Inbound: Phantom 2025 Range

Big news from the Phantom team, as they release a downwind-focused range that’s replete with cutting edge tech, and right in time for the DW race of DW races: the M2O 2025. 

So the big news here is your 2025 range, specifically targeted at the downwind market. Could you please give us an overview of the range, and tell us a little about the design philosophy behind it?

Absolutely. We’re thrilled to introduce the Hurricane range, which represents the next chapter in Phantom’s evolution. This collection is the perfect balance of performance, innovation, and accessibility. At its core, it embodies the Phantom DNA: pure performance, engineered specifically for the unique demands of downwind foiling.

We’ve developed five high-aspect front wings ranging from 550 to 1100 cm², along with multiple tail wings and a dedicated board line to form a fully integrated system. Every element was designed to glide effortlessly, accelerate smoothly, and stay stable and efficient across variable downwind conditions. Whether you’re flying through fast bumps or dealing with flatter water sections, this foil range is built to perform and perform consistently.

What specific performance challenges in downwind foiling were you aiming to solve with this new collection?

The biggest challenge in downwind foiling is that the ocean never gives you consistency. You go from steep bumps to rolling swells to near-flat sections, all in one run. So, we focused on glide, speed retention, and ease of use across that full spectrum. One of the standout features is the optimized dihedral. We found a sweet spot that balances maneuverability and stability while integrating seamlessly with the water flow. That makes it easier to link bumps, maintain speed without burning out, and stay on foil longer.

Another key performance goal was accessibility. We wanted a foil that not only delivers top-tier performance for elite riders but also offers forgiving characteristics for those still honing their downwind skills.

Can you talk us through the development process for the range – how closely did your designers and riders work together on this?

The development of Hurricane was truly collaborative. From the very beginning, we built the project on constant communication between our engineering team and our top riders. Every design decision was shaped by real-world feedback, and that continuous exchange between on-water testing and technical refinement was absolutely essential. We used advanced simulation tools like CFD and VPP, which are the same types of technologies used in cutting-edge projects like the America’s Cup. These tools allowed us to simulate and optimize performance across a wide range of downwind conditions with a high level of accuracy.

But this wasn’t just about chasing numbers in a lab. It was about combining data-driven design with the lived experience of riders to create equipment that performs at the highest level while remaining intuitive and responsive on the water.

From what we’ve seen thus far, Phantom isn’t a brand that shies away from innovation. Without giving away trade secrets, what’s new in terms of materials and tech with the range?

The Hurricane range is built on cutting-edge innovation. We’ve integrated ultra-high modulus pre-preg carbon, a material inspired by windsurfing technology, ensuring exceptional stiffness, lightness, and responsiveness. The mast features a consistent 13mm thickness, which reduces drag and provides superior control. The fuselage has also been redesigned for better hydrodynamic efficiency, reducing resistance and optimizing water flow.

One of the key features of this range is the optimized dihedral angle. This was carefully engineered to provide a smooth, stable ride while improving maneuverability and control in various conditions. It’s forgiving enough for beginners, yet efficient enough to meet the demands of advanced riders.

In terms of aspect ratio, we’ve pushed the envelope by maintaining a high AR even on our larger wings. For example, our 1100cm² wing still boasts an impressive 16 AR, which is innovative for a foil of that size. This ensures excellent glide and performance while keeping handling smooth and responsive.

This range is released in advance of the 2025 M2O Moloka’i to O’ahu race. Has the Moloka’i been a direct influence on this range?

Absolutely. The M2O is iconic. It’s one of the toughest and most prestigious downwind challenges out there. From the very beginning, we envisioned the Hurricane as a foil system capable of not just surviving but thriving in those conditions.

Whether you’re racing across the Hawaiian channels or riding swells off the European coast, the demands are similar: speed, control, and endurance. We designed the foils to deliver controlled, smooth performance over long distances, with enough low-end lift to get up easily and enough glide to keep going without burning out. While the M2O was an important benchmark for us, these foils are built to excel in all of the world’s toughest downwind races.

Phantom has always leaned into the performance aspect, but will newer downwind foilers find a place in the range?

Definitely. While performance is always at the heart of what we do, we’ve paid close attention to accessibility with this range. One of our biggest achievements with Hurricane is how forgiving and intuitive it feels, even at high speeds or in difficult water states.

The smooth lift, stable platform, and soft dihedral angle make it much easier for newer riders to get up and stay up. So whether you’re chasing your first proper downwind run or prepping for the M2O, there’s a setup in this range that will support your progression.

Looking ahead, how do you see downwind foiling evolving over the next couple of years, and where does Phantom fit into that?

Downwind foiling is growing fast, and it’s becoming more accessible than ever. We’re seeing new gear, new formats, and new communities popping up around the world. The feeling of flying over open water, completely free, is incredibly addictive, and the gear is finally catching up to make that experience available to more people in more conditions.

At Phantom, we’re committed to being at the leading edge of that evolution. Whether through materials innovation, refined hydrodynamics, or rider-centric design, our mission is to keep pushing performance while expanding access to this incredible sport.

Finally, for Phantom fans who’ve followed your journey to date, what do you think will surprise them the most about this new range?

I think they’ll be surprised by just how far we’ve pushed things, especially with the aspect ratios and overall efficiency. But more than that, they’ll be blown away by how easy it feels. This range is fast, yes, but it’s also incredibly smooth, stable, and user-friendly. That balance is hard to achieve, and it’s something we’re really proud of.

So whether you're a die-hard Phantom fan or just discovering us, the Hurricane range is going to change how people think about downwind foiling. It’s not just next-level performance, it’s a whole new ride.