The central strut is now completely straight, which allows F-One to better control its deformation and possible twisting, while reducing drag. As a result, the infill is a bit lower and deforms less, and we’ve extended it almost all the way to the back. Our innovative Load Diffuser is reduced for weight gain, especially during freefly.
F-One have also added dihedral angle to improve stability and keep the wingtips out of the water when pumping and riding. The new leading and trailing edge tensions as well as a refined radial cut help keep the profile smooth and stable for incredible performance and control.
The accurate panel layout, precise load management and staggered seams continue to bring exceptional control of the profile, especially in the high end. The use of HITEX on the inflatable structure and TECHNOFORCE™ 52g and 66g on the canopy offer great resistance to elongation, and therefore greater durability and performances. The materials are also perfectly distributed to account for the different tensions, high pressures, and weight distribution in each specific area.
Small radial cuts are implemented on the wingtips and on the back of the strut to spread tensions. Aligning the fibre exactly along the load paths means that stretch can be controlled to a never-before-seen level on a wing. Located on the back of the strut, our Load Diffuser made of overlapping panels of hard Mylar and Dacron further helps maintaining the profile sleek and efficient, leading to the ultimate stability, performances, and longevity.
Materials:
The inflatable structure of the Strike is made of HITEX 158g and 178g. This brand-new high tenacity polyester exclusive to F-ONE offers great resistance to elongation and therefore greater durability and performances.
The central strut is thinner in diameter thanks to the HITEX 158g and its independent valve that allows for a better control of its pressure. Its longitudinal reinforcements help command its shape and resistance.
The four central segments of the leading edge on each side of the strut are made of HITEX 178g, while the four outer segments nearer the wingtips are in 158g. Both materials are perfectly distributed to account for the different tensions, high pressures, and weight distribution in this area.
Since the beginning, we have also kept a thin leading edge diameter at the wingtips, bringing agility, comfort and glide, but also lightness and less inertia.
In addition to the new HITEX, F-One have developed a thicker TECHNOFORCE™/D2 in 66g for the trailing edge where tensions are important and resistance essential. The rest of the wing’s canopy is in TECHNOFORCE™/D2 in 52g.
Handles:
To further improve and optimize the rider’s control of the wing, F-One have rigidified their handles while keeping the original, lighter construction that doesn’t include any hard parts that could damage your wing, ding your board, or hit yourself. The grippy, ergonomic and comfortable handles allow for some flexibility so your wrist is always in line with your arm.
This also gave F-One the opportunity to design the strut just as we liked. The front of it goes down straight away on your front hand before going up into the wing’s profile near your back hand. This leads to a more natural position to sheet in.
Wing Design:
Through Sail Engineering, we have conceived a completely new design; everything has been precisely thought-out to adapt the wing’s shape to the tensions and new materials.
Every panel on the Strike is precisely laid to carry a specific load. The front of the wing combines horizontal panels separated by a vertical seam from the innovative radial centre panels, which are mapped to accurately follow every load trajectory. The trailing edge is controlled by a vertical panel in 66g. Small radial cuts are also implemented on the wingtips and on the back of the strut to spread tensions. Aligning the fibre exactly along the load paths means that stretch can be controlled to a never-before-seen level on a wing.
Thanks to this precise load management, the wind range of the Strike is extended at both the high and low end, and the range of wind strengths where the wing feels perfect is greater than ever before.
With the Strike's staggered seams, the fabric and its seams work better to keep a smooth and efficient profile and the flying shape of the wing never deforms under load. The control of the profile is ideal, especially in the high end where stability is superb to ride fully balanced on both arms and in total comfort.
The new trailing edge tensions and radial cuts have brought incredible performance and control. Located on the back of the strut, our innovative Load Diffuser made of overlapping panels of hard Mylar and Dacron further helps maintaining the profile sleek and efficient, leading to the ultimate stability, performances, and longevity.
Every reinforcement on this wing has been reviewed to ensure durability and to save weight.
With the Strike delivering stability beyond compare, we could have a flatter dihedral angle and thus reach a bigger projected area. In turn, the power and pumping abilities are even more improved for planing starts. This allows riders to use a smaller wing or board than before.
A new and slightly more compact outline with less span makes the Strike easier to pump and ride. The centre of traction has been perfectly placed right in front of the rider to guarantee a perfect balance on both arms.
Finally, all profiles have been revised to accommodate our new parameters. F-One were able to slightly reduce the profile thickness to bring even more comfort and control in strong winds. The high end potential of this Strike is impressive, with an effective forward traction that won’t let you overexert yourself even when overpowered.
Fast Forward:
One of the unmatched qualities of the Strike is that they pull you forward, not sideways. The traction of the Strike has been improved particularly for strong winds: you only need to sheet out to feel the power decrease and the traction go forward. It offers great navigation comfort upwind and allows you to push the limits of the high end with less efforts. In the low end, the traction is steady and does not require any adjustments. Just sheet in and the wing works for you.
Performance:
With its unparalleled upwind capabilities, the Strike V3 will increase your free flying time or help you win races. Its speed performance also allows you to jump higher and to benefit from an excellent lift for landings. Its compact design, with less wingspan offers more possibilities for tricks and a more comfortable navigation with your hands positioned lower.
Freeride:
Through its constant traction, control, lightweight and stability, this wing is perfect for freeriding no matter your skill level. Its power and pumping efficiency are its strengths to get planing and exploit the low end.
Expanded Wind Range:
F-One have worked extensively on the range of use of their wings to guarantee a great planing start and the possibility to ride in light wind. Simultaneously, F-One have pushed each size as far as possible in the high end to keep your riding flow in any conditions.
What are the advantages?
- A single wing is enough to give you a full range of use and comfort of navigation when the wind drops or picks up during your session.
- Gain more lift during jumps and enjoy smoother landings while keeping the same wing size in the high end.
- Start planing earlier, and thus reduce the volume and size of your board.
