Early gliders: Duotone String Ray and Aero Free 1000 on test - nimble freeride foil
Surf Testteam
· 13.08.2025
The 1000 wing size is at the lower limit of what is usually used in the freeride segment. Nevertheless, the set with the rather narrow Sting Ray 126 already planes at the lower foil wind limit and is very playful overall. The board is easy to pump, even with both feet in the straps. The trim seems to be designed to slip into the straps very early. The foil then lifts off early and you immediately have a very sporty, fast feeling. However, it is also livelier, livelier and more demanding than on the Severne Alien, which is probably due to the comparatively narrow tail width. If you look at the top view, you can immediately see that the distance between the rear foot strap and the centre of the board is significantly smaller.
Agile flight behaviour, but somewhat more demanding
The foil is very fast, experienced foil freeriders can certainly reach the 40 km/h mark, significantly more than on the 1200 Redwing or 1400 Starboard foil. However, an advanced foil level is required for this. In addition to the more agile, but also somewhat more demanding flight behaviour, the board offers very good turning characteristics: it reacts spontaneously to everything you do. However, the movements of the foil are also significantly faster than those of the Starboard or Severne and require more practice in order to shift your weight in time - for example, when climbing or descending.
It reacts similarly in the jibe. Although completely different radii can be realised, at the jibe end the board requires a quick step into the new front straps. The foil with carbon mast weighs little, appears very stiff and the connections are solid and elegantly designed. The wing can also be used with larger sails around 7.5 square metres, but then probably better in the next larger board.
Surf summary of Duotone Sting Ray and Aero Free
This combination of compact board and narrow wing is more lively, faster and seems particularly suitable for more experienced foilers and for manoeuvres.
Technical data Duotone Sting Ray 126 SLS
- Volume: 126 litres
- Length: 206 cm
- Width: 74 cm
- Weight: 8.85 kilos* (incl. nose guard)
- Price: 2599 Euro
- Info: duotonesports.com
Technical data Duotone Aero Free SLS 1000
- Wingspan: 84.4 cm*
- Surface area: 1000 cm2
- Mast length: 90 cm*
- Fuselage: 94 cm*
- Weight4.55 kilos*
- Price: 1797 Euro
- Info: duotonesports.com
*surf measurement
