Kitesoul Magazine #27 Iternational Edition

EVENTS
OLYMPIC GAMES
TRIPS
CILE | PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
INTERVIEWS
RALPH BOELEN | ANDRE MAGARAO
TUTORIAL
GRAB
PRODUCT FOCUS
RRD: EMOTION E SQUID
CORE: SECTION 2 |NAISH: STOMP AND SLASH

O N E H I S T O R Y
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High Performance Freeride+
Freestyle
Wave

Editor
David Ingiosi
david.ingiosi@kitesoul.com
Wave Thecnique Editor
Mitu Monteiro
Freestyle Thecnique Editor
Alberto Rondina
Thecnical Expert
Renato Casati
Photo & Video
Maurizio Cinti
Design
Giuseppe Esposito
Translations italian-english
Daniela Meloni
DECEMBER 2019 - JENUARY 2019
TWO-MONTHLY
Texts
David Ingiosi, Kari Schibenvaag,
Gabi Steindl, Andre Magarao, Lucas
Arsenault, Tom Bridge, Christian Brill,
Tim Kummerfeld, Theo Demanez, Reo
Stevens, Alby Rondina, Naish, Cabrinha,
Core, RRD, F-One.
Photos
David Ingiosi, Pablo Jimenez, Gabi
Steindl, Andre Magarao, Daniele Milazzo,
Thomas Burblies, Bromwich, Robervania
Bösch, A Ydwer van der Heide,
Reo Stevens, Axel Reese, Svetlana
Romantsova, Reemedia, RRD, F-One,
Cabrinha, Naish, Core.
Cover:
Photo: RRD Courtesy
Publisher and advertising
VISU Media
Via Cavour, 20
24030 Ambivere (BG)
Amministratore Unico
Federico Sugoni
fs@kitesoul.com
Registration Tribunale
di Bergamo n°10/2014
del 15/04/2014.
Periodicità bimestrale
Copyright Kitesoul Magazine
All content is copyright of Kitesoul
Magazine / Visu Media Srl.
FEDERICO SUGONI
Publisher
He’s a manager and a businessman.
He fell in love with kiteboarding
almost 10 years ago in
the wild and amazing North
Shore of Oahu (Hawaii). Aside
from kiteboarding there is
only one other important
thing in his life: his baby
daughter.
He’s responsible for the 2014
launching of KiteSoul Magazine.
DAVID INGIOSI
Editor in Chief
Professional journalist and
video maker with a solid
experience in sailing, sea
adventures, travels and water
sports, he has been reported
the “blue world” from the
inside for more than 15 years.
He fell in love with kitesurf
several years ago in Sardinia,
then travelled all over the
world as Iko instructor.
MAURIZIO CINTI
Film-maker
Movie buff and keen photographer.
He’s a skater, snowboarder
and wakeboarder,
but he actually burns with
passion for kiteboarding. He
started off with freestyle a
few years ago, but nowadays
he’s more into chasing big
and powerful waves. This is
what he loves the most.
GIUSEPPE ESPOSITO
Art director
Kiter since he was in the baby
pram, he is a rider for RRD
Italia and he have a Bachelor
in Comunciation Design at
Politecnico di Milano.
With this assignment, he
finally has been able to put
together his two passions:
kite and design.

KITESOUL MAGAZINE
Feel The Flow
MITU MONTEIRO
Technical Editor-Wave Riding
He comes from Sal. Official
F-one and Manera rider.
2008 KPWT World Champion
and three-time Vice World
Champion. He started to surf
and windsurf as a kid and but
he definitively fell in love with
kitesurf as soon as he discovered
it.
ALBERTO RONDINA
Technical Editor-Freestyle
He’s the best Italian rider of
the competitive kiting world.
Cabrinha, Neil Pryde and
GoPro official team rider
and four-time Italian Champion.
Alberto has won the
2001 edition of the European
Championship and third
place in the 2012 PKRA World
Championship.
RENATO “DR. KITE” CASATI
Technical Expert
RRD Wave team rider. Kiteboarder
since 2000, he has
been PKRA athlete and judge.
He’s a professional sportswriter
for several technical
magazines. He lives between
Como Lake and Sardinia, but
he spends every winter in the
waves of Cabo-Verde.
DANIELA MELONI
Professional translator
Daniela mainly lived abroad
where she graduated
in Law and worked. She
discovered her passion for
water actvities back in 2007
when she moved back to the
Sardinian west coast and met
her husband, the kitesurfer
Enrico Giordano. Professional
translator since 2009. She is
a SUP lover and an amateur
photographer and never
misses to photo or video
shoot a Kite or Sup wave
session!

David Ingiosi
The pink side
of sessions
Until recent it was quite unusual to see a girl on the beach, ready to get on the water
and have fun with the kite. Today though, thanks to the development of materials that
guarantee higher safety and basically unlimited access, women are a regular presence
in all spots worldwide, they take part in competitions, kitecamps, work as school instructors
and raise the technical level in every discipline, from Freestyle to Big Air, from
Racing to Wakeboarding.
Initially, kitesurfing was not only purely a male sport, but also restricted to a limited
category of brave men, fairly crazy and with solid foundations of past water activities,
surfing and windsurfing just to mention two. The potentials of this discipline, the thrill
of being pulled by a kite, the glide speed and the excitement of flying in mid-air were
already there, but the equipment in general needed improving in terms of performance,
power control and especially emergency systems. It was still a sport where getting a
wrong manoeuvre or just a simple distraction could be very costly. It took nerves of
steel, be a darer and have toned muscles. Therefore, it’s normal that up till then women
just waited and watched.
Grace, technique and solidarity the secret weapons of
female riders
Now that kites' performances are perfect, the quality of the materials unquestionable
and safety measures widely proven, kitesurfing has almost completely lost that early
aura of extreme sport. On any dedicated beach you’ll go, you'll see all sorts of people
having fun, giving it away on the water: tall people, short, thin, fat, young, adults and
them, women, who year after year, have slowly increased in number and still do.
Of course, girls have their own approach to this discipline, very different from males,
but these differences, bodily, head and heart are where their strength lies. Women
have a unique complicity and ability to support each other. Where they lack in physical
strength, they make it up with grace, agility and technical skills. Of course, a wipe out or
a crash on the water it’s just the same for them, that's why they need to work out, tone
muscles up and pull out all the grit needed in water sports.

Kajiya and Consorti, wonderful trailblazers
In recent years, girls’ technical level evolved considerably in disciplines that represent
the maximum technical expression, such as Freestyle. One of the first female athletes
to lead the way to the top tricks was Bruna Kajiya: when she landed the Double Handle
Pass, the first girl to do it, then the entire female community followed her example. Not
to mention Charlotte Consorti a constant presence and one of the best top riders in
the Speed discipline, perhaps still today one of the last outposts ruled by male testosterone.
She holds the current women's world speed record of 50.43 knots registered in
Lüderitz, Namibia, in 2010. In fact, now that male riders have reached a very high level
on the water and the technical curve takes only small steps up, women's competitions
are most lively and spectacular because anything can still happen and landing a new
maneuver can mean winning or losing a competition.
Equipment, clothing and magazines all girl oriented
But the number of kitesurfing female athletes and professionals is not the only thing
that has exploded. We are talking about enthusiasts in general, girls that take up courses,
hang out in the spots, bug their kiter fiancé to be taken on the water, have holidays
together and go to kitecamps. Brands did get the message of Girl Power and are now
much more into conceiving dedicated gear, not only in terms of colours and graphics,
but also design, performances, ergonomics and style.
The female universe has fully entered into kitesurfing and that is just right, natural and
extraordinary just as extraordinary as the pink side of life. The problem about women is
that they are so many, much more than men, and who knows, maybe one day the Girl
Power will rule the beach. Then, us boys will be left with the only option of courting
them, perhaps by keeping a bouquet of flowers in our kitebag.

SUMMARY
PORTFOLIO
YOG
OLYMPIC GAMES
18 28 32
Adeury Corniel and Sofia
Tomasoni win historic
gold medals at 2018
Formula Kite: foils are
heading to Paris 2024
Olympic Games
DOWNWIND
KITETRIPS
FILM
52
FOILBOA: MAKE TIME FOR
ADVENTURE
56
Chile Buena Onda, Good
Vibes in Chile
80
Exploring Prince Edward
Island
ITW
TUTORIAL
TECNIQUE
112
Portfolio Steven Akkersdijk: "Kitesurfers
believe I'm only
on the twintip"
120
How to wipe out and no
die in kitesurf
126
Let’s focus on style: The
Grab

BIG AIR RECORD WORLD CUP
36 42 46
Red Bull King of the Air
2019 Entries
Nuno "Stru" Figueiredo
sets new Guinness world
record for the largest
kitesurfing wave
St. Peter Ording - Endless
Playgrounds
ITW
PHOTOGRAPHER
RIDER
86
Ralph Boelen:
"kitesurfing is still a
young discipline"
94
Portfolio Andre Magarao: I try to
capture the uniqueness
of kiteboarding
106
Portfolio Daniele Milazzo
TUTORIAL
PRODUCT FOCUS
138
The Tack
142
RRD: Emotion, Squid
| NAISH: Slasch | CORE:
Section 2 | F-ONE: Bandit

18
PORTFOLIO
Mallory de la Villemarqué
RIDER: Mallory de la Villemarqué
PHOTO: Toby Bromwich

20 PORTFOLIO
ABEL LAGO
RIDER: ABEL LAGO
PHOTO: ROMANTSOVA PHOTO

22
PORTFOLIO
Jesse Richman
RIDER: Jesse Richman
PHOTO: Frankie Bees

24 PORTFOLIO
STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
RIDER: STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
PHOTO: THOMAS BURBLIES

28
YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES
Adeury Corniel and Sofia Tomasoni win historic gold medals at 2018
YOUTH
OLYMPIC
GAMES
ADEURY CORNIEL
AND SOFIA TOMASONI
WIN HISTORIC GOLD
MEDALS AT 2018
Photo: World Sailing
Adeury Corniel and Sofia Tomasoni became the first ever kiteboarders to win gold medals at the 2018
Youth Olympic Games, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Kiteboarding made a successful Olympic debut with a slalom/boardercross style competition on twintip
racing equipment. The winner-takes-all finals got underway at Club Náutico San Isidro and offered

no shortage of drama in both men's and women's divisions.
In the women's fleet, Alina Kornelli was clearly the favorite rider. She had won five out of six races. But
after falling in the final, she never recovered.
Poema Newland crossed the line first, but a post-race two-point penalty made sure she could only settle
with silver. Tomasoni was obviously ecstatic. "It's a dream come true. The final race was very hard. I
rounded the first mark, and I had too much wind and couldn't jump the obstacle and was third," explains
Sofia Tomasoni. "Then, at the very last tack, I came in second, and I was very frustrated. But then, another
girl had a penalty, so I got the first place."

30
YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES
Adeury Corniel and Sofia Tomasoni win historic gold medals at 2018
In the men's fleet, Corniel dominated the races; Christian Tio and Toni Vodisek tied in second place.
"I feel really happy. The conditions today were very good. In the beginning, I thought there was no wind,
but in the end, everything changed, and we had 50 knots. It was good to have a fair race," notes Corniel.
"I would like to thank the Cabarete Kite Academy for supporting me and helping to prepare me to be
here. I really hope to see more kids around and for more Dominicans to get this energy and make their
dreams come true."
In the end, Dominican Republic and the Philippines made history by winning their first ever medals in
an Olympic sailing event.

