Freeride foil: GunSails Hy-Foil 1500 in the test - affordable pleasure foil

The GunSails Hy-Foil 1500 is well thought out from the moment it is unpacked: the foil is delivered in a generously sized and well-padded bag in which all components can be stowed and protected separately. The front wing even comes with its own neoprene cover so that the foil can be stored safely without risk of damage even when assembled. The foil set consists of an aluminium mast (85 cm), an aluminium fuselage and rather solid-looking carbon wings - a combination that offers an attractive compromise between performance and price, but also results in a slightly higher weight. However, this is more noticeable when carrying the kite and hardly at all when foiling.

The build quality is impressive throughout: the components look high-quality, the finish is clean, all parts fit without wobbling and can be assembled quickly. Three screws connect the mast to the fuselage and the front wing to the fuselage. The back wing is attached with two Torx screws. The tuttle box adapter is tightened with three long Allen screws. The rigidity of the mast and fuselage is high, and the aluminium mast does not have to hide behind carbon in terms of rigidity. The contact surfaces of the connections are functional, although somewhat narrower compared to some newer systems, which could result in a slightly lower overall stiffness - but is not noticeable in practice.

With a wingspan of 90 cm and an extremely large airfoil depth of 20 cm, the 1500 front wing is noticeably stockier than the other freeride sizes (1050 and 1350). The unusual wing profile with its maximum thickness approximately in the centre of the depth differs significantly from the usual teardrop shape. The wing edges are slightly sharpened, but not overly prone to injury - with the exception of the somewhat angular, tapered wingtips of the back wing, which in our opinion should be a little more rounded in this foil category.

Lively and balanced driving experience

With a surface area of 1500 cm², the GunSails HyFoil Free 1500 is one of the larger foils in the windsurfing sector. Nevertheless, it is immediately noticeable: It is not a sluggish heavy transporter, but is lively, balanced and definitely sporty. The launch is controlled and without abrupt take-off. The foil needs some speed in semi-planing mode before it gently transitions to flight mode - which is particularly favourable for beginners or comfort-oriented riders. Supported by one or two pump strokes, the board can be accelerated quickly. If desired, the board can be lifted off very early with a small impulse from the rear foot - but without sudden overreactions.

Once in the air, the foil remains calm and predictable, maintaining a very stable flying height even at low speeds. And even with increasing speed or stronger winds, the behaviour always remains controllable. A particularly positive feature is that the foil neither pulls upwards unintentionally nor sinks uncontrollably. All movements in the up-down axis are smooth and controllable. In the lowest wind range, the board encourages a more upright stance; as the wind increases, the board can be edged more strongly and with a sporty feeling and you can let your body and rig hang clearly to windward. This also allows you to go upwind very effectively. The foil sometimes trembles a little, like when the lead drifts over undulating sandy ground when fishing, but these are only minor disturbances that only the most sensitive toes will notice and do not affect control or performance.

Even at higher speeds - around 35 km/h in the test with light to medium wind pressure in a 6.5 mm sail - the resistance remains surprisingly low. The profile seems to be very well profiled and allows a speed that you wouldn't necessarily expect from a 1500 foil. In manoeuvres such as gybes, the foil also reacts reliably and predictably. Tighter radii than classic power jibes are certainly possible, even if they are not extremely tight. Those who steer actively will be rewarded with stable cornering behaviour and very good speed through the jibe. Foot changes are also easy, as the foil maintains a constant height and is not overly sensitive to weight shifts.

Surf summary of the GunSails Hy-Foil Free 1500

The GunSails Hy-Foil Free 1500 impresses with its well thought-out design, high-quality materials and balanced flight behaviour. Particularly noteworthy is the successful combination of early take-off, high control and decent speed. It appeals to both ambitious beginners and experienced freeriders who are looking for a versatile foil for light wind days. In view of the attractive price, it offers a very good overall package.

Technical data GunSails Hy-Foil Free 1500

• Wingspan: 90 cm*
• Total length: 96.5 cm*
• Mast: 85 cm*
• Weight: 6.32 kilos*
• Price: 799 Euro
• Info: gunsails.com

*surf measurement