Kiteboarding Tricks | How To Do A Backroll Hat Drag
You can use a little creativity to switch up even the more basic tricks and add a little flair and style. David has a couple simple tips for your Backroll Hand Drag... and one involves your favorite beverage!
The Backroll Hat Drag is a natural addition to the Backroll Hand Drag. You won't really change how you do the trick, but it'll look that much more impressive.
First, make sure you've got your Backroll Hand Drag locked in. Next, wear a hat you can take off and put back on.
As you come in with some speed for the Backroll, take off your hat and have it ready in your front hand. (Once you're feeling really confident, you can pop your hat off as you pop off the water.) Start to bring the kite up to 12 and pop off the edge. Lean back toward the water and, instead of dragging your hand, drag your hat. Just be sure to hang on tight so the water doesn't pull it out of your hand!
As you finish your rotation, pop your hat back on your head, spot your landing, stomp it, and ride away, making sure to check to see who saw how awesome you looked. As you're getting the trick dialed in, you can also put your hat back on after you land so you're not trying to do two things at once.
A fun variation on this is to have a drink with you. Instead of dragging your hand or hat, take a sip of your refreshing beverage as you swing through your Backroll. But! As you spot your landing, pull your drink away from your face so you don't eat it in case you crash.
Those are just a couple ideas you can use to add a little something to your tricks. Give them a try the next time you're on the water.
KT Ginxu Step-Bottom and Foil Drive Systems | A Perfect Match?
The step-bottom feature of the KT Ginxu foilboards is a big help in releasing the surface tension of the water with the board when you're trying to get on foil. You can read Tucker's review of the board if you want to know more about that. (Spoiler alert: it works, and it works well.) A lot of people are using the Foil Drive system as an assist to get up on foil as well. These two things seem like the perfect match until you think about mounting the Foil Drive onto the track. Is there enough room for it to fit, or will it bump up against the step? Well... it depends.
As an example, this is the Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon 62L 5'3" with the largest Foil Drive system, the Max. In addition to the easy release from the water, the step reduces some of the height that the Foil Drive unit normally adds to your mast, so it would be great to be able to use it with this board.
The Max and the Slim Foil Drive units both have two battery options, each with their own nose cone. If you're using one of the short batteries, then you shouldn't have any issues since most foils sit squarely in the middle of the track and won't need to be so far forward as to cause the Foil Drive unit to bump up against the step bottom of the board. If you do want your stance to be a bit further forward, you can install your battery and then slide the Foil Drive unit another inch or so forward.
If you want to use one of the extended batteries, then that is going to be a bit more problematic. If you can ride with your foil further back, then you can use them like you normally would, but most foils like to be further forward than that. There is a workaround to get your foil further forward, though: mount the Foil Drive unit backwards.
Of course, now your motor cable is at the front of your mast, so you will need to reroute that along the side of the mast to bring it to the back of the mast. You'll either need to be comfortable riding with your prop up higher on the mast, or buy one with a longer cable.
There are some advantages to riding with the Foil Drive unit backwards, though. This will put more of its weight under your back foot and give you a little better performance since you won't have to swing that weight when you turn. Smaller or higher-aspect foils especially like to be ridden with your back foot over the mast, and that puts most of the weight right at that pivot point. It has the effect of making your board feel lighter.
You'll have more room to adjust exactly where you want your mast with the Foil Drive mounted backwards as well. Having the battery access open to the back instead of being blocked by the step bottom also makes it easier to swap out batteries for those extended sessions. So if you're able to reroute that cable, there is something to be said for riding with your Foil Drive backwards.
The nice thing about the track area on the Ginxu boards is how flat it is. Once you've got your Foil Drive bolted down, you won't have any need for shims. It will sit nice and flush in either direction.
Not all step bottom boards will be so tight on space for your Foil Drive. The Dragonfly Surf model's track area is a bit more roomy than the Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon, so you might be good to go if you've got one of those and are looking to add a Foil Drive. However, the smaller boards do tend to be higher performance and better suited to riding with a Foil Drive.
Be sure to reach out to us if you've got any questions on how a Foil Drive will work with a particular board, and we'll be happy to let you know what your options might be. We'll see you on the water!
Starboard Ace Air Inflatable Wing Foilboard Review
It's Wing Wednesday, and today Tucker's got an inflatable foilboard, the 2024 Starboard Ace Air. It's got some cool things going on that make it stand out in the inflatable foilboard crowd, and we'll go over those features and then follow up with a review of Tucker's time with it on the water. Even though the board is a downwind SUP shape, the review will focus on the board as a wingboard since Tucker is the first to admit he's not much of a paddleboarder, but the features will apply to both disciplines.
