AXIS Frank Mako Downwind Carbon Foilboard

If you’re chasing proper glide — the kind that helps you paddle-up sooner, link bumps for longer, and stay relaxed when the ocean isn’t perfectly tidy — the AXIS Frank Mako is built for exactly that job. It’s a collaboration with Maui shaper Francesco “Frank” Maffei, bringing that custom downwind DNA into a production board that feels surprisingly “doable” once you’ve had a couple of sessions on it.

And it’s not just a downwind weapon. Because it’s so efficient through the water, the Mako has quickly become a favourite for light-wind winging and even parawing sessions where you need the board to generate speed with minimal fuss.

Where it sits in the range

Think of the Mako as the pinnacle downwind shape in the AXIS board line-up: longer, narrower, and tuned to create speed easily. If you mainly want a crossover board for everyday winging (and only occasional paddle-ups), a mid-length foil board can be the calmer choice. But if your goal is to unlock “real” downwind progression — or to make marginal wind days genuinely fun — the Mako is the one most riders end up gravitating towards.

Why choose the Frank Mako

• Easier paddle-ups: the rocker and hull efficiency help the board accelerate quickly so you can lift onto the foil sooner.
• More stable than it looks: narrow width for speed, but with a feel that most riders adapt to within a few sessions.
• Ocean-first design: tuned for real-world bumps and troughs, not just glassy flat-water.
• Light-wind cheat code: generates board speed in marginal conditions, letting you ride a smaller wing than you would on a short, wide board.
• Premium build: full carbon, high-density foam sandwich construction for a lively, “custom-level” feel.

Specifications

Size	Approx. dimensions	Volume	Who it suits best
8'2" x 16.5"	249cm x 42.0cm	100L	Lighter riders and experienced foilers who want a more agile feel.
8'4" x 16.75"	254cm x 42.5cm	110L	The all-round “sweet spot” for many mid-weight riders (roughly 75–85kg).
8'6" x 17"	259cm x 43.2cm	120L	Heavier riders, or anyone wanting more ease in textured water.
8'8" x 17.25"	264cm x 43.8cm	130L	Maximum stability/float for bigger riders (often 95kg+) and ultra-light-wind days.

Package includes

• AXIS Frank Mako Downwind Carbon Foilboard
• Premium AXIS board bag
• Gore-Tex automatic vent plug

Not included: foil (mast/fuselage/wings), straps, paddle and wing.

Recommended pairings (if you’re building a setup)

If you want that fast, efficient downwind glide feel, these are common building blocks we talk through with customers:

• AXIS Black Series Fuselage (a popular choice with higher-performance wings)
• AXIS ART V2 Front Wings (modern high-aspect glide and speed)
• AXIS Progressive Rear Stabiliser (a dependable, controlled feel)

Helpful reading & buying advice

• AXIS Frank boards explained: Dart / Mini Dart / mid-length shapes
• Foil board buying guide: choosing the right shape for 2026
• Shop all foil boards (wing, downwind, pump & crossover)
• Explore AXIS foils, parts and boards

Try it before you buy

The Mako is the sort of board that makes sense the moment you feel it on the water. If you’d like to compare sizes (or compare against a mid-length option), you can book a session at our SUP Test Centre in Southampton.

Book a Demo Ask for Advice Call 02380 172189

FAQs

Is it hard to balance on a board this narrow?

It’s a different feel to a wide SUP, but the length gives strong front-to-back stability and the speed you build while paddling creates its own “settled” feel. Most riders adapt within 2–3 sessions. If you’re unsure on size, we’ll steer you towards the option that gives you the least fatiguing start.

Can I use the Mako for wing foiling as well?

Yes — and it’s genuinely brilliant in light wind. The narrow displacement shape builds speed efficiently, so you can often get foiling in marginal conditions with a smaller wing than you’d normally need on a short, wide board.

Which size should I choose?

As a simple starting point: 100L suits lighter/experienced riders; 110L is the balanced “sweet spot” for many; 120L adds confidence for heavier riders or rougher water; 130L is the easiest platform for bigger riders and ultra-marginal days. Tell us your weight, your current foiling level, and whether you’re mainly paddle-up, winging, or parawing — we’ll recommend a sensible size.

Do I have to ride AXIS foils with it?

No — the Mako uses standard US track mounting, and the extra-long track placement gives plenty of adjustment range. AXIS is a great match (and easy to tune), but we’re happy to help you set it up with other plate-mount foils too.

Is this only for flat-water downwind runs?

Not at all. The Mako’s rocker and tail design are aimed at real-world ocean bumps, where you’re dealing with troughs, texture and imperfect energy. If your goal is linking bumps and staying flying over distance, this kind of shape makes the whole process easier.