Baseplate Shim

Getting Started.

Using the Baseplate Shim is Fine-Tuning Mastery. Running the Baseplate Shim is not required, it is a bonus to help you balance out your board for certain characteristics. Don’t get overwhelmed thinking that Baseplate shimming is a necessity.

Benefits.

That said, your KT Foiling Hardware Kit includes a subtle 1.0° baseplate shim that can slide in between your mast and board to adjust the overall angle for different riding styles, conditions, and to accommodate for varying track box angles or board rocker.

While tail wing shims adjust specific aspects of lift, drag, and stability, baseplate shimming affects the whole setup, helping you fine-tune for specific disciplines and feel.

If you’re an experienced rider that likes to get technical, here’s how to use it:

Nose-Up (Thick End in the Front).

Effect:

– Enhances carving and pitch stability, making it ideal for high-speed winging, towing, kite foiling, or racing.
– Adds more control for faster speed ranges, improving stability during turns and minimizing pitching at higher velocities.
– Reduces pumping efficiency and initial lift, which may require rider to shift their stance slightly back OR move the mast forward 0.5cm in the tracks.

Best For:

– Riders focused on high-speed performance, surf style carving, and control in racing, tow, or kite foiling scenarios.
– Winging or towing where speed and carving stability are critical.

Nose-Down (Thick End in the Back).

Effect:

– Increases pumping efficiency and improves initial takeoff.
– Reduces carving stability but provides exceptional low-speed handling and feel.

Best For:

– Flat water pumping, light wind winging, light wind downwinders, micro surf, and lower-speed ranges.
– Riders focusing on lower-speed conditions were pumping and takeoff are prioritized.