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Learn to see the downwind matrix with Huey, aka Foil Me Harder. In this episode, we explore the science of ocean waves and the practical skills that can improve your parawinging and downwind foiling—from reading swell and wave patterns to choosing the right foil, timing your parawing pack-down, linking bumps and finding faster lines through the ocean. Whether you’re learning to parawing, chasing longer downwind runs or trying to understand the energy beneath your foil, this conversation will change how you see the water. Episode links: https://www.instagram.com/foil.me.harder/ Sponsors:
@ozone.wing @foilrat on Instagram

The Ozone R&D team returns to the LabRat Foiler Podcast to unveil their new parawing: the Afterburner—a high-performance single-skin parawing designed for experienced riders seeking greater speed, wider wind range and upwind efficiency. I sit down with designers Dom Zimmermann and Axel Mazella to explore how the Afterburner evolved from early double-skin experiments into an accessible, low-drag design with a higher aspect ratio, refined bridles and a lightweight carbon bar. We discuss its impressive low-end power, huge wind range, rapid steering and exceptional VMG, allowing riders to spend less time fighting their way upwind and more time downwinding. Axel also shares what happened when he pushed the Afterburner in competition, racing among 800 riders at the Défi Wing and reaching incredible speeds on a Parawing. The team explains how the Afterburner parawing compares with the Power Pack and Pocket Rocket, who it is designed for, recommended two-wing quivers and why Ozone ultimately chose a single-skin construction.

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Charles Queguiner, engineer, designer and product manager at Takoon, to unpack the development of the Takoon parawing gear line-up. We go deep into the parawing design details that make the Takoon Cloud different: its simplified four A-line stowing system, flatter bridle geometry, curved wingtip outline, full-carbon moulded bar. Charles explains how these features were designed to make launching, stowing, relaunching and learning to parawing more intuitive—without sacrificing agility or performance. Beyond the wings, Charles breaks down Takoon’s parawing-specific Slide board, its forward volume distribution and wider outline, plus stash belts, safety accessories and Takoon’s lightweight hollow-board construction. We finish by discussing where parawing foiling is heading next—from light-wind riding and racing to wave riding, upwind/downwind missions and faster downwind-foiling progression. Whether you are learning to parawing, comparing the Takoon Cloud and Cloud One, improving your stowing technique, choosing a parawing board or simply interested in foil and parawing product design, this episode is packed with practical and technical insight. If you’re into parawing gear, downwind foiling, wave riding and the future of foiling, make sure to like, subscribe and let me know in the comments: what feature would you most like to see in the next generation of parawings? __ Chapters 01:30 Meet Charles Queguiner from Takoon 06:04 Joining Takoon as a designer and product developer 08:54 Why Takoon decided to develop the Cloud 11:57 Prototypes, bridle testing and Fuerteventura development 16:25 Learning to ride while designing a beginner-friendly parawing 18:46 Takoon Cloud and Cloud One lineup explained 23:59 Nylon vs polyester fabrics for water use 26:57 Full-carbon bar design and simple line setup 30:30 The four A-line stow and simplified bridle system 35:45 Curved wingtips, stability and manoeuvrability 39:56 Designing the Takoon Slide parawing board 44:46 Board width, mast length and upwind performance 46:49 Stash belts and essential parawing accessories 51:37 Accessories for freeride, waves, downwind and racing 54:40 The future of parawings: wider wind range and bigger sizes 59:18 Why every foiler should try parawinging 01:03:29 Takoon’s lightweight hollow-board technology __ Episode links: Takoon Parawing range:https://takoon.com/en-int/pages/parawing Takoon Slide parawing board:https://takoon.com/en-int/products/slide Takoon on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/takoon/ __ Visit https://www.labratfoiler.com to learn more about the Online Parawing Course.Use code LABRAT10 for 10% off :) __ Don’t forget to subscribe for more foiling tutorials, downwinding tips and parawing techniques to elevate your water-sports skills. __ Sponsors: @ozone.wing @codefoils @foilrat on Instagram #Parawing #Parawinging #Foiling #DownwindFoiling #Takoon

