Stoke Foil Boost Ultra

The Boost Ultra is Stoke Foils’ second-generation clamp-on assist system, designed to give foilers a low-profile, removable power source that helps with lift-off and time-on-foil in marginal conditions. Building on the original Stoke Boost, which introduced a compact motor pod aimed at supplementing rider technique rather than replacing it, the Ultra brings major upgrades across the board. It improves runtime by 50 percent and increases output to 31 kilograms of thrust, thanks to a redesigned high-voltage motor, larger battery, and a new control system. While still based on short, targeted bursts of thrust, the Boost Ultra now operates with enough power and endurance that it edges into retrofittable e-foil territory for some users.

This extra grunt doesn’t just get you up. It’ll tow you in when you’re feeling lazy, letting you mess around with low-key e-foiling on flat days or chase breaks you never could before. This is hybrid foiling, where you still rely on timing and technique but get just enough help to make more days work. Whether you’re working on paddle-ups, linking bumps on a downwind run, or pushing through light wind lulls, the assist can be game-changing. For riders who want more than short bursts, the Ultra has enough power to cruise under its own steam whenever you feel like it.

The system is compact and well-built. The sealed aluminum pod mounts securely to the mast, and the rechargeable battery sits in a locking nose cone that detaches quickly for charging, with no tools required. The updated receiver can be installed above or below deck, improving compatibility with different board designs. Setup was straightforward, and it packs down easily between sessions or for travel with the included molded carry case.

The redesigned remote features an ergonomic shape that feels secure in the hand for prone use, and a bright LCD display provides clear feedback during operation. It remains fully sealed, intuitive, and easy to use, with a responsive thumb throttle, power mode buttons, and a lockout to prevent accidental activation.

Our first test day was in knee-high surf with a stiff offshore wind. The waves were small and inconsistent, but with some timing they were workable. We tested both prone and SUP in these conditions to see how the Boost handled low-power surf. In prone, flatwater starts came easily. A well-timed boost was enough to drive into the standing position without paddle strokes. From there, it was simple to motor into position and glide into waves. The power cutoff causes a brief nose drop, but the transition is smooth and quickly becomes part of the rhythm. The assist made more waves accessible and clearly lifted the wave count.

SUP testing followed in the same conditions. The remote was strapped to the paddle shaft, allowing for regular strokes with assistance available when needed. It was easy to supplement paddling or rely fully on the motor to get in. The added power helped with late takeoffs and carried momentum through soft sections. It made entry effortless.

There is added mass underfoot (about 3.8 kilograms), which slightly changes the feel in pumps and turns. It is not disruptive, and since the weight is centered over the mast, handling remains stable. A minor stance adjustment or bump in foil size was enough to compensate.

A separate session was held in light cross-shore wind, with scattered surface bumps beyond the break. While winging with the unit attached, the Boost Ultra provided steady assist for clean beach launches and quick acceleration out to the wind line. Though not built for speed, it consistently bridged power gaps during lulls and dead zones. Once on foil, it stayed out of the way.

Later that session, we left the wing on the beach and went for a short downwind run. The Boost made it easy to line up with good bumps and get flying quickly. Having dialed in the stance during winging, it felt natural to link bumps with barely any effort. If we came off foil, getting back up was quick and repeatable, keeping the run flowing. It shows how useful the system can be when learning downwind or making use of a short window.

While operating, the motor gives off a soft hum above and below the waterline, especially when the propeller breaks the surface. It is not loud, but it is noticeable. Like all powered foils, some noise is part of the package. In shared lineups, we kept usage minimal, stayed mindful of wave count, and followed local regulations. With mindful use, it fits in naturally. As hybrid foiling becomes more common, the Boost Ultra stays true to the purpose of assist by providing subtle support without taking over the ride.

Signal remained solid throughout testing, and the battery consistently held up. Charge levels were easy to monitor via the remote, and a full recharge took around three hours. The system is robust and clearly designed for the rough handling and exposure that come with regular foiling.

After a week of varied sessions, the Boost Ultra proved it fits in and does what it is supposed to. It doesn’t ride the board for you or change your fundamentals. It just gives you more to work with. It’s a tool for getting up, staying up, or squeezing value from a borderline day. Whether you’re using it for assist or light propulsion, the Ultra adapts to how you want to ride.