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Behind The Design: Skybrid D/LAB 2027

The Skybrid D/LAB has redefined what a mid-length board can do. In this interview, Finn & Jeffrey pencer dive into the ideas, innovations, and performance features behind this groundbreaking shape – and explain why it’s pushing the boundaries of freeride, freefly, and parawing foiling.

Make sure you also watch the Tech Talk video with Finn & Klaas Voget for more!

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What was the main goal behind developing the new Skybrid D/LAB?

Finn: The goal was to take the versatility of the Skybrid concept and push it to the next level in terms of weight, efficiency and responsiveness. With the Hollow Shell Composite construction, we were able to significantly reduce weight while increasing stiffness — which directly translates into earlier take-offs and a much more reactive feel on the water.

Jeffrey: At the same time, we wanted to keep the accessibility and control the Skybrid is known for. It’s not just about performance — it’s about making that performance usable across freeride, freefly and even Parawing conditions.

How does the reduced weight impact the riding experience?

Jeffrey: The reduced swing weight is a game changer. The board reacts much faster and feels incredibly lively — very close to a prone board. You can pump more efficiently, link bumps more easily and maintain speed with less effort.

Finn: Especially in lightwind or marginal conditions, that weight reduction makes a huge difference. Getting onto the foil is noticeably easier, and once you’re up, the board feels super direct and connected.

Can you explain the key shape updates?

Finn: We introduced a narrower bottom surface and refined the rail profile. This helps the board release earlier and improves pumping efficiency. The increased rail bevels are also key — they make touch-downs incredibly smooth and forgiving. You can recover easily without losing speed, which is especially important in dynamic riding situations like freefly or downwind runs.

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»The Skybrid D/LAB feels insanely light and direct — almost like a prone board, but with the versatility you need. It gets up on foil super early and keeps the flow going through every turn and touch-down. «

— Rocco Sotomayor

How does the board perform across different disciplines?

Jeffrey: That’s really where the Skybrid D/LAB stands out. It works across lightwind freeride, freefly, smaller waves and even Parawing sessions. The wider deck, especially in the tail, gives you more control for an offset stance when riding strapless, while the direct feedback in strapped mode allows you to push speed and performance. It’s a very versatile platform.

What role does the construction play in this performance?

Finn: The Hollow Shell Composite construction is a major step forward. It sets a new benchmark in terms of weight and stiffness.

Jeffrey: Combined with features like the recessed deck and long carbon tracks, you get a very direct connection to the foil. Everything feels precise and controlled, even at higher speeds.

Who is the Skybrid D/LAB designed for?

Jeffrey: It’s for riders who want maximum performance without sacrificing versatility. Whether you’re progressing in freeride or pushing into more advanced disciplines like freefly or downwind with a Parawing, the board supports that journey.

Finn: The first launch only featured one size in 70l volume. Now we’re coming with the entire fleet of 5 shapes from 60 L to 100 L in 10 L steps, so now there’s pretty much a Skybrid D/LAB for every rider from light rippers to heavier riders.

How would you summarize the feeling of the Skybrid D/LAB?

Finn: It’s one of those boards where everything just feels easier — from take-off to turns to recovery. Light, reactive and incredibly efficient.

It truly feels Beyond Imagination.

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Tech Talk Skybrid DLAB 27