32
OLYMPIC GAMES
Formula Kite: foils are heading to Paris 2024 Olympic Games
FORMULA KITE: FOILS ARE HEADING TO PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES
The Annual General Meeting (AGM)
of World Sailing has confirmed the
official line-up of events for the Paris
2024 Olympic Games. The sport of
kiteboarding will make its debut in
the Olympic movement in France with
a foil board, and a ram air kite.
The wind range for the Olympic kite
competition is of between 5 and 40
knots.
All Olympic kite equipments must be
available worldwide without restrictions.
World Sailing, in cooperation
with the International Kiteboarding
Association (IKA), will manage and
control the builders' licenses.
The chosen equipment will be "locked"
per Olympic cycle to ensure confidence
and reliability in gear investment
and a controlled evolution from
one event to the next.
This means that the official equipment
should adopt the current Formula
Kite class, which allows different

The equipment rules for kiteboarding's first
appearance in the Olympic Games are as
follows:
BBOARD CONCEPT: FOILING;
WEIGHT RANGE (MEN): 65-85 KGS;
WEIGHT RANGE (WOMEN): 50-70 KGS;
KITE SIZE (MEN & WOMEN): 7-21 M2;
KITE SYSTEM: RAM AIR;
NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED KITES PER EVENT: FOUR HIGH PERFOR-
MANCE, HIGH-ASPECT RATIO KITES;
NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED HYDROFOIL SYSTEMS PER EVENT: ONE HIGH
PERFORMANCE, HIGH-ASPECT RATIO HYDROFOIL SYSTEM;

34
OLYMPIC GAMES
Formula Kite: foils are heading to Paris 2024 Olympic Games

models from different manufacturers
to compete against each other on an
Olympic level playing field.
In terms of competitive format, we
should expect a short track relay on
a short windward/leeward course,
with team members (men and women)
sailing laps and taking turns on a
changeover zone.
Competition may consist of an opening
series of heats and a knockout
stage or another form of final (i.e., the
best of x races wins).
go down the single manufacturer or
one-design road," explains Markus
Schwendtner, executive secretary of
IKA.
"In the Youth Olympic Games, we had
registered series production equipment
for the first time, and it was a
great success. I am thrilled that we
have also achieved this as the equipment
criteria for Paris 2024. Formula
Kite will ensure that we retain the spirit
and identity of kiteboarding."
"Through the years, it was always our
goal to keep the whole community
and industry involved and not to

36
BIG AIR
Red Bull King of the Air 2019 Entries

RED BULL KING OF THE AIR
ENTRIES

38
BIG AIR
Red Bull King of the Air 2019 Entries
With 2018 fast drawing to a close and
Red Bull King of the Air 2019’s window
period on the horizon, there are just a
couple of weeks left for kiters to submit
their entries to stand a chance to
join the world’s best at the event.
Red Bull King of the Air takes place on
the windiest day with the best conditions
for big air kiteboarding between
the 26th of January and 10th of February
2019. The event will see 18 of the
world’s best kiteboarders go as high
and as big as they can in the powerful
Cape Doctor to see who will take the
title.
Get Your Red Bull King of the Air 2019
entries in Before 30th November
If you haven’t already, it’s time to rally
the filters and video editors and get
your biggest airs from the past season
into a tight clip. With the windy season
in Cape Town fast approaching,
the deadline for the video entry process
for the most prestigious big air
kiteboarding contest in the world, Red
Bull King of the Air 2019, draws nearer.
Red Bull King of the Air 2019 will return
to Kite Beach in Cape Town where it
was staged very successfully in 2018
and will have a window period of two
weeks in late January and early February
2019 with the competition being
run on the windiest day.
Entries are open to riders from anywhere
in the world, but there are only
a few spots available. The 2019 riders’
list will be made up of the top 9 from
the 2018 event with the remaining
spots decided through the video entry
process.
Dutchman Kevin Langeree out-classed
young Spanish gun Liam Whaley and
Lewis Crathern to win his second Red

40
BIG AIR
Red Bull King of the Air 2019 Entries

Bull King of the Air title. The 2009
World Freestyle Champ last stood on
the top step in Cape Town in 2014, and
it was a fitting return after a serious
injury had kept him out of the 2017
event.
Kevin Langeree wins Red Bull King
Of The Air, Kite Beach, Cape Town on
January 31st, 2018. “The move to Kite
Beach was the best thing ever” Langeree
said, “It gave us as riders the
opportunity to show our moves, and
it was a day I won’t easily forget,” he
said.
Riders vying for video contest slots
need to convince the judges that they
have what it takes to compete with the
likes of Langeree and co. The world’s
best big air kiters. They need to do this
by submitting a video of only their biggest
and highest moves.
According to Sportive Director, Sergio
Cantagalli, the judging panel is looking
for big, completed, aerials; and
video clips through which the judges
can see the potential of the rider. “This
event is unique in that it is in continuous
evolution with the input of the riders
and the judges it is always our aim
at improving it. It is like a World Tour
in one event,” he added.
Langeree, Whaley and Crathern are
confirmed for the 2019 event along
with being past champions Jesse
Richman and Aaron Hadlow. Steven
Akkersdijk, Lasse Walker, Sam Light
and Gijs Wassenaar round up the top
9 that receive automatic entry in the
event.
Kiteboarders who think they have
what it takes to compete in with the
world’s best aerialists in an extreme
air contest are invited, please click
here to submit a one-minute video of
their biggest airs.

42
RECORD
Nuno "Stru" Figueiredo sets new Guinness world record for the largest kitesurfing wave
Nuno "Stru"
Figueiredo
SETS NEW GUINNESS WORLD
RECORD FOR THE LARGEST
KITESURFING WAVE

The Guinness World Records have confirmed it. Nuno "Stru"
Figueiredo has officially ridden the world's biggest kitesurfing
wave.

44
RECORD
Nuno "Stru" Figueiredo sets new Guinness world record for the largest kitesurfing wave
On November 8, 2017, the kitesurfer
from Porto, in Portugal, launched his
kite at Praia do Norte, in Nazaré, and
sailed into one of the most dangerous
beach breaks on the planet.
The wind was blowing from the north,
and the waves were slightly facing
south. After jumping off the crest of
a couple of waves to get acquainted
with the lineup, Figueiredo aimed for
record wave.
According to the Guinness World Records,
the wave measured 62 feet (19
meters).
"I guess I feared it when I was still
looking at the waves from the outside.
But when I got to the water, fear
went away. You have to focus because
your life is on the line," explains Nuno
"Stru."
"But you've got to be willing to do
it. And you need years of training. I
watched how Nazaré worked for a few
years because, in kitesurfing, we need
more than just big waves. You've got to
know exactly how the wind is blowing
and behaving."

46
WORLD CUP
St. Peter Ording - Endless Playgrounds
St.Peter Ording
E N D L E S S P L A Y G R O U N D S
TEXT: CHRISTIAN BRILL, TIM KUMMERFELD
22nd of September, in the morning my call to the St. Peter
Ording local Christian Brill. “Hey Christian, at noon is
high tide, the large parking lot from the main beach will be
flooded and we´ll get onshore wind with 25-40 knots. Are
you ready for a photoshoot?" “For sure and Tim Kummerfeld
will be at the start as well”, he replies only briefly and
an hour later we met in the parking lot in front of the main
beach. Already, an hour before the high tide, the big sandy
parking lot is completely under water and cars are not allowed
to pass through to the beach anymore.
Christian and Tim started their 7m kites and immediately
it is clear that they will be well powered. Christian Brill
otherwise goes kitesurfing at another beach in the south
of St. Peter Ording (“SPO”), has a lot of fun on the water. At
least that's how it works when he runs through his mega
kiteloops in these smooth water conditions on the sand
parking lot - where there are on normal days (without this
kind of high tide) hundreds of cars and motorhomes - and
all ends up with a downloop in a butter-soft way. Respect!
Tim Kummerfeld immediately hits the local hero and scores
similarly high kiteloops. The two conquer the air of St. Peter
Ording again and again and then take on other areas of
the existing only a few hours water area. Tim continues to

PHOTOS: AXEL REESE
search for natural obstacles, in the form of flat stilt houses/
pile builts, on which the remaining beach chairs remaining
for the autumn season placed and process them. Then the
rustic wooden football goals are the obstacle of his desire.
It is obvious to both that this session is special, because
the stormy wind, the whole flooded sand parking lot with
all possibilities and last but not least daring walkers, who
spellbound all mega-jumps, are the composition for these
hours. Endless Playgrounds in St. Peter Ording!

48
WORLD CUP
St. Peter Ording - Endless Playgrounds
Christian Brill:
"In our WhatsApp group “Kiten-SPO”, the 30 knots on Friday and Saturday
have been hotly debated for days. On Friday, Tim and I started at the main
beach of Ording, in a wind break with 30 knots of ground wind we are with a
little uneasy feeling on the water - in the distance you could already see the
next black wall/clouds.
The same happened: 15 minutes later, we found ourselves fighting over the
waves in gusts of over 50 knots, again. Our summary, as we slipped from
the water behind the kite: "We have still learned nothing." On Saturday, the
wind started more moderately. Gusts only up to 40 knots. This high tide at 12
o'clock means in the forecast in St. Peter: water up to the dunes and kiteloops!
Smooth water allows the perfect jump and plenty of space for swinging.
The whole summer we have not had such weather in St. Peter. Even in the fall,
there are only a few of those days. The water is only 50 cm deep, so everything
has to fit. Then catch a gust and pull the kite as low as possible.
Together with Tim, it was a day in St. Peter as in the old days when we practiced
for competitions. The flooded playground was the best setting for this
revival.”

50
WORLD CUP
St. Peter Ording - Endless Playgrounds
Tim Kummerfeld:
"Storm surge (strong high tide with a storm), autumnal temperatures and
gusts around 40 knots - after a hot summer of mostly 13m kites on the water,
St. Peter-Ording returns from its true rough side on the 22nd of September.
Although I come from Hamburg, St. Peter-Ording is a bit of a home for me. During
school, it was the weekends that I spent here with my parents and during
my studies, I lived the semester break exclusively on the bus to use every minute
on the water. It's been 10 years now. Much has changed since then, but our
kite community is still there. In times before Instagram, Facebook and GoPro,
we filmed our newly learned tricks with shaky mini-DV camcorders and put
the videos online on self-programmed websites.
It was an exciting time, and then Christian and I were in the eternal contest
of landing a new trick first. Strangely enough, not much has changed in this
regard. We're both out of contests, but when we're on the water together, we're
still pushing the limits of our aging bones. At almost 30 you are actually still
in the prime of life but falls and neck cuffs do a lot more hurt than at 18.
Storm high tide days arouse these memories. St. Peter-Ording only feels real
again when the waves break against the pile dwellings and the entire beach
becomes a huge playground. Football goals and the platforms of the beach
chairs invite you to be used as obstacles. In these moments, there's nothing
better than being on the water with your friends and forgetting the time. The
fall announces itself with a bang, and we mourn the summer not a bit behind.
Endless Playgrounds in St. Peter Ording!

52
DOWNWIND
FOILBOA: MAKE TIME FOR ADVENTURE

FOILBOA:
MAKE TIME FOR ADVENTURE
Hello downwinders! We are happy to
announce that the registrations for our
events are online starting off big time
with the circumnavigation by foil in December.
Covering 160KM+ around the
beautiful Island of BoaVista. We call it:
FOILBOA 26.12 - 02.01 2019
But don’t worry, half distance is also
available. After I did it myself last year
for the first time, this year you can join
me on this special foil adventure! Check
out the teaser on Facebook, Instagram
or Youtube. And if you are ready sign up
on our Website.
FOILBOA: Fly along BoaVista and see the
whole Island from a different perspective.
The second event is the Downwind between
Capoverde islands that will happen
again. We fine tuned the program to
perfection and offer you guys a lot this
year!
A no-profit project like no other! The kite
Downwind was created 4 years ago with
the idea and motivation to raise funds
for a kindergarten here on the island of
Boa Vista.

