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MACkite Wind Sports

MACkiteboarding

Welcome to MACkite Wind Sports, your podcast destination for fun and interesting conversations about kiteboarding and the new sport of wing foiling!

Join us as we explore your favorite wind sports from all angles, from kiteboarding and kitesurfing to kitefoiling, snowkiting, and wing foiling. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or expert, we'll do our best to keep things fresh and relevant for you.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel, featuring over 1000 helpful and informative videos → https://www.youtube.com/@MACkiteboarding

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 34 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • S3 · E38
    August 27 · 20 min

    Ep. 38 | Parawinging Beyond the Swells | Cruising, Racing, and More

    Parawinging has exploded in the wind sports world over the past year and a half, and it's still often pigeonholed as a wave-riding toy: something you stash in one hand while riding swell, then pack away. In this episode, MACkite hosts Jeff and Tucker push past that narrow view and dig into everything parawinging has become. They start with the origin story, tracing how parawinging grew out of the same early excitement that shaped wing foiling: the appeal of riding waves without worrying about kite lines or a bulky wing blocking your view. But just as winging expanded from a wave-focused niche into freestyle, freeride, light wind, and jumping, parawinging is following a similar arc. Jeff and Tucker walk through the discipline-by-discipline breakdown, including: Wave riding, still one of the most incredible applications, with the freedom of one-handed or hands-free riding on a hydrofoil Light wind cruising, where a parawing can feel like kite foiling on short lines: playful, lifted, and easy to jet upwind Freeride handling, practicing tacks, jibes, and small tricks in flat water sessions Downwind foiling and touring, where quick setup and easy size-swapping make parawings ideal for changing conditions Race parawing, a developing category where kite-inspired construction and double-pole setups could turn parawinging into a legitimate speed sport They also get honest about the trade-offs. Unlike a wing, a parawing won't let you cheat marginal wind: it tells you exactly what's happening on the water. That means gear choice and conditions matter, and Jeff and Tucker lay out what "ideal" actually looks like (hint: 15 to 22 knots and as flat as you can find). A big chunk of the conversation is about low maintenance. No pump-up, no bladder to puncture, no Dacron frame to tear, and a wing that folds down small enough to carry two or three in a backpack. After a combined years of winging (with the torn wings and broken bladders to prove it), both hosts have logged zero equipment failures on their parawings so far. For anyone wondering if they should try parawinging, Jeff and Tucker offer real talk: if you're coming from a winging background, it's a fast, natural progression. If you're an experienced kite foiler comfortable switching feet and riding both directions, you can likely shorten your lines and pick it up quickly too. But if you're new to foiling altogether, don't expect the parawing to be a shortcut. Time on a foil board, standing balance, and general foiling comfort matter more than the wing itself. This episode is a great listen for kiteboarders and wingers curious about parawinging, riders trying to decide between a parawing vs. winging vs. kiting setup, or anyone chasing new ways to harness the wind on a hydrofoil. Jeff and Tucker cover gear sizing, beginner tips, foil progression, and where they see parawing gear heading next, from bigger light-wind sizes to dedicated race wings. Whether you're a longtime MACkite rider or just getting curious about wind sports, this conversation will change how you think about what a parawing session can be. Have questions about getting into parawinging, wing foiling, or kite foiling? Want help picking the right gear for your local conditions? Reach out to the MACkite team: Kiteboarder@MACkite.com

