“Hooked”
Windsurfing’s Untold Stories
- Written and Researched by Steve West -
Photos by Ulli Seer, Edited by Ben Oakley
Facts
Title: ‘Hooked’ published by Huisman Publishing 2023 - Netherlands
Researcher / Author: Steve West
Layout and Photography: Ulli Seer
Cover: Steve Wilkings / Rider Mike Horgan
Supporting Photographers: Carlo Borlenghi, Michael Garff, Daniel Forster, Naish Family, Cliff Webb, Stephen Whitesell, Steve Wilkings, Darrel Wong, Steve West
ISBN: 978-94-91737-92-3
Extent: 256 pages + Cover, 24cm x 33cm
First Edition: April 14h 2023
Purchase the Digital Version of the Book by following the link below . . .
Richly Illustrated - Supplemented with beautiful, iconic images from Ulli Seer, Mistral’s long time photographer, it reveals the evolution of windsurfing and its evocative appeal, from simple sails with rudimentary wooden booms to equipment. Other world class photography is supported by Steve Wilkings and Darell Wong.
Author: Water Sports Icon Steve West
In 2018, the then CEO of Mistral, Ado Huisman, commissioned water sports icon Steve West to produce a publication regarding the origins and growth of windsurfing, with the story of Mistral’s part in this history. What West researched and produced, is now a ‘Must Have’ publication for every board riding enthusiast. With his penchant for water sports history and design, from paddlesports to windsurfing, he is regarded world wide as the connoisseur and author of the highest standards of journalism. A prodigious author and winner of awards, Steve West presents a deeply researched extensive book, recounting the origins and growth of windsurfing and the influence the sport had upon a generation. how it impacted fashion, and lifestyles up to the latest developments in the field of kitesurfing, foiling and stand up paddleboarding.
Five Major Themes
From conception in the USA to arrival in Europe - 1975-1989 the Golden Years - The essence, soul and impact of windsurfing - The genesis and journey of four trending brands; Mistral, F2, Naish and Windsurfing Hawaii - Evolutionary challenges, opportunities and developments since 1980
Addictive Windsurfing Culture
Steve West expertly takes you on a journey spanning five decades of windsurfing history. He describes the boom years in which an addictive windsurfing culture grew in sync with evolving lifestyles, fashion, music and its influence on an entire generation. West sheds light on the competitive drive and egos of the sport’s protagonists and how early brands such as Windsurfer, Windsurfing Hawaii, Mistral, F2 and Naish evolved within an endlessly changing market.