Learn How Foil Drive works, explore each system and find the perfect setup for your riding.
HOW FOIL DRIVE WORKS
Foil Drive gives you electric boost when you need it and pure foiling flow when you don’t. Use the board and foils you already own or browse the many options we have available.
Electrify your foils
Your Foil Drive is your one tool that can be used in many ways!
Foil Drive focuses on the electronics, that's what they do best! This leaves the boards and foils in the trusted hands of brand collaborations! If you're already a foiler, you can use your existing gear OR check out the "Brand Collaborations" for recommendations on where to get started completing your foiling setup!
Not sure where to start? Follow the simple 4 Step Guide Below!
While there may seem like a few options, this is to allow the rider to fully customize specific to their ability and use case.
Step 1
Choose your kit, battery, and motor to build the perfect Foil Drive setup for you.
Choose between three systems: Fusion, Assist MAX, or Assist Slim, each with a unique balance of runtime, weight and power output depending on your prioritization.
Fusion
The power and runtime of an efoil, the lightness and adaptability of an assist. One tool with endless possibilities.
Where foil assist meets efoil
One tool with endless possibilities
Incredibly versatile, more power and runtime
The Fusion offers the longest runtime and highest power output of the three. A great, lightweight efoil alternative that isn't limited to just being an efoil. Simply switching to a shorter motor cable to transform into a powerful, long-runtime Foil Assist. One tool, endless possibilities.
System Voltage: 43V
Maximum Thrust: 34kg / 74lbs
Maximum Battery Capacity: 864 Wh
IP68 rated dust and water resistant.
Assist MAX
The all-rounder, find the balance between runtime and performance-in-one.
For ALL disciplines and abilities
Perfect blend of runtime and performance
Electric Assist without limits
The Assist MAX is the all-rounder Foil Drive system. It has a unique middle ground balance of runtime and weight, optimized for assisted foiling. It performs across all foiling disciplines, surf, wing, downwind, wake, pump, and light Efoiling.
System Voltage: 40V
Maximum Thrust: 29kg / 63.9lbs
Maximum Battery Capacity: 594 Wh
IP68 rated dust and water resistant.
Assist Slim
There when you need it, gone when you don't. Unmatched, lightweight performance. For assisted pop ups and proficient riders prioritizing performance.
Ultra-light and low drag
Gives just enough lift to pop up and ride
Keeps the pure foil sensation under your feet
For Assisted pop-ups and proficient riders
The Assist Slim is smallest system in the lineup designed to prioritize we with a shorter run time, designed for performance foiling. It offers enough power for assisted foiling, while remaining super compact!
System Voltage: 28/40V
Maximum Thrust: 26.5kg / 58.4lb
Maximum Battery Capacity: 241 Wh
IP68 rated dust and water resistant.
What's the difference between Assist Slim and Assist Max?
Assist Slim is lighter and ideal for shorter, more agile sessions, while Assist MAX offers more power and longer ride time.
The Slim is perfect when you want minimal weight and simple assisted performance, while the MAX provides a balanced mix of power, runtime, and versatility for a wider range of riding styles.
FAQ
What's the difference between Assist Max and Fusion?
The Assist MAX is the all-rounder that balances power, weight, and runtime for all riders and disciplines. It is lighter and more versatile, making it ideal for everyday use and travel. The Fusion provides maximum power and runtime, offering eFoil-like performance for longer sessions or heavier riders, but it is heavier overall.
How do I know which kit is right for me?
Each Foil Drive system offers a different balance of weight, power, and runtime.
Assist Slim is generally for the performance rider wanting assisted pop-ups only.
The Assist MAX provides a balance of power and endurance for all-round use.
Step 2
Choose your battery
Each system has different battery compatibility. The higher the capacity, the higher the runtime, however generally slightly more weight. Variables in Weight vs Capacity are available based on prioritization of Performance vs Runtime.
Fusion Battery
Our biggest and best battery, designed exclusively for the Fusion kit.
Smart BMS connection to the APP
Comes with a Battery Caddy with USB Port Discharging
Double the runtime of the MAX Power battery
Fully encased battery housing for IP68 waterproofing
864Wh | 43 Volts | 4.9kg or 10.8lbs
Max High Power
The ultimate battery for longer rides, more power, and peak performance.
19% more capacity for extended sessions
Unlocks full +28% boost with High Power Motor
Same compact size, just 100g heavier
594Wh | 40 Volts | 2.8kg or 6.1lbs
Max Power
Longer rides, fewer breaks: built for time on the water.
