Unlock Your Foiling Potential | Foil Drive
Foil Assist Systems
Although, hydrofoiling has been around for decades, this might be your first time hearing about it. This revolutionary way of riding wind and waves uses a hydrofoil—a winged structure on a mast beneath the board that allows vessels to glide above water—maximizing efficiency and unlocking new possibilities. Windsurfers and kiteboarders are embracing wing foiling and kite foiling while surfers are diving into prone foiling, paddling into waves and taking flight as the foil lifts them above the water. Some riders even blend both elements, harnessing wind energy to ride rolling swells for endless glides while downwinding.
As hydrofoiling gains popularity, more people are discovering its unique thrill. Unlike traditional water sports that rely on specific conditions, foiling provides year-round opportunities regardless of wind, wave size, or season. Even competitive sailing has been transformed, with America's Cup teams using foiling technology to lift massive sailboats and reach speeds over 57 mph. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline of high-speed carving or the peaceful glide over glassy waters, foiling is redefining what’s possible in water sports.
Foiling 101:The Learning Challenge
While foiling sensations are incredible, the initial learning process can feel unfamiliar and challenging. At Green Hat Kiteboarding, we always recommend taking a lesson to properly learn whichever foiling discipline interests you. Unlike other board sports, foiling requires a unique skill set, making it difficult to simply "give it a go". Even those with extensive experience in water and board sports will find that riding a foil presents an entirely new sensation.
Fortunately, advancements in technology have made the learning process significantly easier. As hydrofoil wings, boards, and accessories have evolved, so too has the integration of electric assistance. Innovations in lithium battery technology and propeller systems have led to the development of motorized foil assist devices, drastically reducing the learning curve.
What Are Foil Assist Systems?
Foil assist systems, like Foil Drive, are revolutionizing the way we foil. These systems provide an electric boost to enhance the foiling experience, making it easier for newcomers to learn and for experienced riders to push their limits. There's no longer a need for wind or waves—just a charged battery and some time on the water. By eliminating many of the initial challenges, foil assist technology has made the sport more accessible, allowing new riders to experience success faster than ever before.
Why We Choose Foil Drive
At Green Hat, we've tested nearly every foil assist system on the market, using them in both the heat of summer and the freezing cold of winter. After extensive trials, we chose Foil Drive for its modular design, which seamlessly integrates with any board, mast, or foil brand. This versatility extends Foil Drive’s use far beyond just learning—it enhances foiling across multiple disciplines.
One of its standout features is the ability to adjust power settings on the fly, allowing riders to optimize performance based on their needs. Foil Drive offers four distinct modes—Learn, Low, Medium, and High—each customizable within a power range of 0-100%. For example, our team rider Dave prefers riding in Medium mode at around 65% power, giving him up to an hour and forty-five minutes of ride time, depending on conditions.
For those concerned about safety, Foil Drive has also developed a removable propeller guard, providing an extra layer of protection for new users while allowing more experienced riders to remove it for greater efficiency. This level of adaptability makes Foil Drive a game-changer in the world of foiling.
The Story Behind Foil Drive
Foil Drive was born out of a passion for foiling and a mission to make it more accessible. Paul Martin, the inventor of Foil Drive, was frustrated with the limitations of traditional foiling. While electric foils existed, they were bulky and heavy, limiting maneuverability. Paul asked himself, "What’s the smallest, lightest, and most agile design that still packs enough power to get you on foil?" The result was Foil Drive.
Not only has Paul and his team developed an industry-leading power assist system, but they have also prioritized ease of use. Every Foil Drive product includes a comprehensive How-To series, accessible via QR codes on physical pamphlets and the device itself. These guides provide step-by-step instructions for assembly, troubleshooting, and maintenance, ensuring years of reliable performance.
Additionally, Foil Drive backs its products with a robust warranty, giving riders confidence in their investment. This dedication to innovation and customer support has solidified Foil Drive as the top choice for power-assisted foiling.
Applications of Foil Drive - MORE TIME ON FOIL, PERIOD
Wing Foiling - In light winds you can use Foil Drive to maintain speed and stay on foil longer. When that wind starts to drop feel free to squeeze that trigger till the next puff of wind arrives.
Foil Surfing: Go literally anywhere you want. That outside sand bar that's only rideable after a long paddle or jet ski cruise? No problem. Go upwind to travel downwind and practice riding the outside bumps or just to stay in one location.
Downwind Foiling: To get used to your downwind board you can set your controller to cruise control, which allows the board to gain speed without getting on plane. This helps with achieving balance, practicing paddling, and provides a little extra help getting into the bumps.