  • August 26 · 16 min

    Ep. 37 | From Kite to Wing | Why Kiteboarders Are Making the Switch

    Kiteboarding built a generation of wind sport addicts, but a new discipline is pulling riders off the beach launch and onto anything with a puddle and a breeze. In this episode, the MACkite crew sits down to unpack the biggest wind sport growth story of the last five years: winging (a.k.a. wing foiling). Hosts Jeff and Tucker, both longtime kiteboarders with roots stretching back to the sport's earliest days in the late '90s, get into a candid, occasionally spicy conversation about why so many experienced kiteboarders are adding wing foils to their quiver, or ditching the kite lines altogether. If you've noticed more of those little "butterfly" sails popping up on lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and even landlocked bayous that never used to see wind sports, this episode explains exactly why. Topics covered include: Accessibility. Why winging removes the biggest barrier to entry in kiteboarding: needing a wide-open beach, a clean wind window, and a safe self-launch/self-land setup. Winging works on small lakes, crowded beaches, and marginal wind spots where kiting simply isn't practical. The foil factor. Tucker's firsthand account of testing early prototype wings from brands like Slingshot, Duotone, and Naish before the sport was public, and how the transition from big, draggy kite foils to fast, efficient wing setups changed everything. Progression without the impact. An honest discussion about aging in action sports, how years of kiteboarding tricks and handle passes take a toll on shoulders, knees, and backs, and why winging offers a way to keep progressing at a high level without the same physical wear. The feeling of flow. Comparing the endorphin rush of a kiteboarding jump (a few seconds of air) to the sustained, surf-like glide of riding a foil on a wave for minutes at a time, the kind of flow state surfers, snowboarders, and paragliders chase. Lower intimidation, safer learning curve. No relaunching, no line tension, no getting yanked downwind. Just paddle out, get up, and if things go wrong, paddle back in. The hosts break down why winging feels more approachable for newer riders and why the consequences of a mistake are generally lower than in kiteboarding. Wind range and versatility. How wing foiling opens up ridable conditions from roughly 5 to 50 knots, making it possible to get out far more often than traditional kiteboarding allows. Whether you're a die-hard kiteboarder who's been eyeing the wing foilers out on the water, a rider looking for a new challenge that's easier on the body, or someone who's never tried either sport and wants to understand the current wind sport landscape, this conversation lays out the real reasons behind winging's explosive growth and why it might be worth adding to your own quiver. MACkite has been on the front edge of wind sports since the late 1990s, teaching kiteboarding lessons since 1999 and selling gear even earlier. This episode continues that tradition of hands-on, rider-to-rider knowledge sharing for anyone curious about where wind sports are headed next. Got questions about getting started in winging or want to talk gear? Reach out anytime, we're happy to help you get set up. Get in touch: Kiteboarder@MACkite.com

  • S2 · E8
    Oct 24, 2025 · 14 min

    Ep. 36 | From World Champion to Innovator | Aaron Hadlow with the Brazilian Brothers

    In this episode, the Brazilian Brothers sit down with one of kiteboarding’s all-time greats—Aaron Hadlow. From learning to ride with his dad in the late ‘90s to becoming a five-time World Champion and King of the Air winner, Aaron shares how his lifelong pursuit of progression shaped both his riding and the sport itself. The conversation dives deep into Aaron’s evolution from freestyle to big air, the physical and creative challenges along the way, and what it’s been like to help design next-generation kites with Harlem Kitesurfing alongside Ralf Groesel. Aaron opens up about why he left Duotone, the breakthrough technology behind Harlem’s Thrive and Peak kites, and how his mindset toward innovation continues to push kiteboarding forward. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just discovering the sport, this episode captures the passion, humility, and technical insight of one of kiteboarding’s most respected riders. Stick around until the end for talk of Aaron’s upcoming freestyle project and his mission to mentor the next generation of riders. Listen now and hear what keeps a true legend inspired after two decades at the top.

  • S2 · E7
    Aug 26, 2025 · 22 min

    Ep. 35 | FLITElab | How Tech is Redefining What’s Possible in Wing Foiling and Surf Foiling

    Foiling is changing—and the FLITElab AMP Jet might be the clearest sign yet. In this episode, Tucker from MACkite dives into how jet-assist technology is opening up a whole new era for riders. From effortless takeoffs in light wind to the idea of a true “one-board quiver,” the AMP Jet is more than just another piece of gear—it’s a glimpse into the future of watersports. We’ll unpack what makes this system different from traditional Foil Drives, what it means for accessibility and progression, and whether we’re seeing the birth of a new discipline altogether: jet foiling. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just curious about where the sport is headed, this conversation will get you thinking about what’s next on the water.

  • S2 · E8
    Aug 7, 2025 · 30 min

    Ep. 34 | The Story Behind the 2026 Cabrinha Mantis Apex | Interview with Brendan Healy

    In this episode, we sit down with Brendan Healy, Sales Manager at Cabrinha, to dive deep into the design and development of the 2026 Cabrinha Mantis Apex wing. Brendan shares the story behind Cabrinha’s first Aluula wing, explaining how the team found the perfect balance between performance, flex, and cost. We talk about material choices, boom compatibility, rigid handles, fiberglass battens, and why the 4m, 4.5m, and 5.5m sizes made the cut for this limited-edition release. If you’re curious about what makes the Mantis Apex a standout in Cabrinha’s lineup—and what might be coming next—this conversation has it all. Whether you're chasing swell, freeriding, or just wing-curious, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

  • Aug 1, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min

    Ep. 33 | The Mind Behind the Jet | Chris Reynolds on Innovation at FLITELab

    In this episode, Cole from MACkite talks with Chris Reynolds, founder, and product designer at FLITELab, for an inside look at one of the most innovative foil assist systems on the market—the AMP Jet. Chris shares the origin story behind the concept, starting with his early sessions at Bells Beach and the challenges that led him to rethink how assistive propulsion could be integrated into a foil board without compromising performance. They dig into the details of the design process, from hundreds of impeller and stator prototypes to the decision to house the jet motor entirely within the board’s tail. Chris explains how this low-drag, high-thrust system changes the experience for surf foilers, downwind explorers, and wing riders alike. Whether you're a gearhead, a foil addict, or just curious about what’s next in performance design, this conversation offers a rare peek behind the curtain of cutting-edge foil innovation.

