Select to expand quoteburchas said..northy1 said..burchas said..northy1 said..
Anyone ridden the Strike v3 vs the new XPS care to feedback? These 2 i think are the reference currently for flagging out / wave riding?
(i am ignoring Smik here as they are not seen in the UK)
That said, nighter hit home run for me and I'm going to sell both. At this point in time I think both companies are holding back.
Curious to ask what Wings do you rate higher / why?
PS
See F-One just released the new Swing v3 - i think for me that looks more appropriate than the Strike (and closer to the XPS) as its wave / luffing focused..i dont jump or race and i still keep hearing comments (anecdotal) about the new v3 strikes poor low end and tips hitting the water...im currently on strike v2s
The Armstrong is a better all around wing imo. Better at keeping me afloat and moving on a sinker in the lulls while hunting for gusts.
Transitions were more direct and smoother with superior pistol grip control. Both luff very well but the Strike trailed better when changing directions.
The thing with the V3 is that I have to be properly powered and very much in accordance to the company specs.
With the V2 I could get away with a full size smaller while floating around hunting for gusts, especially with on-shores.
With the Armstrong I could go more like half a size smaller than the V3. I was riding Yesterday with the 4.5 Strike v3 and the 4.6XPS.
If the Swing V3 is closer to the Strike V2 on the low end characteristics it might make a better comparison to the XPS.
Already sold the XPS now looking to sell my 4 and 4.5 V3 strikes. I don't jump or race either so no point.
for reference: I'm 90+kg average intermediate skills riding a 5'7.5" x 22" x 72L board and a 1050cm2 foil
Got F-One Strike V3 4m and spec of lower end 22knts seemed right. After a few uses reckon it's more like 18knots though needs more attention than V2. Reducing strut psi helps bottom end too (Arnie says same for XPS where idea came from).
Rode the 3.5 XPS for the first time today. Holy smokes so sweet. I have the 6.1, 5.3 and 4.2, but the 3.5 is the best. Flagging it just "vaporizes" as Armie says. Very, very impressed. So easy to move around as you are carving waves.
Rode the 3.5 XPS for the first time today. Holy smokes so sweet. I have the 6.1, 5.3 and 4.2, but the 3.5 is the best. Flagging it just "vaporizes" as Armie says. Very, very impressed. So easy to move around as you are carving waves.
Hello, I actually ride A-wing V1 3,5 - 4,5 - 5,5 quiver and want to switch to XPS. I tested the XPS 3,5 and I had the impression that it was less powerful than my V1 3,5.
Can someone confirm? I hesitate between 5,3 and 6,1 XPS to replace my 5,5 V1.
For the others, I think I will take 3,5 and 4,6, or 3 and 4 if it's less powerfull.
Select to expand quoteZwind said..
Hello, I actually ride A-wing V1 3,5 - 4,5 - 5,5 quiver and want to switch to XPS. I tested the XPS 3,5 and I had the impression that it was less powerful than my V1 3,5.
Can someone confirm? I hesitate between 5,3 and 6,1 XPS to replace my 5,5 V1.
For the others, I think I will take 3,5 and 4,6, or 3 and 4 if it's less powerfull.
How heavy are you? How tall are you? What size board/foils do you ride when you need to use your 5.5 m?
Do you find it easy to get on foil in those conditions?
Are you struggling with the wingspan of the 5.5? or it's super comfortable?
I'm 1,81m for 75kg and I use 40 and 82 liters boards with MA 1225. I will buy a MA 800 for strong wind.
My question is comparaison between power of A-wing V1 and xps.
I'm ok with the 5,5 V1 but I don't want to lose power with the 5,3 xps
The handle design seems really user friendly, but I like the continuous curve in the leading edge, it seems these put less stress on the bladder, wings with sharp geometry changes in the leading edge appear to stress the bladder at those points, it's good to see design and longevity meet up
Select to expand quoteZwind said..
Hello, I actually ride A-wing V1 3,5 - 4,5 - 5,5 quiver and want to switch to XPS. I tested the XPS 3,5 and I had the impression that it was less powerful than my V1 3,5.
Can someone confirm? I hesitate between 5,3 and 6,1 XPS to replace my 5,5 V1.
For the others, I think I will take 3,5 and 4,6, or 3 and 4 if it's less powerfull.
less obvious grunt for sure per size.
Select to expand quoteZwind said..
I'm 1,81m for 75kg and I use 40 and 82 liters boards with MA 1225. I will buy a MA 800 for strong wind.
My question is comparaison between power of A-wing V1 and xps.
I'm ok with the 5,5 V1 but I don't want to lose power with the 5,3 xps
Look up the video that Real released some weeks ago. Armie talks through the XPS wings and answers your exact question towards the end of the video. They break it down by weight and for you they recommended a 3, 4 and 5.3. Over 80 kg probably 3.5, 4.6 and 6.1.
