short runs require deliberate movements to point upwind and downwind until the sensation of being locked in takes hold as things speed up, then it only needs subtle movements to lock in the balance point, which feels bigger or easier to find. Apart from the initial sketchy first runs, there is minimal proposing (up & down) unless I shift around too much looking for the harness lines or footstraps. The pumps to get on the foil felt longer than any foil I have tried, with a more physical push-down required to create a solid pump. Sounds obvious, but I found timing it with a long gust makes it easier, but the kick up onto the foil is awesome - it kind of feels steady but rapid, requiring only a slight front foot redirecting to where I wanted to go.
Downwind runs - exhilarating, point the board and hang on, it just keeps accelerating until my 50-year tenure flashed before my eyes. Too much too soon in my case and I didn't need any brown stains in the old wetty. I can still feel the chop, especially rolling chop, and it feels like subtle aeroplane turbulence, but it's more of a quick down-up motion, and not a holy **** porpourse motion.
Gybing took me a while to get used to, and tbh I am still working on it. Weirdly, It is counterintuitive - I was thinking you have to force it or control it to maintain ride height, but it's the opposite, it's more how I imagine a zen moment with Yoda or Spock would be - you have to go with the flow- Just point the board into a nice consistent arc and the foil wants to do the rest for you. I came to this zen-like realisation at the end of my last session, so I look forward to finding that place again next time.
450 DNA-H Front Wing
In one word the 450 wing is bonkers (in a good way)
It is beautifully made, shaped like a gull wing, It almost feels like being on slalom fin gear again . (without the slapping) where there are no excuses, it's game on, you have to be ready for the fast acceleration - whipping the sail in the right position and jump in the straps quickly. It feels like being on ice skates strapped to a rocket, locked in an endless straight-line speed in big gusts with minimal effort. I can feel the chop less than the 650, just a more subtle 'down-up' blip, but again, it doesn't change the straight line trajectory or ride height. Looking forward to trying the 375 & 350 in due course. Being narrower than the 650, feels like I could take tighter turns; however, it feels more comfortable to take gybes at speed, so naturally a similar arc to the 650 occurs.
With my limited experience, most foils feel like I'm balancing on a large invisible ball underwater - ready to let me slide off in any direction if a gust hits or chop arrives unexpectedly, but the Aeon feels more like riding a skateboard on smooth concrete, it has grip, it's predictably stable and awe-inspiring. (adrenaline chasing) Sailing across the wind Slalom style is excellent, pointing upwind is pretty good, but not as high as what a 'deeper' mast would achieve, like a Starboard 85 or IQ. In saying that, Patrik's logical idea to address this is sliding the fuselage (V1 fuselage) forward of the mast, creating more lift in front of the front straps and effectively creating more usable pumpable power.
Shims:
So far, I have only tried the +1mm and +1.25mm Shims, +1 feels like the right one so far. It's not a huge difference, maybe just more pressure required in the pumps with 1.25mm, speed and ride heights didn't appear to be affected.
95 DIM-S mast:
The 95 mast is incredible; it is thinner than expected, and when set up, there is minimal twist and bend. This becomes noticeable in the chop; it feels like a finely tuned futuristic daggerboard cutting through the water. The extra 10 - 15 cm is confidence-inducing compared to the 80 & 85 cm Aluminium masts I have learnt on. Riding higher in the water is definitely scary, but it feels right as I sped up and the locked-in feeling kicks in.
Gybing:
I'm not the best at gybing yet, on a good day, I can almost nail 40 - 60% of my gybes in the first hour, then it's a steady decline. It doesn't help sailing on the JP, the deck is too rounded and upsets the foot flow. Finding the right gybe arc seems to be key, and starting from a downwind run with commitment. There is no point hoping for the best, it's just a 100% mindset or another swim.
Interestingly and I'm not sure what this is called, it's that weird sensation of 'tripping over the board' and catapulting, or the foil suddenly rolls underfoot pointing upwind from any gust or board twitch now feels like it's been resolved, the foil doesn't ride up and under your feet like other foils, perhaps it's the reduced depth at the fuselage end of the mast minimiseing this effect or the stiffer mast means the mast twists less. Would need someone's feedback to describe this, and a camera underwater to record it.
