MAKO 2: everything you liked about the Mako, easier, faster and more capable

A true benchmark for Downwind SUP, the Mako introduced a stability and ease of paddle up not seen before in the DW SUP foil world. Designed by Francesco Maffei of Frank Foil boards and tested and refined by some of the world's finest Downwind SUP foilers, the MAKO 2 raises the bar once again, adapting to the constantly changing demands of this sport.

This board is all about subtle refinements and marginal gains that combine to create a significantly improved package: more stability, faster paddling, improved feeling and control over the foil and, most importantly, easier take-offs on smaller, faster, high-aspect foils.

The nose

The MAKO 2 features a redesigned nose with slightly more volume carried forward while maintaining the board's overall balance. This prevents the nose from being pushed underwater during hard paddling, particularly when using smaller front wings. The new nose profile and volume distribution allow the rider to paddle up already standing in the ideal foiling position, with no need to move or reposition the feet before take-off.

Rocker and bottom

By refining both the rocker line and the bottom shape, speed, stability and acceleration have all been improved, with a notable bonus being a faster release from the water when starting. The increased stability also provides a more solid platform, allowing stronger, more efficient paddle strokes to help the rider generate the speed needed.

Faster and easier to paddle, with less effort needed to release from the water, the benefits are clear from the first ride, especially when launching the small, high-aspect foils used for racing. The new rocker and volume distribution also make touchdowns more forgiving, helping the board recover quickly and smoothly instead of slowing down or catching.

The deck

Improving the physical performance of the board was a goal, and so was improving the rider's feeling of control and connection. A subtle reduction of thickness under the standing area of the deck provides an improved feeling of connection and directness without sacrificing the overall volume and stability needed for paddling, and the slight increase in width per size provides more leverage over the foil, delivering greater control through the turns and more confidence to push things harder.

The result is a MAKO 2 that retains the character of the original but is faster, more stable and easier to paddle up and release, particularly when paired with the latest generation of smaller, faster and higher-aspect foils that are defining the future of Downwind SUP foiling.

Five sizes, 90 to 130 litres, all in AXIS carbon construction. Available later this fall; pre-order now.