I’m 93 kg, learning downwind and flatwater paddle-ups, and currently have an Evo 235. I haven’t yet managed a successful paddle-up. I’ve read that the Axis PNG 1300 v1 is highly recommended as a first foil for riders around my weight, and that the PNG 1300 v2 might be even better. For someone at my beginner stage, would switching to a PNG 1300 make paddle-ups significantly easier compared to my Evo 235? Is it worth making the change to accelerate my progression?
Stick with what u have, at first it seems impossible, once you crack the code paddle ups become easier and easier. IMO a slight smaller wing like the 205 will offer benefit for keeping up with the speed of the bumps, but I’d stick with what you have. I spend a ton of time downwinding light bay runs on the evo205 those bigger wings paddle up super easy and let u get away with murder.
Having just gone through the learning process this year I think larger wings above 1300sqcm that are easy to paddle up will hold you back as you progress and start riding bumps. I wouldn’t make any gear changes for a paddle up, you’ll be able to get that wing up, just keep chipping away. Timing is key, paddle with Riggs has a good video about hand placement and another about using your legs to engage the foil. Watch them on instagram or YouTube, you’ll get it. When I was starting it took me a good 10+ sessions before I got my first paddle up. 6 months and a lot of time later I can flat water the same wings I couldn’t paddle up in the bumps
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Also worth noting, don’t worry about flat water paddle ups, they’ll come naturally, 100x easier to paddle up in the bumps. Flatwater is a really difficult party trick that you’ll learn naturally in time
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Thanks Steve! One other question I had was regarding rear shims. I am currently using a 2 degree rear shim with the evo 235 since that is what feels best when winging and foil driving it. Should I drop to 0 degree in order to reduced drag?
FWIW, I also have a progression 200 that I could use as well.
Personal preference, but that seems like a lot too me. I’m only 80kg but only run 0 shim with the 205. 0 will speed it up a little bit too which will help the glide on a wing that size. The progression 200 is what I learned to paddle up and downwind on so you should be set for a while.
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