How to Choose a Mast for Your Foilboard
Choosing the right mast for your foilboard can be challenging, as there are many types of hydrofoils on the market. The first thing to determine is your riding style and the conditions where you’ll most often be using the board. Different masts are optimized for different riding types and water conditions.
Mast Length and Riding Conditions
If you plan to ride in light wind conditions and calm water, it’s better to choose a shorter mast — it will provide more lift and stability. For strong wind or choppy conditions, a longer mast is ideal, offering better control and stability at higher speeds and in turbulent water.
Type of Hydrofoil
There are two main types of hydrofoils:
- Wing foils — ideal for freeride and freestyle; they offer good lift and stability in a variety of conditions.
- Foil boards — used for racing and high-performance riding, focused on maximum speed and maneuverability.
Rider Size and Weight
When choosing a mast, it’s important to consider the rider’s weight and height. Heavier riders will benefit from a longer mast for increased stability, while lighter riders will feel more comfortable with a shorter one. Also make sure the mast matches the size and mounting system of your hydrofoil — incompatibility can negatively affect handling and safety.
Mast Materials
The material is another key factor:
- Carbon masts — the lightest and strongest option, offering the highest performance, but they are also the most expensive.
- Aluminum masts — more affordable, slightly heavier, but still reliable and durable.
🏄♂️ Recommended Mast Length for Hydrofoil Beginners
| Rider Weight (kg) | Recommended Mast Length (cm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| < 50 kg | 45–55 cm | Very light riders, children, or teens; control is more important than height. |
| 50–60 kg | 50–60 cm | Perfect for beginners — good stability and easy handling. |
| 60–70 kg | 55–65 cm | Standard mast for early sessions and balance training. |
| 70–80 kg | 60–70 cm | A great compromise between stability and agility. |
| 80–90 kg | 65–75 cm | Provides better lift and control for heavier riders. |
| 90–100 kg | 70–80 cm | Gives more height above the water for better performance. |
| > 100 kg | 75–85 cm | Best combined with a stable foil and a high-volume board. |
💬 Notes
- For first lessons and beginner sessions, masts between 45–60 cm are usually recommended — they are forgiving and easier to control.
- Once a rider can maintain balance confidently, switching to 70–80 cm masts helps improve glide and maneuvering.
- Mast length also depends on the type of sport (wing foil, kite foil, surf foil, sup foil, etc.) and water conditions (depth, waves, wind).