Javier 'Javi' Sotomayor is an IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization) Senior Level 2 Instructor with 15 years of teaching experience in El Médano. A former competitive windsurfer, he now runs advanced clinics for kitesurfing and ocean kayaking. His expertise covers equipment selection, wind reading, and safety protocols in strong Atlantic currents.
Javier Sotomayor is a renowned figure in the Tenerife water sports community, having grown up navigating the powerful trade winds of El Médano. Starting his career as a competitive windsurfer on the national circuit, he transitioned into coaching and attained the highest levels of certification within the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO). Javier possesses an intuitive understanding of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics, which he applies to help students master foil boarding, kitesurfing, and technical kayaking. He has worked with leading equipment manufacturers to test gear durability in harsh volcanic conditions, giving him unparalleled knowledge of board volumes, sail sizes, and safety systems. His teaching philosophy emphasizes reading the ocean and understanding weather patterns to mitigate risks in open water. Javier also guides high-endurance kayaking expeditions along the cliffs of Los Gigantes, teaching proper paddling biomechanics to prevent injury. Through his articles, he provides technical advice on gear rental, progression strategies for beginners to pros, and navigating the busy right-of-way rules in crowded surf spots. He is committed to promoting safety and respect among the diverse tribe of water sports enthusiasts.