North Dockstart Launch Pad

The North Dockstart Launch Pad is an inflatable foil launch platform designed and sold by North Action Sports. Released as a one-size accessory, it attaches to docks, jetties, wharves, or boat transoms and holds a foilboard at the correct angle for stationary pump-foil takeoffs. The pad is built from PVC dropstitch material, inflates to a rigid platform at 9 PSI, and folds down for transport when deflated. North markets it under the name "DockStarter," positioning it as a dedicated tool for flatwater pump foiling—a discipline that requires no wind or waves, only the rider's own pumping technique to generate lift.

The launch pad works by cradling the foilboard so the mast sits near the rear of the platform with the foil wings submerged below the waterline. Two deck-anchor attachment points and included ropes secure the pad to whatever structure it's mounted on. The rider runs up, steps onto the board, and the pad flexes to release the board into the water. An adjustable two-position leg loop system lets riders set a higher or lower board angle depending on preference and foil setup.

• Weight: 3,100 g (3.1 kg)
• Construction: PVC dropstitch inflatable
• Operating pressure: 9 PSI (15 PSI max)
• Mast compatibility: Any foil with mast length greater than 65 cm
• Available sizes: One size (O/S)
• Included: 1× dropstitch launch pad, 2× deck anchors, 2× 2 m ropes (4 mm diameter), 1× repair patch, 1× kite-pump hose adaptor, 1× compression strap, 1× valve tool

The North Dockstart Launch Pad is aimed at foilers who want to pump foil from stationary platforms without relying on wind, waves, or a tow. That audience ranges from intermediate riders building pump-foil fitness to experienced foilers looking for a reliable training tool during flat spells. Dock-start pump foiling demands solid board-control fundamentals—balancing on the board at launch, landing lightly, and initiating an efficient pump cadence—so complete beginners to foiling will want baseline skills before investing in this accessory.

Because the pad can mount to virtually any waterside structure, it suits riders who have access to calm harbors, lakes, rivers, or sheltered coastal spots but don't always have swell or wind. It also works on boat transoms, opening up pump-foil sessions from anchored vessels.

The Dockstart Launch Pad sits outside North's core foilboard and wing range as a standalone accessory. It doesn't replace any previous North product; instead it adds a new category to the brand's foil ecosystem alongside boards like the North Swell and Seek, and foil components in the Sonar line. It is compatible with any brand's foil setup provided the mast exceeds 65 cm, so it is not locked into North's own hardware.

In the broader market, dock-start launch ramps from other manufacturers exist, but most are rigid fibreglass or composite platforms. The North pad's inflatable dropstitch construction is its main differentiator—it deflates for storage and travel, weighs just over 3 kg, and packs with a compression strap. Riders who need a portable option that moves between locations will find that practical advantage relevant when comparing against fixed ramp alternatives.