MANIAC FOILS Which Mast Should You Ride?
When you first get into hydrofoiling, the number of choices can be overwhelming—front wings, stabilizers, mast length, mast types… and these are just the basics! Foiling is a tinkerer’s dream, allowing you to fine-tune every aspect of your setup. Today, we’re breaking down one key component: mast choice. Length and construction both play a crucial role in performance, and picking the right mast depends on the type of foiling you plan to do. Our newly launched ENSIS MANIAC MASTS offer three mast options: aluminum, carbon, and high-modulus carbon. Let’s dive into the details.
Mast Lengths
Mast length is an important choice. As a mental demonstration, imagine two circles—one larger and one smaller – with a fixed center point. Now, imagine that while riding your foil, you are that fixed point, and the foil follows the path of the circle. The longer the mast, the larger the circle, meaning more travel distance is required for any movement. Conversely, a shorter mast creates a smaller arc, making the foil more reactive to changes in weight and input.
- Longer masts (90 cm and above) provide more control and stability, making them ideal for high-speed foiling, ocean conditions, and wave riding. They reduce the chance of breaching in choppy waters and allow for smoother, more controlled turns at speed.
- Shorter masts (72 cm and below) are highly reactive and better suited for disciplines like pump foiling and tight carving on waves. The shorter arc allows for quick, precise movements, making them excellent for freestyle riding and shallow-water environments.
- Mid-length masts (85 cm) are the most common choice for wingfoiling, offering a balance between stability and maneuverability. This all-around length works well across multiple disciplines.
Water depth is another factor to consider when choosing a mast. In shallow environments, a shorter mast may be necessary to avoid grounding.
ENSIS MANIAC Mast Constructions
MANIAC CARBON ACE
For those seeking the ultimate in performance, the MANIAC CARBON ACE mast is made from high-modulus carbon, offering maximum stiffness and minimal weight. Its ultra-thin profile enhances efficiency and hydrodynamics, making it the perfect choice for pump foilers, wingfoil racers, and downwind riders. However, due to its high rigidity, it is less suited for high-impact freestyle riding, as high-modulus carbon is more brittle than standard carbon fiber.
MANIAC CARBON
The MANIAC Carbon mast provides a versatile balance of stiffness, weight, and hydrodynamics, making it the recommended choice for most foiling disciplines. It offers excellent performance for wingfoiling, prone surf foiling, and general freeride foiling. Our mast is crafted from high-quality C500 carbon fiber with a streamlined 16 mm profile, reducing flex and twist while ensuring a smooth and controlled ride.
MANIAC ALUMINUM
The MANIAC Aluminum mast offers the best cost-to-performance ratio. It is the stiffest mast in the lineup, making it ideal for large front wings and wide wingspan foils. Beginners will appreciate the durability and affordability, while pump foilers benefit from its rigidity. Our MANIAC aluminum mast is lightweight and extremely strong.
We have the right mast for you
Choosing the right mast length and construction will significantly impact your foiling experience. Whether you’re after affordability, versatility, or cutting-edge performance, the ENSIS MANIAC MASTS have an option tailored for you. Find your perfect setup and elevate your ride!
Interested in anything wing or foil?
Interested in events ENSIS are hosting or attending or want to try out the gear? Be sure to follow our social media for future announcements, or check out the DEMO DAY page, for future events.The ENSIS team is highly skilled in wing foiling and is eager to assist you in starting your wing foiling journey. Our worldwide retailers offer a variety of ENSIS products. Contact us now to learn more about our products or locate an ENSIS retailer nearby.
