2023-02-07-SouthAfrica-LEVITAZ-SonyAlpha9ii-©MiriamJoanna-DSC02408

LEVITAZ FOIL S/S 2025 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide:  Foil S/S 2025 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand:  Levitaz
Interviewee: Michael Zeilinger, Product Manager

What sport is driving the most demand at the moment (kite, wind, wing, surf…) and why?
Currently, wing foiling is driving the most demand. This surge can be attributed to the sport’s accessibility and versatility. Wing foiling combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy a wide range of conditions. Its popularity is further fueled by the compact nature of the equipment, making it easy to transport and store.

Which of your 2024 foil set ups have sold best and why?
Our 2024 foil set-up that has sold the best is the HA Series. This success is due to its advanced hydrodynamic design, which provides the perfict lift to drag ratio.

What are the main trends in foil construction, materials and design?
The main trends in foil construction are focusing on lightweight yet durable materials such as carbon fiber. Designs are becoming more modular, allowing for customizable set-ups to cater to different skill levels and riding styles. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on hydrodynamic efficiency to maximize speed and maneuverability. Sustainability is also a key trend, with more foils being made in Europe using sustainable materials and eco-friendly production processes.

What are the highlights of your 2025 foil offer?
For 2025, we are excited to introduce the R6 Race Series. This new added line to the R5 Race Series features an innovative wing design that reduces drag and increases lift, optimized for competitive racing. The R6 Race Series is registered to be a foil for the Formula Kite events from 2025 on with the grand final event at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, demonstrating its top-tier performance capabilities. However, it is also designed for everyone who wants to go as fast as possible, making high-speed foiling accessible to a broader audience. The R6 Race Series will be produced as all our foils in Austria, reflecting our commitment to quality and sustainability.

Which of your 2024 foilboard set ups have sold best and why?
Our top-selling foilboard set-up for 2024 has been the Levitaz Exo. This board has seen exceptional demand due to its innovative design and high-performance features. The Levitaz Exo is crafted using carbon, which not only ensures outstanding strength and durability but also significantly reduces weight for enhanced agility and responsiveness on the water. Key to its popularity is its versatile design, allowing riders to effortlessly switch between freeride cruising and high-speed racing setups by adjusting the modular components such as the mast and wings. This adaptability caters to a wide range of riders, from beginners looking to improve their skills to seasoned athletes pushing the limits of foilboarding. Moreover, the Levitaz Exo incorporates sustainable practices in its production, aligning with growing environmental consciousness in water sports equipment. By utilizing eco-friendly materials and efficient manufacturing processes, Levitaz not only delivers top-tier performance but also contributes to minimizing environmental impact.

What are the main trends in Foilboard construction, materials and design?
In contemporary foilboard construction, there is a significant emphasis on enhancing performance through advanced materials and innovative design. Foilboards are increasingly crafted from high-strength materials such as aerospace-grade carbon fiber, which ensures optimal stiffness and durability while keeping the boards lightweight. This material choice is pivotal in achieving precise control and responsiveness, crucial for both recreational and competitive foilboarding. Moreover, sustainability is becoming integral to foilboard manufacturing practices. We are adopting eco-friendly materials and production methods to minimize environmental impact. This includes using recycled materials and optimizing manufacturing processes to reduce waste and energy consumption. By prioritizing sustainability, manufacturers are not only meeting consumer expectations but also contributing positively to environmental stewardship in the water sports industry. These trends collectively underscore a commitment to advancing foilboard technology, balancing performance excellence with environmental responsibility. They cater to a diverse range of riders seeking high-performance equipment that aligns with their values of sustainability and innovation.

