Maui has become one of the global epicenters of Downwind Foiling, attracting athletes from around the world and serving as a testing ground for the sport’s rapid evolution. Among the riders helping to shape this new era is Kai Thompson, a dedicated downwind foiler who has spent the last few seasons traveling to events, competing against some of the best athletes in the world, and witnessing firsthand how quickly the sport is growing.
We recently caught up with Kai on Maui to discuss the current state of Downwind Foiling, the emergence of multiple race tours and competitive circuits, and what life on the road looks like for athletes chasing events across different continents. From equipment development and growing participation numbers to the challenges of creating a sustainable professional pathway for riders, Kai shared his perspective on where the sport stands today and where it could be headed in the coming years.
As Downwind Foiling continues its transition from a niche discipline into a globally recognized racing sport, athletes like Kai Thompson are at the center of that transformation. In this interview, we explore the latest trends, the opportunities and challenges facing competitors, and what many athletes are hoping to see from the future of Downwind Foiling.
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