Whether you’re chasing maximum glide or looking for a more stable, all-round setup, the new mast range is designed to give you a clear choice based on how you ride. From ultra-efficient performance to reliable, everyday control, each mast has a distinct feel and purpose on the water.
Below, we break down the key differences, how each mast performs, and which one is right for you. Got a question? Drop us an email at info@armstrongfoils.com, and we'll make sure we answer it.
When should I choose Performance-X vs Performance Mk II?
Choose Performance X if you are prioritising glide and speed above everything else. It delivers a freer, reactive turning feel and works best with smaller to mid-size foils, typically suiting lighter riders around 90 to 95 kg and under, or anyone focused on efficiency-driven riding.
Choose Performance Mk II if you want one mast that works across everything. It offers greater stability and control in all conditions, making it ideal for larger foils, heavier riders, and anyone looking for a more consistent, predictable feel.
Which mast suits which rider?
Performance Mk II is the best choice for riders wanting stability and stiffness, particularly heavier riders or those using larger foils. Performance-X is faster and more reactive, designed for riders who push performance and efficiency. Carbon Mk II is a more accessible, forgiving carbon option for progression, while the alloy mast remains a durable and affordable entry point.
Performance-X
What does a 12 mm mast feel like?
It feels incredibly efficient through the water. Reduced drag means your foil lifts earlier and carries speed more easily. On takeoff, it can feel like your foil is a size bigger, but once you are riding, it feels smaller, faster and freer. A simple way to describe it is that it feels like you are riding in the fastest part of the mast all the time, like being in the bottom 10 cm of the mast for the entire session.
What has reducing the chord done?
Reducing the chord lowers drag and loosens the overall feel of the setup. This results in faster, snappier turns, easier adjustments while riding bumps, and greater yaw freedom during manoeuvres. Overall, the ride feels lighter, more agile and more reactive.
What is Performance-X built for?
It is built for maximum glide, speed and efficiency. It is a deliberate design choice for riders who prioritise reduced drag and a high-performance feel over maximum stiffness.
Does the shorter chord on Performance-X cause ventilation issues?
No. The foil section is designed to remain forgiving and stable, with no ventilation issues observed during testing.
How does stiffness compare to the alloy mast?
The alloy mast is quite stiff due to its thickness, but it comes with significantly more drag. Performance Mk II remains the stiffest carbon option and offers a much more efficient ride. The alloy mast remains a great option for entry-level or low-speed foiling due to its durability and stability.
Performance Mk II
What does Performance Mk II feel like?
It feels direct, stable and predictable, even when pushed hard. It is the go-to performance mast for riders who want confidence and consistency across a wide range of conditions.
How does Performance Mk II differ from Performance Mk I?
Performance Mk II has around 30 per cent more bending stiffness and 20 per cent more torsional stiffness. This provides greater control, especially with larger span foils and heavier riders, while delivering a more direct feel.
What does the added stiffness do?
The increased stiffness delivers immediate feedback, more control at speed and no lag under load. It creates a very connected, locked-in feel between the rider and the foil.
What is Performance Mk II built for?
It is designed for all-around performance across any foil, rider weight or condition. It is the most versatile mast in the range and the easiest recommendation if you want one mast to do it all.
Why move to a 12 mm profile and reduce chord length?
Reducing the chord to 105.5-106.8 mm loosens the feel and reduces drag. The thinner profile improves efficiency and manoeuvrability, especially for winging. Performance Mk II remains the stiffer option, which is better suited to heavier riders or more demanding conditions.
How does the chord compare to previous masts?
Earlier pre-Performance masts were around 110 mm, while Performance Mk I ranged from 114 to 118 mm. Performance-X now sits at 105.5-106.8 mm, making it the thinnest and most efficient mast in the lineup.
Was it difficult to source the M55 carbon?
Yes. It took nearly a year to secure the supply due to minimum order requirements and the fact that it is made to order. Its cost and complexity mean it is rarely used, but it is key to achieving the ultimate stiffness-to-weight performance of these masts.
Setup and Shimming
How should the new masts be shimmed?
Shimming should be done at the baseplate, not at the tail. The 725 mm and 795 mm lengths are set at 0.5°, while the 865 mm and 935 mm lengths are set at 1°. Adding a 0.5° shim to the shorter masts will align them with the rake of older Performance Mk I masts. The thick side of the shim should be placed at the front to slightly lift the board angle.
Why different mast rake angles?
You might notice that the Performance-X and Performance Mk II have different rake angles across the size range. Shorter masts (725 / 795) and longer masts (865 / 935) are generally used at different speeds, so they need slightly different starting angles.
725 / 795 — 0.5°
- Designed more for lower speed riding
- Less rake keeps the foil more efficient and easier to lift
- Helps with takeoff, pumping, and control at slower speeds
865 / 935 — 1.0°
- Designed for higher speed riding
- More rake adds stability and control when going fast
- Keeps the board feeling balanced and predictable at speed