The Starboard Ace Air includes a nice bag, footstraps, a coil leash, and a pump. (Though Tucker recommends upgrading your session with the rechargeable Ride Engine Air Box. Why give yourself a workout before you even hit the water??) The board packs down into a fairly compact package that's perfect for people living in an apartment with limited storage space, who have a small car, who travel and need a packable board, or even for those looking for something they can't ding. It's even got the potential to be a one-board quiver, saving you even more space. Most riders can take this board anywhere and be happy.
Shape
Tucker got about 20 hours on the 6'10" x 21" 100L Ace Air, and he's pretty amped on it. Its long, narrow shape makes it ideal for both downwind paddling and light wind winging. It also increases its efficiency as an inflatable. Inflatables don't have the ability to have as complex a shape as hardboards, so they inherently tend to have more drag, and this shape helps you regain a bit of the board speed you'd normally lose with other inflatable shapes in this same volume. This means you can take off in less wind and smaller foils, making it ideal as a light wind wing foilboard. That's one reason a lot of wingers are choosing this board for travel.
There is a bit more rocker in the nose and tail, and that's helpful for winging because it helps the board rock off the water. A long board can be a little sticky on the water, and this rockered shape helps you break that suction and get up on foil.
In the middle of the board is a foam rail along each side. These are nice to grab onto when you're getting up on the board, and they're also helpful to keep your legs from slipping off the sides when you're on your knees. When you're riding a larger foil, it gives you a tactile reference to the edge of the board as well as some leverage over the rail when you're turning. If you are using the board for downwind paddleboarding, it gives you a comfortable spot to put your feet while you're in a forward-facing paddle stance.
Carbon Riding Plate
The feature that people are probably most stoked about is the carbon riding plate. The rectangular area that's raised up a third of an inch or so underneath the traction pad is a hard carbon plate. Your foil mounts to the bottom of this plate, and then you stand on it, so it feels more like a hardboard than other inflatables. It's as if there's a tiny tray board surrounded by an inflatable board to give you the volume, stability, and planability you need to get going in light winds or when you're downwinding. The direct response you get from your foil lets you be so much more in tune with it; almost more than many hardboards since there isn't four inches of foam between the foil and your feet. Thanks to the carbon plate, there's only half an inch between the top of the foil and the bottoms of your feet.
It's impressive that you can get that level of responsiveness and performance out of an inflatable board. That's normally a sacrifice you have to make to get the benefits of portability. So how did Starboard design an inflatable to let you stand on the same thin plate that your mast is mounted to?
The bottom of the board has a drop deck, with the foil mounted up through the deck to the top of the board. This does create a large hole, but the board comes supplied with a foam insert to fill that space to keep it from creating drag. Before inflating the board, you'll attach your foil and then position the foam insert. Once the board is pumped up, it'll lock that insert into place so it can't come out. However, it does have a leash that you can attach to the bottom handle for a little extra security if you'd like.
You will need to use a plate foil with this board; a Tuttle mount won't work. The track has a standard 90mm spacing, which will give you a wide variety of foil options. The track does have a bit of distance to allow for different mounting positions and patterns, though it isn't as long as many hardboards. This isn't an issue with most foils, but Armstrong foils, especially their high aspect ones, do need to be mounted further forward than this track allows. As long as you can mount your mast close to your back foot, it'll work well with this board's volume distribution. If you're riding with straps, make sure your foil will want to ride within the back strap mounting holes.
Mounting the foil is a bit different on this board vs. your typical track board since the screws don't have a track to lock into. Instead, you'll screw them in from the top side. You have a few different options for this. The easiest option is to pick up a set of Wizard Hat hardware. That has a T-nut with a bolt on it that mounts in from the top. The T-nut will lay nice and flush with the traction pad, and then the bolt secures your mast with a hex nut that has a flat or countersunk side to fit most mast plates.
You can also use your stock hardware. The board includes M6 hardware, but the slots are wide enough that you can also use M8 hardware. In most cases, you'll mount the screw head on the deck side and the T-nut on the foil side, but you can decide what works best for your setup. However you choose to mount your foil, be sure that the hardware on the deck pad doesn't have any sharp edges or rough spots to cut your foot.
Accessories
The straps also mount directly to the carbon plate, and that's a nice feature for gaining that extra leverage over the foil as you're ripping turns and jumping. Three Drake straps are included so you can have a variety of setups to fit your style. They're a longer strap, which gives you some flexibility in shifting your foot position and for getting in and out of them easily. They mount with M6 machine screws, so keep that in mind if you wish to swap these straps out for different ones so you don't ruin your board with the wrong screws.
A coil leash with a calf cuff is also included, which is what most people use for this type of board. It comes with a high pressure travel pump as well; the feet fold up to make it easy to pack. It has a standard kite hose end that will accept your adapters, so you can also use it to pump up your kite or wing as long as you keep an eye on the pressure since you can overinflate them with this pump.