Pro tip: Foil Drive came up with an attachment for your controller on your paddle for easy access.**
Dock Starting/ Pump foiling: No need for a dock anymore to get your reps in. Just find some water and pump away with the assurance of being able to easily get back to land.
Key Features that Set Foil Drive Apart
Modularity and Compatibility
Foil Drive seamlessly integrates with nearly any foil mast, but they’ve gone further by collaborating with top-tier foil brands to develop integrated masts and Foil Drive-specific boards. This ensures optimal planning, balance, and efficiency across all disciplines
Streamlined Design
The innovative mounting system fits directly into the foil track box, allowing easy adjustments up and down the mast tracks to find the perfect balance.
Performance Options
Foil Drive offers two main models, Assist MAX and Assist Slim, catering to different rider needs and preferences.
Customizable Batteries
A variety of battery options allow riders to prioritize weight, performance, or extended runtime based on their goals.
Price & Durability
The Foil Drive Assist MAX, the flagship model, is priced between $6,069 and $6374, while the Foil Drive Assist Slim, a smaller and lighter version, costs between $5,120 and $6,070.
Foil Drive motors have demonstrated reliability even in harsh conditions. They've been tested in cold water environments, with battery performance holding up in 8-degree Celsius water. The system has shown resilience after tumbling in head-high waves, continuing to function without issues.
Foil Setup Suggestions
Choosing the right equipment is crucial for both beginners and experienced foilers looking to get the best performance with Foil Drive
Board Selection
A longer, narrower board between 5'0" and 6'0" in length and 18.5-21 inches in width is ideal for beginners. Since Foil Drive powers the board from the rear, volume is less critical, though 45-60 liters is sufficient. Advanced riders can narrow the width to 17-19 inches and reduce volume to as low as 33 liters for added maneuverability. A longer, narrower board enhances efficiency by allowing earlier planing, making it easier to get on foil.
Foil Considerations
Mid-to-high aspect front wings (aspect ratio between 8-11) are recommended, with sizes ranging from 1000 to 1200cm² depending on rider weight. With Foil Drive providing propulsion, there’s less need to worry about pumping, so riders can focus more on wave riding.
Mast Height & Stiffness
An 80cm mast is the ideal height, providing enough clearance for the Foil Drive pod while allowing maneuverability. Because Foil Drive adds weight, a stiff mast—either high-modulus carbon or aluminum—is preferred to reduce flex and maintain control.
Fuselage Length
A longer fuselage provides greater pitch stability, helping balance the additional weight of the Foil Drive and ensuring smooth transitions from motoring to foiling.
Tail Wing & Stabilizer
A slightly larger stabilizer helps counteract the added weight of the system, allowing riders to use a smaller front wing while maintaining a controlled, floaty ride.
Shimming for Balance
Proper board and foil alignment is essential. Base plate shims can help level the board and ensure the propeller remains at an optimal angle. Tail shims should remain neutral (0-degree angle) for maximum efficiency, allowing the propeller to perform as designed.
Maintenance Requirements
Although it does not need boating registration it is still a marine vehicle so some maintenance is required. After each use, rinse the entire unit with fresh water along with the controller. Pull the motor out and rinse, then dry it with the Foil Drive shammy they provide with your kit. Remove the battery from the unit and put it in its bag.
For daily users, disassemble and add a little marine grease on the motor shaft and battery grease on the connections every week. Don’t worry, they have QR code showing you step by step instructions.
To maximize battery life, store your Foil Drive battery at 30-50% charge in a cool, dry place. Charge it to 100% just before your next session.
Safety First
Foil Drive allows riders to venture farther offshore than they typically would, making safety precautions essential. We recommend wearing a high-visibility rash guard to ensure you’re easily seen in case of an emergency. As with all foiling disciplines, beginners should wear an impact vest and helmet—both of which we carry from trusted brands.
Additionally, having a reliable communication device is crucial. Use a waterproof phone case or ensure your smartwatch can make calls in case of unexpected situations. It’s always better to be overprepared than underprepared. Finally, share your location with your local foiling community before heading out, providing an extra layer of safety for longer or more remote sessions.
Future Developments
Foil Drive technology is advancing rapidly, with improvements in power components, modular design, and strategic partnerships such as their collaboration with North to create the Electrified Foil Assist Integrated Mast. Other exciting collaborations are the Appletree Zapple and the Sunova Foil Drive foilboards. The company is positioned for continued global expansion and innovation, the future of foiling looks brighter than ever.
Read up on Foil Drive Etiquette! Respect, communication and education are monumental, crowds suck, be creative! Watch this !
Dave Sincox, thank you for helping me write this blog :-)