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Future of Watersports, Making Flying Above Water a Reality, Picks Up Craze Among Surfers

Published 06/19/2023, 3:34 PM EDT

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Surfers are now embracing a new watersport which is a jet-powered surfboard. Known as eFoiling, it combines elements of surfing and floating above the water. With a swift learning curve, eFoiling requires balance and steering similar to the sport of surfing. It just has the added thrill of controlling the board’s speed.

Beginners swiftly stand and progress to soaring above the water on the hydrofoil. The sensation of rising above the waves, with the board’s sound fading away, evokes an unparalleled feeling exactly like flying. Surfers worldwide are embracing eFoiling, reshaping the future of watersports, and turning the dream of airborne aquatic adventures into reality.

Efoils revolutionize surfing, offering exhilarating gliding experiences

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Just Ride LA in Santa Monica, and OC Foil in Newport Beach, offers private eFoil sessions on Fliteboards, providing an opportunity to experience the exhilaration of “Flite” along the coastal waters. For 90 minutes, two-person sessions are available at $600, while single sessions cost $300.

According to Los Angeles Magazine, Fliteboard has made significant technological advancements, with the latest Series 3 offering the lightest performance eFoil, a cutting-edge lithium-ion battery, and an interchangeable propulsion system. Since its launch in 2018, Fliteboard has sold over 9,000 boards worldwide, resulting in more than 46,000 rides across 90 countries.

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The company has recently introduced the Flitescooter, designed for beginners and families, providing an accessible and enjoyable Efoiling experience with minimal instruction required. David Trewern, CEO/Founder and Product Architect of Fliteboard, expressed his excitement, stating, “Flitescooter is so easy and forgiving to learn, yet offers similar thrills to Fliteboarding.

Surfers love efoiling as the future of surfing

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Hawaiian surfers Laird Hamilton, Benny Ferris, Luca Padua, and Terry Chung ventured to Nazaré, Portugal, in March 2020 to ride the epic waves generated by a swell. Surfer Today Reports, Ferris likening the town to a mythical land, saying, “That dragon is Nazaré’s surf spot.” The group experienced perfect conditions for foil surfing, with glassy, large waves rolling in continuously.  In 2021, during an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, NFL’s Drew Brees revealed his newfound interest in EFoiling. He took it as a hobby after his retirement

Moreover, CNBC reported that in 2021, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased his enthusiasm for hydrofoiling. He gracefully glided above the water’s surface while proudly holding an American flag. These remarkable moments highlight the growing fascination with unconventional water sports. With its potential to revolutionize surfing, efoiling may indeed shape the future.

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Watch This Story: 2024 Olympic Surfing at Teahupo’o Raises the Stakes for Athletes and Spectators Alike

 

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Written by:

Gincy Abraham

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Gincy Abraham, an accomplished sports news writer at EssentiallySports, has a profound passion for surfing and a talent for covering the latest developments in sports. With expertise in Olympic news, Gincy captures the essence of the global sporting event. With a bachelor's degree in journalism and years of experience as a news reporter, Gincy is always in pursuit to deliver accurate content religiously.
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Edited by:

Anupama Ghosh