Foils 2026: Smooth turns, plenty of control – putting the North Sonar MA V2 to the test

Manufacturer North has the Sonar model in its range – a medium-aspect foil available in eleven sizes ranging from 500 to 2400 cm². We were able to test the 1050 cm² and 1200 cm² sizes. The range is designed such that the larger sizes, from 1500 to 2400 cm², are intended primarily to appeal to beginners thanks to their forgiving wing design, whilst the smaller sizes, from 1,200 to 500 cm², are designed more for speed and to meet the needs of experienced foilers.

On land

The sizes tested – 1050 and 1200 cm² – are characterised by moderate wingspans (85/87.5 cm) and aspect ratios of 6.9 and 6.4 respectively. The wing tips are gently rounded; the airfoil is clearly not particularly thin or optimised for top speed, but is slightly thicker. The wings are attached to the carbon fuselage in the traditional manner using screws. Speaking of the fuselage: for our test, we used the medium-length version at 65 centimetres, which, according to the manufacturer, works best for all-round use. Alternatively, a 70-centimetre fuselage offering even more stable flight and a 60-centimetre fuselage with better manoeuvrability are available. Complementing the 1050 front wing, the 210 rear wing stabilises the flight at the rear; when combined with the 1200 front wing, the Sonar S270 Stabiliser is the first choice.

All connections are secured with sturdy Torx screws (M8); the correct screw lengths are printed on the parts themselves. The connection to the mast is nice and rigid, as the connector extends deep into the carbon fuselage and is secured with two bolts. With the UHM 85 carbon mast used here, the mast and mounting plate form a single piece. Overall, the fit is of a high standard. The complete set with the premium UHM 85 carbon mast costs 2,639 euros. Those looking for a more affordable option can opt for the CF 85 carbon mast, bringing the price down to 2,235 euros; with the AF 85 aluminium mast, the set costs just 1,630 euros.

On the water

It is striking that the Sonar Foil maintains a stable airflow even at low speeds. Lift is achieved at a comparatively low speed, and there are virtually no unexpected instances of the wing suddenly dropping back down. The 1200 wing generates enough lift to serve as a light-wind option for very light riders (<70 kilos). However, the 1050 also offers above-average early lift and a very reliable airflow at low speeds. In the air, the North Sonar MA wing delivers a decent, albeit not exceptionally high, top speed – the profile thickness limits the speed somewhat, but conversely ensures very easy handling and a stable airflow. With its medium aspect ratio, both wings are wonderfully responsive to turns at all times; even with minimal pressure, gentle turns can be executed effortlessly with the 65 fuselage, ideal for tight manoeuvres such as foil 360s. A welcome feature: even if you lose speed at the end of a turn, the wing carries you on safely for a long time. Overall control is excellent, and there’s no need to worry about the wing pushing up to the surface in strong gusts either.

The wing’s greatest strength lies in handling swell and moderate surf waves. In these conditions, it’s wonderful for carving smooth, gentle turns on the wave. Glide is actually quite decent, despite the shorter wingspan. It goes without saying that the North Sonar MA wing cannot match the glide of a long, high-aspect-ratio wing. However, if you stay on the steep part of the swell, you can still get a fair bit out of typical Baltic Sea swells. The wing is also perfectly suitable for jumping and freestyle. It delivers good pop and regains lift immediately after landings.

North Sonar MA V2 Foil – the verdict

Both the Sonar MA 1050 and the 1200 score highly for early lift, plenty of control and superb turning characteristics. This makes the wings ideal for relaxed cruising, fluid manoeuvres and, above all, use in moderate swell or surf. Beginners to wingfoiling should consider the 70 fuselage for larger front wings from 1500 upwards; the 65 fuselage offers a good balance of stability and turning potential. Those who are fully focused on waves should opt for the 60 fuselage. All in all, the North Sonar MA V2 really comes into its own as an easy-to-ride all-rounder for freeride, manoeuvres, swell and basic freestyle, rather than as an extremely fast performance foil for top speed and high jumps.

Early lift, control, manoeuvres & swell

Speed potential

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North Sonar MA V2 Foil – technical specifications

• ​Products tested: North Sonar MA 1050/1200
• Area of front wing: 1050/1200 cm²
• Wingspan of the front wing: 85/87.5 cm (aspect ratio 6.9/6.4)
• Area of the rear wing (Sonar S210/Sonar S270): 210/270 cm²
• Wingspan of the tailplane: 35/39.5 cm
• Fuselage: 65 cm
• Mast (UHM carbon): 85 cm
• Price of test kit: 2,639 euros
• Weight of set (measured by us): 3.88/3.94 kg
• Contents: Cover
• Special features: Compatible with the aluminium mast (215 euros) when used with the adapter (205 euros)
• Information: Visit the website