THE BIG AIR BLUEPRINT
Taking it big with the Tumbler
In the last part of our series, we take a closer look at the final piece within the Champion’s quiver – his board. Why exactly is the Tumbler Giel’s board-of-choice, and what’s his ideal straps set-up for knocking out those steezy board-offs? All is revealed…
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler concept perhaps part of the secret weapon that's getting you higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler part of your secret formula that's getting you even higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
A Board built for Big Air
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggressive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain complete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
The Tumbler is available in two sizes 138×43 and 135x42cm.