Top 20 Hydrofoil Surfing Champions in the World

Hydrofoil surfing has gained significant popularity, with several athletes excelling in this discipline. Here are some of the top hydrofoil surfing champions:

1. Kai Lenny: A versatile waterman known for his exceptional skills in hydrofoil surfing, particularly in big-wave conditions. He set a record by paddling 321 km on a hydrofoil through the four major Hawaiian channels to raise awareness of ocean pollution.
2. Laird Hamilton: A pioneer in hydrofoil surfing, Hamilton has been instrumental in popularizing the sport and continues to be a leading figure in the community.
3. Dave Kalama: Co-developer of tow-in surfing and a prominent figure in stand-up paddleboarding, Kalama has also made significant contributions to hydrofoil surfing.
4. Adam Bennetts: Recognized for his exceptional foil surfing skills, Bennetts has been highlighted as one of the best in the discipline.
5. Mango Carafino: A pioneer in hydrofoil technology, Carafino developed the first hydrofoil for kiteboarding, significantly influencing the sport’s evolution.
6. Austin Kalama: A stand-up paddleboarder who has made significant contributions to hydrofoil surfing, particularly in downwind conditions.
7. Neyl Pride: A windsurfing champion who has been instrumental in the development of windsurf hydrofoils, enhancing performance in lighter winds.
8. Robby Naish: A legendary windsurfer who has embraced hydrofoil technology, contributing to its advancement in the sport.
9. Sebastian Kördel: A German windsurfer who has excelled in the IQFoil class, a new Olympic windsurfing category featuring hydrofoils.
10. Vahine Fierro: A Tahitian surfer who has been a strong contender in the hydrofoil surfing scene, especially in competitions held at Teahupo’o.
11. Kauli Vaast: Another talented Tahitian surfer known for his prowess in hydrofoil surfing, adding competitive edge for the host nation, France.
12. John John Florence: An American surfer who has showcased his hydrofoil surfing skills in various competitions, including events at Teahupo’o.
13. Gabriel Medina: A Brazilian surfer who has demonstrated his hydrofoil surfing abilities in competitions, including the 2024 Paris Olympics.
14. Italo Ferreira: An Olympic gold medalist from Brazil, Ferreira has been a strong contender in hydrofoil surfing competitions.
15. Carissa Moore: An American surfer and Olympic gold medalist, Moore has showcased her hydrofoil surfing skills in various competitions.
16. Terry Chung: A surfer known for his exceptional foil surfing skills, particularly in big-wave conditions.
17. Luca Padua: A surfer who has demonstrated impressive foil surfing abilities, contributing to the sport’s growth.
18. Benny Ferris: A surfer recognized for his skills in foil surfing, particularly in challenging conditions.
19. Mason Ho: A surfer known for his dynamic foil surfing style, contributing to the sport’s evolution.
20. Tucker and Mr. Jeff: Surfers who have been recognized for their contributions to the sport, including discussions on the best hydrofoils of 2023.

These athletes have significantly contributed to the advancement and popularity of hydrofoil surfing worldwide.