Longer ride times for extended fun
Reliable power for cruising or exploring
Slightly heavier, but built for endurance
498Wh | 40 Volts | 2.68kg or 5.8lbs
Max Sport
Ultra-light and responsive for riders chasing a pure, agile feel.
Prioritises weight over runtime
Keeps your setup light and playful
Perfect for quick, high-energy sessions
3232Wh | 40 Volts | 1.8kg or 3.9lbs
Max Travel
Flight-friendly. Made for foiling adventures anywhere.
Meets airline travel requirements
Ideal for travel sessions worldwide
356Wh | 40 Volts | 2.65kg or 5.8lbs
FAQ
Why are there different batteries?
A higher capacity means a higher runtime. With higher capacity often comes a little more weight. Riders can choose what kind of runtime vs weight they are wanting to really refine their setup.
Are the batteries waterproof?
Yes, all Gen2 Batteries are IP64 rated when used as directed. Foil Drive Battery Grease is provided with your system and must be applied to the plug of the battery to fully waterproof your battery! While they are waterproof, batteries should be handled with care around water, see your user manual for more.
Can I take the batteries on a plane?
Airlines have strict requirements about travelling with batteries that are constantly changing. Only our Travel batteries are designed to meet these requirements, but make sure to check with the airline before travelling as regulations can change.
Step 3
Choose your motor and/or integrated mast.
Tailored to suit
Your motor setup is highly customizable. Every rider, style, and session is a little different and Foil Drive is designed with versatility in mind. Motor height is measured from the top of the mast plate to the centerline of the motor pod.
Your motor height
Why it matters:Changing your motor alters how long the motor is in the water as you lift out of the water AND how much "clean mast" you then have when "on foil". Different motor heights have different purposes.
Motor Height - Assist
Assist Motors are positioned near the board or mast plate, they offer just enough motor time to get on foil then it disappears. Once on foil, the rider then uses natural forces like swell, wind or human pump power to maintain glide.
12 - 15 cm:For riders who want pure uninterrupted glide once on foil. The motor spends most of its time out of the water, only there to get you going. Perfect for surf, wing, and downwind where you just need a boost to get up, then want the motor out of the way.
20 cm:The go-to all-rounder. Great balance of time on motor, and clearance on the mast. Ideal for mixed conditions or riders exploring their style. This position is also great for down winding, the extra length combats choppy water ensuring your motor gives enough traction!
25 cm:A friendly motor height keeps things stable while learning or switching between waves and flatwater.
Motor Height - Efoil
In Efoil Mode, the motor is always on in the water, perfect for effortless foiling! Efoil Motors are positioned down the bottom of the mast, near the fuselage and foils.
60 - 70 cm:If you are using the Universal Mast Adaptor, your motor cable should be 10cm shorter than your mast to allow the propellers to clear the fuselage. Eg. If your mast is 70cm long, choose the 60cm efoil cable. Integrated Efoil Masts have a fixed height.
External vs integrated motors
What it changes: How your motor attaches to the mast, amount of drag, and how flexible your setup can be.
External
The Universal Adaptor can be fixed to any existing foil mast. It can be removed at any time and is a great entry level or adaptable option. The cable runs externally and is taped on keeping it adaptable. If you're unsure on motor height, or want to keep your mast available for traditional foiling, this is your option.
Integrated
A step up in performance, integrated masts are in collaboration with the leading foil brands to reduce drag, extend your ride time through efficiency and enhance ride feeling. Integrated masts have a fixed motor that cannot be removed.
Aluminum Masts are slightly more cost effective, whereas the Carbon is your premium selection!
Motor type
Standard V2 Motor: A Lightweight option, perfect for lighter riders.
High Power V2: More torque and longer endurance. Great for heavier riders and longer rides. For only 130g of added weight, the High Power Motor improves efficiency by 20%... That's 20% more runtime!
Propeller Type
What it changes:How your motor grips the water and drives you forward, especially on take-off.
2-Blade: More top end speed, less low end torque (AKA power at take-off)
3-Blade: Less top end speed, more low end torque (AKA more power at take-off). Especially useful for heavier riders or those using smaller boards and foils. Already have a two blade, we do offer a three blade upgrade set to convert!
FAQ
Do I need to buy a Foil Drive Mast for the Motor?
No! Foil Drive mounts to ALL foil masts currently in the market. As a performance upgrade, we do offer integrated masts to simplify install and improve ride feeling.
Can I upgrade my motor later?
