LabRat Foiler Podcast

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