54
DOWNWIND
FOILBOA: MAKE TIME FOR ADVENTURE
For a participation fee of Euro 390€
the Downwinders get a terrific offer
for 2019! We personally look after each
participant in advance.
Travel planning, accommodation, airport
transfer and all downwind trips
on the island are planned and organized
with the best local kitesurfers.
See you soon and with sunny regards
from BoaVista!

WITHOUT
A DIAMOND
—THERE’S NO
HAPPILY EVER
AFTER
Alan Van Gysen Rider: Nick Jacobsen Contact: Pryde Group GmbH Bergstraße 7, 82024 Taufkirchen, Germany Tel: +49 89 6650490
WITHOUT YAMAMOTO LIMESTONE
NEOPRENE THERE’S NO HAPPILY
EVER AFTER EITHER
Yamamoto Limestone Neoprene is the diamond of wetsuit innovation and performance.
Made from limestone extracted from Mount Fuji in Japan, it is a non-petroleum based
material that is the industry standard for premium neoprene and superior watersport
performance.
No sad faces here though... because ALL our wetsuits use Yamamoto so you can
always experience the Happily Ever After with any of our wetsuits.
[1]
[2]
Premium Japanese limestone-based neoprene is 95%
water impermeable compared to 70% for standard
petroleum neoprene. It absorbs less water, dries faster
and provides more wind chill protection.
Yamamoto neoprene has a unique cell structure and has
a 23% higher closed cell ratio for added buoyancy and
flexibility [1]. The cells are evenly spaced and filled with
nitrogen gas that increases heat retention [2].

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Chile Buena Onda, Good Vibes in Chile
Text: Gabi Steindl | Photo: Pablo Jimenez, Gabi Steindl

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Chile Buena Onda,
Good Vibes in Chile
Tiburon! (Shark!), the people are calling from the rocks.
We’re only a few surfers in the line-up, it’s shortly before
sunset and my first surf in Chilean waters. Whilst processing
what I just heard, I spot a huge black fin break
the water’s surface just a few hundred meters away.
It takes me a moment to grasp, but then I scream “es
una orca!” (it’s an orca!). Adrenaline rushes through my
body. Excitement takes over fear. Mesmerized I sit on
my surfboard totally wrapped up in a 5/4, hoody, gloves
and booties. My legs are dangling in the 12 degrees chilly,
dark green water of the Pacific. With all my senses fully
in the moment, I’m feeling that buzz that only travelling
and experiencing something for the very first time in a
completely new place can give you. “Welcome to Chile,” I
whisper to myself and smile.
The next morning, fishermen clarify the situation: there
were in fact nine orcas in the bay that day, munching
away on a deceased baby whale…
With 4300km of wave-rich Pacific Ocean coastline, Chile
has been on my bucket-list for a fair while. Having spent
three years in total in Brazil and Venezuela whilst competing
on the PKRA World Tour and being totally infatuated
with South America, I’ve been yearning to return
since I quit competing and moved to Australia ten years
ago.
After roughly 36hrs total travel time, way too many
dodgy airplane meals and being in quite a zombie state,
the captain of the Boeing 747-400 finally announces
the descent into Santiago, the capital of Chile. With my
nose against the Plexiglas window of my economy seat,
my tired little red eyes are glued to the outside. The view
of the peaks and rock formations of the Chilean Coastal
Range and the Andes, the longest continental mountain
range in the world, spanning over six countries, with a
myriad of snowcapped volcanoes and pristine lakes as
far as my eyes could reach give me goose bumps. This
is my first glimpse of the immense scale of nature and
the landscape that is typical throughout all of Chile.
My two gigantic quiver bags luckily arrive at the same
time, and I decide to kick off my Chile adventure with a
couple of days sightseeing in the capital. I check into a
little Air B&B in Providencia, a centrally located barrio
(neighborhood). Javier, local, slightly eccentric young

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architect, guru on all things in Santiago and mate of
a mate, is happy to show me around. Together we explore
nooks and crannies that would be impossible to
find on my own. Spreading the buena onda (good vibes)
is an instinct for Chileans and Javi is the perfect proof
of that. On Javier’s pride and joy, two beautiful, almost
antique, silver race bikes, we weave our way through
crowds of people and dense traffic, swing by the most
important museums, landmarks and historical sights,
cruise through beautiful little parks, sit down with local
musicians and watch loved up couples dancing the traditional
Lindy Hop in the shade of Poplar trees to tunes
somehow still coming from an old cassette recorder.
Larger street crossings transform into highly entertaining
temporary stages for jugglers and acrobats, during
the few minutes between traffic light sequences, who
show off their amazing skills. Santiago’s graffiti and
mural scene is alive and kicking! Artists have turned
urban areas into canvases, Barrio Brasil and Barrio Bellavista
are full of funky and colorful street art. At Santiago’s
Mercado Central, which opened its gates in 1872
and is now famed as South America’s best seafood market,
we feast on the best fresh fish to regain vital energy
necessary for more sightseeing. Next, a funicular from
1925 lifts us up to the lookout point on Cerro San Cristóbal,
a woody hill that rises 860m above the city. From
here we inhale staggering views of the capital, beautifully
framed by snowcapped mountains. In Chilean tradition,
Javier and I celebrate our successful Santiago
tour with a Pisco Sour, the national drink of Peru and
Chile, both claim the origins of the spirit and cocktail.
It’s a lethal drink, yet addictive! Clear local grape brandy

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(pisco) is mixed with sugar syrup, lime juice and an egg
white for the authentic frothy finish, a dash of Angostura
bitters on top, ready, ¡Salud! (cheers). Pisco Sour
comes in two sizes; strangely the name of the large version
is “catedral” (cathedral) as opposed to “normal”
for the small. With two chinchineros (the typical street
artists of Chile) rocking up, the day achieves legendary
status in my travel history books. Carrying a drum on
the back, with two big drumsticks to play it and cymbals
on top that are connected to the feet with a rope,
the two chinchineros stop the traffic and perform a vigorous
dance, a mix of fast steps, turns and acrobatic
moves, in the middle of the street. They move and swirl
around so fast, they literally nearly get airborne whilst
playing their instruments in a performance that could
be part of the Cirque du Soleil.
The next day, I can’t help but chuckle, when the rental
car company delivers my van. Of course, I already had
seen pictures on the internet, but in reality, it looks
even funnier. With a rather unusual format, super short
and very narrow, only two seats in the front and cargo
area in the back, it reminds me of a camion de fleurs
(a French florist van) somewhere in Paris. With all my
gear safely stored away in the back, I hit the highway towards
the coast. Destination: Matanzas, the mecca for
wind and kitesurfing in Central Chile about 100 miles
southwest of Santiago.
Matanzas, a tiny authentic fishing village beautifully
situated on the hilly coast, is only one main street
that runs parallel to a long black volcanic beach. During
the week the town is super quiet but come the weekend
it’s pumping with people from Santiago flocking to
the coast to enjoy the sun, beach and ocean. The area
around Matanzas is “in” and many wealthy Chileans
own their piece of paradise with spectacular architect-designed
holiday homes.
Here I meet up with Mike, founder of “Kite Chile” – www.
kite-chile.com. Mike is Swiss, but has lived in Chile until
recently and knows, as a passionate kitesurfer, the area
and all its spots like the back of his hand. He’s been in-

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credibly helpful with the planning of my trip. Luckily, my
trip coincides with Mike’s two-month stint in Chile for
“the best kiting of the year” (Nov + Dec) and he offers
me a room in his cabaña (rental house) in Matanzas.
Together we head out for my very first kite session in
Chile, a downwinder from the main spot in Matanzas
to Roca Cuadrada (square rock), about 1.2 miles to the
north and only accessible by 4x4 on the black sand
beach. The prevailing Surazo (strong southerly winds)
are blowing 25-30 knots, a typical strength for the region
at this time of the year. The cold Humboldt Current
brings chilly water to this coast and I have to admit, I
was pretty scared of the 12°C ‘warm’ water. It all turns
out not to be that bad and in all my weeks in Chile I
never felt cold, not even whilst surfing. The good news
in Chile is that when it’s windy, it’s usually sunny, with
about 25°C air temperature, and as long as you’re prepared
(5/4mm, booties, optional: gloves and hood), you
won’t feel the cold.
Mike and I explore all the spots in the neighborhood together.
Roca Cuadrada becomes my favorite. The wave
here peels off the square rock that sits just off the
beach. Depending on the wind and tide, Roca can throw
up some really clean faces that are superbly good fun
to hit. When it gets bigger, it can get pretty gnarly with
heavy, powerful and often very hollow surf. Kiting out
here with sea lions popping up right next to you with
the steep limestone cliffs and huge black sand dunes
as the backdrop is truly magic.
10 minutes by car further north is La Boca, the river
mouth of the Rio Rapel, a picture-perfect flatwater spot
with water like a sheet of glass, constant wind, and
black and white swans, surrounded by the greenest nature
and spectacular cliffs. For learning or for freestyle,
it couldn’t get much better than here.
The little town of Pupuya is situated in the next bay
south of Matanzas. The beach offers a lot of space with
a cross-onshore wave-playground and a small waist
high lagoon for learning. Pupuya is home to the stylish

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“La Lobera” Kite Club, a kind of Café del Mar for kiters.
An interesting architectural structure made out of a
lot of glass and wood offers superb views of the spot
from restaurant and bar. With music, huge chill out
cushions, sun lounges, and even a climbing wall on the
outside of a cool sea container that acts as shower and
changing room it’s a great place to hang out. And of
course, featuring a typically Chilean outdoor “Hot Tub”,
a round, wooden bathtub, heated by fire to warm up in
after long sessions in the ocean, with perfect view of the
ocean, ideally to be combined with a Pisco Sour for the
ultimate indulgence.
After a week, the first proper swell pops up on the forecast,
my cue to organize a first photo shoot. Chilean surf
photographer Pablo Jimenez is my man for it. Our plan
is to shoot at a super special place: Topocalma, a beautiful
coastal stretch of heaven, 45min south of Matanzas,
and only accessible by 4x4. Matias, one of Matanzas’
top local windsurfers, is happy to give us a ride in his
pick-up truck. He’s keen to sail at “Topo”, as the locals
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call it, too. Until recently, permission from the administration
in Santiago to access the beach of the privately
owned “Hacienda Topocalma” had to be requested via
fax. However, things are different now as the whole plot
is currently being redeveloped into an area of luxury villas
and fancy holiday homes. Mike goes totally silent
passing through miles of cleared land where a beautiful
dense forest once stood. Thank God, nothing has been
changed along the last section of getting to the spot.
Then it’s just full throttle in 4WD up the black sand
dune and we are there. A stunningly beautiful, pristine
volcanic beach lies in front of us, about 2.5 miles long.
At the far southern end, Pan De Azúcar, a distinctive
pyramid shaped rock about 170 feet high, sticks out of
the turquoise Pacific. That’s where the wave breaks. In
Topo the wind usually blows 5-10 knots stronger than in
Matanzas. Due to the geography of the spot, the headland
and cross-offshore wind, the waves run as clean as
they can get. Everything has its price and for the same
reasons, it’s usually gusty as hell here and without a
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doubt, much better for windsurfing than kiting.
The swell hasn’t really kicked in yet and the wind blows
a pleasant 15-18 knots, “highly unusual” according to
Matias, who sails Topo very frequently. I hit the water to
try the conditions. For a fair while I’m enjoying myself
out in the blue, ride some small but really fun waves
and feel happy to experience this magical spot; until
the moment, when things take a drastic turn. In a split
second, the wind turns to nuclear with crazy gusts in
the high thirties. The session ends in a self-rescue after
my kite stalls in a mega wind hole, and before I get a
chance to relaunch, gets heavily worked by the gnarly
beach break. Four fingers of my left hand are in the
wrong place at the wrong time. For a moment shock
takes over the pain, when my kite powers up and a line
cuts deeply into the middle joints of all four of my fingers.
The index finger cops the brunt of it with a nasty
gash, a huge flap of skin and my bone staring back at
me. Blood is literally pissing out of the wound when I
finally make it to the beach about one mile downwind
of Pablo and the other windsurfers.
The charming Julio, a young Chilean paramedic stitches
my index finger back together with seven stitches in
the little outpatient clinic of Navidad, an hour’s drive
from Topo and bandages the other three fingers. It’s a

