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.
• 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.
Creators & Guests
Host
Luc Moore
I started windsurfing in 2012, a year after my brother and I visited Kauai, Hawaii. In 2009 I was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident that required two intensive surgeries to stabilize my pelvis. Three years later, I was still heavily engaged in rehab, but I had been cleared to walk by my orthopedic surgeon, so we finally decided to visit the islands. My brother had just started windsurfing, so we started looking online for gear for him, and we came across a woman selling late her husband's equipment. She recounted to us that his life had been spent on the ocean. As a pro windsurfer, his love and passion for the sport were undeniable. At that point, I thought I could try this sport and carry on his legacy of love for the water and wind if I worked hard enough. Initially, I couldn't ride with my harness on without experiencing terrible low back pain. I was terrified of the water, knew nothing about wind, and if I got moving at any speed, scenes of my accidents would replay in my mind, which lasted for years. It took a lot of work to differentiate fact from fiction. To add to this mess of emotions, numerous specialists and acquaintances had repeatedly told me that I was now broken. I could never jog pain-free again, let alone enjoy pain-free sports. They told me to accept that as my truth and to move on. My mom and brother helped me keep going as our shared passions, and family support helped me overcome obstacles. The pure joy I felt with my continued progress on the water helped those wounds begin to heal. In time, windsurfing felt so good physically and psychologically that it would bring me to tears on the water. I would spend hours practicing the basics and quickly improve. This sport was one of the catalysts that helped accelerate my healing process. When my skills had reached the great lake level, I started sailing with my neighbour Danny. He is one of the best windsurfers in eastern Ontario and travels worldwide, pursuing his passion in his spare time. In 2018 when Wing Foiling first came out, I quickly felt like this sport would take my love for wind and water to the next level. Our Co-Host Tom helped me find gear and gave me my first intro lesson! I quickly picked up the sport and learnt the basics. I then contacted some kite schools on Vancouver Island (Elevation Kiteboarding & Windrider Kiteboarding) and started teaching for them! Shortly after, Tom and I created the Wing Life podcast to help share our stoke and knowledge of wind sports with others.
What is Foil Life Podcast?
Welcome to the Foil Life Podcast (previously Wing Life Podcast) – the show that dives deep into the world of foiling! From wing foiling and prone foiling to downwind glides and pump sessions, we’re here to celebrate the athletes, new emerging disciplines, innovators, and everyday riders pushing the boundaries of this revolutionary sport.
Whether you want to improve your skills, buy new gear, travel or hear from your favourite athlete, this is your hub for all things foil.Tune in for inspiring stories, pro tips, and behind-the-scenes insights from brands and the people who live and breathe the foil life.
Let’s ride the future, and let's talk about foiling!