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Greg Drexler from BRM to talk about his latest creation: the S3 Parawing. Greg breaks down the full design journey behind the S3 and why BRM moved from multiple parawing models into one refined single-skin design. We go deep into parawing design, including the new D-grip bar system, improved ergonomics, bridle layout, stowing considerations, and how the S3 aims to deliver more drive, stability, and forward flight while still keeping the simplicity and packability of a single-skin parawing. We also nerd out on canopy shape, aspect ratio, bridle cascades height, spliced lines, fabric choices, stash systems, and how small design details can completely change the way a parawing feels on the water. This is a deep-dive episode for anyone interested in a technical parawing talk and thanks to Greg for being such a gentleman to share his knowledge with us!

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Dom Zimmerman, Head of R&D at Ozone, and Axel Mazella from the Ozone R&D team to unpack everything about the brand new Pocket Rocket V2. We go deep into the design evolution from the original Pocket Rocket V1 and how the development of the PowerPack helped shape this next generation of parawing design. This conversation covers the real details that parawingers care about: shorter line lengths, stiffer and thicker lines, improved stowing ergonomics, updated bar widths, the new bow bar system, harness line setup, canopy feel, low-end power, upwind performance, quiver building, and where Ozone sees the future of parawinging heading next. If you’ve been waiting to find out whether the Pocket Rocket V2 is worth the upgrade, this episode is packed with insight straight from the people designing it. We talk about what type of rider this parawing is for, how it compares to the PowerPack, what was improved from the V1s, and why small design details like line coatings, bridle layout, and bar feel make such a huge difference on the water. We also dive into bigger-picture topics around the future of the sport, including parawing racing, performance progression, quiver choices, travel setups, board sizing, and the possibility of new high-performance models to come. Whether you are into parawing foiling, downwind foiling, wave riding, upwind performance, gear design, or just want to understand the latest innovations in parawinging, this episode is for you. If you’re frothing on parawing gear, foiling progression, and the future of the sport, make sure to like, subscribe, and let me know in the comments what you think of the Pocket Rocket V2.

This episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast dives deep into one of the most exciting moments yet for the sport of parawinging: the first SFT / SFD Downwind Parawing World Cup. I sit down with Carlos Saez to unpack the event, the race format, the vision behind it, and why this competition could play a huge role in shaping the future of parawing racing, downwind foiling, and competitive foil sports.    We talk about what makes a true parawing race and why this event is about much more than simply blasting downwind. The big challenge is designing a format that tests real rider skill across the full discipline of parawinging — including upwind ability, downwind speed, stashing, redeploying, pumping, foil control, and tactical decisions under pressure. Instead of rewarding only the fastest gear, the goal is to build an event that rewards the most complete rider.    That opens up some of the biggest conversations in parawinging right now. How important is stashing technique in racing? How much will pump zones influence the results? What kind of parawing board design, foil setup, and gear strategy will work best when racers need to blend powered riding with efficient unpowered foiling? We get into how course design can highlight these skills and why racing could accelerate innovation across the whole sport.   This episode also explores the bigger picture of where parawinging is heading. Carlos explains why parawinging is not just about swell riding, but a discipline that can evolve into multiple directions including racing, freeride, and performance foiling. The race becomes a lens for understanding the sport itself: what skills matter most, what equipment trends are emerging, and how events like this can help define the next phase of parawing progression.    We also cover the broader event context, including how the SFT fits into the growing world of foil competition and why this World Cup format matters for the credibility and growth of the sport. If you’re interested in parawing racing, foil racing, downwind parawing, pump foiling, stow and redeploy technique, parawing gear development, and the future of high-performance parawinging, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Dmitry “the Russian” Evseev, one of the true early adopters of parawinging and a rider who has been testing, refining, and pushing the sport since the beginning. From his journey out of Russia to building a life around wind and waves in Mauritius, Dmitry shares how water sports, foiling, and curiosity for new equipment shaped the rider he is today.   We dive deep into the early days of parawinging, what it was like learning before there was any real information available, and why the sport instantly hooked him. Dmitry breaks down the biggest challenges for beginners, including choosing the right gear, understanding power, managing overpowered conditions, and learning how to properly stow and redeploy the parawing with confidence.   This episode goes deep on technique, especially stowing systems, redeployment, wave riding, and why packing the parawing properly is one of the most important skills in the sport. Dmitry demonstrates his version of the 4-A-line stow method, how he approaches long-line in parawings, and why smooth, automatic technique matters so much in real-world conditions.   We also talk gear design, what makes a great parawing, why modern wings are improving so quickly, hybrid designs, bar setups, line choices, harness systems, and the small accessories that can make a big difference on the water. If you’re into wave riding, downwinders, or long upwind missions, there’s a ton in here for you.   If you’re serious about parawinging, foiling, wave riding, and learning from riders who are helping shape the sport in real time, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with world-class rider Guy Bridge to dive deep into the evolution of parawinging, foiling, and wave riding. From his roots in competitive kitesurfing to pushing the limits of modern foil sports, Guy shares insights on technique, gear progression, and what it really takes to ride at a high level.   We break down his epic Western Australia trip with the Armstrong crew, including wave riding sessions, downwind runs, and the rapid progression of parawing performance. We also get into stowing techniques, light-wind challenges, foil design choices, and how the sport is evolving globally. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and inspiration for your own parawing journey.   This conversation also explores the mindset behind progression — from early frustrations to breakthrough moments — and why parawing is creating such strong community energy worldwide. Thanks for coming on the show Guy! Hope we get to ride together one day!   ⸻   EPISODE LINKS: https://youtu.be/kxBpoNxfCIw?si=zGjDE2B0LOhc4P8A   ⸻   Chapters   00:00 Before the Red Light goes on 04:21 Introduction to Guy Bridge 06:10 The Evolution of Water Sports: From Kiting to Foiling 10:32 The Thrill of Downwind Runs: Social Aspects and Techniques 15:24 WA Trip with Armstrong Crew 16:23 The Social Element of Water Sports: Banter and Community 19:34 The Technical Side of Power Winging: Skills and Techniques 25:03 The Thrill of Parawing and Community Spirit 27:45 Innovations in Parawing Gear 32:39 Wave Riding Videos 36:44 Stowing Techniques and Gear Efficiency 39:57 Parawing Stowing Methods 45:55 The Learning Curve of Parawing 50:02 Breakthrough Moments in Parawinging 51:07 Understanding Technique and Wind Requirements 52:00 Mastering Light Wind Conditions 54:03 The Evolution of Gear and Tacking Techniques 57:12 The Impact of Foil Design on Riding Experience 01:00:11 Finding the Right Balance in Quiver Selection 01:02:58 Transitioning to New Gear and Brand Experiences 01:07:39 Exploring Gear and Board Design Innovations 01:14:17 Armstrong Gear and Becoming a Team Rider 01:19:28 Mastering the Art of Pumping and Lift 01:20:31 The Rise of Parawinging in Local Communities 01:21:35 Wave Riding and the Future of Parawinging 01:24:47 Adventures and Future Plans in Parawinging 01:30:26 Racing Experiences and Community Vibes 01:36:36 Future Destinations and the Evolution of the Sport   __   Visit www.labratfoiler.com to learn more about the Online Parawing Course Use code: LABRAT10 for 10% off :) __   Don’t forget to subscribe for more foiling tutorials, down winding tips, and parawing techniques to elevate your water sports skills. __   Sponsors: @ozone.wing @codefoils @foilrat on Instagram #Parawinging #Parawing #Foiling #DownWinding