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small miracle that the tendon is still intact, and I’ll be
forever grateful that all my fingers are still where they
belong. After a tetanus jab and with a pack of antibiotics
still in my poncho, I trudge outside. Nobody is waiting
there for me and I figure Matias would have been super
keen to get back on the water. With all the time in the
world to wait for Mike, I sit down on a little park bench
in dismay. It’s Game Over for kiting for me for the time
being.
Challenges, obstacles and unforeseen events are all part
of travelling. It’s my first kitemare in ten years and of
course I’m majorly pissed off that it had to happen on
this trip. However, injuries never come at the right time
and life’s too short to mope about something that can’t
be changed.
I will fly to Patagonia, I announce to Mike a few hours
later sipping a consolation-Pisco Sour at a beach bar in
Matanzas looking out to the ocean where others are still
kiting and windsurfing. Mike chokes on his Pisco and
stares at me with raised eyebrows coughing. He reckons
I would be the only person who has decided to visit and
fly out to Patagonia within 24hours. Most take months,
sometimes years to plan this undertaking. That same
evening, I book a flight online for the next day to Punta
Arenas, the capital of the Chilean side of Patagonia.
Patagonia is at the most southern tip of South America
and stretches over two countries, Chile and Argentina.
With a spectacular landscape, Torres del Paine National
Park on the Chilean side is among the world’s great
natural wonders of our time. With an area of over 181.000
hectares, Mother Nature displays her beauty and energy
here on an epic scale: dazzling glaciers and mountains,
gigantic granite rocks in the most peculiar formations,
luminescent turquoise lakes, crystal clear rivers as far
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as the eye can see and further! The name Torres del Paine
derives from the mountain range and the park’s landmark:
three striking granite peaks towering 1800m high
right next to each other.
Each year more and more people visit this alluring, magical
spot at the end of the world and it’s kind of “in” these
days to experience Patagonia at least once in a lifetime.
The “W” track founded in 1994 is, a circular route in the
shape of the letter W winds 70kms around the Paine Massif.
It can be done in 4-5 days and is the most popular
way to see Torres del Paine. The territory is a well-developed
network of trails with camping grounds and refugios
(mountain huts) to bed tired bones safe from the
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CHILE
elements.
Slightly shocked by the outside temperature, I exit the arrivals
hall of the small airport in Punta Arenas and wait
for the bus to Puerto Natales. During the 3.5hrs journey
along an almost dead straight road through seemingly
endless steppe, I don’t spot a single soul apart from
a few other cars and buses and two baqueanos (type of
Chilean cowboy in Patagonia) on horses, droving sheep.
Puerto Natales was a small fishing town back in the days.
Today, it’s the last outpost for tourists before heading
into the Patagonian wilderness. Luckily, regardless of the
huge influx of visitors in recent years, it has managed to
conserve its charm. From the bus stop, I stroll by foot to

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the center of town. The small colorful wooden houses, the
cool temperature, the stiff breeze and the endless views
over snowcapped mountains make me think of Alaska in
summer. There’s a magical atmosphere in the air, you really
feel like you are at the end of the world here.
In reaction to the high demand for trekking in Torres del
Paine, CONAF (National Forest Corporation) is regulating
visitor numbers since 2016 and visitors need a confirmed
bed for each night they spend in the park, as accommodation
is limited.
I scarcely believe my ears, being told in the Puerto Natale’s
office of Fantástico Sur, one of the organizations
that manage accommodation in the park, that nobody
could enter the park for the next five days due to a total
crash of the computer booking system. “WHAT? But I’m
already leaving again in five days”, “Lo siento, no es posible”
(sorry, not possible). For a moment I feel like I am in a
bad movie. My left hand in a gigantic dressing, still slightly
in shock after my kitemare knowing how close I got to
losing four fingers, two long bus journeys, an expensive
domestic flight and a very rough night in my van at the
short-term car park at Santiago airport right next to the
terminal with excessive sound levels, I’m struggling to
contain my composure.
I come up with a plan B: to rent a car, to drive myself into
the park instead of catching a bus, and to crash in the car.
Things map out trickier than in theory: I scour several hire
places, but all cars are rented out. At last I strike a bonanza!
The car has to be brought by driver from Punta Arenas,
which translates into additional costs and time, however,
the reward is worth it: a brand-new pick up truck! For the
first time in my life, I am the proud rentee of two cars,
my florist-van at Santiago airport and this fancy ride in
Patagonia, not being a reflection of my budget, but rather

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of my desperation to get into the park. I use the time to
buy supplies to get me through five days in the wilderness.
Rental Natales www.rentalnatals.com, the shop of
young Guillermo, is a treasure trove and has everything
one could possibly need during trekking or camping for
rent. I get myself a pair of proper trekking boots, walking
sticks to save my knees, a small gas cooker, a bowl and
some cutlery.
With Latino sounds blasting from the radio, I’m feeling
the ultimate freedom zooming in my flash truck at
dawn and 2°C outside temperature, along the “Ruta del
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Fin del Mundo” (route at the end of the world) towards
snowcapped mountains. Catching my first glimpse of the
snowy Paine massif protruding almost surreally from the
lush pampa in the distance, I get goose bumps. With a
profoundly content smile on my face, I’m experiencing
another of those “only during travelling” buzzes that

keeps me heading into the unknown time and time again.
At the CONAF office at the park gate, a small miracle happens.
I manage to complete all formalities without anybody
asking me where I will be staying. And I’m in! The
next days undoubtedly turn into some of to the most
memorable in my travel life. I go for long hikes, like the
9hr trek to the Torres, watch herds of wild horses roaming
the steppe and find myself in the middle of a flock
of guanacos, a local wild kind of camel and ancestor of
the lama. There are even 60 pumas still living in Torres
del Paine! Uncountable times I just stand there, speechless,
unable to move, in utter admiration and awe of the
majestic beauty, incapable of turning my attention away
from marveling at Mother Nature, feeling in every part of
my body the stoke of experiencing this. Patagonia is infamous
for its weather and the extreme wind conditions
in the park are a legend amongst hikers. Wind gusts up
to 110mph regularly rip through the park, fierce enough
to lift a hiker with a backpack. During one of my hikes,
the wind turns in perfect Patagonian fashion from calm
one moment to hurricane-like the next. I’m lucky there’s
a lake upwind of my track and I’m able spot the gusts on
the water coming from afar, in time to brace myself for
the impact with all four on the ground, in order to not get
airborne. A fellow hiker isn’t that serious about it and pays
the price, with a gust hitting him so hard that he falls,
landing really unluckily with his wrist on a stone slab.
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One of the highlights in Torres del Paine is the boat trip
on Lago Grey (the grey lake) that gets fed by its namesake
glacier (Glaciar Grey). Already walking to the boat
anchorage, I stagger… through the trees that line the path
I spot luminescent blue icebergs looming out of the grey
black lake. They look totally unrealistic. They’re pieces
that broke off the millennia old glacier. The nuances and
intensity of the blue is something I’ve never seen before
and which will leave a permanent mark in my mind. Blown
away, yet once more, by Mother Nature, things couldn’t
get any better when the boat crew serves us Pisco Sour
with fresh Grey glacial ice!
My mind awash with amazing experiences, it’s time to
leave Torres del Paine. My body feels stiff and old after
sleeping on the passenger seat of my car for too many
nights. Compared to the prices in the refugios (one bed in
a dorm for 6 people sets you back USD 170 per night!) or a
campsite (no tent, only the spot – USD 120 per night), my
bodily aches are a small price to pay. Patagonia is without
a doubt one of the most expensive places I’ve ever set my
kiter feet upon.
Charming in his Latino way, Julio removes the stitches
from my finger. The wound isn’t looking pretty but being
super keen to get back on the water duct tape is my last
resort. I celebrate my comeback with Mike at Roca Cuadrada
with a seven-hour session, during which I only come
in once to quickly eat a few nuts and drink some water.
The ocean is full of life in Chile and after my forced break
the encounters with sea lions popping their little heads
up trying to communicate through funny noises, are even
more intense and special. Huge pelicans often come worryingly
close flying past making me doubt that my kite
would emerge as winner in a collision.
I can’t get enough of Chile and ask Mike if it would be ok
to borrow one of the mattresses from the house, to pimp
up my florist-van into a home on wheels. Mike is buena
onda and off I go. First, I hit Pichilemu, the surf capital
of Chile, home to notoriously famous Punta de Lobos, the
most acclaimed point break of the country. Holding as
big as it gets, you can watch local big wave hero Ramon
Navarro taking on triple overhead++ water mountains
when it’s pumping. Lobos is sheltered from the Surazo by

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the headland, but Infiernillo, just around the corner to the
north, can get really good for kiting.
After a few sick surfs in Pichilemu, I cruise further down
south, the “surf pearl” of Chile. Uncountable breaks,
empty line-ups, picturesque green landscapes, the south
coast is kind of “holy” to the local surfers. Practically
untouched by urbanization, the scarce population lives
off farming and fishing in small villages, often so quiet,
they seem deserted. It’s a totally new face of Chile that
I get to know here, time seems to be standing still and
I feel thrown back into the past at the sight of farmers
ploughing fields with oxen and huasos (Chilean rural
workers) on horses in their traditional costume (poncho
and straw-hat).
Curanipe is a classic left-hand point break. With or without
wind, wave addicts can quench their thirst here with
long, peeling lefts, most of the time totally alone. Unfortunately,
at this point the coastal fog moves in, a highly typical
weather phenomena for this part of Chile, especially
during the hotter months. Some people call it a curse
with thick cloudbanks building along the coast, killing
any hope for wind, warmth or sunshine. That cloud wall
can sit there for days on end, grey in grey, and suddenly

