Upgrading your Duotone Foil Assist setup from an aluminium mast to the D/LAB carbon eMast is one of the biggest performance improvements you can make. Reduced weight, increased stiffness and a more direct feel on the foil transform how the system rides — especially for experienced foilers looking for maximum efficiency and control.
At Worthing Watersports, we regularly help customers decide which D/LAB option is right for them and which parts they actually need (without overspending). This guide explains the differences, costs, compatibility and upgrade paths in plain English.
Key point upfront: D/LAB is Assist-only
The D/LAB carbon eMast only exists in the Assist version — there is no D/LAB Cruise mast.
So whether you’re upgrading from:
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Aluminium Cruise, or
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Aluminium Assist
…you’ll be moving into the Assist ecosystem when you go D/LAB.
Cruise vs Assist vs D/LAB – simple comparison
| Feature | Cruise (Aluminium) | Assist (Aluminium) | D/LAB Assist (Carbon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mast material | Aluminium | Aluminium | Carbon |
| Weight | Heaviest | Lighter | Lightest |
| Stiffness | Moderate | Good | Exceptional |
| Motor position | Cruise-specific | Assist-specific | Assist-specific |
| Ride feel | Smooth & forgiving | More responsive | Ultra-direct & high performance |
| Target rider | Beginners / recreational | Intermediate–advanced | Advanced / performance-focused |
| Compatible with Cruise electronics | Yes | No | No |
Upgrade paths explained (with real costs)
Option 1: Complete D/LAB set (most plug-and-play)
Best if you want zero fiddling and a second complete mast
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Duotone Foil Assist D/LAB eMast – complete with all electronics
💷 £3,185
👉 https://worthingwatersports.com/products/dte-emast-d-lab-set-2026
This is the easiest route. Everything stays permanently installed and you don’t need to move parts between masts.
Option 2: D/LAB eMast without motor (best balance of ease & value)
Recommended for most upgrades
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Duotone Foil Assist D/LAB eMast (without motor, incl. electronics)
💷 £2,399
👉 https://worthingwatersports.com/products/dte-emast-d-lab-w-o-motor-2026
You simply transfer the motor from your aluminium mast.
✔ Much cheaper than a full set
✔ Minimal cable swapping
✔ Ideal if you change masts a few times a year
Option 3: D/LAB mast only (lowest cost, more modular)
Best if you’re comfortable moving components
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Duotone Foil Assist D/LAB eMast only (no electronics)
💷 £1,249
👉 https://worthingwatersports.com/products/dte-emast-d-lab-only-w-o-any-electric-parts-2026
You’ll reuse electronics from your aluminium mast, but may need additional parts depending on how you want to configure it.
Optional / situational parts:
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Assist male connector with cables (top plate only)
👉 https://worthingwatersports.com/products/dte-assist-male-connector-with-cables-for-top-plate-only-2026 -
Assist eMast cover (recommended if upgrading from Cruise)
👉 https://worthingwatersports.com/products/dte-assist-emast-cover-2026
Smart setup tip (recommended by us)
If you buy a second e-leash, you can leave the cables permanently attached to each mast. This allows you to simply swap the motor + leash, making changes quicker, cleaner and safer — ideal if you rotate setups seasonally.
Maintenance tip (important for longevity)
If connectors come into contact with salt water or sand:
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Rinse thoroughly with fresh water
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Ensure no sand or debris remains inside (use a cotton swab if needed)
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Allow to air dry completely
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Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease for optimal connectivity
For correct installation, always follow Duotone’s mounting instructions or watch the official setup video.
FAQs
Can I upgrade from Cruise to D/LAB?
Yes — but D/LAB is Assist-only, so you’ll be moving into the Assist system.
Do I need to replace all electronics?
No. You can transfer motor and electronics from your aluminium mast, depending on the upgrade option you choose.
Is carbon really worth it?
Absolutely. Carbon delivers noticeably better stiffness, lower swing weight and sharper response — especially at speed or in choppy conditions.
Which option do you recommend?
For most riders upgrading from aluminium, Option 2 (£2,399) offers the best balance of performance, ease and value.
Final thoughts
Designed for progressive watersports, the Duotone D/LAB Foil Assist eMast balances maximum performance, durability and ease of use. Whether you want the cleanest plug-and-play solution or the most cost-effective upgrade, there’s a D/LAB path that makes sense.
Order today from Worthing Watersports – the UK’s Duotone specialist store.