2024 North Nova Pro: Full Review

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In the ever-evolving world of wingfoiling, innovation is key to staying ahead of the curve. North has long been a prominent name in the industry, consistently pushing boundaries and redefining standards. With their latest release, the 2024 North Nova Pro, they introduce groundbreaking materials, features, and the innovative Shiftlock system. In this review, we'll delve deep into these advancements to uncover what sets this wing apart from its predecessors and competitors.
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[@AdamsHadEnough]

Wow North, that paddle mount looks fantastic.

[@hydrofoilacademy]

I know, I’m absolutely frothing for this! I’ve actually changed my order to a 2.9 for this very reason.

[@blooskyy7]

Super excited, getting the Nova Pro tomorrow!

[@hydrofoilacademy]

I know you will love it!

[@chucho_nonnot]

Sick review!

[@hydrofoilacademy]

Thanks mate, much appreciated. Be interested to hear your thoughts on it!

[@JakeKelsick]

Solid review breddah!

[@hydrofoilacademy]

Thanks mate, appreciate it!

[@fabianmuhmenthalertarifa]

Great review mate! Remember that is WAY EASIER to install the ShiftLock handles if the strut is already inflated! Cheers!

[@hydrofoilacademy]

Thanks mate, I only figured this out after I had done the review!!! It's very straightforward forward when its inflated. Still, I won't be changing from the boom...I love that thing.

[@3421Greg]

The Mode Pro fabrics repel water. It is a huge advantage being able to pack up a dry wing after almost every session. Can you comment on how the Nova Pro fabrics perform in that context? I am guessing the dacron tips would absorb a little water. What about the lighter weight N-HTRS front third of the canopy?

[@hydrofoilacademy]

Thanks for pointing this out. I completely forgot to mention this in my review. Yes, I love this about the Mode Pro and the Nova Pro has the same properties. The Dacron areas for the nova pro seem to do exactly the same. I’m not sure if this is because it’s brand new or the material is treated. Either way, it’s packing away dry for me and I’ve had it for a month. Hope that helps.

[@funkymonk8952]

I see your riding the new North seek board. What are your thoughts on it over last years model?

[@hydrofoilacademy]

There is a definite improvement from last year’s board. Easier to get up on to foil and touch downs are less “sticky”. The board feels very small underfoot. I really enjoy this board.

[@funkymonk8952]

I am currently using a 5.3m Armstrong XPS and was about to order a 4.2m mode pro for my second wing. How does the nova pro compare to the mode pro? I’m torn on what one to order. Thanks for the review.

[@hydrofoilacademy]

I love the XPS, it’s a great wing. I think the Nova Pro is very similar in terms of feel and power. The thing that tips the Nova for me is the boom and ability to put paddle attachments on. If I was racing I’d go with the Mode Pro but for everything else I’ll be using the Nova Pro. It’s a fantastic wing.

[@funkymonk8952]

Thanks for the advice. Nova Pro it is. I have never used a boom before but that is definitely the option that interests me

[@peterheirmanster]

Get a Gong Droid or Neutra UPE Aramide for lesser price. (You know the sails used by Malo)

[@user-tm9ql4sn2x]

Do you have to unscrew the boom after every session to pack it up? If so sounds like a lot of faff

[@hydrofoilacademy]

No, I leave the boom on. It makes packing up super quick. Just roll and go.

[@kittathay9678]

Does it still fit in the bag with the boom attached? Thanks

[@larsdegroot]

@@kittathay9678 No, but north is coming with a special bag soon.

[@Tobeon2]

I am so curious to know the difference between Mode Pro and Nova Pro with respect to the feel & performance!

[@hydrofoilacademy]

The mode definitely has more low end and grunt. It's a more powerful wing for sure.

[@Tobeon2]

@@hydrofoilacademy I love my 5.5 mode and 4.2 mode pro even more. Do you think Nova Pro 6.0 will have more low end power than Mode Pro 5.5?.. Meaning would it be beneficial to get Nova Pro 6.0 over Mode Pro 5.5 at about 10 knots?

[@rayglynn2589]

Mulling on the 2.9 for my high wind wing, have used an older 3m the most this year, wondering what its like in high wind gusty conditions. If anyone happens to be using one :-)

[@hydrofoilacademy]

I’ve got a 2.9 that I use all the time for my DW runs (packdowns). I love it. Stable and responsive.

[@axsail3867]

I don't understand at all the mix of materials that was made on this wing. Looks like they wanted to make a premium wave kite with what was left of the Mode Pro to try to keep the price down. In my opinion, Pro modes will remain much more durable over time. we don't see much about the freefly hold in the waves. I found that the sail was falling backwards and was not stable compared to the pro mode that I use in waves and which is normally less appropriate.

[@hydrofoilacademy]

That's really interesting, it's not the experience I am having. I love using my Nova Pros in the waves. I find them stable and predictable in freefly.

[@axsail3867]

@@hydrofoilacademy We will see soon. 2sizes are coming in my wing school to test/compare...

[@peterheirmanster]

1240€ for a 5m without any high tech materials where Gong Droid or Neutra UPE Aramide sells for 920€

[@hydrofoilacademy]

I have not used or seen Gong or Neutra wings so can't really comment, but I'll take your word for it, they sound great. That being said, I do think the Nova Pro is competitively priced compared to the other big brands.