In this episode of The Foil Pod, Rou Chater sits down with Starboard Foils designer and brand manager Tiesda You to talk about his journey from shaping windsurf boards as a teenager in Qatar to leading foil development for one of the sport’s most innovative brands. They discuss how design has evolved from hands-on shaping bays to computer-driven hydrodynamics, the challenges of stiffness, materials and connection systems, and the thinking behind Starboard’s new foil range. It is a fascinating insight into the process behind the equipment we ride and the future of foil design.

Check out the new range here: https://star-board.com/pages/wing-foiling

Join us for an in-depth conversation with wing foil racing legend Mathis Ghio as we explore his journey from windsurfing to high-speed wing foiling, the development of innovative equipment like the Ozone Fusion wings, and insights into the future of racing and speed records.

Check out his Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mathisghio/

In this in-depth interview, Olympic water sports athlete Alina Kornelli shares her journey from kitesurfing to wing foiling, the challenges of Olympic training, and her innovative social media strategies. Discover insights into high-performance water sports, the importance of fun and perseverance, and how to build a personal brand in the digital age.

Check out her YouTube

Follow her on Instagram

In this conversation, Gary Siskar and Rou Chater discuss the latest developments in water sports safety, focusing on the new Ride Engine Charger helmet designed for safety in dynamic water sports like foiling and surfing. They explore the importance of helmet safety, the innovative features of the Charger helmet, and the evolving attitudes towards helmet use in the water sports community.

Check out the Charger Helmet here!

In this engaging conversation, Rou Chater interviews Svein Rasmussen, the CEO and founder of Starboard, one of the world's largest water sports companies. They discuss Svein's early passion for windsurfing, the evolution of Starboard, and the innovations in windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and foiling. The conversation also delves into the importance of sustainability in the water sports industry and Svein's vision for the future of the sport.

Check out the Starboard website

Check out the Starboard Foils Instagram

In this engaging conversation, Sensi Graves shares her journey from kiting to winging, discussing the innovations in gear that enhance the experience. She highlights the unique conditions of Hood River for winging, downwind and parawinging and the growing inclusivity of the sport, especially among women. Sensi reflects on the challenges of learning to wing, the influence of other extreme sports, and her experiences mentoring women to get involved in these sports we love. Balancing motherhood with an active lifestyle, she emphasises the importance of celebrating small victories and embracing the learning process in water sports.

Follow Sensi on Insta

Get coached by Sensi

The conversation explores the safety concerns in watersports, particularly the reluctance of riders to wear helmets despite the risks involved. It delves into cultural attitudes towards helmet use, the perception of style among kiteboarders, foilers and surfers, and the discomfort associated with wearing the more traditional helmets while doing these sports.

https://www.mysticboarding.com/products/legacy-helmet

In this engaging conversation, Rou Chater speaks with water sports athlete Ben Beholz about his journey into water sports, the evolution of foiling, and the impact of new technologies on the sport. They discuss the challenges and rewards of dock starting, the importance of practice, and the latest products from Core, including the Drip board and Pulse foil. Ben shares insights on the design philosophy behind these products and how they cater to both beginners and experienced foilers, emphasising the accessibility and excitement of water sports.

Check out Ben's YouTube Channel ⁠HERE⁠

Check out the new ⁠Drip⁠ and ⁠Pulse⁠ from ⁠CORE ⁠