GEAR: WHICH KLUBER FOR DOCKSTART: 80 OR 95?

Review of the minimalist dimensions of the board that sets the standard for pump foiling.

If dock start sessions have become such a super fun activity to, be it solo or with friends, it is greatly due to the impressive performance boost of modern foils, as well as the mast/board setup that transfers your energy without any loss, wobbling, or instability. When getting into pump foiling, the efficiency of the gear is more important than in other disciplines as a great deal of the fun is related to achievements and progression. Feeling the glide, maintaining a smooth and comfortable pumping rhythm, and improving with each run are all aspects of the fun that is deeply tied to the performance of your equipment.

That’s the reason why the dimensions of the Kluber are optimized with no compromise. Also why its construction is made ultra-light and rigid with its unique HDCC technology. Besides, you don’t need volume when pump foiling, as long as it’s enough to keep your setup afloat.

Pumpfoiler: Mathieu, GONG team rider, with a Kluber 80 and Sirus setup.

Choosing a Kluber 80 or 95?

The length and width dimensions of the Kluber are designed to accommodate your stance, and that’s it. The larger 95cm version of the Kluber is intended for those who struggle to find their ideal stance right from the get go.

If dock starting has no more secrets for you, and your goal is to get the most out of your pumping setup, the Kluber 80 is made for you, regardless of your size. If you need to gain more confidence, the Kluber 95 will be the magic carpet that allows you to push your setup to new flight records.

A board as short as the Kluber 80 might seem intimidating at first. However, there are several misconceptions to debunk in order to fully understand what it can offer.

The length is not a decisive factor for flying

An 80 cm board may seem very short, but in reality, its length is already slightly longer than what is strictly necessary for dock starting.
Whether using an 80 cm or a 95 cm board, the result will typically be the same when you make contact with the water’s surface while pumping: you'll lose the flight. Length won’t save you from a low speed touchdown; it’s the foil control and technique that matter.

Rocker and forgiveness

The rocker of a longer board like the Kluber 95 can offer a bit more forgiveness in case of a touchdown, but this represents a very small difference (maybe 5% fewer errors). It’s not a strong enough reason to switch to a longer board, especially if the goal is performance or compactness for transport.

The true challenge is psychological

Getting on an 80 cm board might seem intimidating, but in reality, it will force you to be precise right from the start. This is not a bad thing, as it quickly improves your technique. A small board like the Kluber 80 won’t leave you much room for big mistakes, but it will push you to position yourself perfectly, which is beneficial in the long run.

The only downside

The only real downside of an 80 cm board is when you fall far from the dock. Paddling with such a small surface is even more difficult than with a 95 cm. But in dock start, once you have the right timing, falls far from the dock become rare.