summer turns into winter.
The campground in Pullay, directly on a sweet surf spot
becomes my home for my last few days in Chile. There’s
quite a bit of swell around and I surf many of the top
breaks in the neighborhood, such as Buchupureo and
Cobquecura. I buy chicken thighs every day at a small
butchery and grill them over open fire for dinner, before
retiring to my bedchamber in the back of my van that I
share with all my toys.
Walking to the departure gate of my flight back home to
Australia, deeply wrapped in thoughts and sad that my
Chile adventure is coming to an end, a sign suddenly
rivets my attention. In huge letters it says “The Last Pisco
Sour”. I have to smile and order one. “Catedral?”, “Sí
señor por favour”. I reckon the waiter can feel my leaving-heartache
as he serves me not only the best but also
the strongest Pisco of my time in Chile; it certainly isn’t
my very last, though, because one day for sure I will return
and do it all over again (…maybe not the kitemare)!
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USEFUL FACTS & INFORMATION
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CLIMATE & BEST TIME TO GO
Hot and dry in the North, cold and wet in
the far South, the regions in between have a
pleasant, Mediterranean climate, however, a
warm hoody or jacket and a pair of jeans is
recommended for the evenings, particularly
on the coast. When the coastal fog hits, it
can get pretty chilly even during daytime.
Water temperature: around Matanzas chilly
all year round (12-15°C), peaking in late summer
at around 18°C. Bring a good 5/4mm
and booties. The more neoprene the better,
gloves and hood are optional, for surfing the
hood is definitely a great idea!
Wind: Surazo (strong southerly winds) blow
fairly consistently with 20-25 knots (often
more!) between September – April, with the
greatest wind probability in November and
December.
Swell: The Humboldt current and the Roaring
40s deliver swell all year round, however, at
the height of summer (Jan + Feb) it’s usually
the smallest.
Coastal fog can always throw a spanner
in the works. It usually occurs during the
warmer months due to cool air from the Pacific
(cold Humboldt current) colliding with
hot air over the land. Due to the topography
and without any prevailing wind, this highly
moist fog gets stuck along the coast, sometimes
for several days, as the coastal mountains
(Cordillera de la Costa) block it like a
wall from moving and disappearing. That’s
when winter hits in summer, grey in grey
and with zero chance to kite, even though it’s
sunny and over 30°C only a few kilometers
inland.
TRANSPORT
Generally you could do Chile by public transport
due to a good bus network, however, you
would need a lot of patience and time, plus
you would miss out on seeing/kiting a large
number of spots. A rental car is definitely
the way to go. I suggest CHILEAN RENT A CAR,
with a wide range of different vehicles in
their fleet, several depots and in my opinion
the best prices:
www.chileanrentacar.cl
THE ULTIMATE & ALL ESSENTIAL KITE CON-
TACT
KITE CHILE organizes packages for wave-kiters
incl. accommodation, transfer and spot
guiding. An experienced guide takes guests
to the best kite spots around Matanzas and
ensures unforgettable experiences along the
pristine, wild coast of Chile. Activities on nowind
days and for couples, where only one
partner kites: www.kite-chile.com
ACCOMMODATION
Directly at the spot of Roca Cuadrada with
private access to the beach:
www.centineladematanzas.cl
And for the ones who make it to Patagonia,
Guillermo of RENTAL NATALES is your man for
advice, guidance, resources and all the best
gear for trekking & camping for rent:
www.rentalnatales.com
WWW.KITE

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For PHOTOS of your trip: Pablo Jimenez normally
only shoots pro surfers, but for readers of TKB
he’s available for road-trips or bookings on a
daily basis: www.pablojimenez.cl
2018 Gabi Steindl www.kitegabi.com
GABI.COM

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Exploring Prince Edward Island

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Exploring
Prince Edward Island
PHOTO: CABRINHA COURTESY

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Exploring Prince Edward Island
Lucas Arsenault, Tom
Bridge and Theo Demanez:
the trio explored the
kiteboarding potential of
Prince Edward Island
Welcome to Prince Edward
Island, the smallest
province in Canada. The
archipelago also known
for its fabulous red sand
beaches, massive dunes,
red cliffs, and potatoes.

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Exploring Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island, or PEI, offers
more than 800 kilometers of beaches,
and air temperatures that range
between 98°F (36.7°C) and -35°F
(-37.2°C).
The territory is hugged by Nova Scotia
and New Brunswick, but it ends up
receiving several lost swells coming
from the North Atlantic Ocean.
Lucas Arsenault is the Canadian freestyle
kiteboarding champion. He lives
in Prince Edward Island and knows
the island's potential when it comes
to wind sports.
Recently, he was joined by Tom Bridge
and Theo Demanez on an exploration
trip around the island. The trio unveiled
several never-before-ridden
kite spots that work out in every wind
direction.
The adventure gave birth to "PEI - A
Kiteboarding Discovery Film," a nonstop
action video in which Lucas,
Tom, and Theo unroll their arsenal of
new school tricks, strapless moves,
and classic freestyle maneuvers in
flat and bumpy waters.
Prince Edward Island is one of the
most underrated kite destinations
on the planet. With its stunning landscapes,
natural obstacles, and fun
waves, it could very well be the next
go-to kite spot in North America.

Hotels da Sogno
e Vento Costante
Lasciati
sorpendere
da questo
Brasile
members of egroup.net.br
Visita i nostri site e prenota il tuo prossimo kite trip
JERICOACOARA • CEARÁ • BRASIL PREÁ • CEARÁ • BRASIL vilakalango.com.br • ranchodopeixe.com.br

86
ITW
Ralph Boelen: "kitesurfing is still a young discipline"
RALPH BOELEN
kitesurfing is still a young discipline
RRD COURTESY

88
ITW
Ralph Boelen: "kitesurfing is still a young discipline"
RALPH BOELEN

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Normandy and I still live there, so far, I appreciate
to find all the family close to me, especially after
travelling on long trips away from them.
Tell us more about your background in kitesurfing...
I started kitesurfing pretty early, when I was 10 years old,
with my two brothers and my sister, we have been introduced
to this sport by my dad in Normandy, I kept doing
it occasionally when I had the chance to travel with the
family during the school breaks. It definitely became a
great common interest for everyone, which made this
sport much more fun. I started to step up my level up with
the twin-tip especially on old-school tricks, until I finally
finished school and dedicated a year traveling for the
sport. I always wished I could spend some proper time to
progress, and from that year I discovered the strapless
discipline. I completely got stuck to it and I’ve been lucky
to find myself progressing enough to sign up in my first
competition after about one year.
What is your best result?
My best result is 5th in the World Championship Ranking
of the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) Tour, and after
reaching this result, of course one just wishes to get a
podium.
What’ s your favorite gear?
I’m in love with the Religion MK8 obviously… the wave rid-

90
ITW
Ralph Boelen: "kitesurfing is still a young discipline"
ing kite machine of RRD “ my go to board is definitely the
C.O.T.A.N. V2, this board is a super playful, perfectly working
in many conditions and seems to be holding well the
pressure after heavy landings!
What is your favorite spot?
Silversands/Barbados. Amazing playground to scratch
some fun waves, great for learning moves.
One-Eye/Mauritius. Heavy walls when you remember your
best turns and your worst ones. Guincho/Portugal. Super
windy spot, but one of my favorites to throw huge airs with
the nice kickers coming towards you.
What are your goals for 2018?
First of all, I look forward to getting again a Top 5 in the
World Tour, secondly capturing some epic images and
footage, I can’t wait to edit!
How do you see kitesurfing evolve in 10 years?
I must say that I am positive seeing how good it is going
in the industry, especially on the competition side, Global
Kitesports Association (GKA) is making an awesome job
bringing us a solid tour. We all know that kitesurfing is
still a young discipline, but I believe we can bring it to the
next level like Surfing.

RALPH BOELEN

92
ITW
Ralph Boelen: "kitesurfing is still a young discipline"
BIOGRAPHY OF
BIOGRAPHY OF A RIDER
Nationality: French.
Date of Birth: 05/06/1992
Residence: Honfleur, France
Discipline(s): Wave Riding / Freestyle strapless.
Signature move(s): Backroll Grab.
Favorite gear: Religion MK8 / C.O.T.A.N. V2.
Favorite spot(s): Silversands/Barbados, One-Eye/Mauritius, Guincho/Portugal.
Hobbies: Photography/Film making — Extreme sports.
Best result(s): 5th Ranking in GKA world Championship

RALPH BOELEN

94
PHOTOGRAPHER
Andre Magarao: I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding
Text: David Ingiosi | Photo: Andre Magarao
Andre Magarao
I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding

W W W . A N D R E M A G A R A O . C O M

96
PHOTOGRAPHER
Andre Magarao: I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding
Andre, in a few words how can you
describe yourself to those who don't
know you yet?
I’m quiet and I like to think I’m pretty
chilled. Being a photographer has
some stresses but let’s face it, it’s
hard to claim I’m stressed when I’m
working at the beach. If you have never
seen me, it’s pretty easy to spot me,
I’m the weird guy taking way too much
equipment to the beach.
You are very highly qualified besides
your professional photography
background. How do you mix your
marketing studies with your work as
a professional photographer?
I went to College and did an MBA. On
one hand it doesn’t mix at all. Before I
had a normal job and I quit to go after
being a photographer. But on the other
hand, being a photographer is pretty
much like being a brand so there are
a lot of marketing and business concepts
that you can apply to yourself.
How did you to get involved in photography
and in the kitesurfing industry?
I’ve been into photography for a really
long time. I first got into it back in
the film days. My dad had this film SLR
camera that I started playing with. I got
into shooting kiteboarding way later
when I met Reno Romeu in Rio. We became
good friends and started working
together.

98
PHOTOGRAPHER
Andre Magarao: I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding
Can you tell us about your favorite
gear to shoot in the water and the
main difficulty to cope with in this
environment?
Well, to shoot in the water you need a
good waterhousing. I’ve tested many
brands and to be honest I don’t really
have a favorite one. Every brand
seems to have good and bad aspects.
You kind of have to pick what works
better for you and for your goals.
You were born in Rio de Janeiro
and then moved to Canada, United
States and New Zealand. Probably
you still travel a lot. How do all these
countries appear in front of your
camera's lens?
Traveling is the best way to learn and
experience new things. I’ve definitely
learnt a lot from traveling to study
or work abroad. Every place has its
uniqueness and as a photographer I
always try to capture that. I’m always
looking for new adventures. I would
say that the best inspirations and
ideas come from the places you least
expect.
What's the philosophy you put in
your job?
I always try to do my best. Kiteboarding
has this really unique aspect
when it comes to water board sports
that you can set up shoots with the
rider just like I do in skateboarding
for example. So, I would say that for
me a big reason behind a good shot is
communication with the rider. If the
photographer and the rider are really
aware of each other’s goals I’m sure
something good is going to come out
of it. So, I try to explain to the rider
what I’m looking for in that particular
shot and I also try to listen to the riders
needs. A lot of times there must be
a lot of compromise from both parts
for the shots to be as good as the ones
you see on magazines. Sometimes the
riders need to ride where the wind isn’t
the best just because the background
is nice or something like that. But that
communication is what allows me
to shoot with big studio flashes. The
rider needs to do a certain trick and
this pretty exact spot for the flashes
to work well. We usually do a few tries
and once we get what we are looking
for we move on to a different trick and
different flash set up. Of course, at
the end of the day the shot I get most
stoked about is the one the rider and
I are both happy with. I also try to be
open minded and put myself in situations
I’m not super comfortable. I try
to shoot as many different things as
possible. There are a lot of photography
techniques that I’ve learnt from
shooting skateboarding or even products
that I try to bring to shooting
kiteboarding for example.

100
PHOTOGRAPHER
Andre Magarao: I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding
By working in the kitesurfing industry,
you meet a lot of pro riders. Do
you have some funny or just curious
story about them? Who do you like
the most to work with?
Not as many as you would expect.
Everyone in kiteboarding is really nice
and professional. There are always
good stories for sure. Since I shoot
a lot in Brazil there are always those
buggy stories you know… getting
stuck, having the buggy break in the
middle of nowhere at the beach with
the tide coming up as so on. But apart
from that everyone is pretty mellow
and chilled.
Can you describe how shooting
kitesurfing activities & sports has
changed in the last 5 years?
I think camera gear evolved a lot in
the last few years. And that plays a big
part in the way we shoot and work together.
Different gear allows the photographer
to do different things. And
also, just the confidence in each other.
I’ve been working with about the same
guys for quite a few years now. So,

there is a lot more trust in each other
now. I know how everyone rides, they
know how I shoot. So, things are easier
and smoother now.
Do you have any special project you
are planning or works that you want
to share with us?
I always try to keep this part of the
year open, so I can work as much as
possible with kiteboarding. It’s my favorite
sport to shoot and it’s always
a good time. This season I shot with
some riders I always shoot with and
that was very productive. I’ve also shot
for Slingshot. I guess one of the most
memorable sessions of the season
was with Ruben Lenten at this spot I

102
PHOTOGRAPHER
Andre Magarao: I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding
Andre Magarao
I try to capture the uniqueness of kiteboarding

"Sometimes the
riders need to
ride where the
wind isn’t the best
just because the
background is
nice or something
like that."
had never been before that was pretty
sick. I’ve also shot with the KPL guys
and it was impressive to see what they
can do at handrails and kickers. Now
I’m just hanging out at the World Kiteboarding
Championships, watching
my friends compete and trying to
help the Brazilian locals on the Qualifiers.

