AK Nomad 7’6 x 24.5” x 135L SUP foil board

The downwind foil board’s style shape has become the go-to design for anyone looking to get into downwind SUP foiling

Words & photos: Tez Plavenieks

The downwind foil board’s style shape has become the go-to design for anyone looking to get into downwind SUP foiling (obvs), SUP foiling in small waves, and light wind wing foiling. More than this, it’s become apparent that this concept of foil board offers additional benefits when conditions get good.

AK’s Nomad range comes from light wind-winging efficiency, SUP foiling in waves, and some downwind ability. It’s an impressive-looking sled with a quality finish and lightweight carbon manufacturing. The tail’s super-sharp water-release design, brine-shedding nose, sharp release rails towards the back, hull vee, deck concave, and footstrap inserts make the Nomad an eye-catching ‘machine’.

Efficiency is indeed the name of the game with the Nomad. It doesn’t take much to get the board up to glide speed, at which point it releases, and you’re flying. ‘Milking it’ is an apt term when discussing the AK Nomad. At altitude, the Nomad’s composure is tangible, even if the wind suddenly picks up when winging. Its manners are impeccable. 

Board swing weight is often discussed. Yet, with the long foil tracks placed so far forward, the Nomad doesn’t suffer. The board’s length feels reduced after taking off and riding from the foil, so there’s no issue. In all instances, the Nomad was a joy to pilot. For a seemingly ‘big’ foil board it whips about on swells like something much smaller. 

Conclusion
At 24.5″ the AK Nomad 7’6 is one of the widest foil boards of type available. Most are around 20″. That makes the Nomad more accessible than some. Even though most paddlers will know how tricky even something 24″ wide can be, that said, it’s more doable in SUP foil mode than you think. The foil will help give some composure. And any rider with skill should be fine. Super early take-offs, dependable general foiling performance, and a surprisingly manoeuvrable element make the AK Nomad one to look at for foil riders of various types. For light wind winging, it’s a cracker too!
Price: £1465
Info: https://foilshop.co.uk/product/ak-nomad-light-wind-wing-downwind-sup-foil-board-66-70-76/