If you’re looking for ways to improve your vessel’s performance, an outboard motor hydrofoil may be the solution. They can decrease drag, improve fuel consumption, and even tighten steering. Some even have unique proprietary benefits. In this blog, we’ll go over the benefits that outboard hydrofoils provide as well as what types of boats they work best on.
What are outboard hydrofoils?
An Outboard motor hydrofoil is a specialized attachment that’s designed to improve the performance and handling of outboard motorboats. They are typically made from composite materials and are designed to attach either to the skeg or to the cavitation plate of an outboard motor. The purpose of the hydrofoil is to lift the boat's hull out of the water, reducing drag and improving overall speed and fuel efficiency.
Hydrofoils work by creating lift as water flows over their curved surfaces. As the boat accelerates, the hydrofoil generates lift, which helps to reduce the amount of drag on the hull. This allows the boat to reach higher speeds with less power and improves handling by reducing bow lift and improving stability.
There are many different types of outboard motor hydrofoils available on the market, each with their own unique design features and performance characteristics. Some of the most popular types of hydrofoils include fixed hydrofoils, adjustable hydrofoils, and retractable hydrofoils.
Fixed hydrofoils are the most basic type of hydrofoil and are typically the least expensive. They are designed to be permanently attached to the outboard motor and cannot be adjusted or removed without significant effort. Fixed hydrofoils are generally considered to be the most effective type of hydrofoil for improving speed and fuel efficiency, but they may not be suitable for all types of boats.
Adjustable hydrofoils are designed to allow the angle of the hydrofoil to be adjusted to suit different water conditions and boat speeds. This type of hydrofoil is typically more expensive than a fixed hydrofoil, but it can provide more precise performance tuning. Adjustable hydrofoils are often favored by performance boaters who demand maximum speed and handling.
Retractable hydrofoils are a relatively new type of hydrofoil that can be raised or lowered as needed. This type of hydrofoil is designed to provide maximum lift and speed when needed but can be retracted when the boat is traveling at lower speeds or in shallow water. Retractable hydrofoils are typically the most expensive type of hydrofoil and may require special installation and maintenance procedures.
The Benefits
Increased Speed
The primary benefit of outboard or inboard/outboard hydrofoils is increased speed. By lifting the boat's hull out of the water, hydrofoils reduce drag, which allows the boat to move faster with the same amount of power. This increased speed can be particularly useful for boats that are used for water sports, such as skiing or wakeboarding, as it allows the boat to create a larger wake for the rider to surf or jump.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
Another significant benefit is improved fuel efficiency. By reducing drag, hydrofoils allow the boat to move through the water with less resistance, which means that it requires less fuel to maintain the same speed. This can result in significant savings in fuel costs over time, especially for boats that are used frequently or for long distances.
Better Handling and Maneuverability
Hydrofoils can also improve a boat's handling and maneuverability. By lifting the boat's hull out of the water, hydrofoils reduce the amount of surface area that is in contact with the water, which reduces drag and makes the boat more responsive to steering and other inputs. This can be particularly useful in rough water conditions, where the boat's handling and stability can be compromised.
Increased Stability and Comfort
Many adopters who are fishermen report increased stability and comfort. By lifting the boat's hull out of the water, hydrofoils reduce the amount of pitching and rolling that the boat experiences, which can make the ride smoother and more comfortable for passengers. This can be especially important for boats that are used for fishing or other activities where passengers may be standing or moving around.
Easy Installation
Finally, hydrofoils for outboard engines are easy to install and can be added to most types of outboard motors. They come in a range of sizes and styles, so boat owners can choose the one that best fits their needs and budget. In many cases, hydrofoils can be installed without the need for professional assistance, which can save boat owners time and money.
Protect Marine Life
Hydro-Shield is a specialty hydrofoil and skeg protector that guards marine mammals such as manatees and sea turtles from death and injury due to propeller strikes, and reduces the destruction of marine grasses from a boats propeller. Made from a thermoplastic compound, the Hydro-Shield absorbs impacts by deflecting without transferring 100% of the energy to the skeg, and its 316ths marine grade bracket system provides added protection to the skeg.
In conclusion
In conclusion, an outboard motor hydrofoil offers a range of benefits that make them an excellent investment for boat owners. They can increase speed, improve fuel efficiency, enhance handling and maneuverability, increase stability and comfort, and are easy to install. Whether you are a recreational boater or a professional fisherman, outboard hydrofoils are a valuable addition to any boat that can improve your experience on the water.
Click Here to shop for the Hydro-Shield size that best fits your vessel.