Any thoughts on the optimal mast length for downwind on a parawing in moderate wind speeds?
I favour longer mast lengths generally, but wondering if a 85-90cm mast creates noticeable extra drag when trying to get on foil...?

I love 75cm but also have lots of fun on 80cm masts.

I’ve been down winding on a 80cm for several years now. First with a sup and paddle and now with a parawing. A lot of downwind foilers here on 75cm because they can paddle up faster on smaller wings.. The 80cm I has a bit of grace with wider wings and unexpected chop when flying downwind. I don’t think I would go any longer than 80cm as your turns may not have the quickest responses you need in the ever changing bumps.

I’m the opposite, coming from winging on an 85 mast I learnt to parawing on an 85 mast but after 40 sessions in I put on a 75 mast and haven’t touched the 85 since. 75 is definitely easier to get going, less nose pitching down at speed, chalk and cheese control and efficiency difference. I tried an 80 the other day and couldn’t wait to get back on the 75. Upwind definitely better with a longer mast and when the swell gets big a longer mast helps but if your mainly riding shoulder high and below DW bumps I’d try a 75-80 mast. Personally preference, skill level and water state will also come into play here.

77-85cm for me. Freedom of the longer mast is really nice but the response from the 77cm is great too. I go back and forth depending on swell size/riding speeds.

I've been winging an 85 cm in the gorge, but am interested in trying shorter as I become more downwind focused with the parawing. Any opinions on 75 or 80 cm in the gorge? Is upwind through the short and steep waves still OK?

WhiteSalmon said..
I've been winging an 85 cm in the gorge, but am interested in trying shorter as I become more downwind focused with the parawing. Any opinions on 75 or 80 cm in the gorge? Is upwind through the short and steep waves still OK?

I've been stuck on an 80cm in the gorge recently but still prefer the 75cm. The 75 is especially beneficial, IMO, with a little more span on your foil (850-1000) and the 80 is fine with faster smaller foils that roll easier. Upwind on a 75 in the gorge is a skill like any other. I'm not sure I have breached any less with the 80 going upwind in steep chop (I have thousands of miles of experience on a 75) but I do notice my riding is sloppier on the 80.

Really looking forward to being on a 75 again ASAP!