Even the bag is extra nice. It's oversized for the board, so you can fit extra gear in there and travel with everything in just one bag. Tucker was able to pack the board, pump, two wings, a foil, some tools, and a wetsuit top. It all fit with no trouble. It's got backpack straps with a chest clip and waist belt, so it's comfortable if you have to hike in. At the airport, you can pull it on its three wheels. There are plenty of handles for lifting and maneuvering it, and it's padded to keep your gear safe.
All together, it's a well-thought-out package that includes everything most riders will want to get out and ride right away. The bag is overkill if you're using it for just the board, but better too big than too small. The price point is quite reasonable at $1499, considering the quality of the included accessories and the performance of the board.
Durability
The Ace Air is a bit heavier than some other inflatable boards. This is due in part to its features, and in part to the high quality construction. It's got carbon seams to make the board stiffer, and the material itself is heavy duty. It won't be as easy to damage this board or get leaks in it. It won't get sun worn as quickly, either. Tucker felt these benefits were an acceptable tradeoff for the extra weight.
Performance
The carbon plate is the biggest part of the Ace Air's performance. It makes it feel more like a hardboard, which most people would choose over an inflatable if space and portability were not a factor. Its longer, narrower shape increases your ability to get out and up on foil in subpar winds or on smaller, high-performance foils. You'd never be able to do this with most inflatable boards unless the wind is cranking, so this is an impressive one-board/desert island quiver.
Compared to similar hardboards, the Ace Air is lighter at the ends. While it is a couple pounds heavier overall, most of that weight is toward the center of the board, so it's not going to have the swing weight of other boards. Coupled with the direct connection to the foil, it's going to be responsive and have really nice turning performance.
Past boards from Starboard used an aluminum plate, and the new carbon plate is lighter and stiffer. While the earlier boards were excellent, this does translate into an upgrade you can feel.
Tucker's Review
Tucker is pretty amped on the Ace Air after riding it for a while. While he expected it to be primarily a light wind board, he found it was more of an everyday driver. He was surprised at just how much performance it offered and how much fun it really was. He could do airs, ride waves, and rip at high speeds. It was an absolute blast. Even though it's a little bigger, he didn't feel like it would hold you back at all, especially if you're not a pro level rider.
Whether it was flat water or waves, 10 or 30 knots, he felt totally happy on this board. He could do it all, even up to a fairly advanced level. Of course it isn't going to have the performance of specialized hardboards, but for travel or for just getting out and enjoying the type of riding you want to do, it is going to work in a wide variety of conditions.
Having the weight toward the center of the board rather than out at the ends, along with the direct connection the carbon plate offers, made a huge difference in its turning performance. It reacted to micro adjustments, and Tucker found he could respond immediately to feedback from the foil. It wasn't at all spongy like other inflatables can be. It can also be pumped up to 18 psi, so the whole board is quite stiff, not just the area with the carbon plate. It offered a lot more performance than Tucker initially imagined it would.
That said, while the light wind performance wasn't disappointing, it didn't have quite the ability Tucker hoped it might. It's one of the most efficient inflatables and has release channels to help drop the water as you're lifting off, but at the end of the day, it's still an inflatable. It's got a rounded shape with round rails, and that's going to add some stickiness to reduce your speed a bit and hinder liftoff. It's not a board you're going to take out in 5 knots and easily get on foil like you can with a hard downwind board. However, if you take it out in 10 knots and above with a proper wing and foil, you're going to be really happy with it.
Compared to a larger, fatter hard wingboard in the same volume, Tucker feels this inflatable is just as efficient. As long as you set your expectations properly, it's going to be a great travel board for most people. Tucker was even able to get up on a 750 foil at one point, and that was in just moderately powered conditions. The trick is to use the rocker to your advantage. Since more rocker creates more drag, once you get moving a bit, use the rocker to pump it off the water with a sort of skipping motion.
Another trick with this board is to use footstraps to gain maximum turning performance. Being a longer, inflatable board, it isn't going to leverage the foil in the same way as a hardboard would. Using straps will help you to force the board around and turn this longer board like you would a much shorter board. If you're doing airs, hard turns, or riding hard in the waves, the straps are a nice option, even when you would normally ride strapless. It also helps in super light wind conditions when you need to pump hard and want your feet to stay in place.
While Tucker tries to find something to nitpick about every product he reviews, he couldn't think of any way to improve this board. As long as you set your expectations for the limitations you'll get with an inflatable, he feels most riders are going to be very happy with the performance of the Ace Air.
