In the world of water sports, innovation is the wave of the future, and Jerry McArthur is riding at its crest with the Hydroflyer. Combining his passions for watersports and a lifetime of experience racing mountain bikes, snowmobiles, and dirt bikes, McArthur has crafted a unique experience for water enthusiasts.
Growing up between the mountainous terrain of Whistler and the oceanic expanse of the Sunshine Coast on the Pacific Ocean, Jerry developed a profound connection with both land and sea. His quest was to merge the exhilarating experience of mountain biking in Whistler with the tranquil beauty of the ocean.
The journey began in 2017 when McArthur first laid eyes on foiling surfboards. Inspired, he embarked on creating electric foil boards of various designs. However, he quickly realized the challenges posed by the weight of batteries and motors, making the boards cumbersome and risky, especially for beginners who might fall towards the sharp foils.
A pivotal moment came after a close call where Jerry, attempting a jump, was struck by the foil. This incident sparked the idea of a bike-like watercraft. The vision was simple yet groundbreaking: a foil board with the added stability and control of a bicycle, complete with handlebars and four points of contact.
The first prototype, essentially a mountain bike melded with a foil and added flotation, proved McArthur’s concept. It offered greater control, making the ride more enjoyable and significantly safer for novices.
Fast forward, and the Hydroflyer has evolved into a fine-tuned watercraft, adored by hundreds worldwide. It offers a serene, almost ethereal experience – a blend between flying and gliding through deep powder snow.
The Hydroflyer is particularly beginner-friendly, allowing riders to start standing up, with the assurance of safety provided by handlebars that eliminate the risk of contact with the foil. Moreover, it incorporates leading safety features, including a kill switch, automatic braking, and adjustable power levels.
Athletes, too, find the Hydroflyer irresistible. Its enhanced control, carbon fiber monocoque structure, and robust motor allow for aggressive riding, including jumps, sharp turns, and handling challenging conditions.
You can even remove the handlebars and ride it surf-style so you really do get the best of all worlds.
In essence, the Hydroflyer stands as a testament to innovation in water sports. It’s a vessel that caters to both the cautious beginner and the adrenaline-chasing expert, unparalleled in its performance and versatility. As McArthur’s vision takes to the seas, it redefines the boundaries of water-based adventure, proving that the sky – or in this case, the ocean’s surface – is the limit.
