In this episode, we sit down with Nigel Thompson, from Waka, and Tucker from MACkite, to dive into one of the most innovative products to hit the wing foiling world in years: the Waka Glide Folding Wing Foil Board. Designed for high-performance riding and proper travel convenience, this board folds in half—literally—without compromising stiffness, durability, or on-water feel.
Nigel walks us through the two-year development journey behind the Waka Glide, from the early challenges of prototyping to the breakthrough moment that led to their flexible composite hinge system, inspired by aerospace materials like carbon and Kevlar. We unpack how the board folds, how it's reinforced internally, and why it feels stiffer than many traditional solid boards.
Tucker shares his first impressions after unboxing and handling the Waka Glide, highlighting its ultra-lightweight construction, premium materials, and clever design features, such as recessed deck pads, long foil tracks, and dual-purpose cutouts that serve as both structural fasteners and handles. We also discuss real-world benefits for travelers, including smaller rental cars, compliance with checked luggage policies, and eliminating the compromise of inflatables.
Whether you're a seasoned wing foiler looking for a go-anywhere solution or a gearhead interested in the latest innovations, this episode offers an exciting look at how portability and performance are finally coming together. We also discuss sizing strategies, use cases for various riding styles (including prone, parawing, and Foil Driving), and what's next for the Waka Glide lineup.
Topics Covered:
– Why travel boards have always required compromise — until now
– The hinge tech that makes folding possible without sacrificing performance
– Real-world applications for wing foilers, prone riders, and more
– Sizing tips and who this board is (and isn’t) for
– Why Tucker believes this could be a true one-board travel quiver
– What’s included: day bag, travel roller bag, and thoughtful design extras
– How this board could save you money on flights and car rentals
– What’s coming next for Waka Boards
Tune in to hear how Waka is redefining what’s possible in wing foiling travel gear—without giving up the performance you’ve come to expect.