FoilX
BLACK PROJECT // FOIL-X // SUP FOILING PADDLE
"Instant power and acceleration
= More foiling, less strokes"
FOIL-X
THE SUP FOILING PADDLE
The SUP foiling paddle – The all new FoilX SUP foiling paddle is used for downwind, surf, and flat-water foiling by Hawaiian foiling pioneers, Andrew Gibbons, Gabriella Bella, Jack Ho, Finn Spencer, Jeffrey Spencer and many more.
- Low aspect blade for instant power and acceleration.
- Short blade for high cadence and fewer foil strikes.
- Moderate 9.5° blade angle for a smooth catch.
- Shallow power scoop increases paddling speed.
- Reduced blade volume concept for increased cadence.
- X-Flex core for increased performance, strength and longevity.
- Componentized paddle system makes it easy to replace parts.
- Lifetime crash replacement policy.
SIZES:
BEST FOR:
Flat water SUP foiling, Downwind SUP Foiling, SUP Surf Foiling.
FOLLOW, SHARE AND #TAG
Be sure to follow and connect using the hashtag: #foilxpaddle
WHY CHOOSE THIS PADDLE?
The FoilX is the ultimate SUP paddle for downwind foiling, flat water popups, and SUP surf foiling. Built on more than seven years of SUP foiling experience, we have engineered this paddle for instant power, acceleration, and strength, every detail is optimized to get you flying quicker, and for longer.
Featuring a moderate 9.5° blade angle and a low aspect ratio blade outline, the FoilX has a powerful catch, and the shorter blade promotes a higher paddling cadence and fewer foil strikes. A shallow power scoop and reduced blade volume further encourages increased cadence and explosive paddling – helping you to get up onto foil with fewer paddle strokes. With increased area in the toe of the blade, a quick and shallow paddle stroke will give instant boost if needed to keep you from dropping off foil.
The TourCarbon double taper shaft combines power and comfort, with an oval middle section and a flexible top round section to reduce shoulder fatigue. The award winning ergonomic and hollow carbon PowerGrip ensures a secure, relaxed, and comfortable grip.
Throughout the past 7+ years of working with foiling athletes we have seen all sorts of crashes; this has helped us to develop a new and specific paddle construction for foiling, a componentized system, and one-of-a-kind crash replacement policy. And thanks to our hot glue assembly, all parts can be easily changed or replaced as needed.
Constructed with our X-Flex high density foam core and 30T pre-preg carbon laminates, the FoilX is the pinnacle of power, responsiveness, and quality. For serious foilers, competitors, and enthusiasts alike, it’s a must-have essential part of your foiling quiver.
PADDLE TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES
POWER RIDGE & REDUCED BLADE VOLUME TECHNOLOGY (PRT / RBVT)
- A reduced volume increased blade cadence.
- Reduced volume reduces weight.
- The ridged design increases strength.
- The ridged design increases power.
SHALLOW POWER SCOOP (SPS)
- Single shallow scoop design with dihedral edges.
- Delivers a powerful, efficient and smooth paddle stroke.
- Increased power enables the use of smaller blade sizes.
DOUBLE TAPERED ROUND-OVAL-ROUND TOUR CARBON 30T CARBON SHAFT
- Round lower section, tapering to oval in the middle (grip) area, tapering to round in the upper section for increased flex and protection of shoulder.
- Textured finish increases grip while being gentle on the hands.
- Delivers excellent performance, very low weight, and a near-zero failure rate.
EROGNOMIC POWER GRIP HANDLE
- Long lasting comfort for racing and touring.
- Improved connection between hand and paddle increases power.
- Hollow pre-prep carbon construction for reduced weight.
ERGONOMIC OVAL GRIP AREA FREE FROM ARTWORK
- The ergonomic grip area is free from logos and the oval design is comfortable in your hands.
- Natural matte carbon textured finish for enhanced grip and feel.
CARBON REINFORCED ROUNDED EDGES
- We added extra carbon reinforcement to the blades edges.
