I've progressed from the 180SF to the 165SFX and just received the 165VFX all used for wing foiling... haven't surfed them but stoked on the progressive design through the models, the quality and the performance.
The 165VFX is 87L and I weigh 80kgs plus gear. Also using the Ensis wings and Moses W1100 foil
I'm a team rider and had some input in the latest model. They are made in the same factory as admunson. Although I haven't got mine yet you can see from the photos we've pulled the volumes rearwards so your stance for paddling or wingdinging is right on the foil balance point, so pop up is super easy. When riding there is less swing weight, I'll make a video in the next few days explaining the theory
G'Day All,
This is literally the first time I've commented in an online forum. I'm Nigel McBride, Owner and MD of Wave Chaser Pty Ltd. Given that the specific questioning here relates to me directly I feel compelled to dive in, so here goes!
1. The "small" issues referred to by Andy Shwartz would be on our first F Series boards designed and manufactured in 2018. Given the early stage of foilboarding, much of the design work and material use was based on general observation and intuition rather than qualified rider feedback. In this phase of development, we found our outer laminates were structurally sound, but a bit heavy, about 1-2kg above expectation across the range. We used 4oz, 6oz and full carbon wrap over 15kg/m3 EPS core foam. Today we use a 20kg/m3 core foam with a full carbon stringer, wrapped in 4oz E Glass, 4oz Biaxial S Glass and a lighter weight carbon wrap. The important factor in the design is adding core strength without weight gain. The current VFX series are 15-25% lighter than previous models. The next issue would be the grip. We initially used a smooth surface, router cut, 5mm EVA, it wasn't the colour that was an issue rather the surface texture, it felt a bit slippery to some riders, not all. Our newer models use a deep brush groove 3mm EVA, thinner, lighter and very grippy underfoot. The displacement pattern groove actually works effectively to remove surface water from the deck, leaving large "dry" surface areas for traction. We'll keep evolving the design and the next run of VFX boards will feature groove cut to full depth, this will save up to 200g per board. We have also focused on our foil track mounts. Working with our QA Manager Danny Villasenor and collaborating on design and manufacturing processes with the likes John Amundson (Amundson Customs), Jerry Mahimana (425 Pro), Mick Slattery (Surefire) and Armstrong Foils, we are confident that our boards feature the best design for purpose track mounts currently available. But we wont stop here, we're thinking ahead to the next generation of foilboards and materials fit for purpose, watch this space.
2. We're no longer producing SF or SFX boards, these boards certainly work very well, however, our shape has evolved dramatically on the back of qualified rider feedback rather than observation and intuition alone. Here, I thank the likes of our dedicated and talented shaper Sam Tehan of Force 9 Surfboards, and Mick Branch and Brad Hampson. These guys have been invaluable in our foilboard evolution since the beginning. Mick and Brad were literally the only regular foilers in the Cronulla region when we started out. Later, Michael Abdilla, and the team at Ozone NZ and a few of the Bluegums crew in VIC helped us truly understand volume distribution over buoyancy and stability, particularly for flight dynamics. This is why our VFX series boards are bullet shaped, with the wide point to the rear of centre, a high deck line and a subtle V or convex bottom from nose to tail. We also focus heavily on the nose rocker through the flat mid to rear section and how that interacts with the beveled rail chines for wing attitude, paddle glide, chop pop and rebound. The tucked in tail section is what makes the VFX really stand out from our previous designs. We found less area here actually improves stability with less propensity for chine walk, not to mention water clearance during banking turns in flight, a benefit we already clearly understood.
3. Keep checking into our social pages for product images and action shots: www.facebook.com/GoFaster.GoFurther and find attached a few recent images for reference.
Ultimately we're aiming to match the bigger brands for performance and weight but at a reasonable price point. I believe we're steadily getting there, but of course we need the support of an increasing customer base. Personally, I'm rewarded by the fulfillment and satisfaction of my customers. When I buy something I expect friendly service with sound advice at a reasonable price...why should I deliver anything less.
I wish you all the very best best and I'm happy to answer any further questons you have.
Nige
I'm sure we can work something out Hilly. A few new VFX have arrived in WA already. Maybe reach out to Jason at West Oz Kiteboarding. We have a fresh production run due for arrival end Sep.
105kg! Full Forward haha! I'm sure we'll have more boards over your way soon. You might not "switch" but it's always worthwhile comparing performance. The 175/96L or 185/110L would be in your realm.
Any other reviews on the VFX ?
I'm wondering whether stepping down from a 5"10/29"/110L to the WC 5"5/25"/87L is not too extreme. I'm 78Kg + gear.
I just found this clip of the the new VFX, the new shape looks insane!! The guy says he is 80kgs and it looks like the 5'5 x 25 x 5 at 87 litres floats him really well. At 6kgs it looks like it releases the water and gets up on foil so easily!
www.instagram.com/p/CC2A1xqje2T/