So Giel, what Ocean Rodeo control system do you use?
I use the Pilot Bar.
Do you adjust your center line bar trim just before "going big"?
Nope, I just take it as it is and go as big as possible!
What is your "go to" line length? Are you changing line lengths for S-loops or double loops?
Always 22s. For me it's just the perfect combination of height, power and steering feedback for me. I've been experimenting with 12 meter lines for fun too lately. A different ball game but extremely fun!
What size trim loop do you use? Big (Freestyle) or small (Freeride)?
I use the Freeride loop! It just feels better to have the bar close to me when I'm looping and hanging upside down. It just feels so much more connected to me, and that’s super important.
Where do you attach your leash? Harness front or back?
On the front of the harness, on the right. To make sure I can reach it quickly if I need it!
Sometimes when watching you coming down from a megaloop I see you pumping the bar… What’s happening here?
If you loop the kite very low or if the second loop takes out all the power, the lines slack for a second. By pumping the bar you try to get the line tension back and you can get the kite to recover so you can land smoothly. It's a rush!
What length bars do you use for each Rise size in your quiver?
For the doubles I use the 52cm bars. So the 7 and 8 meter I ride on big bars for doubles and also the 11 and 12. The 46cm bar is for single loop action for the 7, 8, 9 and 10 meter. Because the kite is so quick it's nice to ride a smaller bar to make sure the loops aren't too high.
THE BIG AIR BLUEPRINT
Taking it big with the Tumbler
In the last part of our series, we take a closer look at the final piece within the Champion’s quiver – his board. Why exactly is the Tumbler Giel’s board-of-choice, and what’s his ideal straps set-up for knocking out those steezy board-offs? All is revealed…
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler concept perhaps part of the secret weapon that's getting you higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler part of your secret formula that's getting you even higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
A Board built for Big Air
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggressive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain complete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
The Tumbler is available in two sizes 138×43 and 135x42cm.