- All edges are rounded with smooth transitions.
- Reduces or eliminates board damage.
- Increased paddle strength.
- Rounded edges are safer.
SLIM-LINE BLADE/SHAFT JOINT
- Smooth edges prevents board damage.
- Reduces drag through the water.
- Sleek and efficient transition between shaft and blade.
- Reduces blade weight.
MODERATE 9.5° BLADE ANGLE
- Promotes smooth and rhythmic paddling.
- Encourages easy catch and a medium to high cadence.
- Provides a comfortable feel.
REACT+ (RE+T) TECHNOLOGY
- Two external 30T unidirectional carbon plates increase blade stiffness.
- The React+ size is tuned for smaller/bigger paddles/athletes.
- Amplifies blade power, responsiveness, and energy return.
LIGHT & STRONG
- All unnecessary weight removed.
- Reduced weight translates into higher cadence.
- Built strong, failure is not an option during races.
PADDLE FEATURES
POWER SCOOP
TECHNOLOGY (PST)
The FoilX features a single shallow depth scoop design with dihedral shaped edges. The narrow scoop keeps maximum power in the center of the blade and aligned with the shaft for enhanced blade stability. This design is optimized for high cadence and high-power output, and it delivers forward thrust in a smooth and controlled manner helping you to get on foil quicker and easier with less strokes.
POWER RIDGE &
REDUCED BLADE VOLUME
The distinctive design of the FoilX incorporates our Power Ridge (PRT) and Reduced Blade Volume (RBVT) technologies which when combined, lead to a strong, light, and efficient blade which promotes a faster paddle stroke = higher cadence.
TOUR CARBON SHAFT
Engineered with a double tapered round-oval-round design, the Tour Carbon shaft maximizes stiffness in the lower section, delivering stability and optimizing power transfer to the blade. The upper section has a thinner and more flexible round profile, minimizing fatigue. The oval-shaped middle-grip area has a natural carbon-textured matte finish ensuring a directional feel with a secure and relaxed grip. Constructed with 30T pre-preg carbon laminates for reduced weight and increased paddling power. With a range of options there’s a perfect fit for every enthusiast across the entire spectrum of paddlers.
POWERGRIP
HANDLE
The PowerGrip has been optimized for maximum power, increased efficiency, and long-lasting comfort while paddling hard. Developed in collaboration with world champion Arthur Arutkin and Maui waterman Bernd Roediger, the wider and flatter back creates a secure feel that remains comfortable during longer races and workouts. Like all our handles, the PowerGrip is hollow to help eliminate any excess weight.
LIFETIME CRASH
REPLACEMENT POLICY
Accidents happen, but we’re committed to long-term performance and value. That’s why we offer reduced-cost replacement parts for your FoilX paddle throughout its lifespan. Thanks to our componentized system with hot glue assembly, you can easily adjust or replace parts without needing to buy in a whole new paddle.
BUILT TO FOIL
We embarked on a mission to push the limits of design, materials, and manufacturing processes, aiming to create a paddle that would further revolutionize the way people think about paddles and foiling altogether – the FoilX is the culmination of this effort – a natural evolution in paddle design, with a specific focus, delivering substantial performance gains.
DESIGNED & BUILT FOR
SUP FOILING
We embarked on a mission to push the limits of design, materials, and manufacturing processes, aiming to create a paddle that would further revolutionize the way people think about paddles and foiling altogether – the FoilX is the culmination of this effort – a natural evolution in paddle design, with a specific focus, delivering substantial performance gains.
MODERATE 9.5°
BLADE ANGLE
The FoilX has a moderate 9.5° blade angle results an easier catch, with a smooth paddle entry, slightly more forgiving feel, and increased comfort.
SHALLOW POWER SCOOP
(SPS) TECHNOLOGY
The FoilX features a shallow scoop design with dihedral shaped edges. This is optimized for high cadence paddling, delivering power in a smooth and controlled manner.