2025 Duotone Skybrid SLS Wing Foil Board | The Perfect Balance of Performance and Efficiency?
The world of wing foiling continues to evolve, and with each new innovation, enthusiasts are treated to better performance, increased efficiency, and more exhilarating experiences on the water. Duotone’s latest offering, the Skybrid SLS, is a testament to this progress.
Designed to bridge the gap between dedicated downwinders and traditional compact wing foil boards, the Skybrid SLS stands out as a high-performance wing foil board that caters to a wide range of riders. Falling within the dedicated downwinder range, it offers a blend of efficiency and stability for versatile performance.
Performance Meets Efficiency
At the heart of the 2025 Duotone Skybrid SLS is a commitment to delivering the perfect blend of efficiency and stability, drawing inspiration from classic wing foiling shapes. This mid-length board combines features from Duotone’s downwind range with those of their compact wing foil boards, resulting in a versatile and highly capable board.
The board is crafted using Duotone’s premium SLS technology, which ensures both durability and lightweight performance. The Skybrid SLS features a single concave to flat bottom shape, which is crucial for early planing and takeoffs. This design element allows riders to get up and foiling with minimal effort, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Additionally, the cutouts in the tail facilitate early release from the water, further enhancing the board’s efficiency. The Skybrid SLS excels in sustaining exceptional stability, thanks to its wider nose and tail, longer and narrower outline, and longer carbon foil tracks.
A higher nose rocker prevents the board from catching the water, ensuring smooth acceleration and a more enjoyable ride. Beveled rails make takeoffs easier and offer more clearance through turns, while the raised front foot deck angle provides a playful and responsive feel. Whether you’re performing tight maneuvers or simply cruising, the Skybrid SLS adapts to your style.
Key Features of the Skybrid SLS Mid-Length Design
The Skybrid SLS comes with a host of features designed to elevate your wing foiling experience:
Mid-Length Design:
This mid-length board features a longer and narrower outline, narrower nose and tail, and premium SLS technology construction. It bridges the gap between Duotone’s downwind range and their Sky Wing board range, offering the best of both worlds. The board’s design ensures incredible efficiency and exceptional stability.
Highly Efficient Take-Off:
Thanks to its narrower and longer outline, the Skybrid SLS allows for earlier lift, even with smaller foils. This means you can get up and foiling faster, maximizing your time on the water.
Glide Efficiency:
The board performs with a glide efficiency close to Duotone’s downwind shapes but in a more compact design. This makes it easier to handle while still delivering top-notch performance.
Skybrid SLS Enhance Performance:
The Skybrid SLS enhances performance with its longer and narrower outline, wider nose and tail, premium SLS technology, and longer carbon foil tracks. The cut-outs in the tail and beveled rails contribute to a smoother and more responsive riding experience for intermediate to advanced riders.
Footstrap Options:
Whether you prefer riding strapless or with straps, the Skybrid SLS accommodates your style.
Foil Tracks:
The longer carbon foil tracks provide an increased range of adjustability and reduced weight, delivering exceptional performance for intermediate to advanced wing foilers.
Versatility and Performance of the Skybrid Wing Foil Board
The Skybrid SLS is a versatile wing foil board available in five sizes, ensuring that there’s a perfect fit for every rider, regardless of skill level or body weight. Here’s a breakdown of the available sizes and their specifications:
5'4" | 55L | Suitable for users < 65 KG
5'6" | 70L | Suitable for users < 80 KG
5'8" | 85L | Suitable for users < 95 KG
5'10" | 100L | Suitable for users < 110 KG
6'0" | 115L | Suitable for users < 125 KG
Each size offers unique benefits, catering to different rider weights and preferences. The ability to choose between riding with or without footstraps adds to the board’s versatility, making it suitable for various riding styles and conditions.
Elevate Your Session with the Duotone Skybrid SLS
The Skybrid SLS is more than just a new mid length board; it’s a game-changer in the world of wing foiling. By combining features from downwind and compact designs, Duotone has created a board that excels in performance and efficiency. Whether you’re an intermediate rider looking to progress or an advanced foiler seeking the ultimate ride, the Skybrid SLS has something to offer.
Experience the smooth acceleration, responsive feel, and unmatched efficiency of the Skybrid SLS. With its premium SLS construction, innovative design elements, and versatile performance, this board is ready to elevate your wing foiling sessions to new heights.
In conclusion, the Skybrid SLS from Duotone represents the pinnacle of innovation in wing foiling. Its unique design and advanced features make it a must-have for any serious wing foiler. Whether you’re tackling waves, performing freestyle tricks, or simply enjoying a freeride session, the Skybrid SLS delivers an exceptional experience on the water. Embrace the future of wing foiling with the Skybrid SLS – where performance truly meets efficiency.
Key Features Recap:
Mid-Length Design: Bridges the gap between downwinder and compact wing foil boards.
