Meet Oli Hill: Our Newest Team Rider at Northern Watersports and Reedin UK

A Welsh Upbringing Shaped by the Sea

Oli Hill grew up in a small village in rural North Wales, where time on the water was part of everyday life. His dad introduced him to surfing and stand-up paddleboarding early on, and that rhythm of tide, wind, and shoreline set the course for everything that followed.

“Some of my earliest memories are just being in the sea with my dad,” Oli says. “I didn’t realise it at the time, but those sessions were what made me love the water.”

Llandudno West Shore: A Home Spot with Range

Oli’s local beach is Llandudno West Shore. The shore-break barrier there gives him options: flat water for control and technique, plus small waves for timing and flow. It’s where he landed his first jumps, tried his first tricks, and sent his first loops. It’s also the place he returns to when he wants to test something new.

“Llandudno West Shore is where everything clicked for me,” Oli explains. “It’s special because I can switch between wave riding and flatwater training in one place. It’s basically my second home.”

Finding Kitesurfing—and Committing to It

Oli first tried kitesurfing in 2022. In 2024, he decided to fully commit. Since then, his progression has accelerated. He spends most sessions training Big Air, and he switches to strapless when conditions suit. His first setup—a Core Nexus V2 (2020) with a Sensor 3 bar and a 2014 North Select—was simple, but it gave him the time on the water he needed to build solid fundamentals.

“When I started, it wasn’t about the gear,” Oli says. “It was about getting as much time on the water as I could. Every session was a chance to figure something new out.”

How the Northern Watersports Connection Started

This story began with a phone call. Oli rang Adam at Northern Watersports for advice on Reedin kites. One conversation led to another, and staying in touch made the fit clear. Oli is now riding for Northern Watersports and representing Reedin UK.

“I actually called just to ask about buying a kite,” Oli laughs. “But Adam took the time to talk through everything. It felt different from the start. It wasn’t just a sale — it was a proper conversation.”

“Being part of the team means a lot,” Oli says. “The community feels bigger than a shop. I visited the sailing club building recently and the energy there stood out. I’m looking forward to playing my part as things grow.”

Favourite Gear Right Now

Oli’s current favourites are his 2025 Reedin Supermodel HTF3 kites—the first kites he bought since starting out—chosen with help from the Northern Watersports crew.

“The Supermodel HTF3s were my first proper kites, and they completely changed my sessions,” Oli says. “They’re fast, they loop beautifully, and they’ve given me the confidence to push myself higher.”

Balancing College, Work, and Wind

Oli studies at college and works part-time, so he plans carefully to make space for wind windows. He is motivated by the effect his riding has on people around him, and by riders who set high standards.

“It’s not always easy to balance college, work, and kiting,” Oli admits. “But I’ve learned to be organised so that when the wind’s on, I can drop everything and get out there.”

Riders Who Influence Him

• Parker Sage for showing what is possible at a young age and for consistent dedication.
• Kevin Langeree for building Reedin in a way that supports different riders and styles.

“Parker’s riding just fires me up,” Oli says. “He’s young and charging hard, and it reminds me that age doesn’t have to be a limit. And Kevin’s built something that’s way more than just gear — it’s a proper community.”

A Spot on the Wishlist

Mykonos is high on Oli’s list for its clear water, reliable wind, and relaxed atmosphere.

“Mykonos just looks magical,” Oli says. “The water, the vibe — it’s the kind of place I imagine having the best sessions of my life.”

Quickfire with Oli

• Favourite session snack: Sausage roll
• Post-session playlist: 80s power ballads
• Flat water or waves: Flat water for boosting; waves for strapless
• Dream gear: Reedin Hypermodel kite, Reedin SpaceAgency board, Dreamstick 2.5 SK99 bar, Ion Riot harness
• One tip: “Do not let your goal feel too far away. Mark the small wins.”

Why Oli Fits Northern Watersports

Oli’s approach—steady progress, time on the water, and a practical mindset—matches how Northern Watersports supports riders. He values clear advice, reliable kit, and a community that looks out for each other. That’s exactly what we aim to provide from our North West base.

Check out the Reedin Range

Why Buy from Northern Watersports

Clear, Rider-Led Advice

We keep guidance straightforward. Whether you’re choosing your first kite or refining a Big Air setup, you get practical, experience-based advice—not sales scripts. Get in touch with our team for honest recommendations.

Curated Gear You Can Trust

Our range is focused and tested. As a Reedin UK partner, we stock kites and boards that work in real UK conditions, from flat-water coaching spots to onshore beach breaks.

Community at the Core

From day one, Northern Watersports has been community-first. We back local riders, support youth pathways, and welcome newcomers. You’ll find the same open door whether you’re learning transitions or chasing loops.

Wallasey Beach and North Wales Know-How

With Wallasey Beach and North Wales on our doorstep, we understand the sessions you’re planning for. If you need tide timing, wind nuance, or spot etiquette, we can help you prepare and progress safely.

Smooth Purchasing and Support

We help you match gear to goals, keep communication clear, and follow up after purchase. If something needs tweaking, we’re here to get it right.