Some time ago, we had already launched the Freeride (Here is a test) a good-natured and easy-to-ride foil from Taaroa. The latest development from the French manufacturer is the hybrid model Switchwhich can be used not only for wingfoiling, but also for surf- or SUP-foiling.
On land
The entire Switch range has a modular design. You can choose between three mast lengths (75/85/95 cm) and three front wings (800/1200/1700 cm2). We tested the Switch as a set with the 85 cm carbon mast, the 62 cm fuselage and the 1200 cm2 front wing. By the way: The Taaroa components are also compatible with Decathlon foils, as these are produced by Taaroa. This means that even inexpensive Decathlon wings can be gradually upgraded with Taaroa components.
The components of the Switch-Foil make a high-quality impression during initial assembly, with a good fit. All connections are secured with thick M8 Torx screws. The slim carbon mast allows the screws to be inserted from the side when mounting on the box. If required, the angle of the stabiliser can be changed to tune the foil for more lift or more neutral. In any case, the design of the front wing is special: it combines a lot of surface area and a fairly thick profile in the centre area, with a very thin and slim profile towards the wingtips - similar to the one we have already tested. NeilPryde Glide Swift Foil. Whether the rear corner of the front wing - performance or not - needs to be so razor-sharp is at least questionable. We recommend using sandpaper to soften the corner a little. The scope of delivery includes covers for the wings - it's just a shame that these can't be stuck together in the centre when assembled, so they tend to fall off during transport.
On the water
In test use, the Taaroa Switch 1200 scored with a very predictable takeoff right from the first approach. What's more, for a wing of this size, take-off is possible at a comparatively low speed and, if necessary, without active pumping assistance from the pilot. The speed potential of the foil is decent and even when fully powered up the Switch develops a pleasingly low tendency to climb uncontrollably. However, even on the straights you notice that the concept seems to have been optimised for agility and manoeuvrability, as the foil requires a certain amount of sensitivity in freeride use to keep the course stable. The fact that the foil turns so well against the backdrop of its generous wingspan also surprised our testers. In gybes and other foil manoeuvres, the Switch flips the switch and pulls like a hot knife through butter, even in really tight radii. You also benefit from this riding characteristic when riding swell waves, where you can string together smooth turns. The Taaroa Switch 1200 also offers a really good glide that allows you to get a lot out of knee- to waist-high swells.
Taaroa Switch Foil - the conclusion
The concept of the Taaroa Switch definitely works, as it combines early take-off with a lot of glide and impressive turning characteristics. The foil is particularly fun for downwinders on typical Baltic Sea waves. However, if you are just getting into wingfoiling or are looking for a fast wing for sporty freeriding, you will want a wing that is easier to ride with more directional stability in basic manoeuvres and on the straights.
Glide; Takeoff; Turning characteristics
Cover E. grand piano
Very sharp wingtips
Taaroa Switch - technical data
- Test product: Taaroa Switch 1200
- Front wing area: 1200 cm2
- Front wing span: 110 cm
- Back wing area: 230 cm2
- Wingspan back wing: 44 cm
- Fuselage (aluminium): 62 cm
- Mast (carbon): 85 cm
- Price test set: 2259 Euro
- Weight set (own measurement): 4.05 kg
- Contact: To the website
- Scope of delivery: Cover, tool
- Special features: -
