The AFS Blackbird: Soaring Above the Rest as the Best Light Wind Wing Foil Board
Looking for a more accessible board? check out the AFS Whitebird in 6'6 and 6'8.
Or check out our other Lightwind/Downwind Boards from Armstrong, F-One, Duotone, AK and AFS
Introduction
When it comes to wing foiling in light wind conditions, having the right gear can make all the difference in your experience. Among the many wing foil boards available on the market, the AFS Blackbird stands out as the champion of light wind performance. In this blog, we will explore the key reasons why the AFS Blackbird is the best light wind wing foil board. One of the local riders is quite often the only person up and gliding, using the Blackbird (and AFS Pure 1100) when the wind is too light for everyone else.
The slightly sunken deck on the Blackbird meant I felt well connected to the foil and always in control. I was able to confidently fly downwind and practice reading the ocean. It was invaluable for my progression, a few sessions like that and I felt ready to give SUP downwinding another shot. Once I’d decided I’d gone far enough, I’d come off foil and paddle back to my wing, a really fun way to foil, I highly recommend it. -Tonic Magazine
- Exceptional Floatation and Stability
One of the critical factors that make the AFS Blackbird shine in light wind conditions is its exceptional floatation and stability. With its generous volume and clever design, this board ensures that you stay afloat and stable even in minimal wind. It offers a larger surface area than traditional boards, allowing you to get up on the foil more easily and stay on it for longer durations, all while keeping your balance.
Volume distribution and design have been optimised to help the rider gain speed for the earliest take-off. The bulb at the front of the board maximises aerodynamics whilst providing strong support on the front foot for easy take-off. The optimised reduction of wetted surface brings more glide. The T Tail combined with a pin tail focuses efficient release and minimises drag. The pin tail reduces your wave at the tail and further optimises your drag.- Foil and Co
- Wide Nose and Tail Design
The AFS Blackbird features a wide nose and tail design, which further enhances its stability. This feature not only provides additional surface area for planing, but it also prevents sudden nosedives or tail breaches, common challenges in light wind conditions. This increased width translates to better control and more enjoyable sessions when the breeze is scarce.
I actually think AFS has got a solid all-round shape here that isn’t so long that you can’t pump it, but is fast enough for an efficient take-off. It’s also an ideal length for wing foiling or SUP surf foiling making it a super versatile purchase for your quiver. - Tonic Magazine
- Efficient Foil Compatibility
The AFS Blackbird is designed to be perfectly compatible with a wide range of foils, making it a versatile choice for riders of varying skill levels. The board's foil track system allows for easy foil adjustment, ensuring you can fine-tune your setup to maximize efficiency in light wind. This versatility enables riders to adapt the board to different wind conditions and even explore more advanced foil manoeuvres as they progress.
- Lightweight Construction
To excel in light wind conditions, a foil board must be lightweight and responsive. The AFS Blackbird's construction is optimized for both performance and weight, using high-quality materials like carbon fiber. This lightweight build not only aids in early planing but also makes the board easier to handle both on and off the water. Transporting the board to your favourite riding spot is a breeze.
- User-Friendly Design
The AFS Blackbird's user-friendly design extends beyond its excellent stability. It boasts a forgiving rocker line that ensures easy water starts and smooth takeoffs, which are essential in light wind conditions. Even beginners will find this board accommodating, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to wing foiling.
Long and narrow board providing unmatched glide with an outstanding and ultra-early take-off capacity. The wide edges, the T Tail, provides enhanced pre-flight, lateral stability -Foil and Co
- Durability and Quality
The AFS Blackbird is crafted with durability in mind. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of wing foiling in various conditions. The board's quality build guarantees a long-lasting investment that will provide countless hours of enjoyment.
Full carbon sandwich construction, with optimised carbon placement making the board stiff, light and responsive. High density foam in the deck and foil box areas for extra stiffness and durability. Made in France. -Foil and Co
Conclusion
In the world of wing foiling, the AFS Blackbird has undoubtedly established itself as the best light wind wing foil board. Its unique combination of stability, versatility, lightweight design, and user-friendliness sets it apart from the competition. When you're faced with light wind conditions, the AFS Blackbird will help you soar gracefully above the water and make the most of your wing foiling adventures. With this board beneath your feet, you'll experience the magic of wing foiling even when the wind is less than ideal.
*Another one of the reasons this is one of our personal favourite light wind wing foiling boards is the length is not too much when compared to a lot of 7-8ft down wind boards, and in waves this can make life much easier.