LabRat Foiler Podcast

038_Greg Drexler: BRM S3 technical breakdown

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Greg Drexler from BRM to talk about his latest creation: the S3 Parawing. Greg breaks down the full design journey behind the S3 and why BRM moved from multiple parawing models into one refined single-skin design. We go deep into parawing design, including the new D-grip bar system, improved ergonomics, bridle layout, stowing considerations, and how the S3 aims to deliver more drive, stability, and forward flight while still keeping the simplicity and packability of a single-skin parawing. We also nerd out on canopy shape, aspect ratio, bridle cascades height, spliced lines, fabric choices, stash systems, and how small design details can completely change the way a parawing feels on the water. This is a deep-dive episode for anyone interested in a technical parawing talk and thanks to Greg for being such a gentleman to share his knowledge with us!

037_Dom Zimmermann & Axel Mazella: Ozone Pocket Rocket V2 Design Breakdown

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Dom Zimmerman, Head of R&D at Ozone, and Axel Mazella from the Ozone R&D team to unpack everything about the brand new Pocket Rocket V2. We go deep into the design evolution from the original Pocket Rocket V1 and how the development of the PowerPack helped shape this next generation of parawing design. This conversation covers the real details that parawingers care about: shorter line lengths, stiffer and thicker lines, improved stowing ergonomics, updated bar widths, the new bow bar system, harness line setup, canopy feel, low-end power, upwind performance, quiver building, and where Ozone sees the future of parawinging heading next. If you’ve been waiting to find out whether the Pocket Rocket V2 is worth the upgrade, this episode is packed with insight straight from the people designing it. We talk about what type of rider this parawing is for, how it compares to the PowerPack, what was improved from the V1s, and why small design details like line coatings, bridle layout, and bar feel make such a huge difference on the water. We also dive into bigger-picture topics around the future of the sport, including parawing racing, performance progression, quiver choices, travel setups, board sizing, and the possibility of new high-performance models to come. Whether you are into parawing foiling, downwind foiling, wave riding, upwind performance, gear design, or just want to understand the latest innovations in parawinging, this episode is for you. If you’re frothing on parawing gear, foiling progression, and the future of the sport, make sure to like, subscribe, and let me know in the comments what you think of the Pocket Rocket V2.

035_Carlos Saez: First-Ever SFT Downwind Parawing World Cup

This episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast dives deep into one of the most exciting moments yet for the sport of parawinging: the first SFT / SFD Downwind Parawing World Cup. I sit down with Carlos Saez to unpack the event, the race format, the vision behind it, and why this competition could play a huge role in shaping the future of parawing racing, downwind foiling, and competitive foil sports.    We talk about what makes a true parawing race and why this event is about much more than simply blasting downwind. The big challenge is designing a format that tests real rider skill across the full discipline of parawinging — including upwind ability, downwind speed, stashing, redeploying, pumping, foil control, and tactical decisions under pressure. Instead of rewarding only the fastest gear, the goal is to build an event that rewards the most complete rider.    That opens up some of the biggest conversations in parawinging right now. How important is stashing technique in racing? How much will pump zones influence the results? What kind of parawing board design, foil setup, and gear strategy will work best when racers need to blend powered riding with efficient unpowered foiling? We get into how course design can highlight these skills and why racing could accelerate innovation across the whole sport.   This episode also explores the bigger picture of where parawinging is heading. Carlos explains why parawinging is not just about swell riding, but a discipline that can evolve into multiple directions including racing, freeride, and performance foiling. The race becomes a lens for understanding the sport itself: what skills matter most, what equipment trends are emerging, and how events like this can help define the next phase of parawing progression.    We also cover the broader event context, including how the SFT fits into the growing world of foil competition and why this World Cup format matters for the credibility and growth of the sport. If you’re interested in parawing racing, foil racing, downwind parawing, pump foiling, stow and redeploy technique, parawing gear development, and the future of high-performance parawinging, this episode is for you.

