Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Kite Reviews

2024 Naish Triad Review

Sizes Tested(m): 10 Synopsis The 2024 Naish Triad has been significantly upgraded to offer enhanced handling and performance while retaining the accessible plug-and-play nature that has...

2024 Eleveight WS V7 Review

Size Tested: 9m Synopsis The Eleveight WS V7 is a dynamic and versatile wave kite designed to offer smooth handling and responsive steering across a range...

2024 Ozone Reo V7 Ultra-X Review

Size Tested: 8m Synopsis The Ozone Reo V7 Ultra-X represents a pinnacle in wave kite technology, specifically designed for offshore down-the-line riding. Renowned for its exceptional...

2024 Duotone Neo SLS Review

Sizes Tested(m): 9, 12 m Synopsis The 2024 Duotone Neo SLS continues to dominate the wave-riding sector, now with added enhancements that bolster its reputation for...

2024 Airush Ultra Team V5 Review

Size Tested: 8m Synopsis The Airush Ultra Team V5 represents the zenith of refinement in kite performance, notably excelling in light wind conditions and offering a...

2024 F-ONE Breeze V4 Review 

Synopsis The F-ONE Breeze V4 is recognized for its lightweight design and exceptional handling, making it an excellent choice for light-wind freeriding and foiling. The...

2024  North Code Zero Review

Sizes tested: 9m, 14m Synopsis The North Code Zero emerges as a distinctive single-strut kite, characterized by its fuller, deeper position in the wind window and...

2024 Cabrinha Switchblade Review

Size Tested: 9 mSynopsis The Cabrinha Switchblade 2024 edition continues the kite's legacy as a high-performance model in the kiteboarding industry, introducing significant material and...

2024 North Reach Review

Size Tested: 9, 12, 15 m Synopsis The North Reach 9m is distinguished as a versatile all-rounder in the kiteboarding world, offering a light and...

2024 Ocean Rodeo Gen  Flite A Series Review

Size Tested: 10 m Synopsis The Ocean Rodeo Gen 9 Flite A Series represents a significant advancement in kiteboarding technology, leading the charge in the Aluula...

2024 Eleveight XS V4 Review

Size Tested: 12 m Synopsis The Eleveight XS V4 sets a new standard in the Big Air kiteboarding category, combining exceptional low-end power with nimble control,...

2024 F-One Bandit XVI Review 

Size Tested: 12 m Synopsis The Fone Bandit XVI continues to uphold the brand's reputation for producing high-quality, high-performance kites. Renowned for its solid build and...

2024 Airush Lithium Review

Size Tested: 12 m Synopsis The Airush Lithium presents itself as an outstanding all-around freeride performance kite, ideal for riders who value a balance between fun...

2024 Cabrinha MotoX Review

Sizes Tested: 10m Synopsis The Cabrinha MotoX represents a significant evolution in the performance freeride and crossover kite segment. Renowned for its versatility, the MotoX Apex...

2024 Naish Pivot Nvision Review

Sizes Tested(m): 12 m, 9 m,  Synopsis The Naish Pivot Nvision emerges as a groundbreaking all-rounder in the kiteboarding world, setting a new benchmark for versatility...

Core XR Pro Review

Sizes Tested: 12, 10 mSynopsisThe Core XR Pro revolutionizes the big air experience, building upon the legendary XR series with cutting-edge enhancements for the...

2024 Duotone Rebel SLS Review

Size Tested(m): 12 Synopsis The 2024 Rebel SLS stands as a testament to Duotone's relentless pursuit of perfection, delivering an exhilarating kiteboarding experience that defies the limits...

Core XR Pro vs. Core XR8: Head-to-Head Review

Matt Nuzzo and REAL Pro Austin Leder ride and review the XR8 and the new XR Pro back to back in the REAL slick. Core...

Airush Lift V3 Review

Synopsis: "Forget the days of having to choose between height and handling. The new Lift is the next generation of big air versatility." The...

Eleveight RS V7 Review – Freeride Crossover

Size Tested: 12m Sizes Available: 05 / 06 / 07 / 08 / 09 / 10 / 12 / 14 / 17 Synopsis: The biggest jumping...

2023/24 Naish Triad Review – All-Around Freeride/Wave

Synopsis: The 2023 Naish Triad is a versatile all-around freeride/wave kite that offers predictable performance and significant upgrades that enhance its usability and functionality across...

F-One Bandit S4 Review

The Surf Kite You Have Dreamt About! Sizes Tested: 9 m Sizes Available: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Synopsis: The BANDIT-S4 is a nicely...

