Flight Mode Episode #2 - The Parawing roundtable with FoilRat, Matt on Foil & HydroGav
April 30, 202601:03:57

Flight Mode Episode #2 - The Parawing roundtable with FoilRat, Matt on Foil & HydroGav

On this episode, Carlos Saez (@foil_encounters), Gavin Blake (@hydrogav), Daniel Paronetto (@foilrat), and Matt Kauffman (@mattonfoil) join us for a raw, no-BS roundtable on parawinging — one of the fastest-growing and most exciting disciplines in foiling.

From total beginners to world-class riders, the crew shares hard-earned lessons on how to actually get into parawinging, what gear really works, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that kill progression and motivation. They discuss everything from first-session advice to building a practical quiver, board & foil choices, stashing techniques, physical demands, and the future of parawing-specific equipment.

Episode Highlights:

- The best advice they’d give their beginner selves: start big, don’t overthink gear, and get on foil fast.
- Ideal beginner setups — board volume, foil size, parawing sizes, and why being overpowered early is actually smart.
- Building a real-world quiver: how many parawings you actually need, wind range realities, and the “Frankenstein” dream setup (best bits from Ozone, North, POW, etc.).
- Board evolution — why mid-lengths and new stubby shapes are changing the game for 2026/2027.
- Technique talk: pumping synchronization, harness use, foot switches, and why stashing properly saves sessions (and your gear).
- Background matters — how wingers, kiters, surfers, and total newcomers progress differently.
- The physical side, downwind strategy, redeployment tips, and staying safe in real conditions.
- Honest talk on accessibility vs. elite racing and keeping the sport fun and approachable.

This is the ultimate “everything you wanted to know about parawinging but didn’t know who to ask” episode — packed with practical, experience-based advice from riders who have put in serious hours across the globe.

Whether you’re thinking about your first session or already hooked and refining your quiver, this conversation will save you time, money, and frustration.

Tune in for the straight talk every aspiring parawinger needs to hear.

This episode is brought to you by Waterspeed. Download the app — live tracking, deep analytics, and community vibes for every watersport adventure. 🌊⚡🏄‍♂️