Gear and Conditions:
For these tests I sailed in different wind conditions on the Swan River in winter, (10 - 15 & 15 - 25 with 30 knott gusts) it was tricky to balance on with such a narrow tail board and not quite the right set-up for the required control or leverage but once I was over 15 knots it felt like the foil slots into a groove and remains there in the gusts and lulls. In this review, I am temporarily sailing on a JP super ride 145L foil-ready board while I wait for a new Patrik foil board, Titanium V2 and Carbon Boom to arrive. I'll add to this review once this arrives, and I have been out a few times.
For this review, I used mostly Patrik gear, a second-hand Foil+ 6.0m 2023 sail, an old blue Neilpryde 160 - 220 Aluminium Boom, a new 380 (80% Carbon) mast and a 40 cm (100% Carbon) extender with the 35cm Carbon Mast extension & mast base. Not an ideal test board or boom, but I had to get out and try this foil. (Note: The Foilboxes in the new boards are flat head deep tuttle, my old Foil One is the older deep tuttle, and I didn't like the idea of cutting down the new Foil Mast for one board, more fun to upgrade)
Limited experience in 2025:
I have tried 4 types of foils, Neilpryde (Gen 2) the fuselage was too short and unstable at speed, Starboard Gen 1 & 2 and Severnes Redwing 1200. In hindsight, I should have started on the Patrik Foil Package Novice 1300 or 1600 foil system or the Severne Redwing, both really well made and thought through. A 85 or 90 wide Foil board, like the Patrik Foil Ride or Severne Alien. Both systems are balanced, easy to learn on and gets you to the next level faster.
Conclusions:
Being a somewhat discerning buyer, mismatched gear wasn't going to cut it; knowing the Patrik gear is designed to work together makes sailing so much easier and fun again, It just works. Less wasted money, frustration and time. Yes the gear is slightly more expensive compared to other manufacturers; however, in comparison to dropping 20k on a nice road bike, windsurfing seems better value, safer than the road and more fun in 2025. The future looks bright for the industry, especially as we're becoming aware of the time wasted on devices.
Yes I'm still beginning the Foiling journey and working towards 30+ knots, but I am enjoying the learning curve, new challenges, meeting other geat local Windsurfers, Windfoilers and Wingfoilers on the river, it's refreshing to experience life flying above the water and out in nature, while getting fit physically and mentally. This is huge!
Special thanks to, Mark at SurfSail Perth, Patrik for the dedication to making incredible gear and all the crew sailing on the Swan River! Lunny, Richard, JP, Greg, Nick as well as the online inspirational windsurfers and windfoilers like Nils Bach, SurfKasper T, Mario K?mpel, Nico Prien, Paul van Bellen to name a few. (more reviews to follow)
Patrik: Aeon Foil System review - continued - Shim testing.
I couldn't find anywhere that describes the Shims in simple terms for noobs like me. Hopefully, I've got all the facts right, it makes sense and the following helps someone. Let me know otherwise.
Firstly, I still can't fault the Aeon system, the more I use it, the better it gets, and so do I. My top speed is currently 43.8 km/h (23.65 kts) on the 450 front wing, with the 4.4m HA, with plenty of headroom to go faster. More importantly, my Flight times have steadily increased and average speeds are getting over 20 kts and easily doing 40k's in a couple of hours.
Hand on heart, I'm still holding things back from pushing into that headroom in high winds. I've had a few Holly S%# moments in big squalls that left me questioning my sanity. Now that winter is behind us, and I continue to make better quality mistakes and overcome some of those perceived mental limits, I'm really starting to get a feel for speed, body positioning, rigging and reading the conditions. It still blows my mind whether cruising or blasting, the silence on the foil is intoxicating.
I have been testing the shims out since I purchased the Aeon, and I've got to say, it's difficult to discern the exact differences between each Shim, especially on the Swan River, with gusty wind and chop. In retrospect, it's a subtle progressive change, interceptable at first. I didn't notice this until I skipped 3 or 4 shims, equating to 0.75 or 1.0 degrees in one adjustment. This is where it clicked, and just how much these thin plastic things affect flight time and enjoyment.
In short, The Positive shims 0 degrees and up are for speed (the flat-looking shims). They tend to 'flatten out the front wing' (Decrease the Angle of attack, (like a fighter jet wing)), creating less slow-speed 'lift', but super slippery and controllable as things speed up over 20 - 30 Kp/h. I use the positive Shims at 18 - 25 + knots with the 450 front wing, 6.0 m - 4.4 m sails respectively.
