Marlin, Drive and Lightning: Blez Rouiller explains the new Indiana Foils

Indiana Foils, the foil division of the Swiss brand Indiana Paddle & Surf Co., is stepping up its game! With the release of the new Marlin front wings and the new carbon Drive and Lightning masts, Indiana now offers high-performance and modern gear, perfect for the most demanding riders. To learn more about these latest developments, we had the pleasure of speaking with Blez Rouiller, brand ambassador and globe-trotting rider. A true enthusiast, Blez shared with us the unique features of the Marlin, with its new monobloc construction, as well as insights into the Drive and Lightning masts, the latter being an ultra high-end piece with a thickness of 14mm! Blez gave us his feedback, personal impressions, and recommendations on how to make the most of this new gear. And if you’re interested in learning more about the brand’s boards, we recommend checking out our Indiana 2024 Wingfoil board guide.

Hi Blez, we wanted to talk to you about Indiana’s latest releases, especially in terms of foils! The Swiss brand has just launched a new front wing, the Marlin. Can you tell us more about it, particularly regarding the new monobloc construction?

Hi TotalWing, yes, Indiana has taken a big leap forward, putting itself back at the cutting edge of the foil market. With the arrival of new pumping models for the Condor series, speed for the Barracudas, and freeride with the Marlins, the “Swiss Indians” have given themselves the means to compete with today’s leading brands. The monoblock system is sleek and highly effective, with a flawless finish that greatly contributes to the clean glide feel this innovative series provides. Personally, I love the Marlins with their aspect ratio of 7.5. To me, they’re the perfect upgrade to the MA series I used before. The Marlins have the same “all-purpose foil” concept, but with more speed and versatility while maintaining that ultra-comfortable glide and super easy lift-off! For a traveler like me, who can’t carry multiple quivers for obvious logistical reasons, the Marlin series, available in five sizes from XS (690 cm²) to XL (1390 cm²), is just perfect.

What were your impressions of this foil?

I immediately found the comfort and ease I look for in a good foil, but in a supercharged version! I particularly loved it for free-flying in the Mediterranean swells of Sardinia.

Can you give us feedback on the conditions where you use each size of the Marlin?

The XL offers easy and enjoyable flights in light wind, the L and M are very versatile and perform well in small waves, and the S and XS are great, in my opinion, for strong winds and riding deeper and faster waves.

So, which riders would you recommend this front wing for?

This series is perfect for freeriders looking for ease and comfort, as well as travelers needing a “Swiss army knife” foil they can rely on.

In addition to these front wings, Indiana has treated us to two new carbon masts, the Drive and the Lightning. Let’s start with the Drive, can you tell us about it? What does it bring to the range? What were your impressions?

The Drive is the one we’ve all been waiting for. I really appreciate its ultra-rigidity and guaranteed zero ventilation. It fits perfectly with the versatile Marlin program. I ride this new toy with full confidence—it’s simple yet effective. It’s also faster than the previous carbon masts in the range.

And about the Lightning, this is Indiana’s high-end and high-performance mast, right? Can you give us your feedback on it?

Yes, absolutely, the Lightning is top of the line, manufactured in Europe with the High Modular process. With its 14mm thickness and rigidity, this mast allows the Swiss brand to offer a tool that rivals the current market highlights. This low-drag mast is clearly the fastest and most efficient of Indiana’s masts. I especially enjoy it in flat water for pure speed and maneuvering without any ventilation issues. Since I personally ride strapless, I can’t give you feedback on jumps, but I imagine its lightness would be a real asset for freestyle. So far, I haven’t heard of any breakages or issues related to jumps with this gem 🙂

So, what are your recommendations for choosing between the two masts? The budget difference between the two is significant…

Yes, the price difference is clear! European HM manufacturing has its cost. In short, I’d say that anyone looking for versatility and a mast they can rely on in any situation will be thrilled with the Drive, while the Lightning will make speed enthusiasts and lovers of ultra-light, high-quality gear happy.

I’ll let you have the final word?

To conclude, I’d like to thank TotalWing for allowing us to share our passion, and Indiana for the valuable collaboration we’ve had for over four years now. Equipped with this new program from the Swiss brand, I’m ready to hit the road again for foil and surf travels. The next departure of my legendary Black Van is set for early October, and things are looking promising. I invite you to follow my adventures on social media, and I wish everyone amazing riding days and great adventures. See you soon! PEACE AND RIDE!

Thank you very much, Blez, for your answers! We’ll be closely following your next adventure!

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