Highly Efficient Take-Off: Allows for earlier lift, even with smaller foils.
Glide Efficiency: Performs close to downwinder shapes but in a more compact design.
Footstrap Options: Offers a unique riding sensation with or without straps.
Sizes and Specifications:
5'4" | 55L | Suitable for users < 65 KG
5'6" | 70L | Suitable for users < 80 KG
5'8" | 85L | Suitable for users < 95 KG
5'10" | 100L | Suitable for users < 110 KG
6'0" | 115L | Suitable for users < 125 KG
With its premium construction and innovative design, the Skybrid SLS is ready to take your wing foiling experience to the next level. Don't miss out on the opportunity to ride the ultimate free-ride hybrid that bridges the gap between downwinder and classic wing foil shapes. Embrace the future of wing foiling with the Skybrid SLS from Duotone.
Tue, 16 Jul 2024 16:46:26 +0000
KT Ginxu Pro 2 Surf/Freestyle Wing Foil Board Review | The Perfect One-Board Quiver?
The KT Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon foilboard is up this week on Wing Wednesday, and Tucker's been riding and loving the 62L 5'3" x 22.25" for a while now. He thinks it's a huge improvement over the launch model last year, which he felt was a little hit or miss. It's an entirely new animal for 2024, so be sure to take another look if you passed on the 2023.
Tucker is a big fan of legendary shaper Keith Teboul's boards. His designs are innovative and use top quality materials. So what's special about the Ginxu?
Ginxu 2: Bottom Features
The Step Bottom was introduced with last year's Ginxu. This year it has been mellowed out a bit so that the overall volume is more balanced. Once you get up to speed, the step bottom allows the board to release so smoothly that you're often up on foil before you even realize you've lifted off. It makes liftoff clean, smooth, and easy.
The weight has been reduced on the board, and it's a lot thinner, giving it a much tighter contact with the foil. This gives you a more intuitive response and a better sense for where your wingtips are and how far you can push that.
It's got a surfy outline, fairly narrow and a bit longer compared to most 62L boards. This gives you a surfier performance and better ease-of-use, and if you're leveling up from a larger board, you'll find it's easier to ride than other 62L boards. It feels like a smaller board while still packing in adequate volume for lighter winds. It's a really fun shape.
There is a fairly low entry rocker. It's just enough so that the board recovers well and rebounds well coming off jumps, but it's not so scooped that you'll push a lot of water. It's quite efficient. There is a bit of a displacement front that becomes a double concave through the belly. This drops off at the step bottom, where the board is flat all the way to the tail. That gives you not only a nice mounting spot for your foil, but also a clean, efficient release off the tail to help you build speed and come off the water easily.
The chines are mellow with a lower angle so that there is more lift from the edge of the board, but it doesn't get in the way when you're ripping a turn. If you tend to touch down a bit, it's at an angle that'll skip off the water nicely without putting on the brakes.
The middle of the board is quite narrow. If you're doing foam hits in the waves and recovering after touching down, that makes it so smooth and easy to keep your speed. Your foiling is so much more fun and high-performance when you're not worried about touching down a little. It frees you to push your limits, knowing you can recover without falling.
The bottom shape is very fun for surfy freeride with a little freestyle mixed in, as well as day-to-day cruising and racing around.
Ginxu 2: Deck Features
While the board doesn't include straps or foothooks, there are inserts for them, and the board does work well with them. You can have a V strap setup up front, with a single strap or foothook at the back. Being able to center your foot is important if you're riding both directions, but if you're riding hard in the surf or making hard turns, you can still offset your foot a bit by using a looser strap or a foothook, and that way you'll still have the option to hook in and send a jump.
The Ginxu 2 has a new deck pad with a fine corduroy texture. It's dense enough that it won't bottom out and is very responsive. You'll feel all the micro movements of the board, which makes it that much easier to control and know what's going on under the water with your foil.
It looks almost flat, but when you look closely you'll see fine corduroy lines running lengthwise. Despite how fine these lines are, it's still plenty grippy underfoot. It's also got indicator dots and lines to help you know where you are both visually and by feel.
Toward the front of the pad is a notch on each side, and those help a lot with your knee placement. They seem quite far forward, but remember that most of the board's volume is in the front half, so you'll be knee starting a bit further forward than you might on other boards. Still, it's more balanced than the shorter Ginxu V1 was, so you won't have issues with finding the sweet spot or pearling like you may have with that board. This board is very easy to learn how to knee start or to use to progress to a smaller volume.
The chop tail falls off nicely and help release from the water. If you need to climb back up from the rear of the board, the slope makes that easier than a blocky tail. The vent plug is also at the back. It's metal and needs to be opened and closed manually. When you get your new board, you can find the vent screw under a sticker in the foil track so it's not rattling around loose in the box. Remember to find and install it before you go ride.
