SUP Paddle Length
The general rule for paddle length for Downwind Foil Sup is to start around your head height. Buying an adjustable paddle can help find that preferred length before settling on a lighter permanent fixed length paddle.
Board Nose Pad
Use an offcut of old deck pad or rail tape on the nose of your board. This protects it from scuffs and damage when setting up your foil.
Track Stoppers
Use a Champagne Cork, Surf Wax or Foam as a stopper in your foil tracks to stop your nuts falling out.
Carrying your board
An easy way to carry your gear long distances is to use your head or shoulder. Use one hand to hold the downwind rail and another to control the foil wing tip. If done correctly most of the board weight is directed onto your head and very little load is in your arms.
Heading into the Surf
In beach shore breaks or surf zones the on the head carry technique can work well. This allow you to get out to foil depth before flipping the board over. Point direct into the waves or wind and act fast. Take care using this technique in high winds as you can lose your grip when hands are wet.
Strap on your Fuse
When walking long distances use your waist leash to secure your paddle to your fuselage. This allows you have both hands free to walk and carry your board.
Track Bolts
The most common track bolt is a M8 Torx countersunk bolt, typically 25mm, 30mm or 35mm long. Never use a bolt that is too long as it can damage your foil box. Try colour coding each size bolt to ensure you always pick the right size for the right board.
Sup Paddle Tape
Use a wrap of Electrical tape around your paddle blade. This stops you damaging the boards rails. Try to stretch the tape out as you stick it on. Use red or yellow for higher visibility for finding your paddle easier.
Board Leashes
A good waist leash is a must for Foil downwinding. Good brands are Balin or Koahi. When storing your board clip the waist leash belt around the nose to keep it tidy and stop it from dragging on the ground. Have a leash for every board and leave it connected to ensure you will never forget it!
Paddling Out
An easy way to paddle into the wind or in choppy water is is lie down on your board and paddle with both hands. Tuck your Sup paddle under your chest so you have both hands free to surf paddle.
Knee Paddling Out
Another way to paddle out across the wind or into the wind is to kneel on the board and use the paddle to move. Grip the paddle toward the blade and alternate paddle strokes on the either side of your board.
Tail Stash Bag
Keep you tails organised like a pro with a carry bag. Pictured is the Sidchrome 19” open mouth tote bag. This easily fits 10 tails, tools, spare bolts and footstraps.
Foil Straps
Keep you Front foils strapped up and secure using Grunt Straps. Works great for Axis, Armie and GoFoil. I tend to group my gear into Winging foils and Downwinding foils.
Foil Seeker 