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FlowRider

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A Flowrider® or Flow Rider® is an artificial sheet wave surfing environment incorporated in many waterparks and hotels. It was originally invented by Tom Lochtefeld, a California surfer, for the Schlitterbahn resort in New Braunfels, Texas. It uses an array of high-output waterpumps to produce a stationary sheet flow of water approximately 3 inches thick that flows over a fixed, foam-padded surface. Water recirculates through pumps located in a reservoir. The Flow Rider® is manufactured by Wave Loch, Inc. of La Jolla, California. There are currently more than 50 FlowRider installations around the globe.

[edit] Riding

While most users get the hang of it after a few sessions, riding the wave well requires adaptability and skill. Even one's being a skilled surfer, bodyboarder, or skateboarder is no guarantee of avoiding the inevitable wipeout on the first go. There are new flowriders being installed. 2 in Florida. One in Orlando - it is in a store called ADRENALINA, located at the Florida Mall. They are an extreme sports store ranging from 6,500 - 10,500 sq ft. Each store features a flowrider. The one in Orlando opened on October 30th. "ADRENALINA" is also an extreme sports tv show.

[edit] User equipment

Standup boards for using a FlowRider were first developed by Carl Ekström. They are about the size of a small wakeboard, but since the water is already moving less surface area is required. They do not use skegs but instead use their edges to provide stability. Bodyboards for FlowRiders are rounded to afford enhanced maneuverability.

[edit] External links

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