Tucker's Review
Tucker's had a chance to ride the Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon for a while now, and he's been loving it. He'll ride the Ginxu Dragonfly Surf Carbon as a light wind wing board, and when the wind picks up, the Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon is the perfect board to transition to. If you don't ride in light winds, this can be a one-board quiver. You can ride it a bit smaller due to its efficiency and extra length. It's definitely more efficient than most 60L boards on the market.
Although the construction is lighter, the board is still quite bombproof. Tucker has come to expect this durability from KT, and so far he hasn't had any dings to repair despite landing hard on it and throwing it in his truck. It's a full carbon sandwich, which is the perfect balance of weight and durability.
It's a great high-performance board, especially if you're looking for a one-board quiver, though you can pair it with a downwind board to add light wind riding. Tucker has been having a lot of fun with it and really can't say enough good about it.
Tucker's Nitpicks
Still, he does like to find some quibble about any product he tests. Sometimes that's not too hard, but on this board it's going to be very nitpicky. Personally, he would have gone with a bit narrower belly and narrowed out the nose a little as well to make it just a tiny bit more surfy. Doing this would remove a lot of its performance freestyle where you need to be able to land hard, rebound, and lift back off, though.
Summary
As it is, the Ginxu 2 Pro Carbon really is the perfect blend of surf and freestyle, and KT has done a great job of walking that fine line without pigeonholing the board into a single discipline. It's an ideal all-around board for those looking for that one-board quiver. Be sure to give the shop a shout if you need help picking out your quiver.
Event Highlights | GKA Big Air Kite World Championships Gran Canaria 2024
The 2024 Qatar Airways GKA Big Air Kite World Championships, Gran Canaria, was met with 35-plus knots of wind, ready to help boost the women and men who were competing to impressive heights. Jamie Overbeek and Pippa van Iersel had just won the title in France... would they be able to find their way to the top again? They'd been training hard, but so had the other competitors.
Jeremy Burlando, a local, set the tone with an impressive altitude of 15.3 meters. But it wasn't just about the big air and hangtime. Judges were also looking for aggression in tricks at full height, and Lorenzo Casati was ahead at the end of the day with a heat score of 23.10, thanks to his explosive technical airs.
For the women, the stakes were high. The winner would go straight to the semifinals. Francesca Maini made an impressive showing by going completely horizontal in a 12.9 meter air. Pippa van Iersel and Zara Hoogenraad joined the showdown, but only one would secure the semifinals spot. Zara Hoogenraad stuck a 12.3m double kiteloop, earning her an 8.53 score with a near-perfect combined heat score of 19.93.
The women's race became a 2-rider race for the title between Zara Hoogenraad and Francesca Maini. Lana Herman and Alice Ruggiu were also in the running with the lead changing after every massive jump, and Maini had the lead late in the finals. With only one jump left, Hoogenraad pulled off an outrageous 9.53 point Kiteloop Forward Roll and Double Boogie Loop for the first time ever in a women's big air competition. This launched her into first by just over a point, securing her win in the event and title as the Qatar Airways GKA Big Air Twintip Kite Women's World Champion 2024.
She credits an emotional week for giving her the motivation to fight for the win. Her grandmother had just passed away, and she had to miss the funeral to attend the event. Her family insisted that she compete rather than give up her chance to become world champion. She was also riding for her close friend Natalie, who was injured and couldn't compete. It was also her best friend's birthday, and the win made the day even more special.
The men's title was up for grabs, with brothers Lorenzo and Leonardo Casati, Stino Mul, and Jeremy Burlando all vying for the top spot. The judges were looking for extremity, and all four delivered. Lorenzo and Stino pulled off giant Kiteloop Backrolls with Board-offs, but Jeremy Burlando hit his stride in the final jump. Just one point out of the lead, he nailed a 19.2m jump with a Contra-loop Frontroll and finished with a Tick-tock to become the Qatar Airways GKA Big Air Twintip Kite Men's World Champion 2024.
Jeremy Burlando was able to do this by being in the present, he said. He was not looking at the future or the past, but living fully in the moment, staying chill, and giving it his best.
There is plenty of progression yet to achieve in big air, and this generation of riders has set the bar high for 2025.
2024 Qatar Airways GKA Big Air Kite World Championships Gran Canaria event results
Women
1 Zara Hoogenraad (NED)
2 Francesca Maini (GBR)
3 Lana Herman (SLO)
4 Alice Ruggiu (ITA)
Men
1 Jeremy Burlando (ESP)
2 Lorenzo Casati (ESP)
3 Stino Mul (NED)
4 Leonardo Casati (ITA)
Foil Drive | Backstage Pass to the Making of "Blue Highway"
This blog recounts the incredible journey that Paul Cooper and Josh Ku, two Foil Drive sponsored athletes, recently embarked on. They spent a week in Paul’s hometown of Hawaii, capturing footage for an extraordinary Foil Drive project. Their adventure culminated in an unprecedented crossing from Molokai to Oahu on their prone foil boards, setting a new benchmark in the world of Foil Drive adventures.
