Foil Drive Podcast | Ep 16 | Foil Drive Etiquette with Co-Founder Paul Martin

As the popularity of foil driving and foil assist technologies grow, it's essential for users to understand their responsibility and etiquette when sharing the water with others. In a recent podcast discussion, Paul Martin, the inventor of Foil Drive, shared his insights on how foil drivers can navigate this growing trend responsibly.

The Role of Responsibility in Foil Drive

Paul highlighted a key point: as pioneers of foil drive, there's an inherent responsibility to establish the right standards. Whether you’re the first to introduce a new sport or technology, the burden falls on the early adopters to create a respectful and harmonious environment for everyone. Paul emphasised that responsibility doesn’t necessarily mean strict rules, but rather fostering community-driven standards. This involves understanding your position in the water and being considerate of others.

Sharing the Ocean: Do Foil Drivers Have Priority?

One of the primary concerns addressed in the conversation is how foil drivers should interact with other ocean users. Paul pointed out that while technology may give foil drivers an advantage in terms of catching waves, it doesn't automatically grant them the right to overtake or inconvenience other surfers or swimmers. A sense of self-regulation is vital. Foil drivers should aim to catch waves without disrupting others and recognise that swimmers, like pedestrians at a crosswalk, should always have the right of way.

The key takeaway here is that foil drivers must exercise common sense. If you're able to catch waves that others can’t, great. But that doesn’t mean you should dominate the lineup. Striking a balance between maximising your experience and allowing others to enjoy theirs is critical.

Addressing Concerns: Noise Pollution and Group Etiquette

Another issue raised was the noise generated by foil drive motors, particularly when used by less experienced riders. In a quiet beach environment, the sound of multiple foil drives can be off-putting, especially if the motors are constantly breaching the surface. Paul explained that this is often a result of users not fully understanding how to operate the motor efficiently. By keeping the pod submerged and using minimal throttle, riders can reduce noise and enjoy a smoother, quieter ride.

Group dynamics also come into play, particularly when multiple foil drivers are in the water together. While it's undoubtedly fun to foil with friends, large groups can become a spectacle and may unintentionally disrupt the vibe of the beach or surf spot. The same way that snowboarders might carve down a hill together, foil drivers often want to show off their skills. However, it's essential to remember that this can be intimidating or annoying to other water users. Paul recommends spacing out and choosing less crowded spots to avoid these conflicts.

Communication: The Key to Peaceful Coexistence

One of the most valuable tips shared in the discussion was the importance of communication. A simple “hello” or a quick explanation to a surfer about how foil driving works can go a long way in easing tensions. Many surfers or swimmers may not fully understand what you're doing, which can lead to misunderstandings. By being approachable and offering to share the experience, such as giving someone a tow or explaining how the technology works, you can foster a sense of camaraderie rather than competition.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Responsibility

At the end of the day, foil driving is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water. But with that fun comes responsibility. As Paul aptly noted, technology evolves, and foil drive is just one step in the continuous development of water sports. It’s up to early adopters and regular users to lead by example, ensuring that foil driving can coexist peacefully with other ocean activities.

Whether you're a seasoned foil driver or a newcomer to the sport, remember to stay respectful, communicate clearly, and enjoy the waves responsibly.

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