Aluminum Sonar Foil Mast | Mast Only
North Sonar Foil Mast
A strong, dependable aluminum mast with five lengths for everything from shallow-water foiling to powered open-water sessions.
The North Sonar Foil Mast uses a refined aluminum profile to balance strength, stiffness, durability and accessible performance. Its GeoLock tapered connection securely joins the mast and fuselage for direct load transfer and a solid, unified feel. Five available lengths let you tailor your Sonar setup for shallow water, prone foiling, learning, everyday wing foiling or maximum clearance in waves and chop.
- AF55–AF95 sizes
- Anodized aluminum
- GeoLock connection
- Modular Sonar system
- Strong weight-optimized profile
- Mast only
Why Choose the North Sonar Aluminum Mast?
Durable Aluminum Construction
Anodized aeronautical-grade aluminum provides a strong and dependable platform for everyday foiling. It is especially attractive to progressing riders who value durability and replacement cost over the lowest possible weight.
GeoLock Mast Connection
North’s tapered GeoLock geometry distributes loads through the mast’s cross-section and locks the mast firmly to the fuselage. This minimizes unwanted movement and creates more precise feedback underfoot.
Five Purpose-Built Lengths
Choose a compact AF55 for extremely shallow water, the beginner-friendly AF80, the versatile AF85 or the taller AF95 for additional wave and banking clearance.
Sonar Fuselage Compatibility
The mast is compatible with North Sonar carbon and aluminum fuselages, making it easy to build, repair or expand a modular Sonar foil setup.
Accessible Sonar Performance
This aluminum mast costs less than North’s carbon alternatives while retaining the secure GeoLock connection and broad Sonar component compatibility.
Designed for Progression
The strong profile provides predictable feedback across wing, prone and surf foiling. Riders can begin with an aluminum mast and upgrade other Sonar components as their skills and performance goals develop.
Mast Sizes and Specifications
| Size | Mast Length | Minimum Thickness | Minimum Chord | Weight | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AF55 | 55cm / 21.7" | 18mm | 125mm | 1.25kg / 2.76 lb | Extremely shallow water and specialized low-clearance setups |
| AF72 | 72cm / 28.3" | 18mm | 125mm | 2.23kg / 4.92 lb | Prone surf foiling, shallower water and easier early progression |
| AF80 | 80cm / 31.5" | 18mm | 125mm | 2.38kg / 5.25 lb | Beginner wing foiling and controlled all-around progression |
| AF85 | 85cm / 33.5" | 18mm | 125mm | 2.48kg / 5.47 lb | All-around wing foiling, waves, freeride and rougher conditions |
| AF95 | 95cm / 37.4" | Not published | Not published | Not published | Maximum ride height, larger waves, heavy chop and deep banking |
Specification note: North currently lists the AF95 as an available size but does not include its thickness, chord or weight in the published technical chart. Those values have therefore not been estimated.
Which Sonar Mast Size Should You Choose?
AF55: Extremely Shallow Water
Choose the AF55 only when water depth is the primary limitation. Its short length provides maximum bottom clearance and less leverage during falls, but offers limited room for banking, crossing chop and controlling flight height.
AF72: Prone and Shallow-Water Foiling
The AF72 is the strongest choice for prone surf foiling and locations where an 80–85cm mast is too tall. It feels manageable during takeoffs and touchdowns while still providing useful riding height.
AF80: Beginner Wing Foiling
North recommends the AF80 as the ideal beginner wing-foil length. It provides more usable clearance than the AF72 without the additional leverage and flight height of the longer options.
AF85: Best All-Around Choice
Choose the AF85 for the most versatile setup. It works across disciplines and offers enough height to clear normal chop and waves while remaining approachable for progressing wing foilers.
AF95: Maximum Clearance
The AF95 is best for experienced riders in deeper water who need more clearance through waves and rough water. The additional height also allows greater banking angles before the board or foil approaches the surface.
Windance Recommendation
Choose the AF80 when learning to wing foil and the AF85 for the broadest long-term range. Select the AF72 for prone or shallow-water use, while the AF55 and AF95 are more specialized choices.
Aluminum vs. Carbon Sonar Mast
| Feature | Sonar AF Aluminum Mast | Sonar CF Carbon Mast |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Learning, everyday use, durability and value | Lower drag, lighter weight and more immediate feedback |
| Construction | 6000-series anodized aluminum | Pre-preg carbon |
| Published Profile | 18mm minimum thickness and 125mm minimum chord | 16mm minimum thickness and 115mm minimum chord |
| AF85/CF85 Weight | 2.48kg / 5.47 lb | 1.90kg / 4.19 lb |
| Board Mount | Requires a separate AF Board Adaptor | Integrated mounting plate with 165 x 90mm pattern |
| Why Buy It? |
Best Value Lower entry cost and practical durability |
Higher Performance Lighter, thinner and more direct through the water |
Choose the aluminum mast if you prioritize affordability, durability and reliable recreational performance. Choose the carbon mast when reduced weight, a thinner profile and more immediate response justify the additional cost.
Compatibility and What’s Included
Compatible With
- North Sonar aluminum fuselages
- North Sonar carbon fuselages
- North AF Board Adaptor
- Modular North Sonar foil components
Not Included
- AF Board Adaptor
- Fuselage
- Front wing
- Stabilizer
- Foil-to-board mounting hardware
This product includes the mast only. It is not the Sonar Foil Edition package.
Important: The aluminum AF mast does not have an integrated mounting plate. A compatible North AF Board Adaptor is required to connect it to a foil board.
Care and Maintenance
- Rinse the mast, adapter, fuselage and hardware with fresh water after saltwater use.
- Separate connected aluminum components regularly to clean and inspect the interfaces.
- Use the manufacturer-recommended anti-corrosion protection on compatible threaded connections.
- Check screws for wear, corrosion and correct torque before every session.
- Avoid storing the assembled foil wet or covered in saltwater residue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this mast include a board adapter?
No. The aluminum mast does not have an integrated mounting plate. A North AF Board Adaptor must be purchased separately unless you already own one.
What is the best size for a beginner?
North recommends the AF80 for beginner wing foiling. It provides a useful balance of manageable control and enough ride height for normal conditions.
What is the best all-around size?
The AF85 is the most versatile choice for riders who want one mast for wing foiling, freeride, waves and moderately rough conditions.
Is the AF72 only for beginners?
No. Its shorter length is particularly useful for prone surf foiling and shallow water, including experienced riders who prefer a compact surf-oriented setup.
Will it fit a Sonar carbon fuselage?
Yes. North states that the AF mast is compatible with Sonar carbon and aluminum fuselages through the GeoLock mast-to-fuselage connection.
Why choose carbon instead?
A Sonar carbon mast is lighter and uses a thinner profile for reduced surface friction and more immediate feedback. The aluminum mast remains the better-value option for many recreational riders.