Armstrong Foils Mk II Carbon Mast. Brand new release May 2026 

Sizes: 725 / 795 / 865

Get in touch or book a demo to experience the Armstrong Performance-X Carbon Mast for yourself.

We suggest booking in a call using this link to discuss what size and what mast is right for you 

View a playlist with all the Armstrong Mast videos here

Key Specs

• Thickness: 16mm
• Construction: High modulus carbon
• Mast Angle: 0° across all sizes
• Profile: Stable, forgiving, progression-focused design
• Available Sizes: 725mm, 795mm, 865mm

How It Compares

Mk II Carbon vs Performance Mk II (13.8–14mm)

• Mk II Carbon (16mm):
  • Thicker profile for maximum stability
  • More forgiving and predictable
  • Easier to ride across all conditions
• Performance Mk II (14mm):
  • Thinner, faster and significantly stiffer
  • More direct response and control
  • Better suited to higher speeds and more aggressive riding

In simple terms:

• Mk II Carbon = stability and ease
• Performance Mk II = performance and control

Mk II Carbon Mast Overview

The Mk II Carbon Mast is the most accessible entry point into the Armstrong carbon mast range, designed to deliver a stable, predictable ride with the benefits of carbon construction.

With a 15.8mm profile and neutral 0° setup, it creates a smooth, forgiving feel that makes it easy to get comfortable and progress. The added thickness provides increased stability, helping riders stay balanced and in control across a wide range of conditions.

This is a mast that removes complexity. It allows you to focus on your riding rather than constantly adjusting or managing your setup.

Real-World Performance

From our own testing and rider feedback:

• Smooth, stable lift and easy takeoffs
• Predictable handling through turns
• Consistent performance across different conditions
•  fantastic price point, mast significantly better than first generation.
•  Absolute ideal mast for somebody on a boat or who wants the lightness of carbon over aluminium.
•  this is stiffer than the original Performance Carbon Mast from Armstrong. this is considerably stiff 

“Stable, predictable… a smooth, confidence-building experience from the first session.”

Compared to the Performance range, the Mk II Carbon feels more forgiving and less technical, making it easier to ride for longer sessions without fatigue.

Best For

• Riders stepping up from alloy masts
• Surf foiling and everyday use
• Progression and skill development
• Riders who prioritise ease and stability

Important Notes

The Mk II Carbon Mast is designed for simplicity and reliability.

If you are looking for higher performance, increased stiffness, or more direct response, the Performance Mk II Carbon Mast (14mm) or Performance-X Carbon Mast (12mm) may be better suited.

For many riders, however, the Mk II Carbon offers more than enough performance with the added benefit of stability and ease of use.

Available at Underground Surf and Foil

• New Zealand’s leading Armstrong dealer
• New Zealand’s only official Armstrong demo centre
• Based at Orewa Beach, Auckland

We’ve ridden every mast we sell, and the full Armstrong range is available to demo. If you’re unsure which mast suits your setup, we can help you choose the right one for your riding.

Talk to an expert

Get in touch or book a demo to experience the Armstrong Mk II Carbon Mast for yourself.

We suggest booking in a call using this link to discuss what size and what mast is right for you.

Armstrong Mast Comparison

Mk II Carbon vs Performance Mk II vs Performance-X

Choosing the right foil mast isn’t about picking the “best” one — it’s about choosing the right feel for how and where you ride.

Armstrong’s mast range is built around three distinct performance profiles:

• Mk II Carbon → stability and ease
• Performance Mk II → control and all-round performance
• Performance-X (PMX) → speed and efficiency

This guide breaks down the strengths and limitations of each, so you can choose with confidence.

Mk II Carbon Mast (16mm)

Stable, forgiving, and easy to ride

Strengths

• Most stable mast in the range
• Predictable, forgiving feel
• Easy takeoffs and consistent lift
• Simple 0° setup (no tuning required)
• Ideal step up from alloy

Weaknesses

• More drag due to thicker profile
• Less speed and glide compared to Performance masts
• Less responsive and direct underfoot
• Can feel limiting as skills progress

Why choose it

Choose the Mk II Carbon if your priority is ease and confidence.

