Latest News, Blog & Videos
Foil Drive | Backstage Pass to the Making of "Blue Highway"
This blog recounts the incredible journey that Paul Cooper and Josh Ku, two Foil Drive sponsored athletes, recently embarked on. They spent a week in Paul’s hometown of Hawaii, capturing footage for an extraordinary Foil Drive project. Their adventure culminated in an unprecedented crossing from Molokai to Oahu on their prone foil boards, setting a new benchmark in the world of Foil Drive adventures.
Arrival and Unpredictable ConditionsA Challenging Start
Upon Josh's arrival in Hawaii,
…
15th Jul 2024
Foil Drive Prop Comparison | 2-Blade vs. 3-Blade | Which is Better?
Foil Drive systems come standard with a 2-blade propeller, and it works great. However, they also offer a 3-blade prop as an upgrade. How is its performance different from the stock propeller, and which one is right for you? Ryan got a chance to get out in the water to test both back-to-back and was able to make some interesting observations.What Are Some Differences?Ryan was out in small, challenging conditions where the assist from the Foil Drive was pretty much a must. He was surprised
…
11th Jul 2024
Big Air Kiteboarding Basics, Episode 3: Full Scorpion to Front Roll Waterstart
Crashing is an inevitable part of big air, but the good news is that there's a way to get back up in style after you find yourself floating on your belly in that scorpion position. Sure, you can simply send the kite up, sheet in, and pop up and out of the water, but why do that when you can add some flair and turn it into a trick? David has a tip on how to do exactly that.
Add a Front Roll Rotation to Your Waterstart
1. You're in the water, on your belly, with your board attache
…
11th Jul 2024
Big Air Kiteboarding Basics, Episode 2: How To Get More Inverted Front Rolls
Are you looking to add more style and more inversion to your front rolls? David is back with another guide on how to progress your kiteboarding skills, and here he presents two different ways for you to have a more stylish front roll to show off. Plus, it's just more fun this way!
First, you'll need to already be able to do a front roll smoothly and consistently. Once you're ready to take it to the next step, try these methods:The Cartwheel Method
1. Come in with speed and th
…
11th Jul 2024
Axis Foil Drive Board vs. Omen Flux
The Axis Foil Drive board has just arrived at the shop, and the guys managed to get a quick morning session in small conditions on it. It's quite similar to the Omen Flux, but there are a few differences. What are they, and how did the Axis Foil Drive board stack up to the shop favorite Flux? Ryan's got it broken down for us.
Shape
Both the Axis Foil Drove and the Omen Flux are a bit longer and narrower than your typical prone surfboard. This makes them more efficient and easier to pop
…
2nd Jul 2024
How to Remove a Deck Pad from Your Surfboard | A Step-by-Step Guide by Appletree Surfboards
The Deck Pad Dilemma
Deck pads are a great addition to your surfboard, providing extra grip and comfort. However, over time, you might find the need to remove or replace them. Whether it's because they're worn out, you're upgrading to a new design, or you simply don't like the fit, taking off a deck pad can be challenging. This guide will show you a few easy tricks to remove your deck pad in one piece without damaging your board.
Tools You’ll Need
A broomstick Thinners (be cautious with
…
24th Jun 2024
Following the Wind | An Epic Reedin Kiteboarding Adventure
"UP THE COAST: A Must-See Kitesurf Movie!"
Kiteboarding is not just a sport; it's a lifestyle, a passion, and a journey that takes enthusiasts to the most stunning and remote locations in the world. One such journey was recently embarked upon by Kevin Langeree and his team of Reedin riders.
This blog takes you through their unforgettable road trip up the coast, filled with adventure, camaraderie, and, of course, epic kiteboarding sessions.The Dream Begins
Kevin Langeree, a legend in the
…
24th Jun 2024
Improve Your Surf Foil Skills with Foil Drive | Helpful Tips and Techniques
Foil Drive is more than just a product; it's a community dedicated to enhancing the surf foil experience with innovative technology. In this masterclass, Paul from Foil Drive shares invaluable tips and tricks on how to effectively use the Foil Drive system in the surf. Whether you're a seasoned foiler or just starting, these insights will help you make the most of your time on the water.
