The AXIS Pocket Trench has been specifically designed to be compatible with Foil Drive systems while providing a streamlined installation process and improved hydrodynamic performance.

This guide explains the correct installation procedure, compatible hardware, and important maintenance tips to ensure safe operation and protect your equipment.

Compatible Foil Drive Systems

The AXIS Pocket Trench board is compatible with:

• Foil Drive Fusion
• Foil Drive Gen2 MAX
• Foil Drive Gen2 SLIM

The Pocket Trench is available in:

• 40 L
• 50 L
• 60 L

Board Features

The AXIS Pocket Trench incorporates several features designed specifically for Foil Drive:

• Hydrodynamic nose cover to improve take-off efficiency and touchdown performance.
• Closed-cell foam construction with carbon and fibreglass layup.
• Fibreglass foil tracks that allow reliable signal transmission.
• AXIS Quick Slider system for fast installation and removal, making battery changes significantly quicker.

Compatible Mounting Hardware

The AXIS Slider system accepts:

• M6 hardware
• M7 hardware
• M8 hardware

Important

Do not use the standard M7 split bolts supplied with your Fusion or the standard M8 hardware or upgraded split bolts supplied with Foil Drive Gen2 systems.

AXIS supplies dedicated mounting hardware specifically designed for the Pocket Trench Slider system.

The dedicated AXIS M7 hardware uses an M7 thread with an M8 head, allowing it to seat correctly within the carbon top plate.

Important: Use AXIS Sliders Only

The Pocket Trench tracks have been specifically engineered for the AXIS Slider system.

Important

Do not use standard foil T-nuts in these tracks.

The tracks are wider than traditional foil tracks, and standard T-nuts may damage the board.

Always install using the supplied AXIS sliders.

Installing the AXIS Sliders

Before installation:

• Position the rubber grommet towards the nose of the board.
• Never install the rubber grommet facing the tail.

The rubber grommet slightly lifts the front of the Foil Drive, making insertion into the board easier.

Using a T40 Torx driver:

1. Attach the AXIS sliders to your Foil Drive.
2. Install the appropriate mounting hardware.
3. Tighten the hardware only enough to hold the sliders in place.
4. Leave the screws loose enough to allow the sliders to engage with the board tracks.

Installing the Foil Drive & Mast onto the Board

1. Insert the mast and sliders into the rear opening of the board tracks.
2. Slide the assembly forward until positioned correctly.
3. Tighten each mounting screw securely.

To remove:

1. Loosen each mounting screw approximately one turn.
2. Slide the foil assembly rearward.
3. Lift the foil out of the board.

Gen2 MAX Hard Plate Requirement

Some early Foil Drive Gen2 MAX units were supplied with a soft board protection plate.

These units must be upgraded before use with the AXIS Pocket Trench. You may have the old soft plastic sticker if your serial number is between AM-0001 - AM-2300.

If your Gen2 MAX falls within this serial number range, contact [email protected] to obtain the updated hard protection plate before using the board.

Mast Positioning

The Pocket Trench provides multiple mounting positions so you can fine-tune your foil placement.

Important 

Do not position the rear mounting screws behind the white reference mark on the board.

Doing so places the hardware into the open section of the track and may damage the board.

Maintenance & Care

To maximise the lifespan of both your board and Foil Drive:

Keep the trench clean

Always remove:

• Sand
• Gravel
• Debris

before sliding the foil in or out of the tracks.

Foreign material can scratch or damage both the tracks and your equipment.

Rinse after every session

After each use:

1. Remove the AXIS sliders.
2. Remove the integrated mast screws.
3. Thoroughly rinse underneath the mounting plate.

Salt and sand trapped between the plate and your Foil Drive can cause premature wear and corrosion if left in place.

Protecting Your Board

The Pocket Trench includes a protective patch on the nose to reduce cosmetic damage during installation and removal.

For best results:

• Install and remove your foil on grass or another soft surface whenever possible.
• Avoid performing installation on concrete, rocks or abrasive ground.

Maintaining Remote Connection

Although the Pocket Trench has been designed to maximise signal transmission, temporary connection loss can still occur if the board becomes fully submerged.

To minimise this possibility, the deck pad extends towards the nose of the board, allowing you to hold the Foil Drive remote directly against the board during duck dives or while starting, helping maintain the strongest possible connection.

Watch the video below as Mark from AXIS walks you through the installation process from start to finish.