Available in a whopping ten sizes, the Unit is almost a classic; the Wing was designed as an all-rounder for freeriding, downwinding and tricks. In addition to the standard version, the model is also available in the tested Concept Blue version and as a stiff and high-priced Aluula version, called E/LAB.
On land
Concept BlueThis term refers to a more sustainable production method at Duotone, which means that the use of colour is largely avoided and recycled plastics are used in some cases. Apart from the price - the Concept Blue version is around 350 euros more expensive - and the Aluula segment in the front tube area, the Concept Blue version is identical to the standard version in terms of profile and outline. The new 2025 model now offers the option of fitting either a full-length boom or short grips. Neither option is included in the scope of delivery, so the desired system must be purchased separately. Boom and handles are available in different sizes for 99 euros, depending on the wing selected. Although the L size for boom and handle covers all wing sizes from 3.5 to 6.5 square metres, because the handle system is bolted on, you usually have to buy a separate handle system for each wing.
Regardless of the grip system, the new unit looks like a single mould. It is flawless and has a high profile tension after inflation. The centre segment is made of Aluula material, which should give the wing additional stiffness. The Wing is ventilated via its own Duotone valve system, with two additional deflation valves for quick deflation. Compared to previous versions (HERE is a test of the Unit 2023) has also been adapted and is now quite small, but nice and stiff, which enables direct control impulses.
On the water
The Duotone Unit offers even lift right from the start. The profile is designed a little flatter than the absolute powerhouses on the market, but the wing can still be pumped efficiently if you have a reasonably good pumping technique. Tip for light winds: Reduce the inflation pressure by around 0.5 to 1.0 psi compared to the recommendation, this gives the Wing a little more elasticity when pumping. Regardless of whether you choose handles or the continuous boom, the grip comfort is high in both cases as a result of the small spar diameter and the non-slip surface. The front handle is now visibly longer and positioned so that the wing can also be flown one-handed - this makes it easier to turn out the leash after manoeuvres or to perform jumps where you have to grip directly at the centre of effort.
The fact that the new Unit is also an all-rounder is demonstrated not least by its flight behaviour: The wing is agile and invites you to make rotations and manoeuvres, but is still stable enough to make longer freeride runs without having to constantly correct the flying position. The wing also scores with high speed potential and a good upwind angle - this also complements fast foil types perfectly. Stronger gusts have little effect on the tight profile, and there is no need to worry about annoying fluttering or warping of the wing. If you let the Duotone Unit fly behind you in a neutral position on the wave, the trailing edge has a pleasingly low tendency to sink - the wing works really well when riding downwind. Only when the wave pushes against the wind is there sometimes a slight oscillation, here the unit does not seem perfectly balanced.
Duotone Unit - the conclusion
The new 2025 model also impresses as a genuine all-rounder that plays in the top league in terms of manoeuvrability, freeride suitability and control. The target group is therefore as large as possible, ranging from beginners to freeriders and downwind fans. Those who are fully committed to freestyle rotations will probably be better served by the slightly more compact Slick model.
Control, manoeuvre handling, range of use
Handle system must be purchased separately
Duotone Unit - technical data
- Test model: Duotone Unit SLS Concept Blue 5.0
- Wingspan: 339 cm
- Depth: n/a cm
- Weight (own measurement, without leash): 2.55 kg (with handles)
- Weight: 510 g/m2
- Available sizes: 2,0/2,5/3,0/3,5/4,0/4,5/5,0/5,5/6,0/6,5 qm
- Scope of delivery: Wing, bag
- Price (test model): 1409 Euro
- Contact: To the website
- Special features: Handle system must be purchased separately; standard version for 1089 euros