106
ITW
Daniele Milazzo
DANIELE MILAZZO
to be competitive in Freestyle you must work hard
A third position gained at this year's Freestyle Italian Championship officially made Daniele Milazzo one
of the top riders in Italy and this result is also an important landmark in his young career. It’s the outcome
of great motivation, consistent training and a more professional approach to sports. In this interview
he tells us how it went and few more things to get to know him better...

Daniele, during this 2018 you've trained hard both in
and out of the water, you’ve paid attention to your diet
and never missed a session in any condition. In short,
you professionally approached kitesurfing and competitions.
What took you to change?
For four years I’ve been focusing on Freestyle competitions.
The first one was in 2014. At the beginning you give it a try
almost improvising, then you realize that if you want to be
really competitive you must take care of every aspect, the
sessions on the water and the training at the gym, healthy
eating and stretching and don't underestimate a good
warm up before getting on the water. My, let's say more
serious approach came naturally and by coincidence also
the third position at the national Italian Championship, so
that's a sign I'm on the right track. In fact, my goal is to grow
further and don't stop here, perhaps participate in some international
competition.
During the competition for the Italian Championship in
Sardinia you were in perfect form. How did it go?
That day there were 25 to 27 knots at Porto Botte and the
competition was pretty tough. I finished fourth and thanks
to the points from the previous legs I got the national third
position. I was totally focused but my opponents were just
the same. Year after year, there is a growing level and every
athlete tries to do its best. We are all driven by the same
passion for Freestyle and by the desire to win on the race
track.
Daniele you are from Marsala and your main training
spot is the Stagnone. However, you train all by yourself
and this can be a disadvantage compared to those who
train with others which favours a faster improvement.
How do you overcome this gap?
Group training sessions are always more effective, sometimes
all it takes is some friends. Now and then I train
with the reigning champion Gianmaria Coccoluto when he
comes here to Sicily. If you train alone you need to be more
disciplined, strive to exceed your limits, always remain focused
and find the right motivation inside yourself.

106
ITW
Daniele Milazzo
In 2018 not only you became a KSP team rider, but you’ve
been promoted to brand Ambassador with a slightly different
role. Tell us about this new job...
In recent years the brand KSP has grown, the work increases,
and this opens new opportunities also for us riders.
Alessandro, the owner, decided to put me in charge of the
brand for Italy, therefore find new distributors, take care of
commercial relationships with our longlasting retailers,
but also manage the athletes, look for new riders and get
people to try our equipment. What makes me so proud is
the trust I have been granted for a new activity to me, but I
believe that with the right dedication I can achieve important
results. I'm very happy.
KSP 2019 catalogue has already been presented. What
are your impressions on the new equipment and what do
you use?
This year we issued two new kites the PURE and the SELECT.
The first one is a Freeride-Freestyle, whereas the second one
is a Freeride but ideal for Big Air, with a great hang time and
a soft pressure on the bar. I use the PURE, an open C bridled
that gives me great satisfaction. The materials used are excellent,
with double thread. And then there are the twintip
boards: the Slide, a pure freeride suitable for any level, the
SHARK, for freestyle that can be used with straps or boots
and then the HAMMER for wake-style that needs flat water.
I normally use the SHARK, measures 141/43, I feel more confident
when landing and I don't feel any strain.
Are you planning any training trips for the winter?
Yes, I am hoping to spend at least a month in Brazil or Kenya,
I don't want to waist my training, in fact I want to expand
my repertoire of manoeuvres so that next season I can be
even more competitive.
What do your parents think since you took kitesurfing in
a more professional way?
I lost my father ten years ago, so I have only my mother who
is very happy with what I do. My father always supported
me when he was alive, in fact he was the one that passed
me the love for the sea, nature and sports.
Daniele you were born in Marsala, and you’re a local at
the Stagnone one of the top Italian spots more and more
popular worldwide. Why is that in your opinion?
It is certainly one of the easiest spots in the world to learn
and improve your level thanks to its shallow and flat waters,
and constant winds all year round. And a long season
that starts in March and ends in November. The Stagnone
is a 12 km long lagoon. There is enough room for everyone.
How can people follow you?
For sure through my Facebook and Instagram pages where
nearly every day I post photos and videos of my training
sessions, my journeys and my professional life with KSP
and with my other two sponsors, Riprop for leashes and
Hortopedical House for medical support.
DANIELE MILAZZO
to be competitive in Freestyle you must work hard

112
ITW
Steven Akkersdijk: "Kitesurfers believe I'm only on the twintip"
Steven Akkersdijk:
KITESURFERS BELIEVE I'M ONLY ON THE TWINTIP
Red Bull King of the Air in Big Bay, Cape Town: Steven Akkersdijk is one
of the main protagonists of probably the world's most prestigious kitesurfing
event. At least 15 meters high kiteloops with 25-30kn-wind are
his specialty and at least this windspeed drives the Dutch, winter after
winter, to South Africa, because these megaloops unleash the adrenaline
in his veins really high. For years, Steven has been one of the favourites,
which has resulted in his fame in the worldwide kitesurf scene. His
board? Carved 142cm x 42cm with straps. So, we know him from the published
pictures and movies from the biggest megaloop event.
On a trip to Brazil, however, we get to know the 25-year-old kitesurfing
pro on the water differently. Depending on the conditions, different board
types are used under his feet every day. And again, and again we rub our
eyes and come out of wonder about his tricks shown on boards of all categories
with invariably high levels of difficulty. Twintip with straps? Yeah,
that's how we know about the King of the Air events. "Yes, that is a part,
but only just this one part of me," he explains quite vehemently. Twintip
with boots? Strapless Freestyle Board? Skimboard for kiting? Foilboard?
Steven Akkersdijk brings a top performance on each of these boards,
which actually enables him to participate in international events. Let’s
discover how...
CORE COURTESY

114
ITW
Steven Akkersdijk: "Kitesurfers believe I'm only on the twintip"

Steven, which riders do you know that can offer such a board spectacle, at
such a high level?
I honestly don’t know many riders that ride on all these different types of
boards and enjoy all the different sides of the sport. This is also because
you’ll only see what the riders are good at on social media channels, so
even if they might be playing around on the other boards every once in a
while, you won’t really see it.
Are you bothered that the kitesurfing public thinks you are only on the
twintip board?
It doesn’t bother me at all. It just means I should show them more that I
am able to ride all these type of disciplines within the sport. Lately I’ve been
publishing more videos in which you see me riding a bunch of boards that
I am able to ride all these type disciplines .”
Steven, you show fantastic performances on all boards. What drives you to
be on such different boards?
When I’m always doing the same thing, I quickly get bored. This doesn’t
only go for kitesurfing, but also for other sports. I need to mix it up to keep
it interesting. Sometimes I feel like I’m stuck on a certain level with one
discipline. That’s the best moment to switch it up for me and practice new
stuff on the other boards. Most of the time when I then return to the trick
that I was stuck on, I quickly land it or get some new inspiration.
You started on the Twintip Board, right?
I started riding twintip and that’s also what I learned it on. In the first two
years I only touched the twintip and in the third year of kiting friends of
mine got me in contact with the skimboard. From there on I quickly started
experimenting with different kinds of boards. Whilst still having a big focus
on my twintip riding. Nowadays, I ride whatever the conditions are right
for. It couldn’t be better, or?!

116
ITW
Steven Akkersdijk: "Kitesurfers believe I'm only on the twintip"
It couldn´t be better or? This is the question. On which boards do you see
yourself in five years?
The same boards as I’ve been riding for the past five years. As long as I’m
able to mix it up I totally will. Probably I’ll put a bigger focus on waveriding
and foiling and slowly start dropping riding boots on a twintip. The conditions
just need to be so perfect for me to still have loads of fun on that
board.

118
ITW
Steven Akkersdijk: "Kitesurfers believe I'm only on the twintip"
TAVOLA
WHERE DO I USE
THIS BOARD?
CARVED
STRAPED
TWINTIP
Flat water and waves
CORE BOLT
WITH BOOTS
Solo in acqua piatta
FOR THE STAYING IN
CAPE TOWN I TAKE
THE FOLLOWING
BOARDS WITH ME?
MY FAVORITE
SPOT?
Yes
Cape Tonw, Tarifa
Yes
Brazil
STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
WINDRANGE?
WITH WHICH KITE
AND SIZES?
TRICKS?
16-55 Knots 16-21 Knots
Nexus /GTs5 8-17m GTs5 10-17m
Big Air, Kiteloops,
Unhooked Freestyle
Hooked Freestyle
FAVORITE
TRICKS?
Kiteloop Late Backroll
Unhooked frontroll to blind with
tail grab
ON WHAT TRICKS
AM I TRAINING AT
THE MOMENT?
WHAT IS THE SPECIAL
MOTIVATION TO
USE THIS BOARD?
Kiteloop duble front
Boosting big
back to blind with switch grab
Stomping tricks with kite low
HOW MANY TIMES
PER YEAR DO YOU
USE THE SEVERAL
BOARDS?
MY FAVORITE
BOARD?
30% 10%
I Love all

CORE 720
SKIMBOARD
LEVIATAZ
FOILBOARD
Flat water and waves Acqua piatta Flat water and waves
Yes no Yes
Cape Town Home and Brazil Mauritius and Tarifa
18-30 Knots 12-30 Knots 10-25 Knots
Nexus 5.-12m Nexus 8-17m Nexus 5-12m
Strepless Freestyle, up to head
high waves
Strapless Freestyle
Strapless Freestyle, wave riding
STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
Frontside air reverse of the wave
in onshore conditions
Frontroll Kite 360
Duble Frontroll Duble Frontroll Kite 720
Rip any wave possible and landing
powered tricks
Pure playing
Flying and defying the wind
30% 10% 20%
of them!

120
TUTORIAL
How to wipe out and no die in kitesurf

How to wipe
out and no die
in kitesurf
Do you know how to crash safely when you are kitesurfing? Wipeouts are part
of the kiteboarder's game but learning how to control crashing is following a
basic safety procedure. Learn how to be safe when things don't go as planned.

122
TUTORIAL
How to wipe out and no die in kitesurf
Kiteboarding is not as safe as football,
but it is not as dangerous as wingsuit
flying. As with any other sport, you've
got to know what to do to when the
equipment fails, or when you did
something you shouldn't.
When you move from a beginner's level
to intermediate and advanced stages,
you tend to start pushing your limits.
However, in kiteboarding, progression
may result in serious injuries which
include sprains, cuts, fractures, and
bruises.
The most frequent wipeouts occur
when kiteboarders hit the skies and
then are confronted with Isaac Newton's
Law of Universal Gravitation. In
other words, what goes up will inevitably
come down.
The early kite tricks often result in failure.
Like big airs. So, is there a magic
formula for crashing safely? Should
we learn how to hit the water without
major wounds? Yes, let's do it properly.
When you're still up high in the air:
1. Let go of the bar if you feel your trick
is not going well or if you feel uncontrolled;
2. Try to keep your orientation in the
air;

4. Estimate the time-to-impact;
5. Be aware of the horizon;
6. Protect your body by using your
arms to defend your ribs;
7. If necessary, get rid of the board in
the air, or get free of any lines;
8. Try to hit the water in a flat angle;
When you feel the impact in the water:
1. Let the air out of your lungs;
2. Tuck up;
3. Cross your arms over your chest;
4. Press your chin onto your chest;
5. Bend your knees to smooth the impact;

124
TUTORIAL
How to wipe out and no die in kitesurf
When you recover your composure:
1. Get clear of any kite lines;
2. Re-establish your orientation;
3. Retrieve your kite bar and your
board;
4. Do you want to resume riding or get
back to shore? Make your own decisions;
5. Get your gear ready and relaunch;
Wearing a helmet and an impact vest/
PFD, riding over deep waters, staying
away from rocks, buildings, and other
obstacles, and enjoying the session
with a couple of friends are additional
recommendations.

