Tech Spotlight: FlowSurf, FlowSurf Lake and FlowSurf River
Sheet-wave pioneers FlowRider entered the deep-water standing wave market last year with the launch of FlowSurf and a new partnership with Hydro Stadium. The product launch puts FlowRider alongside other wave pool technologies like EpicSurf, Ka’ana, Citywave and Unit.
Modeled after the Waimea River Wave, FlowSurf is a new deep flow stationary wave by FlowSurf. FlowRider says their goal is to create a stationary wave with less turbulence for a better carving experience while also using a low amount of energy possible while being a wave that surfers absolutely love.
The wave height can be adjusted from two-to-five feet (0.9 meters (2ft 11″) to 1.6m (5’2″) if you want to get specific) via programming buttons so the wave pool can cater to beginners, experts, and anyone in between. The base footprint starts at 20.8m (68.24 ft) x 14.6m (47.9 ft) but can vary according to venue needs. At this size the wave pool only takes 136K gallons of water to fill and operate.
FlowSurf said the design was created with surfers of all skill levels in mind. Novices can use a bar placement to assist with getting the feel of surfing. Skilled surfers, on the other hand, can enjoy the different waterflow settings.
Brad Koide, engineer at FlowRider, explained that the team took part of their design inspiration from nature, specifically the smoothing effect of mangrove tree roots on water. With this in mind they were able to create a water smoothing technology to enhance ride experience and address the challenge of turbulence introduced by pumps.
In September of last year, FlowRider Inc. and Hydrostadium, a subsidiary of French energy conglomerate EDF, finalized a licensing agreement concerning Hydrostadium’s patented “river wave” technology.
Hydrostadium, recognized for its energy-efficient technology, said they are enthusiastic about collaborating with FlowRider. CEO Stanislas Lequiller expressed satisfaction with the licensing agreement, noting that the partnership will enable them to showcase their technology on a global scale while fostering innovation alongside FlowRider.
Locations:
City Surf Park
The Lowdown: Urban indoor rapid wave with heated water and lively ambience. Surfers can enjoy DJ mixes, drinks, parties or just straight up sessions in the thriving metropolis of Lyon, France.
The Technology: Modeled after the Waimea River Wave, FlowSurf is a deep water stationary/rapid wave by FlowRider. FlowRider says their goal is to create a stationary/rapid wave with less turbulence for a better carving experience while also using the lowest amount of energy possible while being a wave that surfers absolutely love.
Model: FlowSurf
The Wave: The wave height can be adjusted from two-to-five feet (0.9 meters (2ft 11″) to 1.6m (5’2″) if you want to get specific) via programming buttons so the wave pool can cater to beginners, experts, and anyone in between. The base footprint starts at 20.8m (68.24 ft) x 14.6m (47.9 ft) but can vary according to venue needs. At this size the wave pool only takes 136K gallons of water to fill and operate.
Wave Height: 0.9 meters (2ft 11″) to 1.6m (5’2″)
Atmosphere: Stand alone surf venue featuring a bar and restaurant
Hours of Operation: Year round
Apparel: Bikini, Boardshorts, Rashguards and Springsuits
Base Natur’O
The Lowdown: Set alongside a whitewater rapids course utilized for kayak training, Base Natur’O utilises the FlowSurf River model rapid wave technology. The venue also offers SUP, rafting and canoe areas with adjacent biking paths.
The Technology: Modeled after the Waimea River Wave, FlowSurf is a deep water stationary/rapid wave by FlowRider. FlowRider says their goal is to create a stationary/rapid wave with less turbulence for a better carving experience while also using the lowest amount of energy possible while being a wave that surfers absolutely love. At this location the rapid wave is created using the natural elements run through a human-made structure.
Model: FlowSurf River
Wave Height: Custom to venue and water flow.
Atmosphere: Organised adventure camp vibes surrounding a lively river.
Hours of Operation: April – September
Exo 38
The Lowdown: Outdoor venue with stunning Alpine backdrop and assorted board sports facilities including a cable park. The venue opens for the season in April and runs through Autumn.
The Technology: Modeled after the Waimea River Wave, FlowSurf is a deep water stationary/rapid wave by FlowRider. FlowRider says their goal is to create a stationary/rapid wave with less turbulence for a better carving experience while also using the lowest amount of energy possible while being a wave that surfers absolutely love.
Model: FlowSurf Lake
The Wave: The wave height can be adjusted from two-to-five feet (0.9 meters (2ft 11″) to 1.6m (5’2″) if you want to get specific) via programming buttons so the wave pool can cater to beginners, experts, and anyone in between. The base footprint starts at 20.8m (68.24 ft) x 14.6m (47.9 ft) but can vary according to venue needs. At this size the wave pool only takes 136K gallons of water to fill and operate.
Wave Height: 0.9 meters (2ft 11″) to 1.6m (5’2″)
Atmosphere: Outdoorsy, camping vibe in a spectacular mountain venue.
Hours of Operation: Summer Season
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