Double Dip: Armstrong Downwind MKIII & Ocean

Armstrong is updating their existing board line with two new SUP/DW shapes for 2025, the MKIII and the DW ocean. Both are built with the same ultra stiff dual carbon stringer construction from the prior generation and feature custom carbon fin boxes for an ultra-stiff connection. These boards come as a complete kit, ready to bolt on the foil and ride. The attention to detail and quality is evident right out of the box. Each board comes with a high-quality premium board bag that has all the features you would expect, including a Velcro split opening for the mast, large oversize zippers, and a Velcro strap on the tail to close the bag without having to zip. Both sizes fit perfectly in their bag, however there is not a huge amount of room leftover for extra accessories.

Each board sports a Gore-Tex vent plug in the nose, a high-quality deck pad, and a leash tie is pre-tied. The deck pad is a nice thickness, offering the right balance between comfort and feel. Integrated contours and arch bars in the rear of the pad provide a comfortable ride with sufficient indexing so riders can quickly and easily find their comfort spot on the board without having to look down or move excessively.

In line with previous design generations, both the MKIII and Ocean have the FG (forward geometry) box placement, and longer boxes that will allow for appropriate placement for most foils, although riders who are using older generation larger foils may find these boxes a touch forward. Any rider on a more modern high-aspect foil will have ample space to fine tune the foil placement.

Both boards have similar design characteristics in the front half, including a slight dual concave in the nose, and added volume in the front third of the board. As you move into the tail the designs deviate with the MKIII having a little more of a surf-oriented higher volume “chopped pin”, and the Ocean retaining a sleek, lower volume pin tail.

While these boards have similar design principles, the ride characteristics are quite different and will favor different conditions. The MKIII will perform best in waves, or downwinding with shorter period, slower, and steeper bumps. With a shorter waterline and wider outline, the MKIII is a much surfier design at the cost of paddle speed. Riders who are looking to leverage a tighter turning radius and more surf oriented downwind style will best leverage the MKIII reduced length.

For downwind conditions where bumps are generally less steep and move faster, the Ocean will provide the pure paddle speed required. Additionally, riders pushing the envelope for speed and riding the most modern, ultra-high-aspect foils will find the extended waterline of the Ocean simply takes less effort to get on foil compared to the MKIII which is critical in race situations. The narrower width does make the Ocean a bit less stable then the MKIII, but with the parallel rail outline, any horizontal paddle movement helps the board lock in and push through cross chop.

Overall, both boards have a spot in any quiver. The construction feels bomber and able to withstand multiple seasons of travel and abuse. Featuring many carbon elements, the MKIII and Ocean have a remarkable stiffness, efficiency, and feel through the foil. This construction combined with modern box placements makes these boards a versatile companion to any foil system. Riders who are seeking a downwind board with a surf-oriented feel, and cross over into wave riding will best pair with the new MKIII. For those pushing the limits of downwind foiling, riding in the most extreme open ocean conditions, or just want the easiest paddle up experience will prefer the Ocean.