We were able to extensively test the Eleveight WFS V5 Wing in the 4.0 square metre and 5.0 square metre sizes. The Wing has been developed for freestyle and freeride. It should be suitable for all riding abilities. It is also available in the sizes 2.0 square metres, 3.0 square metres and 6.0 square metres.
On land
The Eleveight WFS V5 is a pure boom wing. There are no options for mounting handles. The carbon bar is firmly attached to the middle strut. There is enough space between the middle strut and boom to ensure a good grip even in winter when wearing gloves. The coating of the pole feels comfortable. Its diameter should be suitable for all hand sizes.
The middle strut is relatively straight and only bends in the rear third. It is also directly connected to the cloth in this area. The carbon rod ends where the middle strut makes contact with the cloth.
The Eleveight WFS V5 is inflated via a bayonet valve on the front tube. Its front tube and middle strut are connected with a small hose.
The wing has more of an elongated outline. It only forms a slight V in the profile. The fabric is tightly stretched.
The Eleveight WFS V5 is fitted with two small PVC windows on each side. There are a total of four stabilisers on the tear-off edge. The slats of the stabilisers can be replaced or removed if necessary. The tips are provided with extra protection.
A bungee leash is included in the scope of delivery, which is also sufficiently dimensioned for large wrists. The bag is quite simply designed. It has a shoulder strap and a carrying handle. There is no option to attach a pump.
The workmanship of the Eleveight WFS V5 looks very high quality. The 5.0 square metre weighs 2.8 kg.
On the water
The Eleveight WFS V5 works according to the motto: plug’n’play. Get on and feel good. Its pressure point and angle of attack are adjusted automatically. The bar reinforces this feeling even more.
The wing doesn’t develop quite as much pull on the boom, which should suit light riders in particular. As a result, it can handle a lot of wind and only starts to flutter a little at the upper wind limit. Due to this characteristic, it doesn’t suit light winds quite as well as some specialists, but they also pull hard on the wrist.
The Eleveight WFS V5 shows its true strength in all manoeuvres. Whether jibing or tacking, the wing simply lies down in the air and remains completely neutral. After changing direction, you simply pick it up again and continue in Pug’n’Play mode.
The same applies to advanced manoeuvres. The Eleveight WFS V5 performs back ride with stoic calm. It turns wonderfully neutrally through the air in jumped 360s. This is of course emphasised by the handling with the boom. You don’t even notice its slightly longer wingspan compared to many freestyle wings.
Due to its neutral behaviour, the Eleveight WFS V5 also cuts a very good figure in wave riding.
Some testers found the bar a little too short. In some situations, some would have liked to be able to reach a little further back.
The windows give an idea of what is happening on the other side. In our opinion, a position closer to the middle strut would have been better for a full overview.
Conclusion
The Eleveight WFS V5 is wonderfully ‘unspectacular’. This is not to be understood negatively, but positively. You can concentrate fully on the board and foil and no longer have to worry about the wing.
It’s a force to be reckoned with in manoeuvres, so you’re happy to do without one or two knots at the lower wind limit.
Light riders and fans of relaxed cruising should like the moderate pulling power at the bar. But it’s also great for a little race with friends. It is also recommended for beginners due to its uncomplicated behaviour.