  • S2 · E6
    Jul 29, 2025 · 1 hr 29 min

    Wing Foiling vs. Parawinging | The Future of Foil Sports with Bowen Dwelle

    In this episode of Foil Fridays, Tucker from MACkiteboarding is joined by industry insider and longtime wind sports writer Bowen Dwelle to explore the fast-evolving world of wing foiling and parawinging. From early kite foil setups to cutting-edge parawing design, the conversation covers real-world gear testing, riding style comparisons, and how different environments like Lake Michigan and San Francisco Bay influence gear choice. They dig into the top parawings on the market—like the F-One Frigate, Ozone Pocket Rocket, BRM Cloud, Flysurfer POW, and more—offering hands-on impressions and honest assessments of what works best for different conditions, skill levels, and budgets. Along the way, they tackle topics like safety best practices, the importance of building habits and pre-flight checklists, and how the sport can grow in an inclusive, adventure-friendly direction. Whether you're a foil-curious beginner or a seasoned waterman, this episode offers insights, gear tips, and a vision for where wind-powered riding is heading next.

  • S2 · E5
    Jul 18, 2025 · 30 min

    What We Rode & Why | Wing Foiling Gear Breakdown from a Perfect Windy Day

    In this episode, Jeff and Skip from MACkite break down one of the best wind days of the season on Lake Michigan. With gusts pushing 30+ knots and waves rolling in, they took full advantage—testing everything from the Cabrinha AER wing and Code S foils to North’s SF lineup and the KT Super K board. They share honest impressions of what worked, what surprised them, and what they'd do differently next time. Whether you're dialing in your foil setup or just stoked on high-wind sessions, this one’s packed with firsthand insights, gear comparisons, and a few good laughs. Topics Covered: Code 720S vs 850S foil performance Cabrinha AER wing review in waves North SF 680 foil first impressions Starboard vs KT board feel Stabilizer tuning tips Wave vs flatwater riding benefits And why crashing is a sign of progress

  • S2 · E4
    Jun 5, 2025 · 21 min

    Breaking the Mold | The Waka Glide Folding Wing Foil Board

    In this episode, we sit down with Nigel Thompson, from Waka, and Tucker from MACkite, to dive into one of the most innovative products to hit the wing foiling world in years: the Waka Glide Folding Wing Foil Board. Designed for high-performance riding and proper travel convenience, this board folds in half—literally—without compromising stiffness, durability, or on-water feel. Nigel walks us through the two-year development journey behind the Waka Glide, from the early challenges of prototyping to the breakthrough moment that led to their flexible composite hinge system, inspired by aerospace materials like carbon and Kevlar. We unpack how the board folds, how it's reinforced internally, and why it feels stiffer than many traditional solid boards. Tucker shares his first impressions after unboxing and handling the Waka Glide, highlighting its ultra-lightweight construction, premium materials, and clever design features, such as recessed deck pads, long foil tracks, and dual-purpose cutouts that serve as both structural fasteners and handles. We also discuss real-world benefits for travelers, including smaller rental cars, compliance with checked luggage policies, and eliminating the compromise of inflatables. Whether you're a seasoned wing foiler looking for a go-anywhere solution or a gearhead interested in the latest innovations, this episode offers an exciting look at how portability and performance are finally coming together. We also discuss sizing strategies, use cases for various riding styles (including prone, parawing, and Foil Driving), and what's next for the Waka Glide lineup. Topics Covered: – Why travel boards have always required compromise — until now – The hinge tech that makes folding possible without sacrificing performance – Real-world applications for wing foilers, prone riders, and more – Sizing tips and who this board is (and isn’t) for – Why Tucker believes this could be a true one-board travel quiver – What’s included: day bag, travel roller bag, and thoughtful design extras – How this board could save you money on flights and car rentals – What’s coming next for Waka Boards Tune in to hear how Waka is redefining what’s possible in wing foiling travel gear—without giving up the performance you’ve come to expect.

