From September 3rd-5th, 2025, Hood River, Oregon, became the epicenter of the wind and watersports world as the Association of Wind and Watersports Industries (AWSI) hosted its annual Board Sports Expo. With over 50 brands gathering for 3 epic days at this unmissable event, AWSI 2025 showcased the future of wing foiling, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding while reinforcing its position as the industry’s most significant trade show and networking event.

Understanding AWSI: More Than Just a Trade Show

The Association of Wind + Watersports Industries (AWSI) is a non-profit trade association dedicated to representing companies in the outdoor sports world, specifically in Windsurfing, Kiteboarding, Wing, Foil, and Stand Up Paddle Board industries. Their main objective is to facilitate the collaboration between retailers and manufacturers in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

AWSI 2025 included networking opportunities, brand presentations, endless outdoor gear demos, pro rider sessions, industry awards and fun promo parties. This unique combination makes AWSI far more than a typical trade show—it’s where the industry comes together to shape the future of wind and water sports.

Why Hood River: The Perfect Stage for Wind Sports Innovation

Hood River has transformed over recent decades from a quiet fishing town into North America’s premier windsports destination. The Columbia River Gorge provides consistent, powerful winds ideal for testing and demonstrating cutting-edge equipment. This natural wind tunnel, combined with easy water access and established infrastructure, makes Hood River the ideal location for manufacturers to showcase products under real-world conditions.

The ability for attendees to demo equipment on the water immediately after seeing booth presentations creates an unparalleled opportunity for product validation and feedback—something impossible at indoor trade shows or locations without reliable wind.

The Major Brands at AWSI 2025

Duotone: Leading Innovation with Aluula Technology

Duotone maintained its position as an industry leader at AWSI 2025, with lead designer Sky Solbach presenting the 2025 lineup featuring Aluula material advances.

Key Duotone Releases:

Rebel D-Lab: Duotone’s newest big air kite designed to excel in boosting and hangtime as well as kite loops. A key feature is the use of Aluula which allows for a smaller leading edge diameter pumped to a high inflation pressure of 10 psi, improving aerodynamic performance, steering speed, and reducing drag.

Neo D-Lab: Continued evolution of their wave riding platform with Aluula construction.

Foil Assist 2026: Perhaps the most surprising reveal, Duotone showcased electric-powered foil assist equipment, signaling potential new directions for the sport.

Midfish Foilboard: Demonstrated as part of their expanding foil board lineup.

Sky Solbach noted that Duotone has been at the forefront of incorporating Aluula since its early days and expressed excitement about the progress with continued innovation as the brand leads in high-performance kite design.

Ozone: Jesse Richman’s New Chapter

One of the most significant storylines at AWSI 2025 was Jesse Richman’s transition to Ozone, marking a major shift in the professional rider landscape.

Key Ozone Releases:

Enduro V5: An all-around three-strut kite designed for big air, freeride, wave riding, and foiling. The kite is lighter than ever thanks to Ozone’s meticulous manufacturing process and use of lightweight materials. A key upgrade is the improved bridle system which enhances stability and allows the Enduro to excel at boosting and loops.

Alpha V3: The lightest single-strut kite on the market with Ozone’s Ultra X material on the leading edge and significant reinforcement reduction without compromising strength. The Alpha V3’s innovative construction makes it comparable to no-strut kites in terms of weight.

Pocket Rocket (Parawing): At the end of the day the number of riders on the Ozone Pocket Rockets crushed any other brand in the parawing category, demonstrating Ozone’s dominance in this emerging segment.

Slingshot: Revolutionary One Lock System

Slingshot emerged as one of the innovation leaders at AWSI 2025 with their groundbreaking foil connection system.

Professional kiteboarder Fred Hope introduced Slingshot’s latest innovation, the One Lock System, which is currently topping the charts as one of the best new products at the show. This new system is a game-changer for multiple foil sports including winging, kiteboarding, and dock starting.