034_Dmitry Evseev: Mastering Parawing Stowing, Wave Riding & Upwind Downwind Runs

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with Dmitry “the Russian” Evseev, one of the true early adopters of parawinging and a rider who has been testing, refining, and pushing the sport since the beginning. From his journey out of Russia to building a life around wind and waves in Mauritius, Dmitry shares how water sports, foiling, and curiosity for new equipment shaped the rider he is today.   We dive deep into the early days of parawinging, what it was like learning before there was any real information available, and why the sport instantly hooked him. Dmitry breaks down the biggest challenges for beginners, including choosing the right gear, understanding power, managing overpowered conditions, and learning how to properly stow and redeploy the parawing with confidence.   This episode goes deep on technique, especially stowing systems, redeployment, wave riding, and why packing the parawing properly is one of the most important skills in the sport. Dmitry demonstrates his version of the 4-A-line stow method, how he approaches long-line in parawings, and why smooth, automatic technique matters so much in real-world conditions.   We also talk gear design, what makes a great parawing, why modern wings are improving so quickly, hybrid designs, bar setups, line choices, harness systems, and the small accessories that can make a big difference on the water. If you’re into wave riding, downwinders, or long upwind missions, there’s a ton in here for you.   If you’re serious about parawinging, foiling, wave riding, and learning from riders who are helping shape the sport in real time, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

033_Guy Bridge: Parawing Wave Riding & Foiling Progression on the Parawing

In this episode of the LabRat Foiler Podcast, I sit down with world-class rider Guy Bridge to dive deep into the evolution of parawinging, foiling, and wave riding. From his roots in competitive kitesurfing to pushing the limits of modern foil sports, Guy shares insights on technique, gear progression, and what it really takes to ride at a high level.   We break down his epic Western Australia trip with the Armstrong crew, including wave riding sessions, downwind runs, and the rapid progression of parawing performance. We also get into stowing techniques, light-wind challenges, foil design choices, and how the sport is evolving globally. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and inspiration for your own parawing journey.   This conversation also explores the mindset behind progression — from early frustrations to breakthrough moments — and why parawing is creating such strong community energy worldwide. Thanks for coming on the show Guy! Hope we get to ride together one day!   ⸻   EPISODE LINKS: https://youtu.be/kxBpoNxfCIw?si=zGjDE2B0LOhc4P8A   ⸻   Chapters   00:00 Before the Red Light goes on 04:21 Introduction to Guy Bridge 06:10 The Evolution of Water Sports: From Kiting to Foiling 10:32 The Thrill of Downwind Runs: Social Aspects and Techniques 15:24 WA Trip with Armstrong Crew 16:23 The Social Element of Water Sports: Banter and Community 19:34 The Technical Side of Power Winging: Skills and Techniques 25:03 The Thrill of Parawing and Community Spirit 27:45 Innovations in Parawing Gear 32:39 Wave Riding Videos 36:44 Stowing Techniques and Gear Efficiency 39:57 Parawing Stowing Methods 45:55 The Learning Curve of Parawing 50:02 Breakthrough Moments in Parawinging 51:07 Understanding Technique and Wind Requirements 52:00 Mastering Light Wind Conditions 54:03 The Evolution of Gear and Tacking Techniques 57:12 The Impact of Foil Design on Riding Experience 01:00:11 Finding the Right Balance in Quiver Selection 01:02:58 Transitioning to New Gear and Brand Experiences 01:07:39 Exploring Gear and Board Design Innovations 01:14:17 Armstrong Gear and Becoming a Team Rider 01:19:28 Mastering the Art of Pumping and Lift 01:20:31 The Rise of Parawinging in Local Communities 01:21:35 Wave Riding and the Future of Parawinging 01:24:47 Adventures and Future Plans in Parawinging 01:30:26 Racing Experiences and Community Vibes 01:36:36 Future Destinations and the Evolution of the Sport   __   Visit www.labratfoiler.com to learn more about the Online Parawing Course Use code: LABRAT10 for 10% off :) __   Don’t forget to subscribe for more foiling tutorials, down winding tips, and parawing techniques to elevate your water sports skills. __   Sponsors: @ozone.wing @codefoils @foilrat on Instagram #Parawinging #Parawing #Foiling #DownWinding