Double Dip: Takuma Kujira 750 & 1095

Takuma is a truly global brand with roots across continents, and their line of Kujira hydrofoils certainly embodies this spirit of diverse performance. Like a good toolset, the Kujiras span sizes from 750 sq/cm up to 1750 sq/cm, accommodating a wide variety of applications and rider intentions. A recent addition, the 1095 caught my eye as a standout shape in the Kujira range; higher aspect and with slightly tweaked details as compared to its siblings. Of course, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to also request a 750, Matahi Drollet’s tool of choice when casually packing Tahitian barrels. A double dip test was in order.

Laying things out, Takuma provides fitted, padded bags for the major components: one for the mast and fuselage set, the other for the front foil and stabilizer. Note that it’s possible to purchase simple foil covers as well. The model-specific fitted foam casing is an excellent format and provides superior protection when transporting your foils anywhere. Regarding the mast and fuselage, it’s possible to pursue either aluminum or carbon pathways. I received the alu 75, which felt about average in weight and fitment. It’s stiff, simple, reliable, and affordable. If I were in the market, I’d go with this construction. As standard, both the 750 and 1095 are paired with a 178 sq/cm stabilizer. Takuma also sent me their tiny 158 sq/cm stabilizer for my experimentation. The Takuma system has no shims for stabilizer trimming, but there’s certainly enough room should you want to do it yourself.

I’ll begin with the 1095. At an aspect ratio of 8.3, it’s fairly high aspect but still a ways off from the double digits we’re beginning to see across the industry. Don’t get the impression that’s a negative, though. There’s so much more to a foil’s capability than its aspect ratio. The Kujira range’s signature tubercles, or leading edge protrusions, are slightly modified for the 1095 as compared to others in the line up. No doubt this is a design decision motivated by glide efficiency, which is where the 1095 separates itself from the pack. I’m 70kg/154lb, and for its size, this foil proved incredibly efficient through the water. As an experienced wing foiler, I found the 1095’s speed range quite ideal for everyday riding. Low speed stability, while reduced a bit compared to the 1210, is still excellent. Pitch and roll, especially paired with the standard 178 stabilizer, are intuitive and not at all intimidating as is often the case with higher aspect foils. Ventilation — when a wingtip breaks the surface — is a non-event, testament to those tubercles and the wingtip design. If you’re looking for a lightwind winging or downwinding solution, the 1095 is a strong contender. It’s fun and offers dependable flying characteristics that will appeal to intermediate riders on up.

Moving on to the 750 and it is safe to say that it is a beautiful little beast. Its narrow wingspan of just 67.5cm/26in is simply stunning in the hands. An aspect ratio of 5.9 speaks to this foil’s intention to be lightning fast rail to rail, and it certainly delivers. Again, this foil is a departure from the current trend of tiny, ultra high aspect foils. It feels thoroughly modern, yet original in the best way. Initially, I paired the 750 with the 158 stabilizer just to see how loose and reactive Takuma’s highest performance foil could get. When winging, the result is pure excitement. Turns are instantaneous, and pitch stability becomes a very subjective description. It’s a thoroughbred hydrofoil that loves speed and power. The same can be said in the surf, where the 750 shines as a top to bottom, take-no-prisoners instrument of wave dissection. As expected, pumping isn’t easy, but it can be done with the right technique and cardio fitness. The sense is that this foil is focused more on what happens on the wave face, and less so on how many waves the rider can connect. I recommend beginning with the 178 stabilizer for a higher degree of stability, then moving on the 158 if you’re seeking more. I’d also suggest pairing the 750 with an 85cm mast or taller to extract the most from its potential. Overall, the smallest Kujira is a bag of laughs to keep in advanced riders’ quivers for those windier, bigger days.

Fun and inspiring, the Kujira 1095 and 750 are a great pair, even if they’re vastly different flavors. Takuma has struck gold with these ones. KVS