The negative shims are for slower big sail speeds. 0 or -0.25 degrees and below create more power (LIFT) (thicker looking shims) and increase the Front Wing angles (Increase Angle of attack (like a Boeing 777 wing)) - pointing the front wing up. The benefit of this is making it easier to pump onto the foil and more controllable at lower speeds. I use these at 10 - 18 knots with the 650 front wing. 7.0 m - 6.0 m sails respectively.
In saying all that, when the kit is set up right, all of the shims are controllable - it just depends on which compromise I want to make in the available conditions. In gusty conditions, each shim can go from too much or not enough lift to perfect on one reach, in a similar way to the fin. Thankfully, Perth's conditions have started to improve now that the (Freo Doctor) (Summer Sea Breeze) are regularly coming in. It's getting easier to pick the shim for the session with consistent winds. Plus 20 kts '0 to .1.0' degree shim. Less than 18 kts, 0 to -1.5 degrees.
Everyday sailing:
I think Patrik and team have put a lot of effort into getting the base geometry working perfectly (set and forget) for most conditions. I can sail in pretty much all conditions with no Shim or 0-degree Shim, and discovered some of the wind limits there.
It's easy to waste time faffing while rigging up, choosing the perfect Shim, but it's worth it, it feels like it unlocks the next level, bringing on new smiles, surprises and different Holly S%# moments. So far, the .75 to 1 degree Shims suit me best, especially at 40 plus Km/h. I keep coming back to the .75 degree Shim as it's powerful enough to pump onto the foil and slippery enough to keep me hunting for bigger gusts. With this set-up, I can pump the 650 front wing up in about 10 - 12 m and the 450 up in 10 - 20 m (in the right gusts and when Mercury is in retrograde)
Regardless of the Front wing and shim setup, the faster I go, the more I tend to shift my weight forward to maintain ride height. I noticed this in Nils Bach's YouTube videos. His front knee (and body mass) pushes forward as the speedo increases.
It wold be cool if someone would post some experience with the M mast and/ot alu fuselage-s.
I allready posted this in an other thread . This page explains the base setting of the Aeon foil system . (you can change it to english or other languages above right)
www.patrikproshopbretagne.fr/guide-reglage-foil-aeon
Select to expand quotew100 said..
It wold be cool if someone would post some experience with the M mast and/ot alu fuselage-s.
Agree, I'll post again once I buy the Titanium fuselage I'll have a better idea of the differences, pros & cons etc. This review touches on it: www.windfoilen.nl/en/patrik-aeon-foil-review/
sailrepair.co.uk/patrik-aeon-foil/
So far the Aluminium Fuse is really good, I'm happy with the speed, increased control, the bolt system works flawlessly and I can notice the difference from say the starboard and the Neil Pryde ones I have. Mostly when pumping onto the foil and when the foil is about to stall.
Regarding the Masts, while I was doing my research I found the M mast was a couple of kts slower because of the increased width and possibly the adjusted cord. The stiffness is the same. Ben Profit has a great YouTube interview with Patrik where they touch on the differences:
Select to expand quoteBellerophon said..
I allready posted this in an other thread . This page explains the base setting of the Aeon foil system . (you can change it to english or other languages above right)
www.patrikproshopbretagne.fr/guide-reglage-foil-aeon
That's a cool web app Bellerophon! and serves as perfect starting point to understand how each part affects the whole system and what to buy!
Hi Lukesta,
interesting review. But I think You are wrong about the shims.
The Aeon + shims produce more lift (more angle of attack) on the backwing, and the -shims less. But anyway, You have to find a setup that works for You.
Most pro riders use + shims from 1 to 1,75 just as a reference.
Select to expand quotecad184 said..
Hi Lukesta,
interesting review. But I think You are wrong about the shims.
The Aeon + shims produce more lift (more angle of attack) on the backwing, and the -shims less. But anyway, You have to find a setup that works for You.
Most pro riders use + shims from 1 to 1,75 just as a reference.
Legend, thanks cad184!
I'll do some more research and update my post accordingly.
Select to expand quoteLukesta said..cad184 said..
Hi Lukesta,
interesting review. But I think You are wrong about the shims.
