Armstrong DW685 Wing A+ – High-Performance Downwind Foil for Advanced Riders

The Armstrong DW685 Wing A+ represents the cutting edge of hydrofoil surf wing design, built for elite riders seeking maximum speed, glide, and control in demanding conditions. Designed within Armstrong’s Performance Series, this foil is engineered specifically for high-speed downwind riding, wing foiling, and advanced foil surfing disciplines where efficiency and stability are critical.

With its ultra-high aspect ratio and precision-tuned hydrodynamics, the DW685 delivers a unique balance of low stall speed and extreme top-end velocity, making it a top choice for experienced riders pushing limits in wing foil and wind foiling environments.

Performance Overview

Designed for Speed and Efficiency

The Armstrong DW685 was developed using real-world data from Hawaii’s inter-island channels, ensuring it performs flawlessly in open ocean conditions. Engineers used advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimize the foil’s shape for both speed and lift.

This results in:

• Exceptional glide across long distances
• Efficient energy transfer during pumping
• Smooth acceleration in light wind conditions
• High-speed stability even in rough water

The foil’s ability to maintain flight at lower speeds while unlocking extreme top-end performance makes it versatile across multiple foiling disciplines.

Advanced Hydrodynamic Design

High Aspect Ratio for Maximum Glide

The DW685 features a remarkably high aspect ratio (AR 13.55), which is key to its performance characteristics.

Benefits include:

• Reduced drag for longer glide phases
• Higher efficiency during wing foiling sessions
• Improved upwind performance
• Better connection between swells in foil surfing

Progressive Section Profile

Unlike traditional foils, the DW685 uses an evolving profile across its span:

• Thicker root for lift and control
• Thinner tips for speed and reduced drag
• Optimized camber distribution for efficiency

This design ensures consistent performance across different speeds and riding styles.

Stability at High Speeds

Engineered for Control

Despite its high-performance nature, the DW685 offers surprising stability thanks to its refined geometry:

• Subtle anhedral-to-dihedral shaping enhances balance
• Thin foil section improves responsiveness
• Neutral front-to-back foot pressure reduces fatigue

Riders report a smooth, predictable feel even at extreme speeds, making it ideal for long-distance downwind runs.

Premium Construction & Materials

Carbon Fiber Excellence

The Armstrong DW685 is constructed using ultra-premium Toray carbon fiber, combining intermediate and high modulus layers.

Key advantages:

• Exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio
• Increased durability under load
• Reduced flex for precise control
• Lightweight performance for better lift

This construction ensures the foil maintains its shape and efficiency even under intense conditions.

A+ System Integration

Next-Level Foil Connection

The DW685 Wing A+ integrates seamlessly with Armstrong’s proprietary A+ System, delivering a solid and refined ride feel.

Features include:

• Hexagonal carbon fuselage with titanium core
• Reduced torsional flex under load
• Smooth energy transfer between components
• Corrosion-resistant titanium and stainless hardware

This system enhances overall performance in hydrofoil surf wing setups by improving rigidity and responsiveness.

Technical Specifications

Key Features at a Glance

• Ultra-high aspect ratio for maximum glide
• Designed for expert-level downwind performance
• Stable at high speeds with refined geometry
• Lightweight yet strong carbon construction
• Compatible with Armstrong A+ modular system
• Proven in world-class racing conditions

Ideal Use Cases

Downwind SUP Foiling

The DW685 excels in open ocean conditions, allowing riders to connect swells effortlessly while maintaining speed.

Wing Foiling Performance Riding

Perfect for advanced wing foil riders seeking speed, efficiency, and long glide phases.

High-Speed Foil Surfing

Ideal for experienced riders pushing limits in foil surfing, especially in fast-moving swell conditions.

Wind Foiling Efficiency

Delivers excellent upwind angles and speed, making it suitable for performance-oriented wind foiling.

Who Is This Foil For?

The Armstrong DW685 Wing A+ is designed for:

• Advanced to expert riders
• Downwind SUP racers
• Performance-focused wing foiling enthusiasts
• Riders seeking maximum speed and glide

It is not recommended for beginners, as the high aspect ratio requires refined technique and control.

Performance Benefits Breakdown

Speed

• Exceptional top-end velocity
• Efficient acceleration

Glide

• Long, sustained glide phases
• Minimal drag

Control

• Stable at high speeds
• Predictable handling

Versatility

• Works across multiple foiling disciplines
• Adaptable to varying conditions

Why Choose the Armstrong DW685 Wing A+?

The DW685 stands out as a premium hydrofoil surf wing because it combines cutting-edge engineering with real-world testing in some of the most demanding conditions on the planet. Its ability to deliver both accessibility in low speeds and extreme performance at high speeds makes it one of the most versatile high-aspect foils available.

Whether you’re racing, exploring long downwind runs, or pushing your limits in wing foiling, this foil provides the speed, glide, and control needed to elevate your experience.