Armstrong Downwind Foil Board

Description

Taking what Armstrong learned from the Downwind boards initially introduced in 2023, the evolution of these boards is faster, more refined and even more stable per size for riders from rookie through advanced. Like the previous generation, these boards are also terrifically versatile and are excellent for lightwind winging and SUP surf foiling.

Seeking greater efficiency and user friendliness in the paddle popup, each size has been lengthened by 3.5-5% to improve paddling speed and increase stability. The foil tracks are now further forward as well for increased manoeuvrability and lift. When combined with subtle refinements to the rocker line and overall shape of the tail, these boards lift off the water exceptionally cleanly and easily.

Inspired by the new deck grip design on Armstrongs Wing FG foilboards, the Downwind and Downwind Performance boards include a fully redesigned grip tailored specifically to provide riders with maximum control, comfort and versatility when downwinding. In conjunction with the flatter deck shape, this grip features raised central bars above the foil tracks and elevated blocks in each corner of the pad, front and back, for intuitive foot placement. Boards come with deck grips uninstalled so that riders can finish building their perfect setup.

Increased Length: Each size sees a 3.5-5% lengthening, enhancing paddling speed and stability.

Split Foredeck: Inspired by the Wing FG foilboards, the split anhedral foredeck shape effortlessly sheds water.

Refined Bow: Improved paddling efficiency, touchdown recovery, and reduced swing weight for enhanced pumping and carving.

Minimal Deck Recess: A flatter deck design adds volume and quickly sheds standing water.

New Deck Grip: Featuring raised arch bars and corner blocks inspired by the Wing FG range, providing intuitive foot placement references.

Diamond V Tail: All-new tail shape with more rocker and an extra chine for improved takeoff performance and reduced tail touchdowns.

Foil Track Placement: Tracks pushed further forward for increased lift and manoeuvrability.

Carbon Foil Tracks: Proprietary carbon fibre foil tracks are keyed directly into the fibres of the
stringers for a fully integrated construction.

Proven Construction: Deck to bottom i-beam dual stringers provide maximum structural rigidity and durability.

Specs

96L: 7’2 / 218cm x 19 1/2″ / 49.5cm x 5 1/2” 14cm
106L: 7’5 / 226cm x 20” / 50.8cm x 5 3/4” / 14.6cm
116L: 7’9 / 236cm x 20 1/4″ / 51.4cm x 5 3/4” / 14.6cm
128L: 8’1 / 246cm x 20 3/4″ / 52.7cm x 6” / 15.2cm
140L: 8’5 / 256cm x 21 3/4″ / 53.6cm x 6” / 15.2cm

Armie and his team says

“On behalf of everyone at Armstrong, we can’t wait for you and the Armstrong community to ride these new boards. Our team is beyond stoked at how they perform. Building on the innovation of our first Downwind Board range released last year, these new shapes offer an even wider range of use from first flights to world-championship level competition.

“The Downwind Boards focus on incremental all around improvements over the first iteration with an emphasis on even easier liftoff, greater speed and increased stability in each size. Offered in five sizes 7’2-8’5 (96-140L), they double up as exceptional lightwind winging and small surf SUP boards.

“The Downwind Performance boards are all about speed and efficiency for expert downwind foilers. A narrower width and stretched outline allow these boards to achieve tremendous paddling speeds to get even the smallest high performance downwinding foils up and flying. Available in three sizes 8’2-9’6 (98-118L).”