2023 Cabrinha Drifter Review

Sizes Tested(m)            9 M                                          Sizes Available(m)        6, 7, 8, 9,10,11,12,14               Synopsis New age wave handling with smooth power delivery, and quick, pivotal turns, the Drifter also has versatility...

All-Rounder Extraordinaire – Duotone Evo SLS 2023 Review

Performance All-Rounder Extraordinaire Size Tested: 9 and 12m As the Kitesurfing Magazine team journeyed through our testing phase, we discovered the Duotone Evo SLS 2023 to be a...

Amazing Foiling Kite! 2023 Naish Boxer Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9  Sizes: 2.8, 3.4, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 SYNOPSIS : The 2023 Naish Boxer is a premier...

Core XR 8 Review

SYNOPSIS: A SUPERIOR EVOLUTION IN THE BIG AIR LEGACY THAT AIMS TO UPLIFT EVERY KITER'S ABILITY WITH UNEQUALLED AGILITY, EXPLOSIVENESS, AND RIDING COMFORT UNDER...

2023 Kite Reviews: Lighter, Smoother, Faster, Stronger – Unleash the Evolution of Kite Performance!

The evolution of kite performance continues with improvements in overall wind range, power efficiency, and handling in many of the 2023 models. Kite designers...

Cabrinha Moto X Review

Brand: Cabrinha Kite Model: Moto X Sizes Tested(m): 12                              Sizes Available(m): 5,...

Reedin SuperModel HTF Review

Brand: Reedin  Kite Model: Supermodel HTF Sizes Tested(m): 8, 9                                ...

Core Nexus 3 Review

Brand: Core Kite Model: Nexus3 Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12                                 ...

Duotone Neo D/LAB Review

Brand: Duotone Kite Model: Neo D/LAB Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12                               ...

North Orbit 4 Review

Brand: North Kite Model: Orbit 4 Sizes Tested(m): 8, 9, 10                               ...

Eleveight WS V6 Review

Brand: Eleveight Kite Model: WS V6 Sizes Tested(m): 9, 11                                 ...

F-One Trigger Review

Brand: F-One  Kite Model: Trigger Sizes Tested(m): 9, 12                                   ...

Ocean Rodeo Flite A-Series Review

Brand: Ocean Rodeo  Kite Model: Flite A-Series Sizes Tested(m): 10                                ...

Naish Pivot S27 Review

Brand: Naish  Kite Model: Pivot S27 Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12                              ...

Airush Ultra Team V1 Kite Review

Brand: Airush Kite Model: Ultra Team Sizes Tested: 6, 8 Available sizes: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14m Outside of our annual head-to-head tests, the  Kitesurfing Magazine team had the opportunity...

North Code Zero – Check Out Review

North has an exciting new model in their lineup called the Code Zero. This light and aerodynamic shape is North’s first foray into the...

Duotone Juice D/LAB Review

Synopsis: The newest king of light air sessions, theDuotone  Juice D/LAB features new and unrivalled levels of low-end power, with quick and reactive steering...

SLINGSHOT MACHINE V1

SYNOPSIS: THE MACHINE V1 IS A SMOOTH PULLING AND EXPLOSIVE-LIFTING BIG AIR KITE WITH ITS FLAT OPEN C CANOPY THAT OFFERS EXTRA HANG TIME...

REEDIN SUPERMODEL 3

Likes: The Reedin brand emerged two seasons ago from the minds and passion of legendary kite pro and Red Bull King of the Air...

OCEAN RODEO RISE A-SERIES

SYNOPSIS: CONSTRUCTED WITH THE NEW REVOLUTIONARY ALUULA FABRIC, THE RISE IS A FIVE STRUT, HIGH ASPECT RATIO SHAPE THAT OFFERS THE ULTIMATE IN STRATOSPHERIC...

NORTH ORBIT

SYNOPSIS: THE EMERGING ICON OF BIG AIR, THE THIRD EDITION OF THE ORBIT IS A HIGH WIND, HIGH PERFORMANCE KITELOOPING MACHINE THAT OFFERS THE...

NAISH PIVOT

SYNOPSIS: THE DO-IT-ALL MASTER THAT SETS THE BAR IN VERSATILITY WITH AMAZING BOOSTING ABILITY AND THE POWER BAND CONTROL AND MANOEUVRABILITY THAT CAN CATER...

F-ONE BANDIT XV

SYNOPSIS: THE BANDIT XV CONTINUES TO DELIVER–AS IT HAS FOR A DECADE AND A HALF–BREAKING THE BARRIERS OF PERFORMANCE WITH MORE BOOST AND GLIDE...

ELEVEIGHT XS V2

SYNOPSIS: THE ELEVEIGHT XS V2 CAN BOOST AND GLIDE WITH THE BEST OF THEM AND YOU DON’T NEED TO BE A KITELOOPING SUPERSTAR TO...

