One Foil to Learn, One to Rip | North MA1500 to SF1080 for Wakefoiling

Ryan and Caden from MACkite dive into a detailed breakdown of two standout options from North Foils for wake foiling: the MA1500 V2 and the SF1080. They recommend the North Sonar MA1500 V2 as the ideal setup for beginners due to its forgiving, stable, and user-friendly performance. As a mid-aspect front wing, the MA1500 offers a great balance—it doesn’t overpower the rider on takeoff and provides smooth carving and decent pump ability. Its versatility stands out, performing well behind everything from pontoon boats with minimal wake to proper wake boats. Riders in the 150–200 lb range will especially appreciate its predictability and control. The foil’s consistency across varying mounting positions in the track box makes it easy to dial in, and it’s capable of progressing with the rider from first rope starts to carving and pumping in the first and second rollers.

Once riders start comfortably riding the wake without the rope and seeking higher performance, the North SF1080 becomes a compelling next step. With a slightly narrower outline and higher aspect ratio than the MA1500, the SF1080 delivers faster acceleration and excellent glide—especially useful for transferring wake to wake and carving aggressively. While it’s not designed for absolute beginners, it remains surprisingly accessible, with a controlled, non-twitchy feel. Caden notes it rides smaller than expected and has great maneuverability, while Ryan emphasizes the speed and efficiency it brings to dynamic wake riding.

They both stress the importance of matching the front wing with an appropriate stabilizer. While the MA1500 pairs with a larger stab for stability, moving to the SF1080 often calls for a smaller stab to unlock the full performance potential. The modular nature of the North Sonar system means users can easily progress within the same platform, making it ideal for long-term growth. They conclude by encouraging wake foilers of all levels to reach out to the shop with questions, reinforcing their enthusiasm for the North Sonar system’s adaptability and performance across a wide range of rider sizes and skill levels.


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