What Mast Should I Buy for My Fliteboard?

How to Configure Your Fliteboard eFoil: A Complete Guide on Mast Lengths, materials, and Components.

Selecting the correct mast configuration for your Fliteboard eFoil can make a world of difference in your riding experience. Something as small as a few centimeters on the mast or in the wing size can significantly impact the ride’s feel, fun, or difficulty.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider, making the right choices in masts, propulsion systems, and wing setups can make or break your efoiling sessions and success as a rider in the long run.

From great beginner options to even better-advanced options and some high-level intermediate options, there’s a world of potential for growth and improvement. If you’re committed to the challenge of learning to use gear just a step above your current level, the fun will last for years to come. We’ll also cover the easiest ride options for those of you who want a smooth start.

In this guide, we’ve left no stone unturned to help you choose the perfect combination for your needs. You can be confident that you’re making an informed decision.

When configuring your Fliteboard eFoil, it’s essential to consider how different components work together. Here are a few pairing options based on rider skill level and intended use:

1. What mast length should I choose for my Fliteboard eFoil?
2. What materials do Fliteboard masts use?
3. Should I get a Mark Newsome MN Mast?
4. What propulsion system for my eFoil unit?
5. Which Fliteboard wing should I get?
6. Beginner intermediate and advanced configurations at a glance.

Mast Length: Finding the Right Height

The mast length and material significantly affect your riding experience. Flite has a few eFoil units to choose from, each with a number of lengths, materials, and benefits to consider. Their units are unibody, so you’re not just getting a mast—you’re getting an entire system that will be compatible with specific products in their range.

Here’s a breakdown of the options regarding mast length considerations.

Shorter Masts (60 cm): Ideal for beginners, short masts are easier to control and more forgiving, making them perfect for learning.

They provide more stability and reduce the likelihood of falling from a height. This mast is used with the Flitescooter, but we don’t start with most students here. Unless you want the easy cruiser benefits of an eFoil scooter, most riders will outgrow this length in a matter of hours to days.

Longer Masts (75 cm): An excellent all-around option, medium masts offer a balance of stability and performance. They allow for greater maneuverability and are suitable for riders who have mastered the basics and are ready to take on more challenging conditions. This unibody construction pairs well with Fliteboard AIR, AIR PRO, Fliteboard, and Fliteboard PRO.

Long Masts (80 cm +): Designed for advanced riders, long masts offer the most height above the water, allowing for better clearance in choppy conditions and more aggressive turns. They’re perfect for those looking to push their limits in open water or wave riding.

What Material Should I Get for My Fliteboard eFoil Unit/Mast?  

There are three constructions to choose from.

• Anodized aluminum
• Aero-grade Aluminum
• Japanese Carbon Fiber

Standard eFoil System – 60 cm, 75 cm, 80 cm

The standard eFoil unit comes in Anodized aluminum and offers several benefits.

Corrosion Resistance & Durability: The anodizing process creates a thick oxide layer on the mast’s surface, significantly increasing corrosion resistance. An anodized aluminum mast will last longer and maintain its structural integrity, even after prolonged exposure to harsh environments and saltwater.

Increased Hardness & Wear Resistance: This unit’s surface hardness is much greater than that of untreated aluminum, which helps protect it from scratches, dings, and wear caused by sand, rocks, and other debris.

Lightweight Efficiency: Aluminum is lightweight, and the anodizing process doesn’t add significant weight. A lighter mast contributes to the overall responsiveness of the eFoil, allowing for quick turns and easy handling.

Good Value for Performance: While not as light or stiff as carbon fiber, anodized aluminum offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and cost, making it a popular choice for many eFoil masts. These benefits make it the gold standard in eFoil mast construction.

Fliteboard Performance eFoil System/Mast 80 cm

The performance masts are designed to pair the next generation of conical wings from Fliteboard. These masts use Aero-grade aluminum, often used in high-performance applications; it has many benefits, making it an attractive material for those seeking a balance between strength, weight, and durability. Here are the advantages:

High Stiffness, Stability, & Control: Aero-grade aluminum has a high modulus of elasticity, meaning it resists bending under stress. This stiffness translates to better response and control. The mast will flex less under load, providing a precise and responsive ride with minimal rider input.

Exceptional Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Expect significant structural strength without adding excessive weight, which is crucial for maintaining an eFoil’s agility and responsiveness. The lightweight nature of this material means it’s easier to transport, and there is less worry about damaging it.

Corrosion Resistance & Durability: Aero-grade aluminum is highly corrosion-resistant, especially when treated or anodized. This makes it ideal for use in saltwater. Expect long-term performance and reliability regardless of where you eFoil. Aero-grade aluminum is designed to withstand repeated stress without degrading. This property is essential in eFoiling, where the mast undergoes constant dynamic loads while taking fast, sharp turns or shredding waves.

Precision Manufacturing: Aerospace-grade aluminum can be machined with high precision, ensuring the mast fits perfectly with other eFoil components. The unibody design means less drag when in use and less wear over time. This upgraded material, paired with the next generation of conical wings from Fliteboard, is our recommendation for the forward-thinking eFoiler. If you’re not on a budget, it’s well worth the investment for the years of performance and fun.

Should I get the Mark Newsome Mn Carbon masts?

The Carbon Mn 82 and Mn Carbon Wave masts are built with Japanese high-modulus pre-preg carbon fiber and offer a range of significant benefits that no other material can match.