Arrival and Unpredictable Conditions
A Challenging Start
Upon Josh's arrival in Hawaii, he and Paul were greeted by uncharacteristically rough weather. Weeks of erratic winds and storms had plagued the area. Fortunately, the weather took a turn for the better the day after Josh landed, setting the stage for their epic journey. Their initial day on the South Shore presented waves larger than Josh had ever seen there, reaching six feet.
A Surfer's Paradise
Their first adventure was at a spot on Waikiki's main part, now becoming known as a Foil Drive haven. The swell was immense and unpredictable, making it difficult for prone surfers but ideal for their Foil Drives. They took full advantage of this, zigzagging across the massive waves, much like backcountry snowboarders navigating powder. The challenging conditions kept most surfers away, giving them the freedom to explore the waves undisturbed.
Preparation and Execution
Making the Most of the Conditions
The unusual swell conditions provided an excellent warm-up for their crossing. Every day leading up to the adventure saw the waves grow larger and cleaner. By the time they were ready for the crossing, the weather had aligned perfectly with their plans.
Gathering the Team
They assembled an exceptional team for this journey. The crew included seasoned watermen like Jacko and Kahi, experienced boat captain Dean, and talented filmmakers Matt Leong and Slater from Maui. This powerhouse team ensured they were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The Big Day
The day of the crossing dawned with optimal conditions. The trade winds had returned, providing the ideal environment for the adventure. Despite Josh's limited downwind experience, he felt confident thanks to the team's support and expertise.
The Crossing: Molokai to Oahu
An Unforgettable Experience
Crossing the channel from Molokai to Oahu was a monumental feat. The journey, covering roughly 30 miles, is renowned for its challenging conditions. The channel's varying characteristics—from the relatively calm start to the tumultuous middle and the deceptively tranquil end kept them on their toes.
Team Dynamics and Challenges
Throughout the crossing, team dynamics played a crucial role. They leaned on each other's experiences, shared insights, and maintained a positive spirit. Even though it was considered a "two out of ten" difficulty day by local experts, it was a ten out of ten experience for the team. The immense swells and changing conditions pushed them to their limits.
Personal Triumphs
One of Josh's personal goals was to complete the crossing on a Slim Performance battery without switching out. He managed to achieve this, riding the entire distance without coming down once. This accomplishment was a testament to the Foil Drive's capabilities and the training and preparation put into this project.
Paul's Journey
Paul, with his limited downwind experience, also showcased remarkable resilience. Despite not being a seasoned downwind foiler, he navigated the crossing with confidence. His ability to read the bumps and maintain his stamina throughout the journey was impressive.
Reflections and Learnings
Overcoming Physical Challenges
The physical demands of the crossing were immense. The relentless sun, the energy required to navigate the swells, and the mental focus needed to stay upright were all significant challenges. Josh's strategy included using hydration packs with electrolytes and carrying energy gels, which proved invaluable during the crossing.
Mental Resilience
The mental aspect of the crossing was equally challenging. The fear of not being able to get back up after falling can be a significant source of anxiety. However, the Foil Drive's reliable performance in assisting with pop-ups provided a sense of security that allowed them to focus more on the experience and less on potential mishaps.
Moments of Serenity
Amidst the intensity, there were moments of pure serenity. The beauty of the ocean, the thrill of riding the swells, and the camaraderie of the team created an unforgettable experience. These moments underscored why they undertake such adventures—to push their limits, to connect with nature, and to share these incredible experiences with others.
Looking Forward
Upcoming Film Release
They are excited to share that their journey will be featured in a film to be released around the time of the Molokai 2 Oahu (M2O) races in July. Directed by Matt Leong, the film promises to showcase some of the best foiling footage ever captured. They can't wait to share their experience with the world.
Future Adventures
This crossing has only whetted their appetite for more adventures. The Foil Drive's capabilities have opened up new possibilities for exploring uncharted waters and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of foiling.
Conclusion
The crossing from Molokai to Oahu was a groundbreaking adventure that demonstrated the incredible potential of Foil Drive technology. It was a journey marked by physical challenges, mental resilience, and moments of pure exhilaration. The team looks forward to sharing their experience through the upcoming film and embarking on more epic adventures in the future.
Thank you for joining them on this journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and until next time, keep foiling and pushing your limits!
Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:49:46 +0000
Big Air Kiteboarding Basics, Episode 2: How To Get More Inverted Front Rolls
Are you looking to add more style and more inversion to your front rolls? David is back with another guide on how to progress your kiteboarding skills, and here he presents two different ways for you to have a more stylish front roll to show off. Plus, it's just more fun this way!
First, you'll need to already be able to do a front roll smoothly and consistently. Once you're ready to take it to the next step, try these methods:
The Cartwheel Method
1. Come in with speed and then pop up.
2. As you're in the air and starting your rotation, look forward and down over your front foot.
3. Envision doing a cartwheel as you lean over your front shoulder and duck your head down.
4. Get your feet up to your lines and get around.
The Backflip Method
1. When you pop, you'll rotate back towards the area you came from.
2. Lean your head back and look for the water. You'll do this when you're about 90 degrees into your 360-degree rotation.
3. Reach your legs up to get that full inversion. You can also extend just one leg and add in a tail grab with your back hand.
4. Redirect the kite with your front hand and spot your landing.
Next time you're out on the water, give these a try!
Big Air Kiteboarding Basics, Episode 3: Full Scorpion to Front Roll Waterstart
Crashing is an inevitable part of big air, but the good news is that there's a way to get back up in style after you find yourself floating on your belly in that scorpion position. Sure, you can simply send the kite up, sheet in, and pop up and out of the water, but why do that when you can add some flair and turn it into a trick? David has a tip on how to do exactly that.
Add a Front Roll Rotation to Your Waterstart
1. You're in the water, on your belly, with your board attached to your feet and floating behind you in the scorpion position. Your kite is at 12.
2. Make sure you're ready. The board is on tight and everything feels centered and balanced.
3. When there's enough wind that you'll be pretty powered, bring the kite down so that the lines have tension and it starts to pull you along the water.
4. Send the kite back up. Sending it a bit past 12 will help with the rotation. As you send it, sheet in and tuck your front knee to initiate the rotation.
5. Normally you'd look over your back shoulder for a front roll, but since you're laid out in the water and your lines are in your face, it's much easier to look under your arm. So go ahead and do that, tucking your head under.
6. You'll feel your board catch the water a bit behind you, and that's what's going to give you the line tension you need to pop out of the water.
7. Spot your landing as you come around, making sure you start redirecting the kite as you do this. It should be fairly easy since you'll usually end up with some extra front hand pressure from using your upper body to initiate the rotation. Just be mindful of your bar pressure and how much steering you're doing so you don't dive the kite back down.
It's really just like a regular front roll. The kite movement is the same. You tuck your front knee to initiate the rotation. You will look under your arm instead of over your shoulder, but then you'll spot your landing and ride away with speed like you always would. It's a great way to make recovering from a crash fun and stylish, and you might even make it look almost intentional.
Foil Drive Prop Comparison | 2-Blade vs. 3-Blade | Which is Better?
Foil Drive systems come standard with a 2-blade propeller, and it works great. However, they also offer a 3-blade prop as an upgrade. How is its performance different from the stock propeller, and which one is right for you? Ryan got a chance to get out in the water to test both back-to-back and was able to make some interesting observations.
What Are Some Differences?
Ryan was out in small, challenging conditions where the assist from the Foil Drive was pretty much a must. He was surprised to notice that the 2-blade prop seemed louder both in and out of the water. His guess is that there was more turbulence with only two blades to break the surface tension of the water against the blades.
The 3-blade prop did seem to have a bit more thrust with that extra blade, and that made it easier to get up and going, especially in the flat water sections. It wasn't a huge difference and the 2-blade also worked fine, but it was noticeable.
The 3rd blade also made it easier to transition the motor in and out of the water with the prop running. It was smoother because, with the three blades, at least one was always in the water providing thrust, where there were brief moments where both blades were out of the water with the 2-blade prop, which can create a slight pulsing effect during the transition.
The blades on both propellers do fold back to reduce drag when the motor isn't running. Still, the 2-blade prop is going to have slightly less drag than the 3-prop. It's not really noticeable though, and if you usually have the motor out of the water when you're not using the assist, this won't be a factor at all.
Which Prop Should You Choose?
It depends. The included 2-blade propeller is certainly adequate, and since it's an assist, it won't matter much of the time you're riding. However, the 3-blade does give you a bit more thrust and can help in those flat water starts and in catching the waves. It'll give you just a bit of extra performance out of your Foil Drive. And if you tend to run the motor while transitioning the Foil Drive in and out of the water, the 3-blade prop does make that process feel a bit smoother.
There are some legitimate reasons to go ahead and upgrade, but you'll need to decide if they'll make enough of a difference for you. If you're still undecided, definitely give us a ring and we'll be happy to discuss it with you.
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