Foil Drive buying guide

Foil Drive adds a small electric motor to your foil so you can get up and riding without wind or waves, then switch it off and ride like a normal foil. Here is what to think about before you buy.

What it is and what it isn't

Foil Drive is assisted foiling, not an efoil. The motor gets you onto the foil and helps you link swells or get back out to the line-up. Once you are flying you can ride unpowered. It suits people who already foil and want more time on the water, and it is a fantastic way to learn to foil in flat water without a kite or wing.

Which system

The current Foil Drive units come in different power and battery options. The lighter units suit lighter riders and short sessions, the bigger batteries suit heavier riders, downwinders and surf. We will match the unit to your weight, your foil and how you plan to use it, so come in with those three things in mind.

Board

The unit mounts on the mast and sits under the board, so your board needs a compatible mast track and enough volume to float you plus the unit. Around 80 to 110 litres is typical for learning. Many current foil boards work, and we can check yours before you buy.

Foil

A mid-sized front wing, roughly 1200 to 1800cm², is the sweet spot: enough lift to get flying early with the motor, and enough glide to ride once you switch off. A 75 to 85cm mast keeps the motor clear of the water.

Battery, care and safety

Rinse the unit in fresh water after every session and store the battery part-charged and cool. Wear a leash and an impact vest, and ride with a plan for getting home if the battery runs down. Sessions are typically 40 to 90 minutes depending on the battery and how much you use the motor.

Try it first

Foil Drive is a serious purchase, so we would rather you tried it. Ask about a demo session with one of the team and we will get you on the water with the right setup.