Kevin Faires | AIRWAAV Athlete Feature
Kevin Faires is a professional strongman renowned for his exceptional grip strength. Despite being one of the smaller athletes in a sport dominated by much larger competitors, Faires has carved out an impressive career and earned a place among the world's top strongmen. Growing up in Provo, Utah, Kevin was involved in sports from a young age. He participated in soccer, football, baseball, and wrestling, excelling particularly in the latter. Wrestling revealed his natural strength, as he often found himself stronger than his opponents, including the massive linemen he faced on the football field. This early exposure to strength-based competition laid the groundwork for his future in strongman.
Kevin's journey into strongman began after his wrestling career ended. Realizing that his strength could be a significant advantage, he decided to explore the world of strongman competitions. His first encounter with strongman implements during training was a turning point, igniting a passion for the sport and a desire to push his physical limits. Kevin's debut in the 2016 Nevada’s Strongest Man marked the beginning of a meteoric rise in the sport. He quickly moved up the ranks, winning the national championship in the under 105 kg category, which earned him his professional card. This victory was followed by a world title in the same weight class, solidifying his status as a strongman to watch.
By 2017, Kevin was competing in the Strongman Champions League, facing off against heavyweight competitors and gaining invaluable experience. His performance at the Official Strongman Games that year, where he finished second to Trey Mitchell, qualified him for the Giants Live North American Open. His runner-up finish there secured him a spot at the 2019 World’s Strongest Man competition.
One of Kevin’s standout attributes is his remarkable grip strength, which has led to several world records. He holds the world record for the Rogue replica Dinnie Stones walk, carrying a combined weight of 734 lbs (333 kg) for a distance of 31 feet (9.4 m) and 7 inches. His grip events like the Farmer’s Walk and stone carries has become his signature in the strongman community.
Kevin’s training is rigorous and disciplined, reflecting the dedication instilled in him from his multi-sport background. He also credits specialized equipment like the AIRWAAV mouthpiece for enhancing his performance. This mouthpiece helps him maintain focus, improve breathing, and provide stability during lifts, contributing to his success in various strongman events. Check out the Q&A to learn more about Kevin Faires.
Q&A with Kevin Faires
Can you walk us through the pivotal moment when you decided to dive headfirst into the world of Strongman?
I've always been strong while growing up, but really sprouted with strength in High school. Being a wrestler I saw being strong as an advantage and wanted to pursue strength. Not until my wrestling career ended did I decide to pursue the sport of strongman.
What was the spark that ignited your passion for this unique sport, and how did it drive you to where you are today?
After my first training session with strongman implements I was hooked! Seeing the challenge of moving big awkward things built a fire within me to push myself to surpass what I thought were my own limits.
What aspect of Strongman keeps you hooked and fuels your fire to train and compete at an elite level?
The support not only from the fans, but also the men I compete against. But more so the fire within myself as a mental outlet from the challenges that everyday life brings.
Give us a glimpse into your past training and other sports that have molded you into the elite strongman athlete you are today.
The discipline I had growing up playing 3 sports, putting in the time and dedication molded that dedication with my training in strongman.
If you had to choose a single Strongman movement as your favorite, what would it be and why?
Any and all grip events, because I have one of the best grips in the world.
What’s a moment in your strongman career that you are most proud of?
Taking 7th at World's Strongest man 2020.
Can you tell us about a significant setback you have had in your career? How did you overcome it?
Bulging my L5 and S1 disks in my back and losing all feeling in my left leg due to a car deadlift. I would say I'm still continually trying to prove myself at this elite level.
From first encounter to present-day use, how has the AIRWAAV Mouthpiece helped your performance?
I would say focusing on breathing through my nose, and strengthening my stability and balance, especially in overhead events.
Did you use a mouthpiece prior? If so, what sets AIRWAAV apart from other mouthpieces in the market?
Yes, other mouth pieces were big and bulky. I had a hard time keeping it in my mouth without choking on it. AIRWAVV has a slim, compact, tight fit on your lower teeth. Comfortably slides into place without any effort, which then doesn't take away my concentration going into the lift.
Do you have a preference in the PX1 vs the PX2 models? Give us a glimpse on which mouthpieces you prefer and why.
I personally use the PX1 because I believe it has a better overall fit for my mouth. It feels more comfortable and secure than the PX2.
How does the AIRWAAV mouthpiece help you the most? Are there specific movements you feel the most impact while using it?
I use it with every single lift. I have seen massive improvements with my larger lifts, as well as with my accessories.
How important is recovery as an athlete? Give us a rundown on how the RX1 Recovery mouthpiece helps you achieve better recovery.
Having sleep apnea, I use the RX1 on the airplane because it specifically helps with my snoring and breathing. I also love to use this in the ice bath to help with clenching my jaw so I can get the most out of my recovery.
Do you have any piece of advice or tips for someone looking to start training in strongman?
It's not a race it's a marathon, take the time to learn proper form before adding weight. Be patient with yourself, you are going to have good days and bad days. But some of my worst days in the gym are where I grow the most.
