American Wave Machines, an innovator in artificial wave technology, today announced the successful commissioning of the first modular surfing system delivering multiple wave types, including the left and right breaking barrel options. Surfers are lining up to ride real surfboards with fins on the first barreling standing wave in Europe.
The machine debuted at the Himlabadet Municipal Aquatic Sports and Spa Facility in Sundsvall, Sweden, and is another first for AWM.
The locals in Sundsvall came out in full force to ride SurfStream at the opening day event, sponsored by Quiksilver™ and Red Bull.
The event featured a live demonstration of the newly patented barreling wave technology and patent-pending adjustable gated stream delivery system.
The installation of the 16' x 4' SurfStream (model 4016) paves the way for larger systems and establishes a value benchmark in the industry.
The modular system can be configured into four different waves; a wide wave for beginner stand-up surf training; a left barrel; a right barrel; and a wide standing hydraulic jump wave.
As early adopters of innovative technology, Himlabadet has received positive responses from the riders.
"We rode the SurfStream® with a 4'2" twin fin, and a 5'0" thruster. The riding was awesome," said Per Öhman, a local Baltic Sea surfer from Sundsvall.
"With the modular inserts, we can alternate between frontside and backside surfing in 82-degree water. We're totally stoked to have a SurfStream® in our hometown."
"It's been a great experience working with the team at Himlabadet and VinterTeknik to bring this SurfStream online," said Bruce McFarland, President of AWM.
"After a long development project, to finally see surfers, snowboarders, and wakeboarders, surfing a man-made barreling wave, was the fulfillment of a shared vision,"
"We will be working with Himlabadet in the years to come on events, surf camps, contests, and new wave modules as they become available."