Hi guys,

First off, let me introduce myself as I am new to this forum. Mokuleia, 39, surfer (15 yrs), SUPer (5 yrs) and kitesurfer (1 yr), leaving on Oahu, Hawaii. So "Hi" everyone!

I am in the process of shaping a new directional board that I would like to be "hybrid" kitesurf and kitefoil. I am currently debating about the mounting system for the foil. Ride engine sells a nice two-track system in HD foam that can be dropped directly into the shaped blank and glassed over. Nonetheless, I have seen other option, like the "Hybrid" by North (RIP ;-) where they used inserts instead of tracks (see below). I like the idea as it is less intrusive and maybe better for drag (although inserts offer no option for foil position adjustment, but that is another issue). My plan is to use the board mostly for kitesurfing (80%) and a little bit for foiling (20%) until I get good at it (at which point I will shape a dedicated foil board!)


I am curious to know if you guys have any feedback on this type of insert mounts as far as durability and maybe some thoughts to share about possible integration into my shape. I suppose the insert would have to contact somehow the deck of the board for maximum strength (a la FCS plug), and maybe installed into HD foam block. I also thought about using T-nuts in wood blocks...

Anyhow, any inputs would be very appreciated.

Cheers, Mokuleia