Looking at getting into foiling but not sure to buy complete package or convert old cabrinha directional and add a stick on plate. Board is solid and has been professionally repaired from crease in middle so its very strong and is 5'5 long.
Appears to be many choices of tools out there but thinking new north looks very well designed and made in Germany is bonus.
Can anyone giv e honest independent opinion on relevance of board, as a person who hasn't used one yet it appears that the board isn't in the water much and shouldn't be a large factor??
Thanks in advance scott
Hi Scotty
Foiling has many sub-disciplines and can be done in many wind conditions. You first need to think about what ''discipline'' of foiling would interest you more (i.e. light wind cruising, racing, wave riding, high wind boosting, etc) and this will determine the equipment best suited for you.
My opinion on boards is that unless you're trying to tackle very light winds (sub 12 knots) you will be just fine using a surfboard or mostly any type of board for that matter. What's most important is choosing the right foil for your needs/skill level and (very important) to mount it at the right spot.
I personally do most of my foiling in sub 12 knots, where I find a very large board with high volume is BEST. This allows the board to plane at the surface of the water, allowing to build speed before the foil can lift off. Above 12 knots ish, having a big board is no longer relevant for me.
A smaller board is going to be more agile (i.e more fun) and best suited for quick turns, carving and wave riding for example.
hope this helps
Christian
It matters when you're learning as the board will hit the water a lot more.
I made my own board out of an old windsurfing board and it was really hard to progress on, I could hardly move it around in the water.
A friend of mine lent me his carbon board and there was a massive difference the shape the weight made it so much easier when you hit the water to pop back up.
I would go for a kite foil specific board when you're just starting out to make progression easier.
