Episode #81 - Rou Chater (IKSURFMAG & Tonic Magazine)
January 08, 202501:27:18

Episode #81 - Rou Chater (IKSURFMAG & Tonic Magazine)

On this episode, we’re joined by Rou Chater, the founder of IKSURFMAG and Tonic Magazine to talk about:
 
•⁠ ⁠His early start in windsurfing at the age of seven and how he transitioned to kitesurfing in 2000 and how he was one of the early adopters of wingfoiling in 2019; we discuss stories of his incredible adventures and the evolution of water sports.
•⁠ ⁠The importance of community in water sports and how it fosters cross-cultural friendships
•⁠ ⁠Pembrokeshire's hidden gems for water sports enthusiasts
•⁠ ⁠Rou’s obsession with learning new skills like dock starting and his experiences with kite foiling and wing foiling
•⁠ ⁠The core pillars of Tonic Magazine: tests, technique, and travel
•⁠ ⁠How Rou transitioned from a stable job to pursuing his passion for water sports, founding IK Surf Mag and then Tonic Magazine
•⁠ ⁠The focus on sustainability in his sunglasses venture and his dedication to honest gear testing
•⁠ ⁠We also touch on the future of the sport, including engaging younger generations, promoting inclusivity, and keeping the grassroots spirit alive.
•⁠ ⁠Rou’s commitment to enhancing the experience for everyday foilers and creating relevant, authentic content has made him a respected voice in the community.

📸 Follow Rou on Instagram: @rouchater

Frank BingelFrank BingelSocial Media Manager
Matthias HäfeleMatthias HäfeleContent Researcher
Stephen ColemanStephen ColemanAudio & Video Editor

In this engaging conversation, Rou Chater shares his journey through various water sports, from his early days of windsurfing to the evolution of kitesurfing and foiling. He discusses the beauty and tranquility of living in Pembrokeshire, Wales, where he enjoys a low population density and world-class water sports conditions. The conversation also touches on the sense of community fostered by these sports, his thrilling snowboarding adventures, and the challenges and joys of learning new skills in the water sports realm. In this conversation, Rou Chater shares his journey from a passionate ocean sports enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur in the kiteboarding and wing foiling industry. He discusses the evolution of his career, the challenges of starting and running IK Surf Mag and Tonic Magazine, and the importance of honest gear testing. Rou also highlights the significance of community and passion in his work, as well as his ventures into sustainable products like sunglasses. The conversation encapsulates the spirit of adventure, innovation, and the ever-changing landscape of water sports media. In this conversation, Rou Chater discusses the unique model of Tonic Magazine, emphasizing its free access to readers and the importance of removing barriers to entry. He explores the future of foiling, focusing on the need for equipment that enhances the experience for everyday participants. The discussion also highlights the importance of engaging younger generations in the sport and promoting inclusivity, particularly for women. Rou stresses the responsibility of content creators to provide relevant and appropriate material that resonates with the core audience, ultimately aiming to keep the sport thriving and accessible for all.

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