126
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab

TECHNIQUE
LET’S FOCUS ON STYLE:
THE GRAB
GRABBING THE BOARD DURING A JUMP IS ONE OF THE MOST STYLISH
KITESURFING MANOEUVRES AND THE STARTING POINT FOR MORE COMPLEX
TRICKS. THE HISTORY, TECHNIQUE, AND THE VARIOUS TYPES OF POSSIBLE
GRABS WITH ONE OR TWO HANDS.

128
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab

Any sport discipline is a blend of technique and style. First
comes the mastery of the athletic move, the use of muscles,
movements coordination, then gradually interpretation, attention
to detail, elegance, character, expression and personality
take over, in other words you place your signature,
so to speak, on the motor movement. If we think of our heroes
of any sport for sure we are surprised and amazed by
their technical level but most of the times, their style is why
we love them and makes them unique.
Attention to the style and pursuit of radicality on the water
Kitesurfing too, of course, being one of the most popular
and spectacular water sports in recent years, as technical
as it may be, doesn’t escape the charm of style. Every rider,
once out of the "beginner’s zone", starts facing this concept
and tries to improve its own riding style: an aggressive upwind,
a compass-proof power jibe, an above water-surface
toeside. Succeeding is pure enjoyment for us, but also delight
for the crowds. Not to mention the various kitesurfing
disciplines, from Freestyle to Wave Strapless and Hydrofoil,
which press on the pursuit of elegance, radicality, attention
to the style and personal expression, all elements that
enhance and increase the spectacularity and difficulties of
the technical level.
Within such pursuit of style, perhaps kitesurfing has a
movement that is most representative, and kind of starting
point for all the most beautiful and acrobatic manoeuvres.
We are talking about the Grab, that is grabbing the board
with one or two hands while airborne during a jump. It’s by
all means an embellishment of a complex manoeuvre such
as the jump, and which somehow perfects it and makes it
even more spectacular.
The Grab, invented by a Z-Boys’ skater
An interesting story the one of the Grab, a manoeuvre borrowed
from skateboarding and invented by the great Tony
Alva, one of the first members of the Z-Boys, very young Californian
surfers who in the late 60s between Santa Monica
and Venice Beach (USA) were the pioneers of the four-wheel
discipline giving birth to the popular Dogtown epic. From
skateboarding, where it's still now a fundamental manoeuvre
and the basis of every jump, before reaching kitesurfing
the Grab found its evolution in all the other board sports,
from surfing to snowboarding. Let's say that in recent years
with the development of the strapless surf board used for
Waveriding replacing the twintip board, it finds in this kitesurfing
discipline a dignity (and importance) similar to the
original skateboarding one. Also, in the Air Style, I mean the
one of Toby Brauer, it carries a decisive role in the creation
of numerous tricks. Generally talking it remains an exciting
expression of style.
Key points: right hang time and bent legs
How to Grab. Because it’s an on-air manoeuvre, it’s necessary
to be already capable of jumping and landing properly.
So, make a normal jump and as soon as you are launched
in the air, take off either the front or back hand from the

130
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab
bar, bend your legs and slightly contract your abs to near
the board to your body, then grab it with your hand, lastly
let go of the board and land normally.
Of course, key point of a Grab is the right technical manoeuvre
time, therefore the jump must be sufficiently high
to remain suspended enough seconds to grab the board.
Normally the Grab is made at the peak of the jump, then
let go of the board and put the hand back on the bar whilst
landing. In order to increase the hang time, it can help a
lot reaching quite a bit of planing speed or use a chop or a
wave. If you have trouble controlling the kite with one hand
when landing, first try to jump with one hand without grabbing
the board. To refine the Grab technique, you can practice
out of water with a normal board or even better with a
cardboard outline.
Which Grab? Here’s the "map" on the board
Ok then, "grabbing the board", but where? Where we grab
the board is one of the main elements of the style of the
Grab and it also affects the position of our body and our
movements on air. We can start with whichever part of the
board we feel easier and more comfortable to grab, then we

can try to change the point of contact or else how we grab
the board.
So, there's an official list of different types of Grabs with
rather weird names which depend on which part of the
board you grab, the hand used to grab and any board rotation:
there are 9 Grabs made with the back hand and 10 with
the front one. Here is what they are:

132
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab

Back hand Grab
Stalefish: hand in the centre of the heelside rail of the board slightly close to the
back foot.
Tailfish: hand on the heelside rail between back foot and tail.
Tail: hand on the tail of the board.
Tindy: hand on the toeside rail between back foot and tail.
Indy: hand on the toeside rail right in between the two straps.
Canadian Bacon: hand at the centre of the toeside rail passing in between legs.
Crail: hand on the toeside rail between front foot and nose.
Nuclear: hand on the heelside rail between front foot and nose.
Roast Beef: hand at the centre of the heelside rail passing in between legs.
Front hand Grab
Chicken Salad: hand on the heelside rail passing in between legs.
Method: hand on the heelside rail between the straps, legs bent backwards.
Hoochie Glide: hand on the heelside rail between the straps.
Melon: hand on the heelside rail pushing the board forward.
Lien Air: hand on the heelside rail between front foot and nose.
Nose: hand on the nose of the board.
Mute: hand in the centre of the toeside rail.
Japan Air: hand in the centre of the toeside rail pushing the board upwards behind
your back and knees facing down.
Tai Pan: hand on the toeside rail passing in between legs.
Seatbelt Rocket: hand on the toeside rail near the tail pushing the front leg down.

134
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab
Two-handed Grab
Rocket: both hands on the nose pushing the front leg down.

136
TECHNIQUE
Let’s focus on style: The Grab
IN SHORT, THERE ARE MANY WAYS OF GRABBING THE BOARD WITH DIFFERENT
LEVELS OF DIFFICULTY. WHAT COUNTS IT'S TAKING YOUR HANDS OFF
THE BAR CREATING STYLISH MANOEUVRES DURING THE JUMPS. THOSE WHO
ACCOMPLISH IT FEEL EXTREMELY SATISFIED AND PEOPLE WILL LOOK AT YOU
WITH AWE.

138
TUTORIAL
THE TACK
THE TACK
TUTORIAL
Reo Stevens
YOU’VE MASTERED “THE JIBE” AND NOW YOU’RE READY TO
CHANGE IT UP A BIT AND START “TACKING”. A TACK IS
PERFORMED BY TURNING YOUR BOARD INTO THE WIND TO
TURN AROUND. IT CAN BE VERY USEFUL AS YOU CAN GAIN
ADDED GROUND WHEN PERFORMING THIS MOVE QUICKLY AND
CORRECTLY.

1.
As you turn your kite towards the 12
1.
Keeping your weight centered on
o’clock position, turn the nose of your
the board is key, by doing so you will
board into the wind..
keep the board stable. Stepping wildly
2.
Keep turning the nose of the board
into the wind until it is pointing directly
into the wind. As the nose of the
board approaches pointing directly
into the wind, you will lose your for-
around and off centered on the board
will increase the difficulty of staying
on the board and completing the Tack.
2.
Taking your front hand off the bar
ward momentum. You need to time
allows you to twist your upper body
switching your feet so that your feet
and point your chest into the wind to
STEPS
are switched by the time the board
loses all forward momentum.
3.
You should be able to swap your feet
help you turn the nose of your board
into the wind.
3.
Remember, your feet are simply
TIPS
in two steps: as you turn into the wind,
switching positions, not creating new
bring your back foot up to your front
ones… Your back foot becomes your
foot. When you feel your foot firmly
front and your front becomes your
planted on the board place your front
back. You went into the turn with your
foot where your back foot originally
feet in the ideal spot on the board, so
was.
it only makes sense that that is where
4.
Your feet are switched, and you are
most likely standing still so continue
to bring the kite down towards the water
for a power stroke to start your for-
they need to be when you finish the
turn.
4.
As you bring your back foot forward to
ward momentum and head back the
meet your front foot, you can use your
direction you came from.
front foot (only foot on the board at
this time) to pull the nose of the board
through the wind window.

S TAY
SALTY.
lucamarcis@hotmail.com
S T A Y
S A L T Y

- S T A Y S A L T Y -

142
PRODUCT FOCUS
Core
Product focus
Section 2
A better drifting, lighter, wave kite
The second gen Section is built
for both traditional and freestyle-wave
(surf-style) enthusiasts
with serious depower for downthe-line
drifting and incredible
control off the lip. “Weight management
is a critical component
in performance wave kites,”
Chief Designer, Frank Ilfrich
begins, “and we’ve leveraged
our proprietary fabrics to achieve
further gains.”
CORE’s no-stretch ExoTex Dacron
frame incorporates a unique
radial reinforcing thread
pattern that enables higher
pressure airframes with smaller
diameters. It improves airflow,
flight stability, and rider
feedback by substantially increasing
tube strength and rigidity
despite reducing diameters.
“ExoTex creates a lighter

www.corekites.com
Text & Photo: Core Courtesy
Section 2 sizes:
4.0 | 5.0 | 6.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 10.0 | 11.0 | LW 12.0 | LW 14.0
yet more robust canopy that’s
ideally suited for wave riding,”
Frank concludes. The Section
2’s acclaimed ExoTex airframe
holds a better shape in gusts
and improves water relaunching
in big waves.
The Section 2 carries over its
small diameter ExoTex airframe,
lightweight surf construction,
and super quick reflexes from its
predecessor. The design team
found additional weight savings
and rigidity improvements on
the airframe. And they simplified
the intelligent trim system
that customizes bar feeling and
turning speed.
CORE’s no compromise Section
2 is designed to improve every
wave riding experience with effortless
directional control and
the right amount of pull to keep
strapless riders upwind and on
their board. Freestylers will love
the confidence and in air control
to land those physics defying
aerials. When it comes to waves,
the Section 2 is ‘all in.’
Perfect for foilboarding too!
This drifting phenom with huge
range pairs perfectly with any
foilboard. Its lightweight construction,
nimble behavior, and
reduced lateral forces make it
an unexpectedly awesome foiling
kite. It won't yank you off
your board, and it zips through
lulls with ease. Yup, the Section
2 will amaze you with its foiling
pedigree.
Section 2 LW: Small Wave Phenomenon
The new Section 2 LW departs
somewhat from traditional
wisdom in that a bigger kite is
counterproductive on waves.
The new Section LW’s immense
range lets riders easily spill the
wind so they can focus on surfing.
The LW’s agility and surfa-

144
PRODUCT FOCUS
Core
Section 2 Features:
1. Ultra Light Frame: Super light yet amazingly rigid and durable.
2. Surf Profile: Wave tuned camber and aspect ratio.
3. ExoTex® Ultra Rigid Dacron: Zero stretch airframe.
4. CoreTex® Triple Ripstop Canopy: Extreme durability and UV protection.
5. Future-C Shape: True C-kite feel. For snappy turns with a controlled and consistent
pull.
6. Radical Reaction Tips: C-style shaped wingtips for faster bar response.
7. Short Bridle System: Improved kite feedback.
8. CORE Intelligent Trim (CIT): Customizable “power steering” and turning speed.
9. Instant Auto Relaunch: Reliable waterstarts in difficult conditions.
10. Speed Valve 2: Quick, reduced effort inflation.
11. Speed Pump System: Super fast all strut inflation.
12. Sensor Bar Ready: For maximum kite feedback and control.
ce area to weight efficiency give
the feeling of a smaller kite and
yet it still has the pull to get you
out of trouble in the lulls. And
gusts are held in check with its
incredible depower. It’s easy to
question the efficacy of a 12 or
14m wave kite if you haven’t ridden
one. If you ask Rob Kidnie,
a CORE team rider in Indonesia,
which Section 2 is his favorite,
he’ll say the 14m LW. “The old
rule of thumb that a smaller kite
is always better may no longer
apply to the LW,” suggests Bernie
Hiss, CORE’s CEO and avid
wave rider.

