Downwind SUP • Parawing • Wing Foil • Open-Ocean Swell • Paddle-Up Foiling
North Sonar Downwind (DW) Front Wing
Low-speed takeoff, long-range glide and the speed to stay connected with moving ocean swell.
The North Sonar Downwind Front Wing is a high-aspect foil designed for effortless takeoffs at low board speeds, minimal drag and sustained glide between ocean bumps. Its wide span and efficient foil sections generate strong lift without sacrificing the top-end speed needed to keep pace with faster swell. Six sizes from the advanced DW690 to the lift-focused DW1400 let riders match the foil to their weight, experience, wind strength and local swell speed.
- High Modulus Carbon
- Aspect Ratios 11.2–14.5
- Low-Speed Takeoff
- Long Downwind Glide
- High Top-End Speed
- Ventilation-Resistant Tips
- North Sonar Modular System
- Sizes DW690–DW1400
Why You’ll Love the North Sonar DW
Effortless Low-Speed Takeoff
The DW profile creates useful lift before the board reaches high speed. This makes it easier to paddle onto bumps, establish stable flight and begin accelerating with the moving swell.
Long, Efficient Glide
A maximized wingspan and thin foil section reduce drag and help the wing carry speed through softer sections. Less pumping effort is required to remain connected between bumps.
Speed for Faster Swell
The DW Series maintains lift across a broad speed range while delivering the top-end speed needed to stay with larger, faster-moving swell.
Maneuverable High-Aspect Feel
Despite its extended span, the DW is shaped for intuitive turning and the maneuverability required to redirect across the swell rather than remaining locked into a straight line.
Designed for Downwind Performance
Downwind SUP Foiling
The combination of low-speed lift, pumping efficiency and long glide helps riders paddle onto moving swell, accelerate with the bump and maintain flight while searching for the next connection.
Parawing Downwinding
The DW’s early lift and efficient cruising suit parawing riders who want assistance during takeoff followed by low-drag glide while surfing open-ocean swell.
Wing-Assisted Downwind Riding
With a wing, the DW rises efficiently in lighter wind and carries speed after the wing is flagged. Its glide makes it easier to stay connected through changing swell energy.
Advanced Paddle-Ups
The larger DW1100 and DW1400 provide the low-speed lift and carrying capacity needed for advanced flatwater or low-energy paddle-up practice, while the smaller wings prioritize speed and open-ocean performance.
Key Features
High-Aspect Downwind Outline
Aspect ratios from 11.2 to 14.5 create an efficient balance of lift, low drag and forward projection. The smaller sizes carry the highest aspect ratios for advanced speed and glide.
Maximized Wingspan
The extended span improves glide and reduces the energy needed to maintain flight. It helps the foil travel farther between bumps and hold momentum through weaker sections.
Low-Drag Foil Sections
Thin, efficient sections reduce resistance through the water while producing the lift required for low-speed takeoffs and sustained downwind flight.
Broad Speed Range
The DW lifts efficiently at relatively low speeds but continues accelerating without producing excessive lift that becomes difficult to control at the top end.
High Modulus Carbon Prepreg
The stiff High Modulus Carbon construction limits unwanted flex through the wide span. Rider input is transferred directly into pumping, steering and pitch control instead of being lost through structural movement.
Crisp, Predictable Response
The carbon layup provides direct feedback during pumping and turning. The foil responds cleanly to rider input while maintaining a predictable platform at speed.
Ventilation-Resistant Tips
The wingtip design provides strong resistance to ventilation when a tip approaches or briefly breaches the surface, helping the foil recover without immediately dropping from flight.
Six-Size Range
The DW690, DW750, DW820, DW900, DW1100 and DW1400 cover fast advanced riding, versatile open-ocean use, light-wind sessions and more accessible downwind progression.
Performance Feel
Progressive Takeoff
Lift develops smoothly as board speed increases, helping the rider establish height without an abrupt or difficult-to-control launch.
Effortless Forward Carry
Once flying, the DW maintains momentum with limited rider input. Its low drag helps preserve speed when leaving one bump and gliding toward another.
Direct Pumping Response
The stiff HM carbon construction converts rider movement into immediate foil response. This creates an efficient, predictable pumping rhythm when extending a glide or crossing a soft section.
Controlled High-Speed Lift
The DW continues accelerating without creating excessive lift at speed. This helps the rider maintain control while following faster swell or descending a steeper bump.
Downwind Series or Pump Series?