I'm 65 KGs and have been enjoying the 4.6M. Will probably get 3.5 and 2.5 and sell everything else I own. I could probably get by with the 4.5 and 2.5 to be honest. Such good range on the 4.6. I've used it in winds ranging from 7knts to 22knts. The smaller wingspan of the 4.6 helps me pump harder longer compared to my 5M OR Glide at 5'10" tall. 7 knts thanks to DW board.
Select to expand quoteZwind said..
Hello, I actually ride A-wing V1 3,5 - 4,5 - 5,5 quiver and want to switch to XPS. I tested the XPS 3,5 and I had the impression that it was less powerful than my V1 3,5.
Can someone confirm? I hesitate between 5,3 and 6,1 XPS to replace my 5,5 V1.
For the others, I think I will take 3,5 and 4,6, or 3 and 4 if it's less powerfull.
I don't know about the xps, but the A-Wing is a lot more surface area vs other brand, so maybe it's not the xps that is less powerful but more an different way to measure the surface area of the xps vs the A-Wing?
Select to expand quoteNordRoi said..
I don't know about the xps, but the A-Wing is a lot more surface area vs other brand, so maybe it's not the xps that is less powerful but more an different way to measure the surface area of the xps vs the A-Wing?
Correct, also in the video I referenced above, Armie talks about the XPS sizes being more "industry standard" compared to the A-wing.
Recieved my 6.1 the other day & had a few rides with it. The many good points have already been discussed above. The top end is incredible - handles really gusty 20kn+ easily as it's so easy to control. The low end is really disappointing I've found. It doesn't seem to hold much air when it's lighter (10-12 knts) compared to other wings around me. I bought the larger size for those lighter days so a bit disappointed with the purchase. I feel it's just replaced my 4.8 & not really added to the quiver.
Armie did mention in his videos somewhere something like he wasn't too focused on its' bottom end so I should have read more into that. I'm interested in other owners opinions of the 6.1 & lighter winds.
Select to expand quoteBritfoil360 said..
I received my new 4.6 XPS on monday .
my history, not sponsored ( wish I was ) and my normal wings are Ensis spins although I own a 2022 Duotone unit and a 2022 Cabrinha mantis .
I have also ridden ozone wasps , core , f one , vayu and north modes .
first session out was probably the low end for wind for my weight at 82kg at about 16 mph rising to about 20 with small waist high waves .( most people where on 5-6 M wings )
pumped up onto the foil easily, handled well with tacks and gybes , 360's and back winding with no problems.
initial stand out points are it points up wind really well and is also a very fast wing . I only had opportunity to flag out a couple of times due to the wind direction but it did feel a little " Tippy " ,but that might have been either the wind strength or direction .
other pluses , I loved the rigid handles as they have a soft covering that'll not damage either your head or board and also really liked the fact it came with a quality leash and spare carbon battens . There's more wind and better waves due over the weekend , so I'll be able To give it a better run out and these are only initial impressions .
if you have any specific questions about it just ask as I don't normally due reviews .
How does XPS 4.6 compare to Spin 4.6 in bottom and top-end?
Select to expand quotepaulweller2 said..
OK. I've been using the 4.6 every day for the past week in 15-35kts. 82kg. I would of course prefer to use a 3 or 3.5 in 28kts+ but it's still doable. I did not expect the low-end to be so good. I've been able to get up without any issue on my 39L FG and 925/180/60/795 in 15kts--I would've used a Strike V2 5.5 previously. And this is with the longer battens. I still need to push the low-end by taking the battens out, as advertised. I also need to play with the adjustable plastic load plate.
The XPS is incredibly balanced, when riding or luffing. It goes upwind incredibly well with no trailing edge flutter (yet). It also just goes... it's fast! I've been hitting 45kmh with a 800/180/60/795 without much effort. The 4.6 weighs about the same as a Strike V3. The two wings are very similar in terms of performance. The weight of the XPS seems to be concentrated in the LE and strut (including handles) whereas the weight of the Strike V3 is more evenly distributed across the LE and strut and canopy areas with heavier weight HITEX (as well as the large load diffuser). The Strike V3 is fantastic but the handles and lack of intuitive pumping (for most) are potential dealbreakers, which made me all the more excited about the XPS.
The handles are brilliant. They're the perfect shape and size for my hands--Armie noted that he chose what would work best for him. Some will prefer a rounder and/or softer handle. Heineken jibes and tacks are made so much easier. And it's so comfortable to hang when jumping. And about jumping... the XPS has so much lift that I'm going higher and recovering from jumps better than ever before. The lift also means that it takes so much less effort to get a sinker going. I've been using the 34L FG a lot more with the XPS (side note: the 39L FG is significantly easier to start given the board shape).
Happy to answer any questions.