The Aeon + shims produce more lift (more angle of attack) on the backwing, and the -shims less. But anyway, You have to find a setup that works for You.
Most pro riders use + shims from 1 to 1,75 just as a reference.
Legend, thanks cad184!
I'll do some more research and update my post accordingly.
Ok, I'm a noob, my apologies! I got the shim thing all mixed up, cad184!! You are totally correct.
Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
I finally had some time to test things in greater detail to better understand the shims.
I'm still testing things, and adding to the confusion is sliding the mast-track forward/ back, adjusting the rake and or moving the footstraps forward or back affects lift, pointing and speed.
As part of the testing, I managed to get my hands on the Patrik Foil One system to quickly feel what a difference the angle of attack had on that one. I also bought an 8m Patrik Foil+ sail and a couple of Patrik booms to really test things out in all conditions.
I tried a few sessions with wind ranges 8 - 12 kts, 15 - 18 kts, 18 - 23 kts and 25 - 32kts. Sails 8m - 6m - 4.5m respectively.
Side note: In the middle of the Swan River around the Rottnest Express Boat Channel, there can be a weird 2-3 way swell/chop develop. (wind, tide and boat swell, plus now it's warming up, jellyfish).
This swell creates a weird, rapid "down-up" 'Bounce' sensation through the foil. I first noticed this with the Starboard Foil system. It was really unnerving when leaning and navigating around boat traffic.
While it's a lot less noticeable on the Patrik gear, I can still feel it on the Foil One (900 wing and 1100 Wing) and occasionally on the Aeon in big rolling chop; in saying that, the smaller the front wing, the less I notice it.
Correcting the mistakes:
Negative Shims:
Negative = Power.
The Negative shims 0 degrees or less, generate More lift (the thick-looking shims).
They tend to 'power up the front wing' (Increase the Angle of attack, creating more "slow-speed lift".
Akin to adding a larger fin on a windsurfing board.
I have stopped using these for the time being as my pumping technique has improved. I feel like I am getting enough lift from the positive shims.
The Pros:
- Easier to pump onto the foil
- More controllable at lower speeds.
- Easy to gybe.
- Accelerates quickly to 20 - 25 kph then tapers.
The Cons:
- Comparatively, subtle drag was felt over 20 Kph (could be in my head - still managed 38 kph)
- Full Body weight shifts forward - required as things speed up
- Some 'bounce' interference felt in the heavier swell (but not like the Starboard Foil)
- takes a bit longer to hit top speed
The Positive Shims:
Positive = Speed.
The positive shims 0 degrees and above create less power (Less Lift) and decrease the Front Wing angles level.
(decrease the Angle of attack, like a fighter jet)
I have been testing the positive (1.0 & 1.25) Shims in 18 - 25 + knots with the 650 & 450 front wing, 6.0 m - 4.5 m sails, respectively.
I also tested the 0.50, 1.0, 1.25 and 1.50. (1.0 is now the go-to, feels reliable) (thinner-looking shims) and feel more suited to smaller sails or fast sailing speeds.
The most noticeable thing is increased control and minimal swell 'bounce' interference through the foil.
The foil feels slick through the water and more stable as things speed up (over 30kph) especially when the water flattens out. Downwind runs have become more and more fun as I grow some balls.
The Cons:
- A bit harder to pump onto the foil
- Less controllable at lower speeds.
- A bit harder to gybe (to begin with)
The Pros:
- Less resistance felt over 20 Kph
- A balanced body weight with a subtle shift forward as things speed up
- Little to no bounce interference felt
- Unlimited Bonkers acceleration (in a good way)
Gybing:
Granted, I'm still inconsistent with gybes, especially as I get tired.
The 450 wing is a lot harder to gybe on and requires more speed entering the gybe - over 20kph.
Learning to Foil In retrospect:
The Foil One system is a dream to use, especially on the Patrik 91.
In retrospect, I should have just bought the Foil One gear from the beginning.
It is stable, easy to get up onto the foil, it's stable, super fun and growing with me as I am progressing.
Foil One System. This has been updated on the Patrik Website. Patrik Foil Comp Gen 3 and or Patrik Foil Race, depending on the discipline.
First time rigging the 8m.
Positive Shims on the Left.
1.0 is still on my Fuselage.
