For those who value minimal packing size, there is no getting around an inflatable concept ("inflatable"), even with wingboards. However, the advantages of inflatables often end with the pack size, the downside is sometimes a somewhat soft ride and a less rigid connection between the foil and the board. With the Plate model, manufacturer Duo aims to combine the best of both worlds.
We spoke to the responsible importer Markus Müller and asked him about the advantages of this board concept.
Markus, what is the Duo Plate concept and how is the idea realised?
The idea is to combine the advantages of both worlds - inflatable and fixed wingboards. Many wing surfers want the most compact pack size possible and therefore automatically end up with inflatables. However, the disadvantages are often that the connection between the foil and the box is less rigid and that you are standing on a soft deck. Also, there are usually not as many plug positions available for the loops on inflatable wingboards. Our idea was therefore to mount a fixed plate as a base on an inflatable board. The pack size is less than one metre and the board is rigid, which means that the riding experience is similar to that of a fixed board. In addition, you have normal loop plugs and therefore all the options for tuning.
How is the foil screwed into the box?
The inflatable is recessed at the rear, so the foil sits directly on the fixed plate. Because the plate is so rigid, the wingboard itself can also be made thinner. The idea is to have one plate for the series product, which can then be mounted on three different board sizes. We are planning three models of around 65, 90 and 110 litres and hope to be able to present the series boards at boot-Düsseldorf 2022.
We are excited, thanks for the interview!
If you are interested in the general differences between hardboards and inflatable wingboards, you will find the most important information in this clip:
More info to follow HERE on the website of the manufacturer Duo.
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
