The 2026 AXIS Black aluminium mast system: masts, base plate and Doodads

Originally developed through countless hours of computer analysis and engineering, the AXIS Aluminium Mast achieves a 2.24x improvement in stiffness compared with many other aluminium masts, and remains stiffer than many carbon masts on the market today. For 2026 we have taken that proven platform further, re-engineered the base plate and the Doodad around it, and finished the whole system in black. Here is the Black aluminium mast system, part by part.

2026 Black Aluminium Masts

The mast now integrates seamlessly with the redesigned base plate through a new tapered mast bevel and split, cross-stabilising bolt. This creates an even more rigid connection, increasing overall system stiffness while improving strength and long-term durability. The result is a direct, solid and predictable feel on the water, particularly through manoeuvres. This combination of stiffness, control and predictability makes the Aluminium Mast an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate riders, while delivering the performance experienced riders expect from the AXIS system.

Each mast is internally sealed to prevent water ingress, avoiding unnecessary weight gain while helping protect against internal corrosion. The affordability of aluminium also makes it practical to own multiple mast lengths for different disciplines, conditions and locations, or simply to move to a longer mast as your riding progresses; with the modular AXIS system, changing mast lengths is quick and easy.

• Seven lengths, 45 to 105 cm, black anodised.
• Using the appropriate AXIS Doodad, compatible with every fuselage system in the AXIS range, including the new FATTY system, which requires the dedicated FATTY Doodad.
• Backwards compatible with previous-generation 19 mm AXIS base plates and Doodads.
• Supplied without mounting screws; see our Stainless Steel and Titanium Screw Sets for compatible hardware.

2026 Black Aluminium Mast Base Plate

Re-engineered from the ground up, improving on what was already an industry-leading design. CNC machined from a single, solid billet of aircraft-grade aluminium, the new base plate delivers increased stiffness and durability while reducing unnecessary weight, all wrapped in a black anodised coating that will survive the rigours of both salt and fresh water riding.

The bevelled mast pocket now features a tapered profile, increasing lateral stiffness while removing material where it is not needed. A split, cross-stabilising bolt, faired into the bevel, further strengthens the mast to base plate connection, helping maintain a solid, precise fit and improving long-term durability. The rear section of the bevel has been redesigned with a smoother, less aggressive edge for improved safety and easier handling.

Overall plate width has been reduced, allowing it to fit neatly inside trench-style foil boards, particularly the AXIS Pocket Trench, and additional mounting holes provide direct attachment options for your Foil Drive or other compatible foil-assist system.

• Supplied with mounting screws.
• Not compatible with previous-generation 19 mm RED aluminium masts.

2026 Black Doodad

The Doodad is the critical connection between AXIS Aluminium Masts and Black Series Fuselages, one of the key structural components of the system for maximum stiffness and strength. The redesigned Doodad features additional support legs that increase overall lateral stiffness while significantly reducing torsional loads and internal stresses on the mast sidewalls: a stronger, more rigid connection between mast and fuselage.

The drop-on Doodad fairing spreads the loads more effectively between the mast and fuselage, reducing point loading at the connection. Its tapered profile draws on lessons learned during the development of our Ultra HM and Kaiwi masts, improving water flow around the mast to fuselage junction to reduce both turbulence and drag.

• Available for Standard Black Series Fuselages and for the FATTY Fuselage system.
• Fully compatible with previous-generation 19 mm RED Aluminium Masts.
• Supplied with mounting screws.

Masts, base plate and both Doodads are available later this fall; pre-order now.