The manufacturer Duotone entered the mid-length segment in 2024 with the Skybrid model, now the board is available with a revised shape and in additional sizes.
On land
The new Duotone Skybrid is now available in eight sizes from 45 to 130 litres, we were able to test ride the board in size 6'1'' (100 litres). Compared to the predecessor model the shape has been significantly revised, so the boards are now slightly narrower but longer with the same volume. The shape in the tail has also been modified. Diamond Tail with a sharp tear-off edge is designed to support early take-off and prevent the board from getting stuck when planing. The built-in carbon boxes for mounting the foil are long, so there should be a suitable position for every standard foil on the market.
A large footpad has been glued to the deck, which is pleasantly textured and offers a good grip. The scope of delivery includes comfortable foot straps, for which different positions are provided on the deck. The board is built using a Biax carbon-PVC sandwich construction, which gave our test size with 100 litres a weight of 6.54 kilos. If you are looking for a small pack size and/or a favourable price, you should also consider the the inflatable Skybrid Air (999 euros) in the back of your mind.
On the water
Despite the slightly reduced width compared to the previous model, the Duotone Skybrid SLS 6'1'' is very stable in the water around the longitudinal axis, which is of course primarily due to the stabilising effect of the foil. The board also tilts very little around the transverse axis, where the stretched outline helps to generously forgive load errors. The Skybrid converts the pull of the wing into speed with ease, and in combination with powerful wings and the appropriate pumping technique, the board can be brought up to the required take-off speed very early on. Nevertheless, the length is not so generous that you immediately have the feeling of having a block on your leg in the air, the Skybrid is still reasonably compact and always light on your feet. The shape is also great for unintentional touchdowns, where the railshape sends the board gently back into the air without any major loss of speed. The flat deck offers enough space for foot changes in manoeuvres and even smaller jumps are not out of the question on the board.
Duotone Skybrid SLS 6'1'' - the conclusion
The Skybrid convinces as a very easy to ride, forgiving mid-length board both under the feet of wingfoil beginners and parawingers, as well as for sporty freeriding and downwinding with the wing. The potential for absolute light wind now appears to have been further improved, but the concept is not too extreme and remains suitable for the masses. Only those who are seriously aiming for freestyle will probably be better served with a more compact board like the Sky Style.
Early takeoff, soft touchdowns
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Duotone Skybrid SLS 6'1'' - technical data
- Test model: Duotone Skybrid SLS 6'1''
- Length 6'1'' (185 cm)
- Width: 22'' (56 cm)
- Weight (own measurement, without loops): 6.54 kilos
- Volume: 100 litres
- Available sizes: 5'2''x45 // 5'5''x60 // 5'7''x70 // 5'9''x80 // 5'11''x90 // 6'1''x100 // 6'4''x115 // 6'7''x130 litres
- Scope of delivery: Board, foot straps
- Price: 2249 Euro
- Special features: Also available as an inflatable Skybrid Air available for 999 euros
