Planche de wing Duotone Skybrid SLS : test et avis

The Duotone Skybrid SLS is a mid-length wingfoil board that combines the best of both worlds: the easy take-off of a downwinder and the handling of a compact board. Designed with SLS (Strong, Light, Superior) technology in Biax PVC carbon sandwich, it offers 5 sizes from 5'4-inch to 6'0-inch with volumes from 55 to 115 liters. Three riders tested it for GlissEvolution: Hadou Brunner, Yann Rifflet, and Kevin Perrin.

The Mid-Length Concept

The Skybrid follows the mid-length trend: boards designed for very early take-off like downwind boards, while remaining compact and playful like classic wings boards. This hybrid blend allows for fast gliding, jumping, surfing, and having fun in freefly.

Features Tested

The range offers 5 models from 5'4-inch to 6'0-inch, with volumes from 55 to 115 liters. Full carbon sandwich construction with carbon rails for added stiffness. The 5'6-inch 70L tested weighs only 5.6 kg, an advantage for light wind. Unique sanded finish from Duotone with a sleek look.

On the water

Hadou primarily tested the Skybrid in summer conditions with light winds of 8 to 12 knots. What struck him was its ability to take off earlier than other boards, even with small foils (650 or 850). An excellent choice for maximizing performance in light wind.

Who is it for?

The Skybrid is aimed at experienced riders who already have a good command of wingfoil. Perfect as a single board for year-round riding, or as a complement for summer sessions and light winds. If you're a beginner, it's better to opt for a wider and more stable board.

SLS Construction

Yann highlights the SLS (Strong, Light, Superior) technology: Biax PVC carbon sandwich which makes the board both extremely stiff and ultra-lightweight. Compared to previous constructions, this SLS version is stronger and lighter, which improves the feeling of flight and handling.

Flight Performance

In flight, the Skybrid SLS stands out for its lightness and handling. The nose rocker has been slightly increased to facilitate re-takeoff in case of a touch-down. The beveled and rounded rails reduce the risk of touching the water during turns, making the board more agile and responsive.

Waves and Competition

The Skybrid SLS is not just a freeride board: it also performs well in waves and competition. Its reduced width and increased length make it an ideal board for tight waves and fast turns. In competition, it allows for quick starts and efficient acceleration, even with small foils.

Design

Duotone has paid close attention to aesthetics with exposed carbon, touches of blue, and a pink logo. The choice of lightweight and durable materials contributes to performance while providing a modern and eye-catching look. The strap inserts have been improved for greater comfort.

First impressions

Blue tinted finish revealing the carbon, custom style. Shape with a flat hull shape on the rear 2/3 for efficient glide, rocker on the nose for touchdowns. Long carbon rails providing stiffness and lightness. Weight of 6.2 kg according to his scale. Very solid full carbon sandwich construction. New generation straps, 60g lighter than the 2023 versions.

On the water

The deck width (22-inch, or 59.9 cm) offers great stability, no roll even when standing. The concave deck allows for precise foot placement. During take-off, the glide is excellent thanks to the flat hull shape and low drag. In flight, the narrow width facilitates tight carves with a lot of angle. Pumping is fluid, without heaviness despite the length.

Low-End Performance

In light conditions (9-12 knots), there was no difficulty flying with the Select Goliath foil and the Unit V4 5 m² wing. The rocker allows for touchdowns without braking while maintaining good glide. Kevin even managed a few 360 rotations, without being hindered by the length of the tail.

Kevin's Verdict

The Skybrid SLS 5'6-inch 70L is an excellent compromise in terms of length and width, ideal as a single board for intermediate to expert riders (except freestylers). Wide range of use, suitable for freeride, race, freefly or Surf. For increased comfort before flight, Kevin recommends choosing a volume above your weight. This mid-length shape should become a trend for those looking for a versatile board, perfect for saving sessions when conditions are light.

The three testers are unanimous: the Duotone Skybrid SLS is a success. Its mid-length shape offers the perfect compromise between early take-off and handling in flight. The SLS construction in Biax PVC carbon sandwich gives it a lightweight (5.6 kg in 5'6") with exceptional stiffness. Whether it's Hadou in light summer wind, Yann in competition and waves, or Kevin in race and freeride, all praise its versatility and performance. The Skybrid is clearly the board to consider if you are looking for a unique board capable of doing everything, especially in light wind. It should become a reference in the mid-length wingfoil category.

Article written based on tests by Hadou Brunner (video), Yann Rifflet (video), and Kevin Perrin (text). Photos: Duotone / John Carter. Contact Kevin: @kevinperrin80 (Instagram).