Target Audience
The Indiana Condor XL Pumpfoil is designed for those who are looking for a foil optimized for long-distance rides. While not particularly suited for playful maneuvers or freestyle, this foil glides seamlessly like no other on the market, all at a remarkable price point. You simply won’t find this level of performance for such an affordable cost in any other foil. The complete setup, which includes aluminum masts, is priced at approximately 1,699 Swiss Francs. In comparison, a similar SAB Foil Leviathan 1550 costs around 700 Francs. Therefore, for those who wish to enjoy long journeys on flat water without breaking the bank, the Indiana is the ideal choice.
Starting Off
My initial attempts to start using the foil were challenging. It took about 5-6 tries to find the right position and finally begin pumping effectively. The combination of the Condor XL front wing and the Condor XS stabilizer creates a somewhat pitch-sensitive foil. Initially, the small tail wing requires a considerable speed before it offers stability. However, once I positioned myself correctly on the board and started pumping, the foil felt stable and easy to maneuver. It is crucial not to stand too wide on the foil and to apply even pressure with both legs; each pump translates efficiently into forward movement. Remarkably! It did not take long to reach the end of the pond (Bichelsee), prompting me to turn around. However, this proved to be a bit of a challenge. In comparison to the Leviathan 1550, which already feels somewhat sluggish, the Condor XL is about ten times slower to respond. Once tilted, the foil struggles to regain its position. This means you need to maintain a very flat and extended angle while riding; otherwise, recovery is difficult.
Build Quality
The construction of the foil is commendable and even slightly lighter than the SAB Foil Leviathan 1550, all while being significantly stiffer. However, the aluminum mast does create noticeable resistance in the water. When pumping the foil at a high position, efficiency is remarkable, but lower down, you won’t be breaking any records. Unfortunately, the screws on my front wing are a bit too recessed, which not only detracts from the overall aesthetic but may also contribute to additional drag. All the aluminum components, however, are flawlessly crafted. Initially, I received the foil with a 90cm mast, which I subsequently shortened to 73cm after my first session. The difference is enormous in a positive way. The wing itself is beautifully constructed, and the carbon shows no defects. The printing on the wing does protrude slightly; whether this is noticeable or not remains to be seen, but as a perfectionist, I would prefer it to be smooth to the touch.
Conclusion
Once you become accustomed to the foil, it’s an absolute joy to ride! It’s simply fantastic, and within just five minutes of pumping, you can start to explore the lake or cruise along the shoreline. Starting from virtually anywhere is feasible. Whether standing in the water or slightly elevated, with a bit of forward motion, you can jump onto the board and, if positioned correctly, glide for around 10 meters before needing to pump. This summer, I pumped from Silvaplana to Sils and back, taking a break by the lakeshore whenever I ran low on energy. It was truly an exhilarating experience, something that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago.
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