Choose the DW Series For
- Downwind SUP foiling
- Open-ocean swell and bump connection
- Parawing and wing-assisted downwind sessions
- Higher average speed and forward projection
- Long glide between moving bumps
- A broad low-speed-to-high-speed range
- Advanced paddle-up riding with downwind capability
Choose the Pump Series For
- Dockstarts and flatwater pumping
- Maximum pump duration at low speed
- Relaxed, endurance-focused pumping cadence
- Maintaining flight with minimal speed
- Flatwater training without moving swell
- Dedicated pump-foil sessions
- Riders prioritizing low-speed endurance over top speed
Sizes and Recommended Stabilizers
| Front Wing | North Item Number | Area | Wingspan | Aspect Ratio | Included Screw Pack | North Recommended Stabilizer Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DW690 | 85004.250135 | 107.0 sq. in. (690 cm²) |
39.4 in. (1000 mm) |
14.5 | Pack H 0.91 in. long (M8 × 23 mm) |
Glide S122 |
| DW750 | 85004.240069 | 116.3 sq. in. (750 cm²) |
39.4 in. (1000 mm) |
13.3 | Pack H 0.91 in. long (M8 × 23 mm) |
Glide S122 or S142 S192 for additional support |
| DW820 | 85004.250136 | 127.1 sq. in. (820 cm²) |
40.9 in. (1040 mm) |
13.2 | Pack D 0.98 in. long (M8 × 25 mm) |
Glide S142 or S122 |
| DW900 | 85004.240074 | 139.5 sq. in. (900 cm²) |
42.5 in. (1080 mm) |
13.0 | Pack D 0.98 in. long (M8 × 25 mm) |
Glide S142 or S192 |
| DW1100 | 85004.240075 | 170.5 sq. in. (1100 cm²) |
45.3 in. (1150 mm) |
12.0 | Pack D 0.98 in. long (M8 × 25 mm) |
Glide S192 S142 for advanced riders |
| DW1400 | 85004.240076 | 217.0 sq. in. (1400 cm²) |
49.2 in. (1250 mm) |
11.2 | Pack F 1.18 in. long (M8 × 30 mm) |
Glide S192 S142 for advanced riders |
General size direction: Smaller DW wings prioritize speed, responsiveness and faster swell for lighter or more advanced riders. Larger sizes provide earlier lift, increased low-speed support and more carrying capacity for light wind, softer swell, heavier riders or riders developing their downwind technique.
Recommended Stabilizer Pairing
DW690 — Glide S122
North recommends the Glide S122 for the DW690. Its 18.9 sq. in. (122 cm²) area and 11.2 aspect ratio unlock maximum speed and glide while giving the wide front wing a looser, more responsive roll feel.
DW750–DW820 — S122 or S142
Use the Glide S122 for minimum drag, maximum speed and increased turning response. Choose the Glide S142 for more pitch support and a balanced performance feel. North also lists the S192 as an option for the DW750 when additional stability is preferred.
DW900 — S142 or S192
The Glide S142 gives the DW900 a fast, responsive and more performance-focused feel. The larger Glide S192 adds support, stability and an easier pumping rhythm.
DW1100–DW1400 — Glide S192
North recommends the Glide S192 for its larger downwind wings. Its 29.8 sq. in. (192 cm²) area provides the holding power, pitch stability and easy pumping response that intermediate riders often prefer. Advanced riders can use the S142 for a faster and more reactive setup.
Which North Sonar DW Size Should You Choose?
DW690
The fastest and highest-aspect size in the range. Choose it for lighter or highly advanced riders, strong wind, large swell and fast-moving bumps where top speed and low drag are priorities.
DW750
A compact advanced downwind wing with excellent glide and a 39.4 in. (1000 mm) span. It suits fast swell, strong-wind parawing sessions and experienced riders who can generate reliable takeoff speed.
DW820
North refined the DW820 to provide more top-end speed and a lower takeoff speed than the DW750. It is a strong choice for riders wanting small-wing speed with a more accessible low end.
DW900
The versatile middle size balances low-speed lift, glide, speed and maneuverability. It suits experienced riders looking for one DW wing across a useful range of open-ocean conditions.
DW1100
The DW1100 adds low-speed support for lighter wind, smaller swell, heavier riders or riders progressing into downwind foiling without moving immediately to the largest size.
DW1400
The largest DW provides the earliest lift and greatest carrying capacity. It is the most accessible choice for light wind, small or slow-moving swell, heavier riders and riders developing paddle-up consistency.
Important Sonar Compatibility Information
North Sonar System
The DW front wings are designed for the North Sonar modular foil system. A compatible North Sonar mast, fuselage and stabilizer are required to build a complete foil.