  • S2 · E3
    May 14, 2025 · 46 min

    From Ironman to Wing Foiler: Skip’s Unexpected Journey

    In this episode, Jeff and Ryan sit down with fellow MACkite teammate Skip, whose path into wing foiling is anything but ordinary. From the early days of two-line kiteboarding to stepping away from wind sports for Ironman triathlons, Skip brings a unique perspective on coming back to the water later in life—and tackling one of the fastest-growing sports out there. He shares the ups and downs of learning to wing foil from scratch, what gear helped him progress, how he balanced training with family life, and the tips he wishes he knew before he started. You’ll hear stories about crashing, hooting, and finding joy in the journey—even when you’re knee-deep in the learning curve. Skip also highlights the stoke and camaraderie of riding with a tight-knit local crew and why wing foiling is as much about the people as it is the wind. Whether you’re brand new to winging or deep in the game, this conversation is packed with relatable moments, laugh-out-loud stories, and hard-earned advice from someone who's lived it.

  • S2 · E2
    Mar 5, 2025 · 23 min

    Foil Drive, Wing Foil, and Parawing | A Discussion About the Styles of Foiling

    If you love foiling or are just getting started, this episode is packed with insight! Join Tucker and Jeff from MACkite as they dive deep into the world of Wing Foil, Foil Drive, and Parawing—three of the most exciting ways to get on foil today. They’ll break down the differences, who each style is for, and how these foiling disciplines are shaping the future of riding. Is Wing Foiling still king when it comes to versatility? Does Foil Drive make foiling more accessible? And is Parawing the next big thing for downwind and wave riding? Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your foiling game or just want to geek out on the latest trends, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for an engaging discussion that will help you decide which ride is right for you.

  • S3 · E1
    Jan 31, 2025 · 29 min

    Wing Foiling in Waves and Swells | High-Aspect vs. Mid-Aspect Foils

    The discussion revolves around foiling in waves and swells, particularly the different foil choices for breaking waves versus rolling swell. The conversation is led by Jeff, Ryan, and Tucker from MACkiteboarding, who break down how different foils perform in various conditions and how riders should choose their gear based on their intended style of riding. They start by differentiating between rolling swells and breaking waves. Rolling swells, typically found in deeper water, maintain their shape and move steadily, requiring efficient, high-aspect foils to maintain glide and chase the swell downwind. On the other hand, breaking waves fold over and generate more power, demanding foils that are more maneuverable, allowing for tighter turns and more dynamic riding in critical sections. When discussing foil selection, they emphasize the importance of aspect ratio. Higher aspect foils (9-10 range) provide better glide and efficiency, making them ideal for downwind rolling swells where speed and momentum are crucial. Lower to mid-aspect foils (7-8 range) are better suited for breaking waves, as they allow for tighter turns and more control in steeper, more powerful conditions. They also point out that while lower aspect foils can be easier to turn, they introduce more drag and have a limited speed range. Specific foil models are mentioned, with Ryan noting his preference for the Axis ART V2 for downwind swells and the Spitfire or similar mid-aspect foils for powerful breaking waves. Tucker highlights that his go-to choices for surf-style riding include the Code S series (750-850 range) and the F-One Eagle series for efficient downwind gliding. The general consensus is that the best foil choice depends on the conditions, and many advanced riders keep multiple foils in their quiver to cover different scenarios. The conversation also touches on fuselage length and stabilizers. Shorter fuselages and surf-oriented stabilizers are better for carving in breaking waves, allowing for quick, snappy turns. Longer fuselages, paired with flatter, more efficient stabilizers, improve glide and pumpability for chasing downwind swells. However, they note that fuselage length is a smaller factor compared to the advancements in front wing design. A key takeaway is that many riders underestimate their ability to size down. Some assume they need a larger foil when transitioning to waves, but the team encourages intermediate riders to experiment with smaller, more efficient foils, as they often provide a better experience in waves. Higher aspect foils, despite requiring more skill to turn, offer superior glide and efficiency, making them more intuitive for wave riding once a rider adjusts to them.

  • S2 · E3
    Dec 27, 2024 · 20 min

    Foil Drive Max or Slim? A Deep Dive into Your Options

    In this episode, Ryan and Aaron dive into the ultimate Foil Drive battery debate: Max vs. Slim. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy entry into foiling or an advanced rider seeking a lightweight, high-performance setup, this conversation has you covered. They break down the key differences in size, weight, runtime, and use cases, offering practical insights to help you choose the right battery for your foiling adventures. Discover how your experience level, riding style, and goals factor into the decision, and hear firsthand tips on optimizing your sessions. From maximizing battery efficiency to understanding how each unit performs in real-world scenarios like prone foiling, wake foiling, and downwind SUP, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. Tune in for expert advice and honest opinions to get the most out of your Foil Drive experience!

