Meet the SIC Maui Dragon: A Next-Gen Wing Validated by Anaé Rio

SIC Maui’s new weapon for 2025, the Dragon wing, doesn’t go unnoticed — with its sleek design, integrated boom and premium materials like ALUULA AERIS x FX86. Among the very first riders to test it in real, demanding conditions was Anaé Rio, multiple-time Défi Wing U16 winner and passionate racer, freestyler and freerider. She shares her first impressions: power, control, reactivity… the Dragon seems built to break limits. Meet a young rider as determined as she is inspiring, rising fast on the international wingfoil scene.

Photo : @sabpalme

Hi Anaé! You’re one of the first riders who had the chance to test the SIC Maui Dragon Wing. What impressed you the most once you were on the water?

What stood out the most was the power and reactivity of the Dragon. It has a super direct, very balanced feeling in the hands, and at the same time it delivers steady power without being tiring. I felt confident right away, like I had already been riding it for a long time!

Photo : Dasher / SIC Maui

You rode it in several disciplines: racing, freeride, freestyle… How would you describe its behavior in each of these situations?

In racing, it pushes you hard: it’s powerful, fast, and always drives you further. The upwind angle is insane — definitely one of its strongest points. In freestyle, I was impressed by how easy it is to handle in the air: it follows your movements instantly and makes you want to try every trick you can think of!

And in freeride, it’s easy to use, comfortable, and super enjoyable in transitions. One of the biggest innovations on the Dragon is the boom. Whether in racing, freestyle or freeride, it makes everything more intuitive: maneuvers become smoother and you recover the wing way more easily during tricks.

Photo : @antlorin.films

The Dragon is built with high-end materials like ALUULA AERIS x FX86. Do you feel a real difference compared to other wings you’ve tried, including the Raptor?

Yes, definitely. The Dragon is more powerful, has incredible upwind performance and is especially more reactive. You can feel it respond instantly, even in small pumps or light wind. It always pulls you forward and makes you want to push your limits.

Photo : @sabpalme

The Dragon comes with a boom. What does it bring to your riding experience?

The boom really changes the ride. It adds precision, comfort and freedom — especially when it comes to hand placement — and it makes maneuvers smoother and more natural. You can catch the wing much more easily, whether in freestyle or transitions. It’s a real plus for control and instinctive handling.

Photo : @antlorin.films

If you had to describe the Dragon in one word or key phrase, what would it be?

The Dragon doesn’t follow — it leads. Always one step ahead.

Photo : Défi Wing 2025

If I’m not mistaken, you used the Dragon at the Défi Wing this year — and congrats on your U16 victory! How did the competition go, and what did this wing bring you in that context?

Thank you so much! It was my third Défi Wing win, and it’s always a highlight of the season. This year, with the Dragon, I really felt a difference: it allowed me to push hard right from the start and stay fast over the entire distance. I could maintain my speed without wasting energy, which is huge in such a long, intense format. It stayed stable, powerful and comfortable the whole way — a real advantage in those tough conditions.

Photo : @lucastozzi

You also took part in the GWA Youth World Cup last summer — tell us about it.

Yes, I competed in the GWA Youth in Costa Brava, Spain. It’s always motivating to ride at the international level, especially in such a dynamic atmosphere. I got to ride in very light conditions, which pushed my progression in many ways. It’s also a great opportunity to see where you stand, challenge yourself, and gain experience for what’s next.

Photo : @antlorin.films

I’ll leave you the final word — what’s coming up for you?

I want to keep progressing, challenging myself, and competing at the next GWA stops. I just love being on the water, whether it’s for training or competition. This sport also gives me the chance to travel, discover new places and meet incredible people.

Chasing the wind, keep riding.

Photo : @antlorin.films

Thank you so much for your answers, Anaé!

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