Introduction to Foil Drive
Foil Drive aims to create not only excellent products but also
…
21st Jun 2024
Lieuwe Awesome Review | Why This All-Around Kiteboard Lives Up to Its Name
We've got a new board brand at the shop, and Jake took one of their twintip kiteboards, the Awesome, out for a spin. The brand is Lieuwe, pronounced "lee-wa". Admittedly, that's even a bit harder to get right than "Naysh", "Cabreenya", or "Dakeen". Lieuwe is a Dutch company, but we're finding that name tricky, even being located just one town north of Holland, Michigan. However, in terms of performance, the Awesome is a really fun board that lives up to its name.Overview of Lieuwe's L
…
21st Jun 2024
2024 Airush Lithium V13 and Lithium Team Review | Advanced Kite Constructions
We've got a special appearance by Kristen Cooper today, and she's going to give us the scoop on the 2024 Lithium V13 and Lithium Team Series kites. What is the Lithium good at, how is the Team Series different, and who is each kite for?
Lithium: A Legacy of Loft
Airush has been part of the kiteboarding scene since 1999, and while a variety of kites have come and gone, the Lithium has long been a staple in their lineup. This year, the Lithium is in its 13th generation, and there ha
…
21st Jun 2024
North Mode Ultra Wing Review | Innovative Design and Cutting-Edge Materials
In today's episode of Wing Wednesdays, Tucker has the all-new 2024 North Mode Ultra. You're probably familiar with the Mode, North's speedy race wing, as well as the Mode Pro that was introduced last year as an upgraded construction model, but the Ultra is on a whole other level. What makes this new entry to the Mode lineup so special?
What is the Ultra?
The Mode Ultra is North's top-tier, no-compromises wing construction. It delivers with a level of performance that hasn't been seen b
…
14th Jun 2024
Ozone Liteforce Wing Review | A Detailed Look at the 7.7m Model
It's time for another Wing Wednesdays with Tucker, and today he's looking at Ozone's light wind wing, the Liteforce. It's a brand new model for 2024 and comes in 6.6 and 7.7m sizes. Tucker is a larger rider and has been testing the 7.7m the past few weeks. Spoiler alert: He loves it. It captures what a lot of light wind riders are looking for. So what are those things, and is this the light wind wing for you?FeaturesSurf/Tow/Luff HandleThe surf handle is nice and large but still lightwei
…
14th Jun 2024
Mastering Your Wing Foiling Foot Switch | Tips from Greg at Omen Foils
Understanding the Basics
Importance of Hip Control
The most crucial aspect of this entire technique is hip control. Pay particular attention to this, especially if you ride with a wide stance. Your hips are the pivot point for a successful foot switch, and keeping them in the correct position is vital.
Step-by-Step Technique Breakdown
Foot Positioning
Before you attempt the switch, start by adjusting your feet. Bring them closer together and point your toes more forward while staying near the
…
13th Jun 2024
Sessions: Wing Foiling West Michigan | A Day Out with the MACkite Crew
Join Tucker, Hooker and Skinny for a chill wing foiling session in West Michigan. It's an absolutely perfect June day to try out some of the season's fresh gear, including North and Reedin wing foiling wings, Omen Flux wing foilboards, and F-One hydrofoils.
West Michigan has a beauty all its own, with wide beaches, lighthouses, and the blue-green waters of Lake Michigan. Come along for the ride!
MACkite Subscription Links:
YouTube | Instagram
|
…
12th Jun 2024
Slingshot Slingwing NXT V1 Wing Review | The Every Rider's Aluula Wing
In this episode of Wing Wednesdays, Tucker has an Aluula wing from Slingshot, the Slingwing NXT. This is the first version of this wing, so did Slingshot get it right? Is it worth the premium for the advantages we expect from the Aluula upgrade?We've already done a live Q & A on the NXT, and you can check that out here. We also went over the details of the wing, but as a quick review, here are the main features of the wing.NXT FeaturesHandlesThe surf handle is a stiff, lightweight, r
…
12th Jun 2024