It’s the best option for:

• progressing riders
• surf foiling
• anyone who wants a reliable, no-fuss setup

For many riders, this mast delivers everything they need without the added sensitivity of higher performance options.

Performance Mk II Carbon Mast (14mm)

The balance of control, stiffness, and versatility

Strengths

• Significantly stiffer (more control under load)
• Holds through turns without losing lift
• Stable in chop and turbulent conditions
• Direct, connected feel
• Works across all disciplines

Weaknesses

• Less glide than the Performance-X
• Slightly more technical than Mk II Carbon
• Not as “fast-feeling” in clean conditions

Why choose it

Choose the Performance Mk II if you want confidence in all conditions.

This is the mast most riders end up trusting because it:

• handles chop better
• supports harder carving
• stays stable at speed

If you’re unsure which mast to choose, this is the safest high-performance option.

Performance-X Carbon Mast (12mm)

Maximum glide, speed, and efficiency

Strengths

• Lowest drag in the range
• Noticeably longer glide between pumps
• Faster acceleration and higher top speed
• Looser, more reactive turning feel
• Unlocks performance in downwinding and open water

Weaknesses

• Less stable under heavy load
• Doesn’t hold as well through aggressive turns
• More sensitive and less forgiving
• Performs best in clean conditions

Why choose it

Choose the Performance-X if your priority is efficiency and speed.

This mast excels when:

• downwinding
• linking bumps
• riding fast in clean water

It allows you to go further with less effort, but requires better technique and the right conditions to fully benefit.

Key Differences at a Glance

Which Mast Should You Choose?

Choose Mk II Carbon if:

• You want stability and ease
• You’re progressing or coming from alloy
• You value consistency over performance

Choose Performance Mk II if:

• You want a reliable all-round mast
• You ride in mixed or choppy conditions
• You want to push harder with confidence

Choose Performance-X if:

• You want maximum glide and speed
• You’re focused on downwinding or efficiency
• You ride in cleaner conditions and have solid technique

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best” mast in this range.

• The Mk II Carbon this is fantastic bang for buck and certainly a big improvement on the earlier model.
• The Performance Mk II makes riding more controlled,  great all-round mast and particularly good for riders above 80 kgs on wider span foils.
• The Performance-X makes riding more efficient.  Very good for riders pushing the limit and looking for speed.  

Most riders choose based on where they ride and what they want to improve.

Need Help Choosing?

At Underground Surf and Foil, we’ve ridden the full Armstrong mast range in New Zealand conditions and have every model available to demo at Orewa Beach.

If you’re unsure, we can help match you with the right mast for your setup and your goals.

 To View our second hand stock visit our Instagram "used Items" page HERE

Express Worldwide Shipping on Armstrong Foils:

Australia Free Express Shipping on Armstrong wings, wind wings and boards as part of a full kit or combo package. We are happy to change mast size, fuse size, rear wing on any kit.  Armstrong Boards can be shipped on a case by case basis please contact Nick for a quote. If you are wanting a custom kit or have any questions contact nick@undergroundsurf.co.nz or call Nick on +64212891660 for a tailored quote. 

Rest of World.  Exclusive to Armstrong product only.  Free shipping on all foils and wind wings minimum spend $750NZD.  You can ONLY have Armstrong products in your cart. Minimum Spend $750NZD for free shipping. Boards are NOT free shipping unless as part of a full foil combo. Single Boards can be shipped but only on a case-by-case basis. Allow 7-21 Days for shipping depending on where you live.  If you want a custom kit or have any questions, contact nick@undergroundsurf.co.nz or call Nick at +64212891660 for a tailored quote.

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Learn to foil: We'll take you from zero to HERO with our private foil lessons! Start on a massive 8'6" foil board being towed behind a jetski, as your skills develop we'll give you smaller boards to try. Two lessons are refundable with the purchase of any complete Armstrong foil combo (or one lesson refunded with the purchase of any wing & mast combo). Call or email nick@undergroundsurf.co.nz on +64212891660 to book your lesson today. We also have full demo range including A Wind Wings, Boards and Foils.