86kg-dry, can gybe, thinking of XPS to replace F-One Strike 5m V2 between Strike 4m V3 and CWC 6m. 4.6 or 5.3m?
Select to expand quoteMicrosurfer said..
Recieved my 6.1 the other day & had a few rides with it. The many good points have already been discussed above. The top end is incredible - handles really gusty 20kn+ easily as it's so easy to control. The low end is really disappointing I've found. It doesn't seem to hold much air when it's lighter (10-12 knts) compared to other wings around me. I bought the larger size for those lighter days so a bit disappointed with the purchase. I feel it's just replaced my 4.8 & not really added to the quiver.
Armie did mention in his videos somewhere something like he wasn't too focused on its' bottom end so I should have read more into that. I'm interested in other owners opinions of the 6.1 & lighter winds.
I'm surprised to hear that. I've changed from a 5.5 V2 Strike to an XPS 5.3 and I find the bottom end comparable if not better with the 5.3. The wing is so much superior to my one season old Strike that it's actually an unfair comparison.
I've used the 5.3 in ~12/13 knots bottom end and it was good. That's on a 60 L board and deliberately a big foil (1475 Armie MA). That's my light wind setup and I decided to go with a larger foil than a 6.1 for lighter winds this season. I echo your comments about top end. I also have the 4 XPS and both have terrific top ends. I'm 100% stoked and happy with the XPS wings. They are up to the hype in my opinion. I've gone from a 3.5/4.5/5.5 V2 Strike quiver to a two wing XPS quiver and so far so good. But I did add a bigger 1475 in addition to my MA 1000 to compensate for the smaller quiver.
Just spent the last three days feeling out the 3.5M and 2.6M XPS as TS Ophelia sent us days of solid 20-36 knts. Extremely pleased with their performance swell riding in bay type conditions. Harness use in some cases. Just zero wipeouts caused by the wing. Always where I wanted it and no surprises when swell riding. If I were to foil blind, this would be the wing. The 2.6M is replacing my 3M OR and it's so much better. No twitching despite huge gusts, just forward speed gains. Sheeting in provides a bit of give to allow powered turns while the pretensioned wingtips make it feel not washed out. Really nice. Zero flutter. Riding the 800 and 140 dart mostly. Also found the best DW run in my area right under my nose. Stoked.
My f one 6m cwc v2 is dying and need to change, can't get hold of a v3 so looking at the xps 6.1.
Can anyone tell me if its similar power wise?
Cheers
Mike
What would be the wind range on the 4m? I ride a 50l board, 800cm and 1290cm foils, 72kg.
Thanks
Select to expand quoteMikedubs said..
My f one 6m cwc v2 is dying and need to change, can't get hold of a v3 so looking at the xps 6.1.
Can anyone tell me if its similar power wise?
Cheers
Mike
hi Mike. I think the XPS is a mid to high wind wing. I would regard the 6.1 as a wing for heavier riders nore than a wing for lighter winds. The canopy is quiter tight & the other wings such as the Strike or North equivalent seem to hold more air when it's a bit lighter. TBH I haven't tried cwc & unsure of its characteristics so can only comment on the XPS.
I replaced my CWC 8m with the XPS 6.1 and couldn't be happier. The CWC is a great wing, I just prefer to how the XPS wind sails, as my first wings were PPC. At 88 kg with a 5'2" board I'm up in 8kn (with a big foil, BSC 1120), and comfortable in 18+. The handles also are more helpful in the really light wind than the CWC and it flags out great.
Select to expand quoteMikedubs said..
My f one 6m cwc v2 is dying and need to change, can't get hold of a v3 so looking at the xps 6.1.
Can anyone tell me if its similar power wise?
Cheers
Mike
maybe this helps with your decision:
Thanks guys, interesting what he says about the strike v3 as that's not what I feel with mine. I find mine front loaded not back and you have to pump short and fast to generate power unlike the v2. I've also got some swing v3s and they generate power more easily.
Yes very interesting comparison. I agree with his findings on the XPS. Once up & running it can cut upwind like anything however you do need that apparent wind with it to get the best performance. Those size wings he reviewed are for a decent amount of wind- really anything will get you going & having fun with 15knts. When you start talking 6m+ or for a lighter wind I think it's a different design brief.
Armie has said that light wind wings require a different approach (materials and design) and that they will be releasing light wind wings in due course. So he does not see the XPS as a light wind wing. Even the 6.1 by extrapolation of that statement.
He also suggested pairing it with a DW board for sub ten knot conditions.
Select to expand quotefoilstoke said..
What would be the wind range on the 4m? I ride a 50l board, 800cm and 1290cm foils, 72kg.
