NoveltyDuotone Ventis in the test - the wing with extra power

Manuel Vogel

 · 03.05.2024

We tested the Ventis in size 7.0
Photo: Marius Gugg
The new Duotone Ventis Wind is designed to offer maximum power for an early take-off with the foil, especially in light winds. Find out in the test whether the wing has even more to offer.

The Ventis model, which is available in two sizes - 7.0 and 8.0 square metres - has been specially developed for light wind conditions. We were able to test the 7.0 square metre size in conditions from six to 20 knots.

On land

The two sizes of the Ventis are also available in two colours. The deep profile is designed for maximum power. In addition to the strut, the wing has two smaller struts, similar to those used in the construction of kites. Due to the shape of the struts, the wing is profiled deep to the outside so that it develops maximum power with as little wind as possible. The wing is inflated via the Duotone valve system. This is also a one-pump system, as hoses have been incorporated from the front tube to the struts and the small struts. Additional drain valves are installed on the strut and front tube for faster venting. The wingtips are kept slim and bend sharply towards the end. Two windows are fitted, which provide a reasonable view to leeward. The handles are comfortable and slightly oval in design, have been positioned appropriately and have a pleasantly thin diameter. The handle on the front tube is lined with neoprene. The trailing edge, i.e. the rear edge of the wing, also features small bats to prevent the wing from fluttering. Overall, the wing has a high fabric tension in the front area, while the material is cut more loosely towards the trailing edge.

The profile is powerful and extends to the intermediate strutsPhoto: Marius GuggThe profile is powerful and extends to the intermediate struts

On the water

Surprisingly, despite its large wingspan, the wing has a pleasantly low tendency to drag its wingtips in the water - even if you are not one of the 2-metre giants. This is certainly due to the strongly bent wing shape, but also to the fact that the Duotone Ventis not only generates propulsion, but also plenty of lift. Overall, the wing is very balanced, conveys a lot of passive power, but can also be pumped efficiently at the lowest wind limit. Flight stability is high and the wing is stable in a straight line, which makes it easier for less experienced foilers in particular to cruise across the water in a relaxed manner. What is surprising is that the Wing doesn't tend to flutter or even shift pressure points after take-off, even in stronger gusts of 12 to 20 knots, but is really well balanced and controllable in the hand. It delivers plenty of power on all courses. Due to the thick front tube and the deep profile, the Wing is not designed for maximum top speed, but the Ventis is far from being too slow or even boring. Another positive aspect is that the wing is surprisingly neutral in manoeuvres such as gybes and flies along nicely; in tack it is pleasantly agile tip-to-tip and really easy to manoeuvre for a wing of this size.

The Ventis is pleasantly neutral in manoeuvresPhoto: Marius GuggThe Ventis is pleasantly neutral in manoeuvres

Duotone Ventis Wing - the conclusion

The bottom line is that the Duotone Ventis is a very powerful wing with maximum light wind power. In order to bring the horsepower to the water, the Duotone Ventis is ideally combined with slightly larger boards and foils with strong lift. Nevertheless, the range of use is not limited to light wind, as control and manoeuvre handling are also at a very good level - from beginners to light wind freeriders, everyone is well served here. Only when racing does the powerful profile reach its limit in terms of top speed - the 6.5 unit should therefore be the better alternative in combination with fast foils.

Power, Power & Power

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Duotone Ventis - technical data

  • Test model: Duotone Ventis 7.0 (2024)
  • Wingspan: 393 cm
  • Depth: 233 cm
  • Weight (own measurement, without leash): 3.64 kg
  • Weight: 520 g/m2
  • Available sizes: 7.0/8.0 square metres
  • Scope of delivery: Wing, rucksack
  • Price (test model): 1519 Euro
  • Contact: To the website
  • Special features: 2 colour variants; also available as Ventis E/LAB for 2569 euros

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