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with local ripper Jarrod Snow to talk all things parawinging, SUP downwind foiling, and what it really takes to go fast on the open ocean. Jarrod had just knocked out an 80km downwinder run in properly nuking conditions, so we break down the logistics, the mindset, and the techniques that keep you linking bumps when it’s big. Jarrod shares his biggest performance unlocks for downwind foiling—especially the importance of mast height, staying relaxed to avoid breaching, and “reading the ocean” to hunt downhills and wormholes for speed. We also get into gear: how he trains on “the wrong foil” to level up fast, what his racing setup looks like, and why shorter masts can improve pump and control (with trade-offs). We go deep on how parawinging complements downwinding, turning what used to be pure speed-run days into surfy, playful sessions—especially on a small board and nimble foil. Jarrod drops practical beginner advice for learning to parawing, including why you should oversize your parawing, do heaps of ground handling and stowing practice, and how a kite background can fast-track your progress. We also unpack the new Downwind Foiling World Tour (France, WA, Hawaii), what it’s like racing through seaweed-filled chaos, and why shaping his own boards has become a massive part of his progression—including a purpose-built parawing board design focused on stability, quick release, and early planing. If you’re into parawinging, downwind foiling, SUP downwinders, and improving faster with better technique and smarter gear choices, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. INSTAGRAM LINKS: Jarrod Snow Designs: @jsnow_designs https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUgus6Ik0VW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Snow Foto: @snowfoto_au https://www.instagram.com/snowfoto_au/?hl=en

In this episode I interview Jack Ho, a passionate water sports athlete and foiler. Jack shares his journey from surfing in his home town to discovering the exhilarating world of foiling, particularly the emerging trend of downwinding. He discusses the evolution of his skills in parawinging, the challenges he faced while learning, and the excitement of riding in new locations. Jack emphasizes the importance of having fun and the community aspect of foiling, highlighting how it fosters camaraderie among riders. He also touches on the gear he uses, including a custom vest designed for parawing with patagonia, and his upcoming projects, including a film documenting his adventures in foiling in 2025. Let me know who you'd like to hear from next! Don’t forget to subscribe for more foiling tutorials, down winding tips, and parawing techniques to elevate your water sports skills. _ Link mentioned: Parawing Course: www.LabRatFoiler.com Rufus Downwinder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnnhkO2BtVc&t=16s Jack's 2025 Recap Video: coming soon _ Chapters: 01:04 LabRat Academy – parawing course & discount 02:35 Welcome to the podcast – introducing Jack Ho 03:10 Jack’s water sports background & growing up surfing Waikiki 04:44 From prone foiling to downwind foiling 06:22 The early days of downwind foiling & industry evolution 08:03 First time seeing a parawing 09:54 Learning to parawing on a small board 10:56 Early struggles: balance, lines & stashing 13:13 Skills that transfer from prone, tow & downwind foiling 15:58 Advice for wing foilers moving into parawing & downwind 18:43 Paddle vs parawing for learning downwind foiling 22:19 Finding flow & style in downwind riding 25:47 Dream conditions & why Hood River is special 28:34 Downwind foiling as endless surfing 31:22 Turning technique, body position & hand placement 34:13 The no-pump mindset & carving efficiency 38:11 Gear talk: foils, fuselages & surf-style setups 43:21 Board choice: small prone boards & volumes 45:13 Parawing in waves – potential & risks 48:24 Safety, lines & realistic progression 49:51 Practicing redeploys & lap-style sessions 52:17 Travel benefits of parawing vs SUP 53:19 Strike missions: New Jersey, Europe & global foiling 59:03 Foiling anywhere mindset & redefining surf trips 1:02:01 Creativity, content & storytelling through travel 1:04:18 Announcement: Jack Ho’s 2025 film project _ #Parawinging #Parawing #Foiling #DownWinding