One Lock System Features:

• Eliminates the need for screws entirely
• Creates faster, more efficient assembly process
• Minimizes corrosion and drag
• Uses simple latch mechanism that securely locks stabilizer and front wing
• Designed to stay tight over time without loosening
• Reduces drag by having only two seams on the foil
• Results in smoother, more streamlined ride

The screwless design addresses long-standing frustrations with traditional foil systems, potentially setting a new industry standard.

Core Kiteboarding: Expanding Aluula Lineup

Core Kiteboarding showcased their commitment to premium materials with expanded Aluula offerings presented by U.S. Sales Manager Michael Phaneuf.

Key Core Releases:

• Pace Pro: Aluula construction for performance-oriented riders
• XR Pro: Extended Aluula lineup for varied applications

Core’s focus on Aluula technology demonstrates the material’s growing acceptance across multiple brands and its establishment as the premium choice for high-performance equipment.

Ride Engine: Harness Innovation and Safety Solutions

Gary Siskar from Ride Engine presented exciting innovations in harnesses and safety equipment, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to rider comfort and performance.

Key Ride Engine Innovations:

Hyperlock System: Building on Ride Engine’s reputation for harness innovation, the Hyperlock system represents the latest advancement in secure, comfortable harness design.

Vinaka Pro and Bati Harnesses: Featured specifically for wing foiling and para-winging applications, addressing the unique demands of these emerging disciplines.

Retract Ride Engine Leash (2026): Innovative leash designed for winging and down-winding with unique features including lightweight design, durability, and performance enhancements that set it apart from traditional leashes. The conversation highlighted the importance of safety and user experience in water sports.

F-One: Consistent Excellence

F-One maintained their presence at AWSI 2025, with young rider Zoe representing the brand not only as a team rider but also promoting and seeking sponsorships for her grom wing event in Baja this winter—demonstrating F-One’s commitment to youth development and grassroots growth.

AFS (Armstrong Foils): New Wing Designs

AFS brought new wings that generated significant interest at the show. The wings were noted to feel really light on the beach, though full testing was limited by wind conditions during the event. Post-AWSI demos were being arranged for comprehensive real-world reviews.

Additional Notable Brands

While comprehensive exhibitor lists weren’t fully detailed in public coverage, the show featured representatives from:

• ENSIS (European brand with established AWSI presence)
• BRM (parawing manufacturer)
• Flow (wing brand)
• Various foil, board, and accessory manufacturers
• Apparel and waterware brands

The Rise of Parawing at AWSI 2025

One of the most significant themes at AWSI 2025 was the explosive growth and acceptance of parawing technology. The on-water demonstrations revealed diverse approaches to getting on foil with parawings—some riders pumping vigorously, others pointing straight downwind and chipping in with their legs, with varied success rates.

The Ozone Pocket Rocket dominated the parawing segment, with significantly more riders using this platform compared to competitors like Flow, Duotone, and BRM during observed sessions. This market dominance signals Ozone’s early leadership in defining parawing technology and technique.

Industry Dynamics: Media Restrictions and Product Secrecy

AWSI 2025 was notable for increased restrictions on media coverage compared to previous years. Some brands kept their gear hush-hush with pictures posted getting deleted on user forums. The Generic Foiling podcast even posted a video of them getting warned off taking video and pictures.

This shift toward greater secrecy reflects:

• Increased competition and desire to control product launch timing
• Concerns about competitors copying innovations before official releases
• Strategic marketing planning requiring coordinated announcements
• Growing commercial significance of the wind sports industry

While this frustrated some attendees seeking information, it also underscored the increasing business sophistication and competitive intensity of the wind sports market.

The AWSI Awards: Recognizing Excellence

The wind and watersports industry is a world of adventure, adrenaline, and dedication. Every year AWSI gathers to recognize outstanding contributions and achievements within this dynamic community. The AWSI Awards Party presented by Kona Brewing is an eagerly anticipated event celebrating industry excellence across categories including:

• Best Wing & Foiling Brand
• Innovation Awards
• Rider of the Year categories
• Industry contribution recognition
• Retailer excellence awards

These awards provide crucial market validation and influence purchasing decisions throughout the retail chain, making them highly coveted recognition within the industry.

