Code Foils 1250R, with Josh Ku and James Casey | Training, Gliding, and Light Wind Downwinding

Introduction: The Rise of the 1250R

The Code Foils 1250R is the latest and largest addition to Code’s high aspect "R Series" front wings. At 1250 cm², 1275 mm span, and with a 13 aspect ratio, this foil is engineered to combine impressive glide, sustained speed, and exceptional upwind pumping efficiency. Designed with versatility in mind, it’s ideal for light wind downwinding, cross-training, flatwater fitness sessions, and endless laps in the surf zone.

In this detailed breakdown, team riders Josh Ku and James Casey dive into how and why the 1250R has quickly become a go-to training and exploration foil. Whether you’re a seasoned downwinder, a dock-start obsessive, or simply want more from your sessions, the insights shared here are a masterclass in making the most of your gear and conditions.

Specs at a Glance

• Surface Area: 1250 cm² (193 in²)
• Span: 1275 mm
• Aspect Ratio: 13
• Series: R Series (High Aspect)

Training Insights: Why the 1250R Stands Out

Built for Momentum and Glide

“The beauty of this foil to me is the glide and momentum it carries. Once it has speed, it holds it.”

• Maintains momentum even in light conditions
• Glides effortlessly across long distances
• Excellent for pumping exercises due to lower required cadence

James Casey compares it to “longboarding” on foil — less about aggressive turns, more about smooth, sustained travel.

Cardio Training Without Leaving the Water

Many athletes turn to biking or running for cardio, but for watermen like Casey:

• The 1250R makes endurance training on the water enjoyable
• Works in both aerobic and anaerobic zones
• Ideal for those who prefer ocean sessions over land workouts

“I'd rather do a foil training loop in 7 knots than run around a lake.”

Upwind & Downwind Mastery

The Long Reef Loop Training Session

James regularly performs a unique training loop in light northeast winds:

• Start: Paddle upwind from Lagoon at Long Reef
• Midpoint: Pump to Butter Box
• Finish: Downwind glide back to Dee Why (DY)

Performance Highlights:

• Speed while pumping: ~16–17 km/h average
• Peak speed: ~27–30 km/h on swells
• Heart Rate: ~170 bpm upwind / ~120 bpm downwind

“I do two and a half loops for around 10–12 km per session.”

Key Comparisons: 1250R vs. 1540S

“If I’m doing a light wind bay run, I’ll use the 1540S. But for ocean runs, the 1250R wins.”

Equipment Setup & Tuning Preferences

Mast, Fuselage & Tail Combinations

• Mast: 75 cm Plus

• Ideal for light wind and efficient pumping

• Occasionally uses 80 cm in messier, faster conditions

• Fuselage: Long

• Favored for upwind pumping and flatwater training

• More efficient with less cadence

• Tail Wing Options:

• 142AR (shimmed -0.5) – more common choice

• 151R – used in the featured training session

Light Wind Downwinding Techniques

Pro Tips for Maximizing the 1250R in Light Conditions

• Be Patient
• Don’t chase every bump; let the foil do the work
• Work the Angles
• Cut across swell at sharp angles (hard left/right) for longer glides
• Use Troughs Strategically
• Pivot and stall in troughs to reset and glide longer
• Slow is Smooth
• Discover the foil’s true low-end by easing off the pump

“Do less, and you will feel more. The foil tells you when it's gliding or climbing.”

Pumping Tips

• Don’t overwork — the 1250R rewards finesse, not brute force
• Use 30-second pump intervals, then ride energy bumps
• Flatwater pumping becomes much more accessible with the 1250R

Training Strategy: Heart Rate Zones & Endurance

James shares how his sessions include both cardio peaks and recovery:

• 170 bpm when pumping hard upwind
• 120 bpm when gliding downwind
• Excellent for interval training and cardio base-building

“It’s a workout, but the fun kind.”

Key Takeaways

• 1250R = Glide Monster: Incredible carry and efficiency once up and riding
• Perfect Cross-Trainer: Allows for long, sustained, low-cadence workouts
• Versatile Tool: Equally at home on flatwater, small surf, or light ocean bumps
• Light Wind Hero: Opens up conditions others can’t ride
• Preferred for Training: Makes foil-based cardio both effective and enjoyable

Final Thoughts: The Daily Driver

The Code Foils 1250R isn’t just a niche wing — for many advanced riders, it’s become a daily driver. Whether you're chasing personal bests, putting in cardio work, or just enjoying glide-heavy surf zones, this foil provides a stable platform for serious fun and fitness.

“It’s the foil that’s in my car every day and I use it five to six times a week.”

Whether you're dock starting, SUP foiling, or training for your next Hawaii run, this wing is built to go the distance — and help you enjoy every meter of it.