146
PRODUCT FOCUS
RRD
Product focus
EMOTION MK4
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
Text & Photos: RRD Courtesy
“A complex search for simple
solutions”
The RRD EMOTION MK4 continues
as the most versatile onestrut
kite developed for those
who are looking for a lightweight
kite that is specifically designed
for freeriding, light wind
performance, and hydrofoiling
which also provides great turning
speed, stability, and boosting
power.
The new Emotion MK4 has a
new leading edge arc which
adds to its stability, improves
the high end wind range, turning
speed, and increases rigidity
to the overall shape. This
lightweight, simple, clean, and
easy to use design, with exceptional
relaunch, continues as
the standard characteristics for
the RRD Emotion MK4. Developing
such a stable profile for low
winds, gusty winds, and even
overpowered conditions was a

Special Features
- One strut frame structure to secure easier water re-launch and keep the weight as low as a strutless
kite.
- Double Dacron reinforcements on the strut and a Kevlar reinforced end of the strut.
- Quick Air Flow Valve for easier pumping and deflating, with special moulded protection cap.
- Techno Force Double Ripstop.
- Internal and external extra reinforcements on every leading edge panel, to secure a long lasting
stitching & a rigid connection.
- Radial reinforcements on the tips and leading edge with a 45°angle.
- Bridle anti-tangle device.
real design challenge. But the
decision to offer a new thrilling
alternative for kiters that want
to simplify their quiver and be
able to be the first one on the
water easily outweighed that
challenge.
It is truly amazing how compact
this kite is and how little wind
is needed to fly and to get you
riding. The MK4 is suited for all
disciplines, from beginner freestyle
to freeride, or from hydrofoiling
to an introduction to
the waves. The Emotion MK4 is
a faithful companion that will
enhance your stoke for the sport
without breaking the bank.

148
PRODUCT FOCUS
RRD
Product focus
THE SQUID
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
Text & Photos: RRD Courtesy
Propel through the water with
this new multifunctional directional
kiteboarding hydrofoil
/ skim board. The RRD Squid
was designed with freeriding
in mind. It is extremely maneuverable
and provides the rider
with constant feedback and
control due to the light and stiff
construction. The quad concave
not only gives the board grip as
a skim board, but it also provides
more rigidity, thus improving
the overall stiffness. These
four channels, coupled with
a moderate nose rocker, allow
the board to drive forward and
upward on touchdowns with
the foil.
The Squid’s deck is covered
with full ‘EVA brushed top striped
groove’ and can be used in
the foil configuration, with foot
straps, or as a strapless board.

Four channel box inserts on the
bottom of the board allow multiple
positions of the foil plate
to achieve a perfect micrometric
trim for your sessions. The
foil base plate is reinforced with
a unidirectional carbon stringer
that runs from tip to tail, adding
to the board stiffness and quality
construction while the small
tail fins with moderate tail kick
allow the Squid to cruise effortlessly
through the waves.
Take foiling to the next level,
travel with ease, and be prepared
because light wind will be
no concern with the new RRD
Squid multi-purpose hydrofoil
skimboard.
STYLE: freeride
135x46, 146x47
Features:
• Multi-purpose hydrofoil / skim-wave board
• Lightweight, Durable Construction
• Quad Channels
• Including 2 G10 6.5 Toxic Wave Fins
Construction:
• Paulownia Wood Core
• Unidirectional Carbon Reinforcement
• ABS Sidewalls
• Full EVA brushed top striped groove deck pad.

150
PRODUCT FOCUS
Naish
Product focus
NAish SLASH
www.NAISHKITES.com
Text and Photo: Naish Courtesy
Pure Wave/Strapless
The ideal choice to stoke out
dedicated wavekiters, the 2019
Slash delivers unmatched drift,
a wide wind range and quicker
reaction time.
The leading edge bladder has
been further tapered through
the wingtip, creating an even
smaller diameter for improved
turning speed and response.
Providing incredible low-end
power and the best down-theline
drift in the Naish line, the
bar pressure has also been slightly
decreased to help fight fatigue
and keep kiters on the water
even longer. Made to take a
beating in heavy surf, the Quad-
Tex canopy remains the strongest
material in the industry,
while the leading edge seam features
a new thread that tested
off the charts in strength. Thanks
to the strength that Quad-Tex

KEY FEATURES
- Quad-Tex Ripstop Fabric = Stiffest, strongest canopy material on
the market.
- Shark Teeth Trailing Edge = Reduces weight while minimizing &
dispersing canopy flutter.
- Precision turns on a small axis with minimum power increase in
the turn.
- ABS Bridle = Consistent forward drive + maximum depower + no
back-stalling.
- Unmatched drifting ability.
- Ultra-reinforced wingtip construction.
- Quick water relaunch.
- Constant leading edge taper.
SIZES:
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
- High-flow valve.
- Octopus Inflation System = Lightest, easiest single-point inflation
system delivering uniform pressure in the struts and leading edge.
provides, Dacron strut panels
can be removed without a loss
of canopy rigidity, allowing for
further weight reduction. Bladder
Lock has also been added
to ensure there is no movement
in the leading edge bladder or
struts when inflating, deflating,
crashing or packing.
The Slash has established itself
as Naish’s premier wave kite,
providing incredible down-theline
drift and stable flight, perfect
for park-and-ride style kitesurfing.

152
PRODUCT FOCUS
Manera
Product focus
ECLIPSE HARNESS
COLLECTION
www.manera.com
Text and Photo: Manera Courtesy
Misure: XS-S-M-L-XL
Having worked on ergonomic
designs for a while, our goal
was to push our frame concept
to more stiffness, allowing
a better support of the back
and a lower fit. But something
100% hard was not an option:
our back needs some adaptability
and human morphology
is unique. So here comes
the ECLIPSE, a skilful balance
between stiffness and flex that
brings support where you need
it and the freedom to move the
way you want.

Adaptive shell
KEY FEATURES
Adaptive shell
The Adaptive Shell stiffness shades from hard in the center area
to softer on the edges. The stiff center-belt prevents the harness
from folding and compressing your body while preserving a good
lumbar support. The softer outline preserves intuitive mobility and
adaptability. It results in a shell that is forgiving where you need
flex and stiff where you want support.
The Adaptive Shell stiffness shades from hard in the center area to
softer on the edge.
Gel foam
Gel foam
The gel foam disperses pressure evenly and efficiently to provide a
“pillow comfort”, much appreciated during long sessions. It creates
a different sense of feeling while riding as it moves along with your
movements, therefore the contact with the harness is more intuitive
and it prevents any rash or rubbing discomfort. Because there’s
nothing worse than a harness that rides up during your sessions,
we developed the DOWN HOLD SYSTEM, an asymmetrical attachment
that distributes the forces downward. Secured in its original
position, the hook does not ride back up.
Tuck flap
Tuck flap
The TUCK FLAPS further assist the DOWN HOLD SYSTEM using the
flaps positioned on the ends of the spreader bar and inserted into
the harness. Once the straps are tightened, they are compressed
and locked. By stiffening the connection between the harness and
the buckle, they prevent it from riding up.
Spreader bar system
Spreader bar system
We wanted to avoid unpleasant lateral contraction of the harness
on the chest, which is why we adapt our spreader bar to harness sizes.
A well-suited spreader bar will pull along both sides of the harness,
while a spreader bar that is too small will pull with an acute
angle, putting pressure on the rider and causing troublesome pain.

154
PRODUCT FOCUS
F-One
Product focus
BANDIT 12
www.f-one.com
Text and Photo: F-One Courtesy
How do you improve the Bandit?
Every year we ask ourselves
this question, and each year
there follows another question,
what are we looking for? Our
primary focus is to develop the
wind range, the lateral pull of
the kite, the feedback and feeling
at the bar and the maneuverability.
After eleven years of
constant enrichment, we focused
on specific areas to channel
our efforts and achieve our
goals with the twelfth edition of
the BANDIT.
H RIDING RANGE
This has always been a key are
for the BANDIT, a wider wind
range means you can enjoy
longer sessions in more varied
conditions. Just because a
kite works across a wide range
though doesn’t mean it is good.
Enhancing the effective “Riding
Range” was the goal for the designers
and testers; this is the
range of wind in which you can
perform all your tricks. You’ll
find the BANDIT allows you to
ride at your best regardless of
the conditions.
H ULTIMATE LINK
There is a special link between
the rider, wind and the water.
Your connection to the kite
is crucial, it is how you feel the
power from the wind, and it provides
the control as well. The feelings
we get when we are kiting
are always different, the wind is
constantly changing and so too
is the water we ride on.
With predictable and consistent
power delivery and incredible
bar feedback, the new BANDIT
ensures every session is a good
session. There will be no more
complaints about gusty winds
or struggling for control when
overpowered.

SIZES 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 17
WIND RANGE 35 + 30 + 28 + 25 + 20 > 35 15 > 30 12 > 26 11 > 24 10 > 22 8 > 18 8 > 16
H MANEUVERABILITY
At F-ONE we believe that we’re
happier when we are riding
smaller kites. 7-9 m2 kites are
always the most fun to fly, as
they are so reactive. This year
the handling on the new BAN-
DIT has been further improved
so that every kite feels smaller
in the sky. You’ll find the 12 m2
flies like a 9 m2 and that feeling
is priceless.
H SMOOTH POWER DELIVERY
Many kiters don’t fully appreciate
the importance of lateral
pull in their kites. When we ride,
we are always fighting the forces
from the kite by edging the
board to create forward motion.
For many years we have been
working to reduce the lateral
pull felt by the rider, this means
you can enjoy longer, more
comfortable sessions with less
effort. The new BANDIT offers
the perfect balance between
power and lateral pull, with fantastic
low end and incredible
comfort in the middle and at the
top of the wind range. Edging
has never been so easy, your
jumps will be even bigger and
your board is released.
KEY POINTS
• The fantastic riding range of the new BANDIT means that you’ll
enjoy every session, no matter the wind variations
• The kite is an extension of your body that performs in harmony
with you; this ultimate link means that as soon as you’ve thought
about the turn, the kite is already making it with a perfect feeling
and control.
• This year the BANDIT delivers extraordinary maneuverability and
reactivity, it’s like driving an “F-ONE car” instead of a bus.
• Power delivery is smooth and consistent regardless of the conditions
offering you maximum comfort.
• The perfect fusion of all our knowledge, the latest materials and
technology means you can enjoy a kite that excels in all disciplines
and makes every session one to remember.
COLOURSI
SLATE / LIME - CORAL / SLATE - DEEP BLUE / BLUE LAGOON - RA-
SPBERRY / CORAL - CORAL / BLUE LAGOON

NEXT ISSUE FEBRUARY-MARCH OUT ON THE 2 TH OF FEBRUARY 2019