For a long time, the foil world was split into two camps: the short, stubby wing boards that were a handful to paddle, and the 7-foot-plus "missiles" built for downwind pros. But if you’ve been down to our test centre recently, you’ll have seen a new shape taking over.
The Midlength Foil Board has arrived, and it’s effectively solving the "UK Problem." We have a lot of days with marginal wind, lumpy Solent chop, or rolling beach breaks that aren't quite big enough for a prone shortboard. The Midlength bridges that gap, offering the glide of a downwind board with the agility of something much smaller.
What Defines a Midlength Foil Board?
In the current market, a Midlength usually sits between 5’2” and 7’0”. They are characterized by a narrower outline and a longer, sleeker profile than a traditional wing board.
The secret is in the glide. By adding a bit of length and pulling in the width, these boards track straighter and release from the water much earlier. Whether you are using a wing, a paddle, or a Foil Drive system, a Midlength gets you on foil with significantly less effort.
Who is it for?
- The Light-Wind Winger: If you're tired of "schlogging" on a 5'0" board waiting for a gust, the Midlength allows you to taxi up to speed and pop up in sub-12 knot conditions.
- The Foil Drive / Assist Enthusiast: These boards are the perfect platform for motor-assisted foiling, providing the stability and length needed for easy launches.
- The Crossover Rider: If you want one board that can prone surf, parawing, and wing foil, this is the category to look at.
Why Midlengths Excel in UK Conditions
Our conditions are rarely "textbook." We deal with short-period bumps and fickle winds. A board that relies solely on wing power or a perfect wave to get going will often leave you frustrated. The Midlength fills this gap because it offers:
- Earlier Release: The displacement-style hulls found on boards like the AXIS Frank Dart help the board plane and "pop" off the surface, rather than sticking to it.
- Paddle Power: If you’re prone foiling at a UK beach break, the extra length means you can catch flatter swells that shorter boards simply can't get into.
- Touchdown Forgiveness: The narrow nose and refined rockers mean that if you come off foil in the chop, the board skips and glides rather than digging in and pitching you over the front.
If you’re wondering how to dial in your setup once you've got your board, check out our guide on how to position your mast for foiling.
Key Models We Are Seeing on the Water
At the shop, we only stock what we actually ride. Here are the standout Midlengths defining the scene right now:
| Model | Primary Use Case | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Duotone Midfish | Foil Assist / Prone / Wing | Optimized for motor-assist with a clever "fishtail" for cable management. |
| AXIS Frank Mini Dart | Parawing / Prone / Wing | Incredible release and "rebound" off the water surface. |
| Starboard Above | Light-Wind Wing / Downwind Lite | Bridges the gap between the Ace (DW) and the Take Off. |
The Duotone Midfish has been a standout for us. It’s purpose-built for the Foil Assist crowd but performs remarkably well as a "one-board quiver" for anyone looking to transition between disciplines.
The Trade-Off: Manoeuvrability vs. Efficiency
Let’s be honest: a 6’4” Midlength isn't going to feel as "flickable" in a 360 as a 4’8” freestyle board. You are carrying more swing weight. However, for most UK riders, the ability to triple your flight time in a session is a much better trade than having a board that only works when the wind is blowing 20 knots.
As I always tell people in the shop: The best board is the one that gets you on the foil. If you’re struggling with take-offs, you aren't working on your carving anyway. For a deeper dive into how foil choice interacts with these boards, take a look at our Duotone Foils Explained guide.
"The extra length isn't a hindrance; it's a runway. In the UK, efficiency is the difference between a frustrating session and a great one." — Tony Jones
Try It Before You Commit
Midlengths are a different feel entirely. Some riders love the "locked-in" glide, while others take a session or two to adjust to the narrower width. This is exactly why we run The SUP Company Test Centre. You can come down, try an AXIS Dart or a Duotone Midfish, and see how the volume distribution works for your weight and riding style.
Book Your Foil Demo Session Here
Midlength Foil Board FAQs
How much volume do I need in a Midlength foil board?
Because these boards are narrower, they can feel "tippy" at first. For winging, we usually recommend aiming for 10-15 litres above your body weight (in kg) for your first midlength. If you are using it primarily for Foil Assist or Prone, you can often go much lower—around 40-60L depending on your experience.
Are these boards too long for carving?
While they have more swing weight than a compact board, the narrow outline actually allows for much deeper rail-to-rail carves without the board catching the water. They offer a "surfier," more flowing style of riding rather than "skatey" freestyle.
Can I use a Midlength for Downwinding?
Yes, but they are "Downwind Lite." They are easier to manage and transport than an 8'0" DW board, making them a great entry point into the world of bumps and glides, especially when paired with a high-aspect foil.