stay salty

Paul
Loustau

Born and raised in the Basque Country, Paul Loustau embraced the waves from the moment he could walk. Introduced to foiling by Kai Lenny's videos, he embarked on a trip to Hawaii in 2018, unknowingly knowing it would be a life-changing one. After transitioning from shortboarding to longboarding, Paul now finds his passion in foiling and is always looking for the next big set to tackle. From childhood foam play to competitive surfing and surf foiling the mythical Belharra, Paul's journey reflects an unwavering dedication to the water, where he spends every available moment.

STAY IN THE WATER.

Nationality FRENCH Age 2004

HOMESPOT
Côte Des Basques in Biarritz.

FAVORITE MOVE
A big carve.

DREAM WAVE
Chicama in Peru.

THREE REASONS TO GO SURFING
To have fun, to get better and to spend time on the water.

INSPIRATIONS
Kai Lenny and John John Florence.

FAVORITE MEAL
A big burger!

" Since that day when I first went foiling, I've been totally hooked "

Paul Interview

Can you tell us a bit more about your passion for surfing and foiling?

My father transmitted his passion for surfing and board sports in general to me. He put me on a board at a very young age. I remember spending my days playing in the foam on a bodyboard with my brother, then on a surfboard. As I got older, I joined the surf club at my middle school, which meant I could go training after school! After competing in shortboard surfing, I discovered longboarding, which was my father's favorite discipline. I started alternating between the two, depending on the waves.

Then, on a trip to Hawaii in 2018, my parents gifted me an introductory course to foiling. I'd been watching videos on Instagram of Kai Lenny on his foil for a while and found it magical. Since that day when I first went foiling, I've been totally hooked. I try to spend as much time as possible in the water, no matter the board or the discipline.

You just won the lottery, what do you do first?

I'd have to enter it first! On a more serious note, I think I’d set up my own school in the Basque Country and invest in gear so that I can pass on my passion for board sports to future generations, as well as to anyone who wants to discover new sensations!

" I try to spend as much time as possible in the water "

Paul Interview

Favorite expression?

A la choune! (Basque expression)

What’s the most amazing thing you’ve experienced?

It’s not easy to only pick one! I’m thinking of my very first barrel at this moment… For any surfer, it’s an unforgettable memory!

What do you do with your day when there are no waves?

When there are no conditions, I try to tidy up my garage, do some gear maintenance, and just keep myself busy! But most of all, I look at the forecasts to plan the next session!