Stabilizer Sold Separately
The Glide S122, S142 and S192 stabilizers are not included with the front wing. Select the stabilizer that matches the chosen wing size, rider level and preferred balance of speed and stability.
Size-Specific Screw Packs
Each DW size includes its correct front-wing screw pack. Screw length varies between the DW690–DW750, DW820–DW1100 and DW1400, so always use the hardware supplied with the selected wing.
Not a Complete Foil
This listing is for one Sonar DW front wing, its protective cover and the appropriate front-wing screws. The mast, fuselage and stabilizer must be purchased separately unless specifically stated otherwise.
Who Is the North Sonar DW For?
Best Rider Profiles
- Downwind SUP foilers seeking long glide
- Parawing riders connecting open-ocean swell
- Wing foilers who want efficient flagged-out riding
- Advanced riders practicing paddle-up starts
- Experienced foilers prioritizing speed and distance
- Heavier riders needing support from larger DW sizes
- Progressing downwind riders using the DW1100 or DW1400
What You’ll Notice on the Water
- Smooth lift at relatively low board speeds
- Long forward carry between bumps
- Efficient pumping with direct feedback
- High top-end speed for moving swell
- Controlled lift across a broad speed range
- Predictable, intuitive turning
- Strong resistance to wingtip ventilation
- More glide than a lower-aspect surf wing
Downwind Safety
What’s Included
Included with the Front Wing
- North Sonar DW front wing in the selected size
- Protective front-wing cover
- Correct front-wing screw pack for the selected size
Not Included
- North Sonar mast
- North Sonar fuselage
- Glide S122, S142 or S192 stabilizer
- Stabilizer cover and stabilizer hardware
- Foilboard
- Board-to-mast mounting hardware unless stated separately
- Wing, parawing or paddle
- Leash and personal safety equipment
North Sonar DW Front Wing FAQ
Is this a complete hydrofoil?
No. This product includes the selected Sonar DW front wing, its protective cover and the correct front-wing screw pack. A compatible North Sonar mast, fuselage and stabilizer are required.
Which stabilizer does North recommend?
North recommends the S122 for the DW690; the S122 or S142 for the DW750 and DW820; the S142 or S192 for the DW900; and the S192 for the DW1100 and DW1400. Advanced riders can use the S142 on the larger wings for a faster, more reactive feel.
What is the difference between the S122, S142 and S192?
The S122 provides minimum drag, maximum speed and a loose feel. The S142 offers a performance-focused balance of speed and support. The S192 provides greater pitch stability, holding power and easier pumping with larger front wings.
How is the DW different from the Pump Series?
The DW is designed to take off efficiently and then travel quickly with moving swell. The Pump Series is optimized for dockstarts, flatwater pumping and maintaining flight for long periods at lower speeds.
Which size is best for progressing into downwind foiling?
The DW1400 provides the most lift and low-speed support. The DW1100 is a useful option for riders who already have consistent takeoffs and want a faster, more compact setup.
Which sizes are intended for advanced riders?
The DW690 and DW750 are the most advanced sizes because they provide less total area and prioritize speed. They are best suited to lighter riders or locations with strong wind and larger, faster-moving swell.
How is the DW820 different from the DW750?
North states that the DW820 has significantly more top-end speed and a lower takeoff speed than the DW750 due to refinements in its foil sections. It also has a slightly wider 40.9 in. (1040 mm) span.
Can I use the S142 with the DW1400?
Yes. North states that the S142 has enough holding power for the DW1400, but recommends the S192 with larger DW wings. The S142 creates a faster, more advanced setup, while the S192 provides additional support and stability.
Are the mounting screws included?
Yes. Each front wing includes the correct screw pack. The DW690 and DW750 use Pack H with 0.91 in. long M8 × 23 mm screws; the DW820, DW900 and DW1100 use Pack D with 0.98 in. long M8 × 25 mm screws; and the DW1400 uses Pack F with 1.18 in. long M8 × 30 mm screws.
Which DW size should I choose?
Choose a smaller size for more speed and responsiveness in stronger conditions. Choose a larger size for earlier lift, lighter wind, softer swell, additional rider weight or easier downwind progression.
Why North Sonar Downwind?
The North Sonar DW Front Wing combines low-speed takeoff, efficient pumping, long-range glide and controlled top-end speed in a dedicated downwind design. With six sizes and three performance-oriented Glide stabilizer options, riders can build a Sonar setup for everything from light-wind progression and small swell to fast open-ocean runs on the advanced DW690.