Overview
Flysurfer is a premier kite brand belonging to the German aeronautical engineering company, the Skywalk Group. By bringing paragliding “ram-air (foil) technology” into kiteboarding, they revolutionized the industry. Their foil kite design and engineering capabilities are world-class, driving the Olympic Formula Kite class alongside Ozone.
History and Philosophy
The brand was founded by Ralf Groesel at just 20 years old, after he began paragliding at 14 and taught himself aerodynamics. The team later established the dedicated paragliding brand “Skywalk.” Today, operating under the parent company Skywalk, they have built a robust foundation of wind-harnessing brands, including Flysurfer for kites and “Flare” for innovative paragliders. The industrial expertise of the Skywalk Group—such as pneumatic safety systems and air domes—forms the backbone of Flysurfer’s exceptionally durable and precise valve and welding technologies.
Flagship Models
- SOUL: A masterpiece that transformed foil kites—previously considered highly technical gear strictly for racers—into accessible, fun equipment for everyday riders, completely rebuilding the culture around foil kites.
- VMG: The ultimate racing ram-air kite authorized for use in the Olympic Formula Kite class.
- ERA: While other companies race to use ultra-expensive new materials like Aluula, the ERA intentionally utilizes high-quality “full Dacron.” It maintains extreme price competitiveness and durability while proving its capabilities as a high-performance big air kite. Hugo Wigglesworth used this kite to set a WOO world record for highest jump (36.7m) and travel distance (275m), dealing a satisfying blow to the new-material trend.
Technical Innovations
Their greatest strength lies in their advanced closed-cell ram-air technology, directly inherited from paragliders. Flysurfer is one of only three registered kite brands authorized for the Olympic IKA class, boasting overwhelming market share and reliability. Additionally, their practical development power is highlighted by the fact that designers like Luke McGillewie personally mark top-level big air records.
Team Riders
“As soon as I got out there I was like, I knew you’d say that but it’s not 21… if I don’t go with what I think I should be on, I will not be happy with myself…”
- Ellie Aldridge: The first-ever gold medalist in the Women’s Formula Kite class at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She masterfully won by trusting her instincts to ride a 15m “VMG3” in gusty conditions, while her main rival chose a massive 21m kite.
- Hugo Wigglesworth: A prodigy rider from New Zealand. Using the ERA, he set a WOO world record with a 36.7m height and 275m distance, proving the immense potential of full Dacron kites.
- Theo de Ramecourt: The 2021 Formula Kite World Champion. He now serves as a dedicated test pilot and developer, leading the front lines of innovation.
- Luca Ceruti: A rider with a unique style who boldly competes in the pinnacle of big air events, such as Red Bull King of the Air (KOTA), using ram-air (foil) kites.
Search Aliases: Flysurfer