COMPONENTIZED
PADDLE SYSTEM (CPS)
With 7+ years of experience collaborating with foiling athletes, our component-based paddle system offers unmatched versatility. Using hot glue assembly, each part can be swapped or replaced as needed.
REACT+ (RE+T)
TECHNOLOGY
The latest SUP paddle innovation is our REACT+ Technology (RE+T). This incorporates two external 30T unidirectional carbon plates, amplifying blade power, responsiveness, and energy return.
30T CARBON
CONSTRUCTION
The higher modulus 30T carbon construction reduces weight and increases responsiveness of the FoilX paddle. This enables us to optimize the internal layers and build an even more durable paddle.
PRECISION CNC
X-FLEX CORE
The FoilX is molded from layers of pre-preg carbon with our X-Flex high density CNC foam core.This internal precision improves laminate adhesion increasing the longevity of your investment in a quality paddle. ,
"A TWO-STROKE PADDLE TAKEOFF"
FOIL-X
Customer Reviews
Super light, easy entry, and quick recovery
The new oval tapered shaft creates a comfortable and minimalist feel. The paddle is super light and has the quickest entry, release, and recovery of any paddle I have ever used.
Dennis P
SUP Racer (US)
Tremendous power yet easy on my body
Wow! The catch is soft yet grippy, it creates tremendous power yet is easy on my body. I was very apprehensive about the oval tapered shaft, but it feels awesome.
Don F
SUP Racer (US)
Fast shipping and great customer service
Thanks for the efficient service, my Hydro SynergyX arrived quickly. I have found it a little cleaner on entry and more forgiving than the Hydro FlowX, especially when getting tired.
Adrian W.
SUP Racer (UK)
SPECIFICATIONS AND PADDLE SIZING
We don’t think you need to be an expert paddler to enjoy the benefits of a custom paddle. In fact, it’s why we offer the Hydro SynergyX in five blade sizes and a range of shaft customization options to best suit your specific paddling needs. Choosing the right paddle might seem daunting at first, but don’t worry, we made it easy to identify which is the best option for your optimal paddling experience.
SHAFT STIFFNESS
Selecting the correct shaft is a function of your paddle length and weight. A lower flex number relates to less flex and produces a stiffer paddle (lower flex rating). Heavier and taller paddlers will need a stiffer shaft whereas smaller and lighter paddlers need more flex (higher flex rating). Length affects stiffness, select based on your paddle height and weight. Stiffer is not always better, the right shaft for your weight and height, is the best shaft.
SUP PADDLE LENGTH GUIDE FOR SUP FOILING
The FoilX length guide below is a guide only. With lower aspect blades, a shorter paddle is preferable. For riding on higher volume boards or if you like mid-foiling strokes, then consider 1-2 inches (2.5 – 5cm) longer than your height for more reach. Remember that your new paddle will be assembled with hot glue, which means you can always shorten if needed. If your paddle is too long you will struggle to paddle at a high cadence.
COMPARE SUP PADDLES FOR SUP FOILING
What began as Project-X to celebrate our 10th anniversary has evolved into a full collection of innovative paddles, designed to meet the needs of the diverse SUP paddling and foiling community. Use this comparison to identify which FoilX paddle best suits your needs. Explore all Paddles.
5-STEP GUIDE TO CHOOSING YOUR NEW SUP PADDLE.
LEARN ABOUT TYPES OF PADDLES, BLADE SIZE, SHAFT OPTIONS, HANDLES & PADDLE LENGTH SO THAT YOU CAN CONFIDENTLY CHOOSE & CUSTOMIZE YOUR NEW PADDLE.
Even the best SUP paddle isn’t ideal for all occasions. Paddlers need to consider a range of factors to determine the best paddle for them. This five-step guide explains the science of how paddles work so you can confidently choose the right paddle for your needs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We have collated some of the most frequently asked questions about SUP foiling and the FoilX paddle. If your question is not covered, on this page, in the 5-step guide or in these FAQs, you are encouraged to reach out to us for a personal consultation or support.
