Within the KT Foiling range, the fifth version of the Drifter model is recommended, amongst other things, for beginners to wing foiling. The board is available in eight sizes, ranging from 44 to 115 litres in volume. We were able to test the 100-litre Drifter 5 extensively. Alternatively, the model is also available in a different construction – the Drifter Pro Carbon It is identical in terms of shape, but the construction is around 600 to 800 grams lighter than the Drifter 5 Carbon.
On land
Even though the Drifter 5 Carbon is more compact as standard mid-length designs, the board is still quite long at 6’1 (185 cm). There are multiple strap positions available on the deck; the large, finely textured pad provides good grip. The hull features a sharp trailing edge at the stern to ensure a clean break of the water when getting underway. The integrated foil box is long, offering plenty of scope for adjusting the foil’s position. The carry handle, on the other hand, seems rather small. Weighing in at 7.0 kilos, the KT Drifter Carbon is reasonably light – though those who prefer something lighter have the Drifter Pro Carbon as an upgrade option.
On the water
The Drifter sits stably and is perfectly balanced in the water – the fairly wide tail, combined with a length of 6’1’’, gives the board sufficient stability around all axes, allowing even less experienced wingfoilers to stand up and get going with ease. Acceleration to take-off speed is flawless and with minimal drag. Whilst a slimmer mid-length board such as the Super K2 offers slightly better performance on take-off, that’s really just ‘complaining on a very high level’. Even in the air, the Drifter 5 Carbon remains impressively stable; the wide deck provides plenty of leverage and thus a great deal of control over the foil – which translates into a steady flight path and controlled manoeuvres. Should you happen to lose lift, the clearly visible bevels (= bevelled edges on the hull) do a great job and gently send the board back into the air. Speaking of ‘air’: the Drifter Carbon is also suitable for jumping, though it feels slightly bulkier and less agile when doing so. In a direct comparison, there are boards in this size that feel lighter on the foot.
KT Drifter 5 Carbon – the verdict
The KT Drifter Carbon is ideal as a first wingfoil board once you’ve taken up the sport, as it lifts off early, is easy to ride and offers plenty of control over the foil. But even experienced freeriders won’t find it boring; paired with a snappy mid-aspect foil, you can execute fast runs and fluid manoeuvres without any restrictions. Anyone planning to get into freestyle or wave riding should opt for the lighter Pro Carbon Consider this version; it’s likely to be a bit more agile and playful.
KT Drifter 5 Carbon – technical specifications
- Test model: KT Drifter 5 Carbon 100
- Length: 6’1’’ (185 cm)
- Width: 26.8” (68.2 cm)
- Weight (measured by myself, excluding straps): 7.00 kilos
- Volume: 100 litres
- Available sizes: 5’1’’x44 // 5’3’’x52 // 5’5’’x60 // 5’6’’x70 // 5’9’’x80 // 5’11’’ x 90 // 6’1’’ x 100 // 6’3’’ x 115 litres
- Contents: Board, straps
- Price: 1,865 euros
- Info: Visit the website
- Special features: Also available in a Pro Carbon version for 2,230 euros
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
