Nils Champliau

france

I started kitesurfing in 2009, at the same time I began my career as an airline pilot. Many of my pilot friends were passionate kiters, and they introduced me to the sport. From that moment, I spent every vacation traveling the world in search of the best conditions. I’ve had the chance to kite in Mauritius, Brazil, Cape Verde, the United States, and many other incredible spots—and very quickly, I became addicted. About ten years ago, I discovered foiling, which completely changed the way I ride. I love the freedom it gives me to glide in any condition and to surf even the smallest waves. Two years ago, I came across Airwave through the Alma, and it transformed my foil experience. Its incredible drift and stability gave me new confidence, even in very light winds, and opened up a whole new style of riding for me: free-fly. I’m stoked to be part of the team and excited to share these amazing kites around the world. One of my most unforgettable sessions was at Manawa, the famous wave in Mauritius. That day, the wind was sketchy and the wave—sitting 1 km offshore—was completely empty. I took out my Alma 10, slightly overpowered, and had a private session on that iconic break, charging wave after wave all by myself. Another standout session was a tour through the San Francisco Bay. I rode under the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz, and soaked in the unforgettable scenic views. The wind in the Bay is notoriously challenging—gusty with big drops at the launch—but the Alma handled the shifting conditions perfectly, turning it into one of my most memorable rides.