Absolutely, Foil Drive is a flexible system, designed for futureproofing! You can swap and change components as your needs change and new accessories come out!
Step 4
Choose a board and foils.
Complete your setup
Foil Drive is designed to work with almost any board and foil, so you can ride with your existing gear or build a new setup from scratch.
To complete your setup, you’ll need:
A board
A mast (unless using a Foil Drive integrated mast)
Front and rear wings
Fuselage (Depending on the brand)
Explore brands below for trusted combinations that perform seamlessly with Foil Drive. Some brands provide full product guides to help you work out what you'll need!
Foil Drive Boards
Still unsure?
Call or text 281-508-6485 or email sales@houstonkiteboarding.com and we will get you dialed in!
RIDE THE WAY YOU WANT
Wanting to find the perfect setup for your preferred foiling discipline? Foil Drive offers a range of product to really refine specific to your use case. From learning in flatwater, to chasing wind swell 5km offshore, click through to your discipline to see more.
FOIL ASSIST IS YOUR SECRET WEAPON TO MASTER YOUR CRAFT!
Choose your discipline:
Surf Foil
Assist gives you a higher wave count with less paddling!
Sunova and Fusion is a Powerful Combination
Sunova Trench board with the Foil Drive Fusion assist is an perfect tool for pumping, catching swell, and surfing. Get into downwind, prone foiling, wingfoiling, etc. with a assist product. We have the Armstrong Integrated masts back in stock!
Hybrid Prone Surf Foiling | Foil Drive Gen2
SUP or Prone, the Gen2 Foil Drive is next level for Surf Foiling! Tucked away under the board enjoy hybrid foiling of a whole new kind!
DOWNWIND FOIL
Assist gets you on the water in more conditions and provides safety and reliability every time!
SUP Downwind Paddle Assist | Gen2 Foil Drive
Come for a Downwind Foil Drive with Travis and the crew on Gen2 Foil Drive!
WINGFOIL
Get out in more conditions with even smaller wings and foils!
Wing Foiling the Canary Islands with Foil Drive | Ambassadors Julia Castro
Light Wind Wing Foil Assist with Julia Castro in Europe! Foil Assist comes into play winging in light winds, breaking the surface tension allows you to get on foil and enjoy light wing winging. PLUS in heavier winds, use your Foil Drive as a safety to motor back up wing, or to shore if the wind drops! Winging just got even easier!
FLATWATER
Explore and glide on glassy water. Foil Drive is lightweight and adaptable.
Flatwater Foil Driving | South Australia's surreal sunset location!
Join Caitlyn and she chases the sun at one of South Australia's many sunset locations! Riding the Quatro Wingdrifter 6'0'' with the Foil Drive Assist PLUS and the Axis HPS1050 wing and 380 tail, cruise around the sandy shallows of Aldinga Beach!
Fusion is a flatwater eFoil beast!
This is was our first impression from riding the Fusion in Efoil and Assist mode back in November. We are now in February and this thing is still going hard!
WAKEFOIL
Wake thief like a foil assist ninja! No boat, No problem!
Wake Thieving is the concept of foiling on the wave generated by a passing boat wake so you can enjoy a free ride down river! It's a concept that's been around a while but is pretty difficult unless you can dock start a foil. With the Foil Drive Fusion, Gen2 Assist MAX, or Assist Slim you can use the electric assist motor to get up on foil, chase down a boat and jump on the wake! We also use this to get a heap of FD equipped rides behind the boat at once to maximize everyone's fun on the water. This was Foil Drive co-founder, Ben's first go wake foiling and he was able to learn to ride the wake find the power zone while everyone else was all ripping and having a ball at the same time! No more stop-start on the boat while one person learns to foil or ride the wake. Everyone can play at their own pace and come and go from the boat as they please!
LEARNING
Assisted foiling is the simple, safe way to learn to foil and progress in your own time.
Learning to Ride Hydrofoils with Foil Drive Foil Assist!
Even if you have no foiling, surfing or limited water sports experience, with proper instruction, its easy to learn to foil with Foil Drive. With a wireless remote control in your hand, your in control the entire time and you can take it as slow or fast as you like making the learning curve much less daunting and way more fun!
TANKER FOIL SURFING
At Houston Kiteboarding, we are the pioneers of Tanker Foil Surfing! Take your tanker adventures to the next level with Foil Drive!
Tanker Surfing - February 2nd 2025
Watch HKB pro rider Bobby Deden rip it up on a tanker swell in the ship channel!
