Date: May 2026
Old Part: WZWFTX – Front Wing Bar Assembly
Updated Part: WZWFTXV2 – Front Wing Bar Assembly
Status: Information
Urgency: Low
Summary: A new version of the Front Wing Bar is being launched
As the WASZP fleet continues to grow and evolve, we’re seeing the boats sailed harder and more consistently than ever. Foil tacking has become common, and the explosive movement associated with it loads the wing frame as never before. It’s a great reflection of the level the class has reached.
With that progression, components are naturally exposed to higher and more sustained loads. Across the fleet, the current Front Wing Bars continue to perform well and remain fully class compliant.
As expected in a high-performance environment, there have been isolated instances of wear under heavier use with more athletic sailors, but these situations are not widespread.
To recognise this progress, we’re introducing an updated Front Wing Bar to improve durability and long-term reliability further.
Pumping.
Excessive / repetitive body movement using the wing frame and tramps (“pumping”) to initiate foiling in marginal conditions is not an intended use of the product and may result in damage, including bending or failure of Wing Bars.
Damage arising from these situations is not covered under warranty. Reference the Class Rules on Pumping for guidance on accepted sailing techniques.
What’s changed?
- A more resilient aluminium grade that better absorbs impact and is less prone to stress and corrosion-related damage.
- An extended Wing Bar Insert to distribute the load better.
- A modest increase in wall thickness to maintain performance characteristics.
- Material added around the Wing Hinge Pin.
This results in a weight increase of around 10% (~100 g per Wing Bar), with no meaningful impact on handling or performance
Things to know:
- There is no need to urgently change your Front Wing Bars, but make sure you check the bars for fatigue as part of your pre-sailing checklist, particularly around the Wing Hinge pin holes.
- The updated Front Wing Bar will gradually replace the current version.
- Existing stock will remain available in the short term at a reduced price.
- The new version will sit at a higher price point, reflecting the updated specification.
- Both versions are fully Class legal and compliant.
Preventative Maintenance is important.
After every sail, it is strongly recommended that your WASZP is washed and rinsed thoroughly with fresh, clean water in accordance with the WASZP Care Instructions (Section 7).
Particular attention should be given to the Wing bar pin entry holes to prevent salt build-up, which may lead to corrosion and potential failure.
In addition, sailors should always thoroughly inspect their WASZP before sailing, including completion of the WASZP Pre-Flight Checklist.
This is a standard product evolution as the WASZP class matures. The reason is simple: ensuring your WASZP continues to perform reliably as sailors push the limits.
Further information is in the FAQ. If you have any questions, contact sales@waszp.com. Stock is shipping from our factory now and will be available at your local stockist shortly.
FAQ – Front Wing Bar Update
Why has the Front Wing Bar been updated?
As the fleet has grown, boats are being sailed harder and more consistently – particularly by increasingly athletic sailors pushing the boats to a higher level.
The update reflects this progression, with a focus on improving long-term durability and reliability under higher and more sustained loads.
Is there an issue with the current Front Wing Bars?
No. The current Front Wing Bars remain class-compliant and continue to perform well across the fleet.
As expected in a high-performance environment, there have been isolated instances of wear under heavier use, but these are not widespread.
What are the key improvements in the new version?
The updated Front Wing Bar uses a more resilient type of aluminium that better absorbs load over time and is less prone to stress-related damage. It also features a longer hinge insert to improve load distribution, supporting overall durability and lifecycle performance.
Will I notice any performance difference?
No meaningful difference. The updated design maintains the same bending characteristics. There is a small weight increase (a few hundred grams per bar), but this has no practical impact on handling or performance.
Will I notice any performance difference?
No meaningful difference. The updated design maintains the same bending characteristics. There is a small weight increase (a few hundred grams per bar), but this has no practical impact on handling or performance.
Do I need to upgrade?
No. The current Front Wing Bars remain suitable for use and fully class-compliant. The updated version is available for sailors who want the latest specification and enhanced durability.
Are both versions class legal?
Yes. Both the current and updated Front Wing Bars are fully class-compliant.
Will the current Front Wing Bars still be available?
Yes, for a limited period while existing stock lasts. After that, the updated version will become the standard.
Why is the new version more expensive?
The updated design includes material and structural improvements that enhance durability and long-term performance, which is reflected in the pricing.
Why are the current Front Wing Bars being discounted?
This is part of a standard product transition as we move from the current version to the updated design.
Is there a warranty or replacement program for existing Front Wing Bars?
No. Existing Front Wing Bars remain supported under standard warranty terms. The updated version is available as a separate product for those who wish to upgrade.
Can I replace individual parts (e.g., an insert or a tube)?
No. The Front Wing Bar is supplied as a complete assembly to ensure performance and reliability.
Is this change related to a manufacturing or supplier issue?
No. This is a design evolution focused on improving durability as load cases increase across the fleet.
How should this be viewed overall?
This is a normal product evolution as the class matures and sailors continue to push the boats to a higher level. The focus is on ensuring long-term reliability and consistency as performance and usage increase.