  • S2 · E4
    Nov 8, 2024 · 34 min

    Wing Foil Boards | When to Choose a Downwind or Mid-Length

    In this episode, we dive into the big debate in wing foiling: **Downwind Boards vs. Mid-Length Boards**. Join Tucker, Ryan, and Jeff from MACkiteboarding as they share their hands-on experiences with both board types and help you navigate the pros and cons. Are you an inland lake rider who struggles in light winds? Or do you need a versatile board that handles everything from light breezes to stronger gusts? We explain why **Downwind Boards** are game-changers for light wind wing foiling and why **Mid-Length Boards** might be the perfect all-rounder for diverse conditions. From stability to performance, learn what each board brings to the table, how they fit into different riding styles, and which one could be your next go-to board. Whether you're looking to maximize your time on the water or step up your wing foiling game, this episode has the insights you need to make the right choice.

  • S2 · E3
    Nov 4, 2024 · 45 min

    Kiteboarding and the Joys of Remote Work in Brazil

    In this episode, we dive into the exhilarating world of kiteboarding in Brazil with David Fischer, a North and MACkite Ambassador who’s been living the dream—combining remote work with his passion for the sport. David shares insights from his travels along Brazil’s stunning northeast coast, detailing must-visit spots, tips for navigating the local scene, and what makes Brazil a top destination for kiteboarders. From epic downwinders and secluded lagoons to balancing a remote work lifestyle, David offers practical advice for those looking to follow a similar path. He also introduces Cometa, a co-living space designed for adventurers who want to work remotely while staying close to nature. Tune in to learn about the logistics, challenges, and rewards of kiteboarding in Brazil, plus why embracing local culture can turn a trip into a life-changing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned kiteboarder or a curious remote worker, this episode is packed with tips to help you plan your own adventure.

  • S2 · E1
    Feb 2, 2024 · 31 min

    Wing Foiling Trends for 2024 | What's IN—What's OUT?

    Welcome to the latest episode of the MACkite Podcast, where we dive into the evolving world of wing foiling in 2024. Join your hosts, Tucker and Jeff from MACkiteboarding.com, as they unpack the latest trends shaping the sport. With years of experience and a passion for wing foiling, they bring a wealth of knowledge to this discussion. In this episode, Tucker and Jeff explore various trends in wing foiling, focusing on what's emerging and what's fading as we step into 2024. They share their personal experiences with different gear, offering insights into the practical impacts of these trends on everyday riders. Highlights of the episode include: 1. The Shift in Board Preferences: Tucker and Jeff discuss the move away from full sinker boards towards larger, more versatile options. They delve into why this shift is happening and how it affects performance in various conditions. 2. Evolving Foil Designs: They explore the trend towards higher aspect, thinner foil sections, discussing the benefits of efficiency and performance range, and how these changes cater to both beginners and advanced riders. 3. Fuselage Lengths and Stabilizers: Learn about the trend towards standard fuselage lengths and the diminishing popularity of huge stabilizers, indicating a shift towards efficiency and speed in foil design. 4. Wing Innovations: The conversation covers the rise of independent inflation systems in wings, the debate over the utility of windows in wings, and the trend away from soft, flexible wings towards more rigid designs for better performance. 5. The Future of Boom Usage: A lively discussion ensues about the ongoing relevance of booms in wing foiling, considering their advantages and disadvantages. 6. Board Design Evolution: The episode concludes with a look at how board designs are changing, moving from short and chunky to longer, thinner profiles for better performance and versatility. Tucker and Jeff don't just discuss what's changing; they delve into the why, offering valuable insights for both new and experienced wing foilers. Whether you're looking to upgrade your gear or just curious about the direction of the sport, this episode is packed with information to help you navigate the dynamic world of wing foiling in 2024.

  • S1 · E20
    Sep 19, 2023 · 26 min

    Wing Foiling | What's the Mass Appeal?

    Ever wondered why beaches and lakes are suddenly filled with people holding inflatable wings and riding hydrofoils? We break it down for you. From the adrenaline-pumping sensation of gliding above the water to the freedom of harnessing the wind without lines or masts, wing foiling offers a unique blend of surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding experiences.

  • S1 · E19
    Sep 18, 2023 · 9 min

    How to Wing Foil for Beginners | Leveraging Your Mast

    Join Erik and Aaron in a conversation about a highly overlooked part of the wing foiling equation. Leveraging your hydrofoil mast as an effective 3rd axis can help you to pump your way onto foil in the lightest of conditions.

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