In 2024, FLITE presented a new range of devices developed in collaboration with Marc Newson—one of the most influential industrial designers of our time. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the unique features of all models in the FLITE x Marc Newson collection, and analyze each of them individually. Before moving on to the detailed review, we would like to note that the devices from this series are already available in our online store. You can familiarize yourself with their characteristics on our website or contact us for more detailed information and professional assistance in choosing.
About Marc Newson
Marc Newson is an Australian industrial designer known for his unique approach to creating furniture, interior items, and products, often from unconventional materials. He was born in 1963 in Sydney and began his career by studying at the Sydney College of the Arts. He first gained recognition with his iconic design "Lockheed Lounge"—an aluminum chaise lounge that became one of the most expensive works of modern design.
Throughout his career, Newson has collaborated with various industries, including furniture design, transportation, luxury goods, and technology. He is known for his work for companies such as Apple—helping to develop the Apple Watch, and Qantas—designing the interiors of A380 airliners and business lounges.
Combining advanced technologies with masterful use of materials, Newson creates objects with organic forms and smooth geometric lines. His works are featured in leading museums worldwide, including MoMA in New York and the Pompidou Center in Paris. He is recognized as one of the most influential designers of his generation.
Thus, by purchasing a product from the FLITE x Marc Newson line, you not only get a product with a renowned label but also a high-tech solution created by a true master of his craft.
Key features of the FLITE x Marc Newson line
In this section, we will conduct an in-depth analysis and discuss all the innovative changes and features characteristic of the boards from the new FLITE x Marc Newson collection. We will examine their design, materials, functionality, and unique aspects that set this line apart in the market. You will learn what new technologies and approaches were applied in creating these boards and how they can affect your experience with the product.
The lightest, strongest, and stiffest mast
The MN Carbon masts represent the pinnacle of technological artistry. They are designed to achieve maximum stiffness, performance, and durability. These masts are made from high-quality, high-modulus carbon fiber produced in Japan and undergo a curing process in a modern autoclave. Thanks to this, the masts are exceptionally lightweight, significantly enhancing their performance while matching aluminum counterparts in strength and stiffness.
Perfect synergy of shape, materials, and process
The harmony of form, material, and technology is embodied in a unique design. The use of pure Japanese HMPP carbon fiber ensured incredible strength and lightness of the structure, allowing Marc Newson to create a board that combines beauty and functionality. The perfect balance of stiffness and weight, along with ultra-efficient hydrodynamic properties, makes this board an outstanding example of modern engineering.
Form follows function
Marc Newson redesigned the board’s edges in line with his finished design philosophy. The carbon fiber hull is left unadorned to reduce weight, emphasizing the quality of the material and the refinement of production.
Simplicity and reliability
The unique battery release mechanism ensures simplicity and reliability in use. As with every Fliteboard, information about battery charge, board status, connection, and pairing status is displayed on a minimalist Flitecell light indicator.
Elegant design
Integrated silicone handles are smooth and unobtrusive, providing convenience when needed and disappearing from view during movement.
Voronoi pattern
This natural pattern is found everywhere in nature—from turtle shells to eagle plumage. Marc Newson used this pattern to create a functional and distinctive deck covering.
New MN FLITE controller
Marc Newson upgraded the award-winning Flite controller, making it more analog and intuitive. The new MN Flite Controller features a larger color display and a simple interface for real-time feedback. The wave mode allows you to record and analyze data on waves during a session.
Induction charging
Charge your device wirelessly with the new induction dock designed by Marc Newson. This is not just a functional device but also a stylish interior element reminiscent of your Fliteboard sessions.
Real-time wave tracking
Get real-time data on waves on the MN Flite Controller, including information on the distance you’ve covered on each wave. Easily compare each ride to your longest session and track the total number of waves and distance traveled.
Next-generation wings
To increase speed and smoothness, FLITE introduced a new tapered interface for next-generation wings. Like the MN Carbon masts, these wings are made of high-modulus Japanese carbon, allowing you to discover new dimensions of e-foiling and set new records.
MN Controller and fast charger in every set
Every FLITE x Marc Newson board comes with an improved MN Controller and fast charger. When purchasing FLITE x Marc Newson devices, you immediately get the best configuration without additional costs.
In addition, boards with the MN Carbon mast without the Wave suffix come with two drive systems: the MN Jet and the True Glide propeller.
FLITE x Marc Newson models and configuration options
MN86
The MN86 is the largest board in the FLITE x Marc Newson line, suitable for heavier riders and beginners. It comes with the DUAL Drive system, which includes the MN Jet and True Glide propeller, and two wings: MN 1300 C and Cruiser Jet 1500 C.
Technical specifications of MN86:
- Weight: 27.5 kg
- Volume: 86 L
- Board length: 162.56 cm
- Board width: 66.04 cm
- Run time per charge: 90 minutes with Sport battery and 150 minutes with Explore battery.
- Charging time: 1.5 hours for Sport battery and 2 hours for Explore battery.
Customization options for MN86:
FLITE is known for its wide customization options, offering various masts, wings, and other components. However, with FLITE x Marc Newson, customization is not available, but the board’s configuration is so generous that it simply isn’t necessary.
For the MN86 model, you can choose between two battery types: the Sport battery, providing up to 90 minutes of run time per charge, and the Explore battery, which provides up to 150 minutes per charge on average.
MN86 package:
- MN86 board with a transport and storage bag.
- MN Flitecell Sport or Explore battery (depending on choice) with case.
- MN Flite Controller with a charging dock.
- Cruiser Jet 1500 C and MN 1300 C wings.
- 82 cm MN Carbon mast with case.
- MN Dual Drive system, including MN Jet and True Glide propeller.
- Fast Charger.
- Necessary accessories and pads.