Bt far the most popular size of blade is the Medium which is 585cm² / 90.7 in². Be sure to refer to sizing table to select the right size for your weight.
Existing customers – No, we have upsized both in terms of area and power for foiling. If you were using a Hydro SprintX XL (for foiling) before then the FoilX Medium or Large would be good. If you were using a Surge Medium or Large, your FoilX paddle should be the XS. Do not go to big, use the sizing table for advice. If you are crossing over from regular (race/touring) paddling, select the same size paddle or one size smaller. If you race paddle is a Medium then go for a Medium or Small in the FoilX.
New customers – If you are upgrading from another brand of paddle, try to ignore the numbers and focus on the size rating e.g. Medium which is recommended for your weight.
Always refer to our size guides and contact us if you have any questions.
The Tour Carbon 70 shaft is the most popular option, this is a medium range stiffness shaft which suits a wide range of paddlers, it is similar in feel to our older model Medium75 shafts. Taller paddlers with longer paddle lengths should use the Tour Carbon 65 shaft. Heavier paddlers should consider the 45 or 50 shafts while smaller paddlers are advised to order the 90. The most popular shafts for each blade size are detailed below. Refer to the shaft selection table and contact us if you have any questions.
- XL with 45 or 50
- Large with 65 or 70
- Medium with 70 (most popular shaft and blade combination)
- Small with 70 or 90
- XS with 70 or 90
The Tour Carbon 45 and 65 shafts are better for longer paddles while the 50, 70 & 90 are optimized for shorter paddle lengths.
No. While we have different shaft diameter shafts and PowerGrip variations to match each shaft, the actual main dimensions of our award winning PowerGrip handle are the same. We worked hard during testing to ensure that the PowerGrip is comfortable for big hands, small hands, and all hands.
Yes, our FoilX paddles are assembled with hot glue and you can heat up the shaft below the handle to remove and shorten the shaft. We have a number of guides on our YouTube channel which explain the process. Be sure to use quality extra-strength, high temp, hot glue and not hobby grade glue. This is particularly useful if you move to different board or change focus.
No – the FoilX paddles are meant to be enjoyed as we intended them, in their very best/lightest form i.e., 1-piece (or 3-piece).
Paddles are very expensive to design, produce and ship, hence the price which you pay for your Black Project paddle is extremely reasonable. We have cut out a number of business layers and work directly with customers and smaller independent retailers to ensure that markups are reasonable. If we operated a more traditional business structure paddles would be 50-100% more expensive. Standup paddling is a small sport so it is hard to produce enough units to benefit from mass production and gain significant economies of scale.
Yes, if your local SUP store is an official Black Project retail partner they will be able to arrange your new paddle. If they are not currently one of our retailers you can either buy online or ask them to get in contact with us. Refer to our Dealer Locator Map to find your closest store.
All Black Project paddles have carbon reinforced edges and can withstand a good amount of abuse. The use of protective tape is not needed for general consumer use.
We ship from our Maui workshop via FedEx 2-Day shipping to all 50 states, we do not charge for this service. We also offer low shipping rates worldwide via FedEx International Economy.
Accidents happen, but we’re committed to long-term performance and value. That’s why we offer reduced-cost replacement parts for your FoilX paddle throughout its lifespan. Thanks to our componentized system with hot glue assembly, you can easily adjust or replace parts without needing to buy in a whole new paddle.
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your new paddle. If something goes wrong, we are here to help resolve any issues in a fast and effective manner. Please contact us for support.
Thanks to our innovative designs, quality manufacturing and attention to detail, our paddles have a very low failure rate. For your peace of mind, we have a standard 1-year warranty to cover faulty manufacturing. Thanks to hot glue assembly it is possible to replace any damaged parts. If you feel that you have an issue which you feel should be covered, please contact us for support.
THE PADDLE WHICH MAKES SUP FOILING EASIER
RECOMMENDED PADDLES
-
FoilX
$550.00
