Double Dip: Lift Florence 110 X & 130 X

Lift’s latest foil developed with input from John John and Nathan Florence demonstrates a commitment to a dedicated downwind hydrofoil design with the all-new 110 X and 130 X paired with a 21 X tail.

The Florence collection is constructed with a high modulus carbon providing an ultra-stiff design that efficiently translates the rider’s energy with near zero loss when paired with the M2 mast. Consistent with other Lift products, the fabrication, fitment, and attention to detail is top notch. Riders will find the mast and tail connections to be snug, yet removable without excessive hammering.

Designed to be a “daily driver” for most conditions, the Florence 130 X has an 11.7 aspect ratio that provides for an easy take off, great low end, and enough top end speed to handle larger bumps or faster sections. The larger area allows for a wide range of operating speeds and can handle just about any conditions.

Riders with more extreme conditions or advanced skill levels will push their performance with the Florence 110 X. With a 13.1 aspect ratio, the 110 has a level of efficiency that is incredible, providing the ultimate downwind performance design. The 110 has a higher operating speed requirement than the larger 130, but when the foil is engaged the glide and speed retention is simply insane.

Paring both the Florence 110 X and 130 X with the all-new Florence 21 X tail will give each foil an ideal amount of lift, control, and glide. Offering excellent low end, with the ability to glide at higher speeds, the 21X tail is an excellent starting point. The tail connection is identical to other Lift designs allowing riders to customize their setup to match their conditions and personal preferences. Most riders will feel comfortable on the 21 X, however riders looking to unlock the full top end performance of these foils at the cost of some stability and control will find the 20 Carve a great alternative.

Both foils were tested in a variety of downwind conditions ranging from 15-30 MPH winds, bumps from 2’ to 10’. Rider 6’4 185lb.

Starting with the Florence 130 X paired with a 21 X tail, the most noticeable feature off the start is the easy paddle up and low stall speed. With just a couple paddles the 130 wants to lift and get the rider moving. The 21 X tail provides just enough tail input without being overwhelming or competing with the front wing. As soon as the board lifts off the water the 130 wants to accelerate to its cruising speed without requiring excessive pumping or additional paddles. The massive low end allows riders to relax and take rests on bumps as small as knee high (roughly 2-3’), and with just a couple light pumps the 130 will get back into its comfortable cruising speed. Riders pushing the 130 X in conditions towards the upper end of the ideal speed range will find a little better top end performance by trading out the 20 Carve tail at the cost of pitch stability.

Downwind foilers who have strong winds, large bumps, and are seeking the ultimate in speed and performance will be best matched with the Florence 110 X. Compared to the previous generation of the 110, the Florence 110 X has significantly better low end without sacrificing a dramatic amount of top end speed. As is consistent with most foils at this size, riders should expect to require more output to paddle the foil up, but as soon as the 110 is flying, the efficiency and glide is incredible. Pairing the 110 X with the 21 X tail offers a great amount of low end providing an accessible entry into a high-performance design. When the 110 X is moving in larger bumps at top end speeds, there is a point where the 21 X tail does feel like it is holding the front wing back. This is rectified by the 20 Carve tail, however this does come at the expense of stability and is only recommended for expert riders.

Overall, the Lift Florence 110 X, 130 X, and 21X tail are setting the bar for downwind performance foils. Aspect ratio is proving to be a key factor in downwind foil performance, and both the 130 X and 110 X are pushing the limits at each respective size. Paired with the 21 X tail, riders will have accessible entry to either size of front wing, and a variety of tail options provides users the ability to tune and increase performance parallel to rider progression. If you’re a beginner to intermediate downwind foiler, or Hawaiian channel crossing competitor, the Florence collection will be able to meet whatever conditions you decide to challenge.