KT Foiling's Atlas and Nomad foils, designed by Kane de Wilde, have garnered attention for their innovative designs and performance across various foiling disciplines. Both foils cater to different riding styles and conditions, offering unique features that appeal to a wide range of riders.
Already frothing to get onto some KT foils? Shop KT Foiling now>>
KT Atlas: Glide-Oriented Precision
The Atlas series is characterized by its high-aspect ratio and low-sweep design, focusing on maximizing glide and efficiency. This makes it ideal for downwind, light wind, and pump/glide style riding. It still works great for surf but needs more drawn out turns unless you go smaller, which you can due to the unique design of these foils. KT Foiling recommends that you can downsize 10-20% from other brands on the market.
15 knots downwinder on the 790 Atlas—super stoked with this foil! - Seabreeze User
Atlas Highlights from KT Foiling of the Glide-Oriented Geometry:
- Low sweep with center of lift aligned for maximum efficiency at cruising speeds.
- Advanced High Camber Airfoil: Optimized for maximum efficiency across a wide speed range, with a rear-loaded design that reduces surface area and boosts low-speed performance while maintaining stability and control.
- Wide Range Efficiency: Maintains performance from low to high speeds.
- Precision and Control: Offers unmatched efficiency, glide, acceleration, and maneuverability for experienced riders.
KT Nomad: Versatile All-Rounder
The Nomad series features a swept mid-aspect ratio design, offering a balance between glide and maneuverability. It's designed for a wide range of conditions, from light winds to challenging surf. We heard KD say in one of his videos it still glides extremely well, as they are really mid-to-high aspect wings especially the larger sizes - with ratios starting from 8.7 up to 9.5.
Rider Feedback
- Seabreeze Forum: A rider commented, "Just got my KT kit today... found this to have plenty of lift more than my SK8 1150, pumped better as well and has way better turning ability."
- Progression Project Forum: A user mentioned, "I think the Nomad is much more versatile foil than the Atlas, kind of a daily driver one foil quiver."
KT Highlights Carve-Oriented Geometry:
- Swept mid-aspect ratio design enhances responsive and intuitive handling for surf and skate style performance.
- Advanced High Camber Airfoil: Optimized for maximum efficiency across a wide speed range, with a rear-loaded design that reduces surface area and boosts low-speed performance while maintaining stability and control.
- Wide Range Efficiency: Delivers consistent performance from low to high speeds.
- Compact Span and Inflected Wingtips: Offer noticeable resistance to ventilation during breaching carves and turns.
Atlas vs. Nomad: Which One Suits You?
| Feature | Atlas | Nomad |
|---|---|---|
| Design Focus | Glide and efficiency | Versatility and maneuverability |
| Ideal Conditions | Downwind, light wind, pump/glide | Surf, wing, downwind, SUP, wake |
| Performance Style | Smooth, long glides | Agile, responsive turns |
| Best For | Experienced riders seeking glide | Riders desiring a versatile setup |
Final Thoughts
Both the Atlas and Nomad foils from KT Foiling offer distinct advantages tailored to different riding styles and conditions. The Atlas excels in providing smooth glides and efficiency, making it suitable for downwind and light wind conditions, though as mentioned especially the smaller sizes can still be great for surf or winging. On the other hand, the Nomad offers versatility and maneuverability, catering to riders who engage in various foiling disciplines. Also if your wanting a wing that carves harder due to the reduced wing span the Nomad is likely for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and the specific conditions in which one intends to ride. Overall we feel there is a place for both the Atlas and Nomad in a quiver, as each will excel more in particular conditions. Shop KT Foils now>>
Pakaa Foil gives a good review for winging on Youtube below (read his thoughts in comments on YouTube)
Great Watch
Also watch the below video from KT Foiling - Behind the Design: Kane de Wilde's Passion. It gives you a good idea of why these foils should be considered.
