Naish Hover Downwind

Naish has developed their all-new Hover Downwind foil board in a range of sizes that will fit experienced riders as well as new paddlers. Available in three sizes ranging from 7’1 to 7’8 and at volumes from 105L up to 125L there is a size for nearly every rider or condition.

Downwind boards are a constantly changing mark, and Naish has worked to provide a well-balanced design that has just the right length, width, rocker, and volume at each size. In a world of ever-lengthening downwind boards, Naish has kept the Hover Downwind board on the shorter end to retain accessibility and functionality without sacrificing the speed or performance.

Constructed with a high-density PVC reinforced foil track system, a full sandwich wood and glass deck, and strategically placed carbon/Kevlar reinforcements, this board feels incredibly well built without being overly heavy and will be able to withstand the abuse from paddle strikes or general dings. A recessed deck allows for greater feel to the foil and creates a comfortable platform to stand on for extended periods of time. The deck mounted carrying handle offers a functional utility that many downwind boards omit. This handle was not in the way and made handling the board on land very easy. Riders that fly with their boards or live in very hot environments will appreciate the deck mounted vent plug.

The Hover DW was tested both downwind and wingfoiling. Downwind conditions 20-30mph, chest high bumps; wing conditions 10-15mph, flat water. Riders looking for a one-board quiver should take a good look at the Hover Downwind. The 7’8 model used for testing was long enough for paddling, but maneuverable and surfy enough to be enjoyable for light wind wingfoiling. For a pure downwind foil board, the Hover Downwind is geared more towards riders looking for a shorter, surfy feeling board. The 7’8 length fit nicely in tighter, smaller bumps, and was very fun to carve turns. Flat water paddling was more difficult simply due to the shorter waterline, but once the board is up on foil the advantage of the shorter length is evident.

Beginner riders will appreciate the durability of the construction as paddle strikes, and accidental dings are an inevitable part of downwind foiling. The width feels like a good balance between efficiency and stability which will help riders of all skill levels. Advanced riders using small high aspect foils, or riders on foils that want to ride farther forward in the box will need to tweak their set up within the existing box position and length to maximise the performance of the Hover Downwind.

Overall, the Naish Hover Downwind is an impressively well-constructed design that has enough versatility to check many boxes with one board. Beginner foilers will leverage the stability and functionality of the design, and more advanced riders can truly push the limits of the surf style downwind shape.