Which 2025 North Wings Are Actually Worth It?

With 2025 North closeouts hitting the sale rack, we asked Jeff, Tucker, and Ryan to weigh in on the wings they'd personally build a quiver around.

From Jeff's decades-long connection to the North brand to Tucker's appreciation for the consistency and polish across the lineup, this isn’t a spec-sheet rundown. It’s a look at what we believe actually works on the water, why it works, and who each piece makes the most sense for.

Jeff's Go-To For 2025 North Wings

North Sails and I go back to the early 80s when I started windsurfing. I’ve always loved the brand. As a teenager and into my 20s, I could often be seen wearing a red North Sails hat and a blue half-zip fleece with the iconic logo. I even had a North Sails beach bag.

So when North rebranded their kite and wing lineup with the N/S logo, I was stoked.

The Nova 4.8m is a wing I can use to get up in lighter conditions, yet still ride comfortably when it’s overpowered. I like to call the Nova a Cadillac because it’s so smooth in gusty conditions and drives upwind extremely well. It also flags better than you’d expect at its price point.

The Nova just feels solid in your hands. I’m not bothered by the fixed boom since I stick with what I like, and traveling with the handle attached hasn’t been an issue when packed properly.

Pair that with the North Midi 5'8" (70L) Foil Board and Sonar SF 830 Foil Set and you have an efficient, versatile setup that offers predictability and fun in waves.

Tucker's Take on 2025 North Wings

If I had to describe North products in one word, it would be “consistency.” They continually deliver a full lineup of solid products every year, and the quality shines through each one.

There’s something about the entire lineup that carries a distinct North feel in touch, use, and longevity. On top of that, they consistently deliver a higher-level experience than you’d expect at the price point.

This is especially true in their wing lineup. Every year they release a polished, well-thought-out range of wingfoil sails that simply perform. With legacy models like the Nova, Loft, and Mode offered in Iconic, Pro, and Ultra constructions, there’s a clear fit for any rider in any condition.

Nova

The Nova is the freeride and wave machine with a smooth, easy-to-fly feel. Its profile delivers easy liftoff, quick response, and light luffing for aspiring wave riders. For lighter riders or those who are budget-conscious, this could be the right choice for almost anyone who isn’t chasing race-winning speed.

It’s a true one-wing quiver you can feel confident about in a wide range of conditions. Heavier riders or those looking for more stiffness and longevity can step up to the Pro construction for a relatively small price jump compared to similar builds from other brands.

Loft Pro

The Loft Pro has been our session saver for years. It gets fought over every light-wind day because it brings the power and efficiency you need to get up and stay riding. The power per square meter is outstanding. If your goal is more ride time and maximizing marginal conditions, this wing delivers.

Mode

Originally introduced as North’s race wing, the Mode quickly earned respect beyond the race course. Its gust handling, massive wind range, and impressive upwind angles make you feel fast and in control. It adapts well to challenging and shifting conditions. The speed feels smooth and controlled rather than twitchy. It keeps its race pedigree while remaining user-friendly enough for experienced riders outside of competition.

So, how do you choose? Here's Tucker's hot take:

• Nova: For riders looking for an easy foiling experience and not focused on top speed. Heavier riders or those wanting more durability should consider the Pro construction.
• Loft Pro: Ideal for light-wind sessions or heavier riders who need extra power.
• Mode Pro: Best for riders who prefer powered riding, higher speeds, and a wide wind range to handle gusts and shifting conditions.

Ryan's Picks for 2025 North Wings

The North Pro wings caught my attention early on, starting with the first version of the Mode Pro. It offered performance that truly rivaled the rest of the industry, and I was quick to jump on board. The Mode is fast and aggressive, yet it still surfs well. That said, it didn’t quite have the easy, carefree feel I love when I’m just cruising on a wing.

That’s where the Nova and Nova Pro really won me over. They capture much of the high-end performance I enjoy from the Mode Pro but dial it back just enough to create a more forgiving, surf-oriented feel. The result is a wing that still has plenty of power and speed, yet feels easier to handle and more playful. Because of that balance, I can comfortably ride a smaller wing, which is ideal for surf and swell sessions.

In our lighter wind conditions on Lake Michigan, my daily drivers are the 5.4m and 4.2m. The 3.5m comes out on those heavy fall days when it’s really cranking. Paired with my secret weapon, the North Sonar DW900, I’m able to ride even the smallest summer bumps and keep sessions alive when most people are sitting on the beach.

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