What are the highlights of your 2025 foilboard offer?
One of our highlight offering for the 2025 foilboard lineup is the Boom Race Series, designed for competitive racing and high-speed cruising, the Boom Race Series fits perfectly to our R5 and R6 Race Series. Featuring a state-of-the-art construction, the Boom Race Series utilizes high-strength carbon fiber. This material choice ensures unparalleled stiffness and responsiveness, allowing riders to achieve maximum control and maneuverability on the water. The lightweight yet robust build of the Boom Race Series enhances agility and speed, essential for competitive edge in racing scenarios. In terms of design, the Boom Race Series is engineered with aerodynamics in mind. Its streamlined profile and optimized wing shapes minimize drag while maximizing lift, optimizing efficiency and stability even at high speeds. This aerodynamic prowess not only enhances performance but also improves overall riding experience, making it a preferred choice among elite athletes and enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, sustainability is a cornerstone of the Boom Race Series. We prioritize eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices to minimize environmental impact throughout the production lifecycle. By integrating these practices, we ensure that the Boom Race Series not only excels in performance but also contributes positively to environmental stewardship.

How have you implemented sustainability in your production and shipping processes?
Levitaz is dedicated to sustainability across our production and shipping processes. We produce our hydrofoils in Austria and our boards in Portugal, maintaining shorter supply chains that reduce carbon emissions and transportation impacts. This localized production strategy not only supports local economies but also minimizes our environmental footprint by reducing the distance materials travel. Furthermore, we prioritize the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials in our products, ensuring high standards of sustainability without compromising quality. Our production facilities in Austria and Portugal are designed to optimize resource use, minimizing waste generation and energy consumption through efficient technologies and practices. In addition, our live on-demand production approach ensures that we produce only what is needed, reducing excess inventory and conserving resources. This strategy not only supports sustainability but also allows us to respond flexibly to market demands while minimizing environmental impact. For shipping, we use recyclable packaging materials wherever possible.

How will you support retailers to sell your 2025 products?
To ensure the success of our 2025 products at retail, we are implementing a comprehensive support strategy for our valued partners. Retailers will benefit from tailored training programs designed to educate their staff on the key features and benefits of our latest products. Detailed product guides and marketing materials will be provided to empower retailers with the necessary tools to effectively showcase and promote our offerings in-store. Moreover, we are committed to engaging directly with consumers through in-store demonstrations and promotional events. These activities will create immersive experiences that highlight the unique advantages of our products, driving customer interest and loyalty.

What order and delivery model are you offering your retailers?
Our order and delivery model for 2025 reflects our commitment to flexibility and efficiency in meeting retailer needs. We offer retailers the option of placing pre-season bulk orders to secure inventory ahead of peak demand periods. This approach allows retailers to plan their stock levels strategically and capitalize on early market opportunities. Furthermore, we provide in-season replenishment options to accommodate fluctuations in consumer demand throughout the year. Retailers can leverage our customer service, who provides real-time information into stock availability and expected delivery times. Additionally, we offer drop-shipping services to alleviate inventory burdens and ensure timely fulfillment directly to customers, enhancing operational efficiency and maximizing sales potential for our retail partners.

Key Products:

HA850:
Introducing the HA850: Your ultimate wing for all conditions. Whether kite foiling or wing foiling, experience unparalleled versatility and performance. Its superior balance and stability make maneuvers effortless, while its speed and agility redefine your ride. Perfect for freeriding or catching air, the HA850 delivers unmatched speed and control. From easy take-offs to seamless wave connections, it’s the choice for every adventure.

M90 HA850 RW250 60Ti vl

M90 HA850 RW250 60Ti vl

Shaka L:
Introducing the Shaka L, tailored for wing foiling beginners. Featuring a 4.5 aspect ratio and 2000 cm² surface area, it ensures easy take-offs and stable performance in light winds. Designed for mastering wing foiling with minimal effort, it offers efficient pumping and consistent lift, making every session enjoyable and accessible for newcomers.

M90 L2000 RW300 F55T vl

M90 L2000 RW300 F55T vl

Boom Air:
Discover the Boom Air 135, perfect for beginner wing foilers! This board offers maximum stability, early planning, and effortless take-offs. With its durable carbon plate and easy handling, learning wing foiling has never been easier. Enjoy smooth rides and reliable performance with the Boom Air 135. Start your wing foiling adventure today!

boom-air-135-deck

boom-air-135-deck

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