Unmatched Strength-to-Weight Ratio: The carbon mast is robust and ultra-lightweight. The reduced weight and higher precision profile mean less drag in the water, leading to better efficiency. eFoils tend to have more drag than regular foils with all the extra components. This thinner profile means it will feel more like a prone foil.

Superior Stiffness Comfort & Control: The MN Carbon 82 is stiffer than other materials like aluminum or lower-grade carbon fibers. The mast will flex very little under load, providing a more precise and responsive ride with better control, especially at high speeds. High-level wave riders, racers, and freestyle foilers need this added stiffness to perform.

The mast’s rigidity means it maintains its shape and alignment no matter how hard or sharp you carve a powerful wave. This Carbon has incredible vibration-damping properties, which help reduce the transmission of vibrations from the water to the rider, resulting in a smoother, more comfortable ride, even in choppy conditions.

Durability & longevity: The mast will maintain its structural integrity for a long time and can withstand repeated stress without degrading, even with frequent and intense use. It is naturally corrosion-resistant, and it’s the best choice for use in saltwater.

Streamlined Design: High-modulus carbon fiber allows for the creation of thinner, more streamlined masts that reduce drag in the water and the air. This improves the eFoil’s overall efficiency, leading to better performance and speed. These units are designed to feel more like prone foils than eFoils.

How Many Fliteboard Propulsion Options are there?

The propulsion system you choose will determine the power and responsiveness of your eFoil. Fliteboard offers three options to cater to different riding preferences.

• Flite Jet System: This propulsion system is best suited for beginners and is safer and less intimidating. It’s perfect for calm waters and provides smooth, consistent power delivery. Ideal for the Fliteboard AIR or Flitescooter, it makes the learning process easier by minimizing the risk of injury.
• Flite Prop System: This is a more traditional propeller system, the go-to for most riders. It offers a good balance between power and efficiency, making it suitable for a wide range of conditions. It pairs well with the Fliteboard PRO for intermediate to advanced riders who want more speed and control. We also recommend that heavy riders consider this for the additional power and thrust.
• Folding Prop: Ideal for wave riding and wake surfing, the folding prop reduces drag when not in use, allowing for a more natural feel when riding waves. Pair it with a longer mast for the best performance in dynamic water conditions.

What Fliteboard Wing Do I Pair with My Mast?

The wings you choose will dramatically affect how your eFoil handles. Fliteboard offers a variety of wings designed to cater to different riding styles and conditions.

• Large Wings:  1300, 1500, and 1800 wings are best for beginners and those looking for maximum stability. Large wings provide more lift, making getting up and staying on the foil easier. Pair these with a shorter mast for the easiest eFoiling.

• Medium Wings: Something like 1100 is for riders seeking maneuverability and speed; medium wings are the way to go. They offer less drag and allow for quicker turns, making them perfect for experienced riders using the Fliteboard PRO.

• Small wings: 900 and under. These are reserved for intermediate to advanced riders seeking specialty applications. If unsure, you are probably better suited to something larger, like an 1100.

• Conical Wings: Designed for a premium ride, these wings offer a balance of performance and control. They will eventually replace the standard wings as they have significantly less drag and better performance.

When selecting a wing set, consider the size and design. Fliteboard has several different designs. Here is a quick quote to summarize the range.

• Cruiser Wings: Great all-rounders, especially for beginners.
• Flow Wings: Best for gliding, pumping, and riding waves.
• Wave Series Wings: Designed for steeper waves and serious surf enthusiasts.
• Flyer Wings: Made for speed, not recommended for beginners.
• Race Wings: For the most advanced riders looking for maximum speed and performance.

Custom Fliteboard eFoil Configurations at a Glance

• For Beginners:
• Mast: Shorter mast (Standard eFoil system 60 to 75 cm)
• Propulsion: FliteJet System
• Wings: Glider 1500
• Why: This setup provides maximum stability and safety, making it easier for beginners to learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed. It is easy to outgrow this setup, so consider starting with something more fun, like a performance 80cm and the glider 1100 wing.

• For beginner to intermediate Riders:
• Mast: Medium mast (Performance eFoil System 80 cm)
• Propulsion: Standard propeller or Folding prop
• Wings: Conical wings are worth the upgrade. If you are new, consider the Glider wing series, but the flow wings are amazing for waves. We recommend starting with an 1100 wing.
• Why: You’ll appreciate the added height and power as your skills improve. This setup balances speed and control, allowing for more engaged dynamic riding for years to come.

• For Advanced Riders:
• Mast: Longer mast (Performance 80 or Mn 82 cm)
• Propulsion: Standard propeller or Folding prop
• Wings: Conical wings or MN series.
• Why: This configuration is designed for those who want to push the boundaries of their eFoil. It’s ideal for wave riding, carving, and achieving higher speeds. The materials used in the aero-grad aluminum performance mast and high-modulus Japanese Carbon in the Mn masts will make a huge difference. The rigidity, the lower drag, and the precision are necessary for high-level riding.

Summary

When configuring your Fliteboard eFoil, consider your skill level, the conditions you’ll be riding in, and your performance goals. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your setup, the Fliteboard lineup has a perfect configuration waiting for you. Choose wisely and enjoy the ride!

If you have any questions about eFoils or need help deciding which is best for you, call (850) 400-8500 or email us at info@emeraldwake.com for a custom recommendation. We offer eFoil lessons, guided eFoil tours, eFoil demos, storage and delivery options for your eFoils, and more.