The Social Scene: Building Community

Beyond business, AWSI 2025 emphasized community building through social events:

Awards Party: Presented by Kona Brewing at the Hood River Event Site, bringing the industry together for celebration and networking.

Promo Parties: Including an event hosted by Ferment Brewing featuring the Dirty Riders on stage providing throwback vibes.

Pro Rider Sessions: Opportunities for attendees to interact with professional athletes, learn from their experiences, and witness high-level riding firsthand.

These social elements transform AWSI from a transactional trade show into a community gathering that strengthens relationships and fosters collaboration across the industry.

The Significance of AWSI for the Wind Sports Industry

Product Launch Platform

AWSI serves as the primary launch platform for new products in the wind sports industry. Brands time their product releases to coincide with the event, knowing that industry buyers, media, and influencers will be present. The ability to demonstrate products immediately on the water provides validation impossible through online marketing alone.

Retail Ordering and Market Direction

For retailers, AWSI represents the crucial moment for placing orders for the upcoming season. The products that generate buzz at Hood River become the bestsellers in wind sports shops worldwide. Buyer decisions made at AWSI 2025 will determine what equipment is available to consumers throughout 2026.

Industry Networking and Deal-Making

The concentration of industry decision-makers at AWSI creates opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, distribution agreements, and business relationships that shape the industry landscape. Deals negotiated at AWSI 2025 will influence market dynamics for years to come.

Technology Validation and Feedback

Real-world testing conditions in Hood River provide immediate product validation. Equipment that performs well on the Columbia River gains credibility, while products that struggle face questions that must be addressed before wider release. This natural filtering mechanism helps maintain quality standards across the industry.

Community Building and Industry Health

AWSI strengthens the wind sports community by bringing together diverse stakeholders—manufacturers, retailers, riders, media, and enthusiasts. These connections foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving that benefit the entire industry’s long-term health.

Looking Forward: Trends Emerging from AWSI 2025

Aluula Becomes Standard Premium Material

The prominence of Aluula across multiple major brands (Duotone, Ozone, Core) signals its establishment as the premium material choice for high-performance equipment. Expect continued expansion of Aluula offerings across price points.

Parawing Technology Mainstreaming

The significant presence and testing of parawing equipment at AWSI 2025 indicates this technology is moving from experimental to mainstream. Expect rapid development and refinement as more brands enter this segment.

Screwless Connection Systems

Slingshot’s One Lock System receiving “best new product” recognition suggests the industry may be moving away from traditional screw-based foil connections. Competing systems will likely emerge as other manufacturers respond.

Electric Assist Technology

Duotone’s Foil Assist preview hints at potential integration of electric propulsion into traditional wind sports, opening new possibilities for light wind conditions and accessibility.

Harness Innovation for New Disciplines

Ride Engine’s specific focus on wing foiling and para-winging harnesses acknowledges these disciplines’ unique demands, likely inspiring category-specific equipment development across other product categories.

Conclusion: AWSI 2025’s Lasting Impact

AWSI 2025 demonstrated the wind and watersports industry’s vitality, innovation, and growth trajectory. With over 50 brands presenting cutting-edge technology, professional riders transitioning teams, revolutionary new systems like Slingshot’s One Lock debuting, and emerging categories like parawing gaining mainstream acceptance, the event fulfilled its role as the industry’s most significant annual gathering.

For manufacturers, AWSI 2025 provided the platform to launch products that will define 2026. For retailers, it offered the information needed to make strategic buying decisions. For riders and enthusiasts, it previewed the future of wind sports and the innovations that will enhance their on-water experiences.

The significance of AWSI extends far beyond three days in Hood River. The products launched, relationships formed, deals negotiated, and trends identified at AWSI 2025 will shape the wind sports industry throughout the coming year and beyond. From Aluula’s continued dominance to parawing’s emergence to screwless foil systems revolutionizing setup, AWSI 2025 marked inflection points that will be remembered as transformative moments in wind sports history.

As attendees departed Hood River and returned to their businesses, teams, and riding communities, they carried with them the innovations, inspiration, and connections that will drive the wind sports industry forward. AWSI 2025 wasn’t just an event—it was the moment when the future of wind sports came into focus.