With long downwind boards, the lower wind limit for take-off can be massively reduced (HERE is a field report). If only it wasn't for the narrow width, which makes manoeuvres on it quite difficult for less experienced wingfoilers and foilers. At the other end of the scale are the compact shapes, which are wider and easy to control in the air, but which push more water in front of them when starting off and therefore require significantly more wind or pumping to reach the required take-off speed.
More and more brands are therefore developing wingboards with a medium length - longer than the compact shapes, but significantly shorter and wider than pure downwind boards. Manufacturer Duotone now also has such a model in its programme, the Skybrid SLS.
Duotone Skybrid SLS - medium length, easy take-off?
The Duotone Skybrid SLS will be available immediately in five sizes from 55 to 115 litres. The dimensions vary between 5'4''x20'' and 6'0''x23.5'', making the new model significantly more elongated than the Sky Wing model from Duotone, for example. Thanks to the slim outline, the board should pick up speed extremely quickly. This is supported by a very flat rocker line and cutouts in the tail area, which should ensure the best possible water release. The board will be equipped with a longer box to be able to trim out all common foils and allow a wide variety of strap positions on deck. The Duotone Skybrid SLS model is manufactured in a carbon sandwich construction and will cost between €1999 and €2199, depending on the size.
