Episode #94 - Kevin Collins / Maui Foil House
April 23, 202500:40:19

Episode #94 - Kevin Collins / Maui Foil House

On this episode we sit down with Kevin Collins, a seasoned waterman who’s spent the last 24 years mastering kite surfing, and foiling on Maui’s world-class waves. From his early days chasing thunderstorms in Florida to building a foiling hub in Paia, Kevin shares his journey, hard-earned lessons, and the stoke of riding alongside many of Maui's legends. This episode is a deep dive into the evolution of foiling, the vibrant Maui community, and the passion that keeps Kevin charging at 64.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
- From Florida to Maui: How Kevin’s kite surfing passion led him to Maui in 2001, trading a sedentary tech life for a waterman’s lifestyle fueled by consistent trade winds.
- Maui Foil House Origins: The story of transforming a rundown windsurfing rental into a foiling base, offering lessons, rentals, and guided experiences for visitors.
- Foiling’s Early Days: Kevin’s journey from risky aluminum foils to riding cutting-edge Armstrong gear, reinvigorating his love for wind sports with the “unicycle on water” vibe.
- Mentoring Young Talent: Riding with rising stars like Cash Berzolla, Kevin reflects on the calculated risks and cat-like reflexes driving the next generation at spots like Pier 1.
- Maui’s Foiling Paradise: Why Ka’a and other breaks make Maui a global foiling mecca, with insights on the upcoming downwind season and Triple Crown races.

Visit www.mauifoilhouse.com and follow the action on Instagram at @foil.house or @mauifoilhouse

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Maui Foil House and Personal Journey
02:59 The Evolution of Kitesurfing and Foiling
05:57 Early Experiences and Challenges in Kitesurfing
08:56 Transitioning to Foiling and Equipment Development
12:03 Building a Business Around Passion
14:55 Maui Foil House: A Hub for Water Sports Enthusiasts
17:58 Community and Culture of Foiling in Maui
21:38 The Journey of a Young Foiler
24:45 Cash's Incredible Skills and Passion
29:26 Calculated Risks in Water Sports
31:52 Experience and Safety in Water Sports
35:24 The Evolution of Water Sports on Maui
38:34 Maui Foil House and Future Adventures