In this end-of-year special, I invited Cynthia Brown, Ken Adgate and Ewan Jaspan to reflect on the significant developments in parawinging throughout 2025. We discuss the evolution of riding styles, innovations in gear, and the moments that have elevated the sport. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities for growth, particularly in making the sport more accessible to newcomers. The excitement for the future of parawinging is palpable as we explore the potential for new tricks, techniques, and equipment advancements. The conversation then steers into the latest innovations in parawing accessories, gear advice for riders, and predictions for the future of parawing in 2026. We explore the importance of proper equipment, the stubbornness of riders regarding board sizes, and the potential for hybrid designs to revolutionize the sport. The discussion also includes rapid-fire questions that reveal personal preferences and insights into the evolving world of parawing. If you would like to listen to the 1-on-1 previous episodes with our guests and get to know them better, check out the episodes below: Episode 013_Ken Adgate: Expert Parawing techniques, tips, hacks and modifications!: https://youtu.be/sdrc85-pfEU Episode 007_Ewan Jaspan from Naish: Introduces the Morph Parawing: https://youtu.be/NbKFHn7CSsk Episode 001_Cynthia Brown 'Cynbad': A Parawing Pioneer and water sport legend: https://youtu.be/CMfPHFiyHms

In this conversation, Dom Zimmerman, head of R&D at Ozone, discusses the new Power Pack parawing, detailing its design innovations, target audience, and performance features. The discussion covers the changes made to the bar system, line configuration, and canopy design, as well as how these changes enhance user experience. Dom also compares the Power Pack's performance to the Pocket Rocket and shares insights on upcoming accessories and developments. I can’t wait to try this new parawing and see what it will unlock! Thanks again for coming on Dom! #Parawing #Foiling #Podcast

In this conversation, Nicolas Calais, the designer of the F1 frigate, shares his extensive journey through the world of water sports, from his early days of surfing to becoming a leading designer in the kite and hydrofoil industry. He discusses the evolution of water sports, the challenges faced in designing the F-One Frigate parawing, and the importance of teamwork in product development. Nicolas emphasizes the balance between performance and usability, particularly in the design of the Frigate parawing, and shares insights into the future of parawings and accessories. We also discuss the latest innovations in parawing design, including improvements in harness lines, stash belts, and materials. He shares insights on rider performance and the evolution of the sport, emphasizing the importance of user experience and adaptability. The discussion also covers the introduction of the Plume, a new tool for water sports, and offers advice for beginners looking to get started with parawings. It was a pleasure to speak with you Nico! Can’t wait to see what you’ll create in years to come! #Parawing #Foiling #Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Francesco Maffei to chat about his journey—from growing up as a young surfer in Italy to becoming one of the go-to shapers for custom parawing boards. We talk about how board sports have evolved, why custom parawing boards are blowing up right now, and all the little details that actually make a board feel good under your feet: volume, thickness, stability, shape… all the nerdy stuff we love. We then jump straight into a full design consult where Francesco walks through how he approaches building a quiver that actually matches a rider’s style, goals, and feel for the sport. He breaks down the three core boards most parawingers want: a light-wind cruiser, a solid everyday board, and a high-performance weapon for stronger days. It’s a super cool look into the trade-offs, the priorities, and how he balances performance with real-world riding. Of course, no custom board is complete without a custom look. Franky shares how he takes a customer’s ideas and turns them into something unique, clean, and totally “them.” We wrap up with Francesco talking about his own parawing goals, how he squeezes progression into a packed schedule, and his mission to complete some of the biggest crossings on Maui. Overall, it’s just a laid-back chat with one of the best shapers out there—and a sneak peek at what it’s like to work with the legend himself. Appreciate you accepting the challenge Franky! Can’t wait to see where this goes! #Parawing #Foiling #Podcast

In this conversation, Aljaz Valik shares his journey from a childhood immersed in aviation to becoming a prominent figure in the parawing design industry. He discusses his competitive background in paragliding, the transition to kite design, and the evolution of foiling. Aljaz highlights the innovations in parawing design, particularly the differences between single and double skin wings, and the unique features of his products. He emphasizes the importance of material choice and the feedback from riders in shaping the future of parawings. We discuss the advancements and innovations in parawings, focusing on material choices, performance, design considerations, and safety procedures. We also explore the future of parawinging, including potential improvements and the importance of encouraging newcomers to the sport. Finally Aljaz shares a bombshell revelation when it comes to what Triple777 is designing next! In his own words “It will be a game changer” Thank you for coming on Al! It was amazing to learn all the technicalities of parawinging with you and this episode will be great for all the parawing nerds out there like me! #Parawing #Foiling #Podcast