Takuma introduces the new Kujira foil, inspired by humpback whales. These tail wings are very fast, maneuverable and controllable.
The 158cm2 back wing offers high acceleration and minimal drag with exceptional stiffness for high-performance foiling: Surface: 158 cm2, Wingspan: 32,4cm and Chord: 6,6cm.
The new 178cm2 back wing shape delivers an enhanced carving performance with a really remarkable “release - feeling”. A precisely curved arrow outline gives extra drive and comfort whilst carving. The iconic Kujira bumps create channels for smooth velocity at low speed and additional stability: Surface: 178 cm2, Wingspan: 34,5cm andChord: 6,6cm.
The name
Kujira is Japanese for whale. Takuma has some japanese roots, not only with the name of the brand, part of R&D is actually located in Japan. There is an element of biomimicry in the innovation and engineering process on the Kujira foil, as it is fully inspired by humpback whales. So after two years of analysis, research and tests, Takuma are finally ready and excited to release our foil evolution : the Kujira line.
The design
The Kujira foil was designed by Laurent Borgna, well known for having already shaken things up in the foiling world with his work on the LOL Profoil range, and Cyril Coste, Takuma founder. It is inspired by the pectoral fin of humpback whales, who are known for their agility, power and efficiency.
The efficiency of humpback whales is due, amongst other things, to their pectoral fins. The mechanics of it is basically to create lift by generating swirls. This also creates velocity while maintaining control, which is specific to this type of whale. This is what Takuma wanted to implement into this foil, and managed to do it by reproducing and adding whale-like bumps to the design. After a number of prototypes, modifications and adjustments of the shape and profile of the bumps, computer simulations, and hours of testing in all conditions, there was a clear, big improvement in terms of glide, lift and comfort in our foils.
The signature LOL upturned winglets are also found on the Kujira. It is really the same concept as in aeronautics: it feels more comfortable and reassuring to navigate, and it saves on kerosene. Using winglets on a hydrofoil will make it more efficient in terms of glide, lift and will give extra comfort while foiling.
You can immediately feel the benefits of the Kujira foil, even non professional foilers.
Disciplines
The Kujira is a very well rounded foils in surf and wing foiling, but it’s also used for lighter and more advanced foil in downwind.
