Data sheet updated in February 2026
The Zapple is Appletree's dedicated board for Foil Drive. Its integrated trench perfectly houses the battery, reducing drag and optimizing weight distribution. It has 100% carbon vacuum construction and 50K closed cell foam. It's compatible with both Gen2 and Fusion systems. Available in four sizes from 38L to 62L, with pads included.
KEY INFORMATION
APPLETREE ZAPPLE
What we like
- Integrated Foil Drive Trench: This trench was designed with the Foil Drive team. It ensures zero turbulence and keeps the battery perfectly housed.
- Minimal Drag: The trench design reduces surface contact. This optimizes battery range.
- Optimized Signal: A special "signal window" in the nose eliminates connection interruptions.
- Premium construction: It has 100% carbon, exclusive 50K closed-cell foam, and vacuum-injected epoxy resin. It features FUTURES oneshot CNC inserts.
Available sizes
5'0 (38L) / 5'4 (46L) / 5'8 (54L) / 6'0 (62L)
Use
Foil Drive • Surf foil • Downwind assist
Level
Intermediate to expert
Included / Not included
✓ Included: Deck pads with kick tail, FUTURES oneshot foil inserts.
✗ Not included: Foil Drive, foil, straps, bag.
COMPARISON: ZAPPLE (TRENCH) VS. CLASSIC FOIL BOARD
| Criterion | Zapple (integrated trench) | Classic foil board |
|---|---|---|
| Foil Drive Integration | Dedicated trench, zero gaps. | External mounting, gaps and drag. |
| Drag | ★★★★★ Minimal | ★★★☆☆ Protruding case |
| Battery Range | Optimized (less drag) | Standard |
| Foil Drive Signal | Dedicated signal window. | Frequent cut-outs (carbon). |
| Cornering Control | Battery near feet. | Off-center weight. |
| Battery Replacement | Titanium barrel bolts for quick changes. | Varies by setup. |
| Construction | 100% carbon / 50K foam | Variable (EPS/fiber). |
Verdict: The Zapple is the clear choice for riders using a Foil Drive. Its integrated trench eliminates the usual compromises. It extends your session duration. If you're looking for pure wing foil without a Foil Drive, check out the AppleSlice V4 or the Skipper Midlength.
THE ZAPPLE IN DETAIL
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Integrated Trench: Zero Compromise
The Zapple's trench was developed in direct collaboration with the Foil Drive team. The battery fits perfectly, eliminating voids that create drag and waste energy. The battery's weight is positioned as close to your feet as possible. This significantly improves control in tight turns and high-speed runs. When you motor to the lineup, the board glides on the water without the casing creating resistance.
Flawless Signal
The Zapple solves one of Foil Drive's most common problems: signal interruptions caused by water and carbon fiber. The board's nose integrates a specially designed "signal window." The antenna is aligned with the track. As long as part of the nose remains out of the water with the foam strips in place, the signal stays stable and reliable, even in demanding conditions.
Compact and Powerful
With Foil Drive's power, you can ride a smaller board than usual. The four sizes cover 38L to 62L. Larger volumes make flatwater starts easier and offer extra safety for offshore downwinds. The midlength shape with the foil placed quite far forward makes the extra volume less noticeable in use. The propeller can be placed higher on the mast. This reduces the risk of contact with the water when foiling unpowered.
Gen2 and Fusion Compatible
All stock boards are Gen2 compatible. For custom orders, the Fusion option is available: the trench is extended by about 10 cm to accommodate the larger battery and allow for foil position adjustment. Please note: the Fusion option reduces volume by 1L. Only order it if you are actually using the Fusion system. Thanks to the titanium barrel bolts developed by Foil Drive, battery replacement is as simple as on a board without a trench.
ZAPPLE IN DETAIL
THE ZAPPLE IN VIDEO
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Size | Width | Thickness | Volume | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5'0-inch | 18.5-inch | 3.3-inch | 38L | Light Riders / Experts |
| 5'4-inch | 18.5-inch | 3.8-inch | 46L | Allround / Performance |
| 5'8-inch | 19.5-inch | 3.9-inch | 54L | All-round / Easy take-offs |
| 6'0-inch | 20.5-inch | 4.0-inch | 62L | Downwind / Offshore safety |
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Product | Appletree Zapple |
| Year | 2025-2026 |
| Type | Foil Drive / Surf Foil Board |
| Construction | 100% carbon fiber, vacuum lamination |
| Foam | 50K closed cell (Appletree exclusive) |
| Trench | Integrated, co-developed with Foil Drive |
| Foil inserts | FUTURES oneshot (high density PET honeycomb panel) |
| Compatibility | Foil Drive Gen2 (stock) / Fusion (custom) |
| Pads | Integrated deck pad with kick tail as standard |
| Sizes | Available in 4 sizes, from 5'0-inch (38L) to 6'0-inch (62L). |
| Manufacturing | Handmade, Portugal |
| Certification | Eco Board (Sustainable Surf) |
| Price | from €1,849 incl. tax |
FAQ
Is the Zapple compatible with all Foil Drive systems?
All stock Zapple boards are compatible with the Foil Drive Gen2 system. For Fusion compatibility (larger battery), a custom option is available: the trench is extended by approximately 10 cm. Be aware that this option reduces volume by 1L. Only order it if you are actually using the Fusion system.
Which Zapple size should I choose?
With Foil Drive, you can ride a smaller board than you might expect. The 5'0 (38L) is perfect for lighter or more experienced riders. For easier flat water starts and added safety during offshore downwinds, we recommend the larger volumes (5'8 and 6'0).
How does the “signal window” work?
The Zapple's nose is specifically designed to allow the Foil Drive signal to pass through. The antenna aligns perfectly with the track. As long as part of the nose stays above the water and the included foam strips are in place, you'll have a stable and reliable signal.
Can you use the Zapple without Foil Drive?
Absolutely! The Zapple performs just like a classic surf foil board. The trench has no negative impact on unpowered foil performance. In fact, the higher propeller placement reduces the risk of contact with the water.
How do you replace the battery on the Zapple?
Thanks to the titanium barrel bolts specially developed by Foil Drive, battery replacement is as simple as on a board without a trench. Just unscrew, remove the battery, and insert a new one. It's quick and requires no specific tools.
Why buy from GlissEvolution?
GlissEvolution has over 20 years of expertise in watersports. Our passionate advisors test equipment on the spots of La Baule and Pornichet. We offer responsive after-sales support based in France. You get free delivery on orders over €150, and you can pick up your order in our Pornichet store.
Need advice?
Visit us at GlissEvolution, 2c avenue du Gulfstream, 44380 Pornichet (Loire-Atlantique)
. Call us at 02 40 61 05 71. We're open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-1pm and 3pm-7pm
. Our test center is available by appointment.
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