I recently moved onto an Armstrong kit:
1550/232/0 with 85cm mast.
Been super impressed.

What blows me away is coming from a SPG Albatross 250 which is a great foil - the 1550 seems to harness ocean swell energy more efficiently!
Obviously the 1550 also turns great comparatively.

My question :
I'm keen on the 1850, but specifically how does the glide and pumping of the 1850 compare to the 1550?
Is getting the 1850 worth it?

Any updates on Armies true HA foil...?

My conditions are mostly 10-20kts and max 5-6ft ocean swell.

Thanks...

The 1850 and 1550 are quite different to ride. I have both plus the 1250 but wouldn't sell any.

1.The 1850 comes up much easier in light conditions where I feel more lift is coming from the foil that pumping my 6m. It pumps well and glides on the smallest bumps especially with the +1 shim. It doesn't feel fast compared to the 1250 but it actually is averaging 25 Kmph and hitting mid 30's down a head high wave. Turn radius is wide so I don't prefer it wave riding unless small or super light under 13knots. Nice just to get out there on really marginal days. Starts to feel big is steep sections.

2.The 1550 is much more fun in the surf because it transitions much tighter onto the face. I also find this the best foil to learn new tricks on because you have more variability in the turn radius as it rolls over so smooth. I don't find it great for down winding compared to 1850 or 1250.

So the simple answer is yes buy the 1850 and while you are at it get the 1250 as well. Having already invested in Armstrong you might as well have options to mix it up.

See if you can demo both the 1250 and the 1850. Both fantastic wings. I use the 1250 with -2 shim for everything. Just getting the 1050 for high wind and big waves. Will keep the 1550 because it surfs so well.

Hilly Do you lose much speed (say for a downwind which I know you don't do regularly) on the -2?

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eppo said..
Hilly Do you lose much speed (say for a downwind which I know you don't do regularly) on the -2?

It feels faster

Just checking the -2 adds more front foot pressure right ??

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eppo said..
Just checking the -2 adds more front foot pressure right ??

Yes, use a washer to get the feel. Front bolt.

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hilly said..

eppo said..
Just checking the -2 adds more front foot pressure right ??

Yes, use a washer to get the feel. Front bolt.

I have been using the 1250 with the +1 but feel I need it right it forward in the tracks to feel kind of balanced.... and I find it only feels okay at this position, nothing special.

Could you please tell me when you use the -2 shim / washer .... do you still have it forward in the tracks or do you move it back to offset the extra lift from the tail?


Tks.