A group of professional surfers gathered in Munich for the Red Bull Air Awareness Camp, held from April 6 to 10 at o2 SURFTOWN MUC. The camp focused on aerial surfing progression, using artificial waves designed to allow for consistent and controlled practice. According to organizers, airs are easier in wave pools due to repeatable conditions that differ significantly from ocean variability.
Controlled Waves Enable Precision Training
The facility’s customizable wave settings were powered by Endless Surf’s 34-caisson system. This technology allows for the creation of specific air sections, giving surfers the opportunity to work on aerial maneuvers without relying on natural swell, tide, or wind conditions.
Red Bull described the system as a unique global setup tailored for targeted air practice. Surf sessions were held each morning at o2 Surftown, followed by athlete recovery and media content production in the afternoons. The predictable wave shape enabled consistent repetition, which is often not possible in ocean training environments.
World-Class Lineup Focuses on Air Progression
Athletes participating included Olympic gold medalist Kauli Vaast (France), Sky Brown (United Kingdom), Lucas Chumbo (Brazil), Laura Coviella (Spain), and Teresa Bonvalot (Portugal). German Olympic surfer Leon Glatzer joined alongside emerging talents such as Jarvis Earle, Sanoa Olin, Ben Larg, Locana Cullen, Arthur Vilar, and Annette Etxabarri.
“Progression was the word of the week!” said Vaast. “I learnt a lot and improved a lot on my airs! The cold was a challenge at times being from Tahiti but so stoked Red Bull made this happen. Can’t wait to come again! Thank you everyone for everything and Maururu roa!”
Structured Schedule for Consistent Development
Each day followed a fixed routine. Morning wave sessions were followed by lunch at the Lookout Restaurant. Surfers used a hot tub for recovery between training and content production blocks. According to organizers, this structured approach aimed to balance physical effort with media visibility and brand engagement.
Leon Glatzer highlighted the benefits of the artificial wave format. “The Red Bull air camp at o2 SURFTOWN MUC was incredible. The wave allowed us to explore and experiment with different sections, pushing our creativity and progression. Experiences like this, with a world-class pool and focused air camps, are what accelerate our evolution as surfers. In just one week, I learned so much and felt like I reached an entirely new level.”
Coaching and Feedback Drive Technical Growth
Veteran surf coach Miky Picon supported the event by offering guidance during sessions. According to organizers, the combination of expert coaching and programmable wave formats contributed to faster progression and improved consistency in aerial attempts.
Teresa Bonvalot, who is currently vying for a World Championship Tour qualification, described the experience as productive. “Best air training camp ever with the best ramps. Amazing when you manage to start working on something on day 1 of the camp and you achieve it on day 3. Great when things come together!”
Wave Pools as Tools for Surf Progression
The Red Bull Air Awareness Camp demonstrated how surfers use air sections in surf pools to develop competitive talent. Organizers explained that practicing airs in artificial waves reduces external variability and creates an environment where athletes can isolate and refine their technique.
As the sport evolves, wave pools for aerial surf training are likely to play a larger role in preparing athletes for competition. According to Endless Surf and Red Bull, this technology enables faster progression by removing the limitations posed by natural ocean conditions.