Thanks
I have ridden the 4m on 890 eagle, 55l board 73kg from about 18-25. Wierdly the 4.6 goes from about 12-25. It has crazy control at its top end but not as comfy to ride as the 4 in its upper range. 3.5 does about 20-30 but best at about 25. Sweet spots for our weight seem to be 4.6 15 knots, 4 20 knots , 3.5 25 knots. Havent ridden 6.1 or 2.5 yet. The 4m I have ridden is an ex proto thats essentially the release version. Its been hammered, like 5 or 6 repairs , and it flies sweet still. I'm guessing they purposely tried to wreck it. Thats one of the reasons I was sold on the XPS. If it rides that well after such a beating its got good durability.
Select to expand quoteSlyde said..foilstoke said..
What would be the wind range on the 4m? I ride a 50l board, 800cm and 1290cm foils, 72kg.
Thanks
I have ridden the 4m on 890 eagle, 55l board 73kg from about 18-25. Wierdly the 4.6 goes from about 12-25. It has crazy control at its top end but not as comfy to ride as the 4 in its upper range. 3.5 does about 20-30 but best at about 25. Sweet spots for our weight seem to be 4.6 15 knots, 4 20 knots , 3.5 25 knots. Havent ridden 6.1 or 2.5 yet. The 4m I have ridden is an ex proto thats essentially the release version. Its been hammered, like 5 or 6 repairs , and it flies sweet still. I'm guessing they purposely tried to wreck it. Thats one of the reasons I was sold on the XPS. If it rides that well after such a beating its got good durability.
Yeah I went 4.6, 3.5, and 2.5 for my new quiver at 65 kgs. The 3.5 is awesome for those days where it is just starting to white cap with gusts hitting the upper 20s. As soon as its a solid 24knts and up, the 2.5 is amazing. I had it out in gusty conditions as a tropical storm came through and it handled the conditions well, although the upcoming 2.2M would have been even better.
Select to expand quoteMidAtlanticFoil said..Slyde said..foilstoke said..
What would be the wind range on the 4m? I ride a 50l board, 800cm and 1290cm foils, 72kg.
Thanks
I have ridden the 4m on 890 eagle, 55l board 73kg from about 18-25. Wierdly the 4.6 goes from about 12-25. It has crazy control at its top end but not as comfy to ride as the 4 in its upper range. 3.5 does about 20-30 but best at about 25. Sweet spots for our weight seem to be 4.6 15 knots, 4 20 knots , 3.5 25 knots. Havent ridden 6.1 or 2.5 yet. The 4m I have ridden is an ex proto thats essentially the release version. Its been hammered, like 5 or 6 repairs , and it flies sweet still. I'm guessing they purposely tried to wreck it. Thats one of the reasons I was sold on the XPS. If it rides that well after such a beating its got good durability.
Yeah I went 4.6, 3.5, and 2.5 for my new quiver at 65 kgs. The 3.5 is awesome for those days where it is just starting to white cap with gusts hitting the upper 20s. As soon as its a solid 24knts and up, the 2.5 is amazing. I had it out in gusty conditions as a tropical storm came through and it handled the conditions well, although the upcoming 2.2M would have been even better.
Sweet, thanks!
Select to expand quoteMidAtlanticFoil said..Slyde said..foilstoke said..
What would be the wind range on the 4m? I ride a 50l board, 800cm and 1290cm foils, 72kg.
Thanks
I have ridden the 4m on 890 eagle, 55l board 73kg from about 18-25. Wierdly the 4.6 goes from about 12-25. It has crazy control at its top end but not as comfy to ride as the 4 in its upper range. 3.5 does about 20-30 but best at about 25. Sweet spots for our weight seem to be 4.6 15 knots, 4 20 knots , 3.5 25 knots. Havent ridden 6.1 or 2.5 yet. The 4m I have ridden is an ex proto thats essentially the release version. Its been hammered, like 5 or 6 repairs , and it flies sweet still. I'm guessing they purposely tried to wreck it. Thats one of the reasons I was sold on the XPS. If it rides that well after such a beating its got good durability.
Yeah I went 4.6, 3.5, and 2.5 for my new quiver at 65 kgs. The 3.5 is awesome for those days where it is just starting to white cap with gusts hitting the upper 20s. As soon as it's a solid 24knts and up, the 2.5 is amazing. I had it out in gusty conditions as a tropical storm came through and it handled the conditions well, although the upcoming 2.2M would have been even better.
These XPS wings sound awesome. I'm looking to replace my quiver of Duotone 2023 Units for the XPS. My Units are sizes 2.5 3.5 4.5. Has anyone here sailed both to know if the 2.5 3.5 4.6 would be similar power sizing replacements? I love the Strikes but I'm tired of having to manage them when flagged out. The idea of the wing just "vaporizing" sounds awesome!!
Bought a3.5 XPS and loving it. What harness lines work well w the XPS. They are closer spaced than I'm
used to and the webbing holes are so strange? 
