Product Break-In & Best Fit Process
Overview
The One-Lock system is a new, screwless connection system designed to enhance ease of use, durability, and on-the-water performance. However, like any high-precision mechanical interface, a break-in period is required to achieve optimal fit and function.
This guide explains why product break-in is essential, what to expect during early use, and how to diagnose and address fit issues.
Break-In Period: What to Expect
The One-Lock latch system relies on precision fitting between the mast, fuselage, and stabilizer. Over time, the system naturally settles in as surfaces wear together, resulting in a more secure, refined fit.
- Initial Fitment: Some connections may feel overly tight or inconsistent at first. This is normal as the cable, latch mechanism, and contact surfaces adapt to repeated use.
- Latch “Pop” Engagement: A properly seated fuselage will generate a firm “pop” when latched. This indicates the latch is correctly engaged, ensuring secure, movement-free assembly.
- Cable Stretch Over Time: The internal cable system will stretch slightly over time. During the first use, latch down, open, tighten, and relatch 4-5 times to understand how the system works and to properly fit the cable length to your system (the most stretch occurs during the first couple of latches). This is part of the natural settling process and should not be a cause for concern.
Optimizing Fit & Ensuring Best Performance
1. Pre-Ride Preparation: Cleaning & Lubrication
Manufacturing residues, minor surface irregularities, or post-manufacturing hygiene issues can affect the initial fit.
- Wipe down all contact surfaces (fuselage, mast, stabilizer interface) to remove any residual debris.
- (Optional) Apply a liquid wax or Wax to mating surfaces using a clean rag. And then buff. This cleans and lightly lubricates the connection points, improving fit and reducing initial resistance.
2. Proper Latch Adjustment
Adjusting the tension screw on the One-Lock latch ensures a secure fit:
- The latch should be tightened just enough to create the distinct “pop” sound when locked in place. To achieve the “pop” sound, tighten the latch pin so that tension starts at a 45-degree angle when the latch is closing.
- Over-tightening is unnecessary—proper tension is achieved when the fuselage seats securely without excessive force. If overtightened, the latch piece will crush. This is intentional to avoid crushing the stabilizer. A replacement latch is supplied with each front wing that can easily be switched out should you accidentally overtighten.
3. Using the Product to Achieve Best Fit
- Initial wear-in period: Expect some minor fit inconsistencies across different stabilizers and fuselages. This normalizes with use.
- Regular on-the-water use allows components to settle in, similar to breaking in new bindings or foot straps.
Troubleshooting Fit Issues
1. Loose or Wobbly Wings or Fuselage Fit
- Check for proper latch engagement – A good fuselage connection should “pop” into place firmly.
- If the latch does not fully engage, inspect for residual debris or irregularities in the fuselage seat.
- A small amount of hand-cleaning or buffing may resolve minor seat imperfections.
2. Difficult Assembly or Removal
- Repeated use will naturally ease insertion and removal as the components adjust to each other.
3. Persistent Fitting Issues
- Contact customer service if significant fit issues persist despite break-in procedures.
Key Takeaways
- One-Lock is a break-in product – it requires use to achieve optimal performance.
- Proper latch tensioning is critical – don’t overtighten, but ensure a secure fit.
- Cleaning connection points improves initial fit and longevity.
- Some variance between components is expected, but regular use will refine fit over time.
This new system is an opportunity to learn a better, simpler way to assemble and disassemble foils. While it requires an adjustment period, the long-term benefits over traditional screw-based systems are clear.