Cloud 9 FS1000 wing foil TEST by Fanch:

TEST Cloud 9 FS1000: a swept-forward trailing edge design for extraordinary versatility:

The GlissEvolution store just received the foil everyone is talking about, the Cloud 9 1000 wing foil, and kindly put it to the test, so I couldn't resist trying it out.

I had the chance to test it in various conditions: gusty NE (12-25 knots) on flat water, and gusty SW (20-30 knots) with small waves. Here's a quick, non-exhaustive review of my initial impressions from these varied sessions.

What's in the box:

Assembly is a breeze. The front wing and half-fuselage are a single, monobloc piece, which eliminates all those frustrating assembly issues we've all dealt with, like play in the connections or broken screws. The other part of the fuselage slots in perfectly at the back. There's only one fuselage size, but with four possible positions for the stabilizer, the design is brilliant! A smaller version will be available soon.

Cloud9 foil has engineered a carbon plate with open holes that simplify assembly. The thick upper part of the mast also contributes to this ease. It feels rock-solid without weighing a ton!

After a reassuringly solid assembly, it was time to hit the water.

First Runs

Some foils demand aggressive pumping to get going, while others prefer a smooth, gliding take-off. This one sits comfortably in between, lifting off with surprisingly little power for a 1000cm² wing. Once you're up, it's incredibly stable and silent. It is also perfectly balanced, truly plug and play.

My first switch to initiate a transition was remarkably easy; I can't recall a foot change being so simple recently. It holds its line without a hitch, almost too easy (as JUJU would say!). After two months off the water, my first tacks were equally effortless. This foil is ultra-stable, carrying speed for so long that you can link maneuvers back-to-back without worrying about losing momentum.

Pumping Performance

I'm no pumping expert, but for this test, I took inspiration from Hadou's video.

Hadou's TEST video

I chose an intermediate position for the 197 stab, which is better for maneuverability, though perhaps slightly less optimal for pumping. My initial impression is that this foil's incredible glide allows even less experienced riders like me to pump for a significant distance. It's less intuitive than the SPG missile, but it performs exceptionally well on flat water and is highly effective when small waves offer an assist.

Riding Waves

Testing its behavior in the surf: once you're on a wave, it just keeps gliding. This Cloud 9 FS1000 wing foil has the unique ability to lift like a 1200-1300 front wing (without the associated drag). The trade-off is that to "play in the waves," you need to apply good pressure to tip the wingtips (92cm wingspan). Once you understand this characteristic, you're set!

What truly stands out is how comfortable I felt, even with a front wing that was a bit large for me in those conditions (I suspected it, but this was the test model). Despite that, I never felt out of control when the waves got steeper. It's genuinely very stable and 100% fun!

Pure Speed

Now for the speed test. While it's not designed for pure speed, it's surprisingly capable.

Upwind Performance

Its upwind performance is on par with other foils I've tested (Fanatic, Signature, Sabfoil). This makes it easy to get back to the peak.

Cloud Foil: In short

To sum it up: this foil is easy, predictable (you can ride it endlessly), stable, rigid, with a very convincing glide. It's ultra-easy for maneuvers, incredibly stable, and predictable in waves (I never had to fight a foil pushing out of the water). What I remember most is how easy it is for its surface area; it provides lift without feeling like it's pushing too hard. I can't wait to test it in "good conditions" and try the smaller combos (850, 700, 550, and stab 179, 159). I truly love this foil; I found no flaws for its advertised program.

Cloud 9 Foils available at the shop here