MN60
The MN60 is a shorter board that occupies a middle position in the FLITE x Marc Newson line. It is shorter than the MN86, allowing for sharper turns, but is less stable and more suited to experienced users. Like the previous board, it comes with the DUAL Drive system, including the MN Jet and True Glide propeller, and includes Cruiser Jet 1500 C and MN 1300 C wings.
Technical specifications of MN60:
- Weight: 25.5 kg
- Volume: 60 L
- Board length: 137.16 cm
- Board width: 63.5 cm
- Run time per charge: 90 minutes with Sport battery and 150 minutes with Explore battery.
- Charging time: 1.5 hours for Sport battery and 2 hours for Explore battery.
Customization options for MN60:
As with the MN86, the MN60 only offers a choice of battery: you can select the MN Flitecell Sport battery, which provides up to 90 minutes of run time per charge, or the MN Flitecell Explore battery, which provides up to 150 minutes per charge.
MN60 package:
- MN60 board with a transport and storage bag.
- MN Flitecell Sport or Explore battery (depending on choice) with case.
- MN Flite Controller with a charging dock.
- Cruiser Jet 1500 C and MN 1300 C wings.
- 82 cm MN Carbon mast with case.
- MN Dual Drive system, including MN Jet and True Glide propeller.
- Fast Charger.
- Necessary accessories and pads.
What unites MN86 and MN60?
To avoid repetition, this information is combined into one block. The MN86 and MN60 boards share a single MN Carbon mast measuring 82 cm in length, with a fully integrated engine housed in a 62 mm fuselage, reducing drag and enhancing performance. This mast also features the DUAL Drive system, allowing quick switches from the MN Jet to the True Glide propeller in seconds. For customers ordering this mast for FLITE devices, only one drive system is included, while FLITE x Marc Newson customers receive both drive systems.
Some information about these drive systems:
- MN Jet – a jet drive that is the safest option, providing the smoothest ride. It is ideal for a calm ride, often called cruising. If you prefer a more aggressive riding style, this drive system may seem too slow.
- True Glide – a propeller that spins when the throttle is released. A regular propeller does not spin when the throttle is released, which can reduce performance when riding with wave power. Overall, FLITE positions it as a more productive solution than the standard propeller. This drive system is perfect for sharp turns and high-speed riding.
They also come with two identical wings; here’s FLITE’s description of them:
- Cruiser Jet 1500 C – a wing with a tapered interface that reduces drag. It is perfect for long journeys or teaching others due to its stability and efficiency. It is best suited for the MN Jet, although experienced riders can use its significant glide for wave riding.
- MN 1300 C – a wing with a tapered interface that reduces drag. It occupies an intermediate position between the Cruiser Jet 1500 C and Flow S 1300 C, making it an excellent wing for fast turns and quick gliding.
MN60 Wave
The MN60 Wave is the top position in the FLITE x Marc Newson line, designed for wave riding and allowing professionals to reach new heights. This is made possible by the low-resistance MN Carbon Wave mast, 82 cm long, which is 1.5 kg lighter than the MN Carbon mast used on the MN86 and MN60. Since the board is designed for professionals, you can choose from seven sets of wings in addition to the batteries. If you are an experienced rider who prefers wave-powered riding, the MN60 Wave is your choice.
This board only comes with the Folding Prop since other drive modules cannot be installed on this mast. The Folding Prop is a propeller that folds when the throttle is released, reducing the board’s drag, which is essential for wave riding. When you press the throttle again, it unfolds and starts moving your board. It is also worth noting that the MN Carbon Wave mast that comes with this model is equipped with the smallest engine for hydrofoils, with a diameter of 40 mm, enclosed in a similarly small fuselage with a diameter of just 46 mm. The combination of all these features gives the MN60 Wave board very low drag and high performance when riding with wave power.
Technical specifications of MN60 Wave:
- Weight: 19.5 kg
- Volume: 60 L
- Board length: 137.16 cm
- Board width: 63.5 cm
- Run time per charge: 45 minutes with Nano battery and 90 minutes with Sport battery.
- Charging time: 50 minutes for Nano battery and 1.5 hours for Sport battery.
Customization options for MN60 Wave:
Unlike the previous models, the MN60 Wave offers a choice of wing sets. You can choose one of seven options; here is the list:
- Flow 900 C + 245 C – a wing set for big waves and high-speed riding.
- Wave 850 C + 245 C – a faster and more versatile wing set for wave riding.
- Wave 1000 C + 245 C – a universal wing set for wave riding.
- MN 1300 C + 245 C – a highly versatile wing set.
- Flow S 1300 C + 245 C – a wing set for riding on smaller waves.
- Cruiser Jet 1500 C + 300 C – a stable wing set that provides longer glides on the water surface.
- Flow 1100 C + 245 C – a wing set for waves and much more.
You can also choose between batteries: Nano, which provides up to 45 minutes of run time per charge, or Sport, which provides up to 90 minutes per charge.
P.S. The Nano battery, although having a noticeable drawback of low run time, has a significant advantage for professionals: better responsiveness and maneuverability of the board, as this battery is located close to the mast and creates minimal deviation.
MN60 Wave package:
- MN60 Wave board with transport and storage bag.
- MN Flitecell Nano or MN Flitecell Sport battery (depending on choice) with case.
- MN Flite Controller with a charging dock.
- One of seven sets of wings.
- 82 cm MN Carbon Wave mast with case.
- Folding Prop drive system.
- Fast Charger.
- Necessary accessories and pads.
Conclusion
The FLITE x Marc Newson line includes highly interesting devices created using advanced materials and innovative engineering solutions. As a result, they have outstanding performance characteristics and a distinctive appearance that sets them apart from the mass of similar hydrofoils.