Arne Bergwinkl
Meet our new Kima Surf Ambassador!
May we introduce?! Arne Bergwinkl, a professional and inspiring surfer from Germany - AND from now on our new Kima Surf Ambassador.
Here at Kima, our passion for surfing and sharing this passion with others is all that matters. We want to teach, inspire and above all create unique surf adventures. Arne’s dedication and love for the sport of surfing combined with his background and interest, make him the perfect fit and we are more than happy to welcome Arne to our Kima Family!
Let’s get to know him better and learn more about his life and personal surfing journey!
Arne Bergwinkl: A goofy global Nomad Surfer
Name: Arne Bergwinkl
Age: 28
Nationaily: German
Currently living in: Winter time in Ecuador / summer wherever it takes me.
Surf stance: goofy
Instagram: @arnebergwinkl
When did you start surfing and who taught you?
“I started surfing on a shortboard at 10 years old, mostly self-taught, just spending countless hours in the ocean. Ecuador is my childhood home, but I spent every summer in France, and since I was 16, I have been travelling and exploring new waves.”
What board size and brand are you riding?
“Right now, I'm riding a 5'9" (18 ⅜ - 2 ⅜ - 25,6L) Slater Design board!”
What's your dream surf destination, and why?
“Pavones in Costa Rica! Last year, I went on a surf trip with a couple of my best friends. We scored some of the best waves you can imagine for a week long, every day! And this was in the middle of the jungle.”
What was your best surf experience? And your worst?
“Not sure if I have 1 ‘single best surf experience’, I think every time I catch good waves while surfing with a couple of friends are good times.
My worst experience was when I had a wipeout and I hit my head on the sand during a small wave. This led to a brief blackout and a minor concussion. Thankfully, it turned out to be all fine!”
Could you describe a time when you overcame a challenge in the water. What did you learn from it?
“I think in surfing you have to step outside your comfort zone a little bit. Surfing in conditions that you might not feel too happy about at first, but going in the water anyway and overcoming that fear is so worth it! It will probably be one of your best surf sessions ever.”
Have you ever been to Bali? What is your favourite surf spot?
“Yes, I’ve actually been there many times. My favourite spot, I would say, is Padang Padang. I surfed there a couple years ago on one of the biggest swells in history. So yeah, it was quite a session!”
Have you ever been to Sri Lanka? What is your favourite surf spot?
“Nope, I have never been to Sri Lanka. I'm flying there this summer and I'm so excited!”
What are some of your other hobbies outside of surfing?
“I like to spend my time being active, doing anything outside. From hiking to sailing. During a rainy day I like to relax and play video games.”
What is your favourite before- or after-surf meal?
“My favourite meal after a morning surf would be a Bolon. This is a typical Ecuadorian dish made from plantain!”
What's your go-to pre-surf ritual to get yourself in the zone?
“Coffee and some of my favourite music to get hyped up, and then I'm ready to go surf!“
What are your 3 top tips for beginner surfers and surfers in general?
Don't go from your bigger beginner board to a shortboard too quickly if your level is not here yet.
Try to have somebody film you, so that you can see yourself surfing and see where you can improve.
Just go surfing! That's the best training for surfing and improving. Just surf!
Once again welcome Arne! We are more than stoked to create a lot of surf moments together, welcoming him to our Surf Camps in Bali and Sri Lanka and are looking forward to great & inspiring projects! Keep an eye out on our Instagram and sign in for our Newsletter to always stay up to date!