DUOTONE REBEL SLS

SYNOPSIS: THE FIVE STRUT, BIG AIR FREERIDE LEGEND IS REDESIGNED WITH A LIGHTER, MORE REACTIVE FRAME THAT DELIVERS MORE DEPOWER, FASTER RESPONSIVE STEERING AND...

2022 CORE XR7 SKYSCRAPER

SYNOPSIS: A LEGEND THAT MAKES EVERY LEVEL OF RIDER BETTER AT BOOSTING BIG AIRS WITH A HUGE SWEET SPOT, SMOOTH DRIVING PULL AND TONS...
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Pro Review F-ONE BANDIT XV – WHAT’S NEW Feat. Liam Whaley

15 years after the birth of the first BANDIT, the F-ONE design team has once again put an astounding amount of work to create...

CORE / Nexus 2 

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 12 / Sizes Available(m): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13.5 / Control Bar: Sensor 3  The high performance, mega loop...

AIRUSH / Session 

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9 / Sizes Available(m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 / Control Bar: Cleat Bar  Quick and smooth pivotal turns...

CORE / GTS6 

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12 / Sizes Available(m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13.5 / Control Bar: Sensor 3  The multi-tool master...

OCEAN RODEO / Flite A-Series 

Sizes Tested(m): 14.5 / Sizes Available(m): 12, 14.5, 17 / Control Bar: Stick Shift 3.0  The Flite A-Series breaks new low wind barriers for extreme...

OCEAN RODEO / Roam A-Series 

Sizes Tested(m): 10 / Sizes Available(m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 / Control Bar: Stick Shift 3.0  Constructed with the new...

2021 Head-to-Head Kite Reviews

Wave, Foil, Big Air, Specialty kites & Do-It-All Models Tested by the Kitesurfing Magazine test team. words by SHANE THOMPSON / PHOTOS BY JOHN BRYJA AND...

North Reach Review

Brand          North Kite Model       Reach Sizes Tested(m) 12, 9 Sizes Available(m)    5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 Control Bar                           Navigator Control Bar   Review Synopsis: The Reach is North’s new...

SLINGSHOT GHOST V.1

SIZES TESTED (M): 10 / SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 2.5, 4, 6, 8,10, 12, 15, 17  CONTROL SYSTEM: COMPSTICK GUARDIAN  SYNOPSIS  A round, playful and nimble performance, perfect...

CORE XLITE

SIZES TESTED (M): 12, 8 M / SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11,12  CONTROL BAR: SENSOR 2S PRO FOIL BAR  SYNOPSIS  A high...

NORTH ORBIT Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9, 12  SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 11, 12, 14  CONTROL BAR: NAVIGATOR  SYNOPSIS  High end performance, big boosting machine,...

SLINGSHOT RAPTOR V1 Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9, 12  SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5, 15LW, 17LW,19 LW  CONTROL BAR: SENSOR 2  SYNOPSIS  A true hang...

CABRINHA AV8 Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 11 / SIZES AVAILABLE(M): 9, 11, 14  CONTROL BAR: AV8 1X TRIMLITE SYNOPSIS  Big range, smooth and controlled power delivery with lots of easy...

NAISH PIVOT Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9, 12 / SIZES AVAILABLE(M): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 ,10, 11, 12 ,14  CONTROL BAR: TORQUE ATB  SYNOPSIS  Back-to-back winner of the Red...

ELEVEIGHT RS V3 Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9, 12 / SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17  CONTROL BAR: CS VARY BAR  SYNOPSIS  A true Jack-of-all-trades...

CORE STARSHIP XR6 Review

SIZES TESTED (M): 9, 12  SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5, 15LW, 17LW,19 LW,  CONTROL BAR: SENSOR 2  SYNOPSIS  A big air...

Aluula Kite Review

Kitesurfing Magazine Editor-in-Chief John Bryja checks out the new Aluula material from Ocean Rodeo. He headed south for an in-depth checkout of the new...
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Naish Boxer VS Duotone Mono

The Kitesurfing Magazine test team checks out the Naish Boxer and Duotone Mono as part of the in-depth review of the 2020 single strut...
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Aluula Pro Review

Ocean Rodeo Pro Rider Reece Myerscough reviews the new Aluula kitesurfing material. Reece has been using the Aluula material in his kites that he...
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Top 5 Kitesurfing Gear Trends of 2020

Kitesurfing Magazine's test editor Shane Thompson and editor-in-chief John Bryja sit down at the AWSI trade show in Hood River, Oregon to discuss the...

ELEVEIGHT WS REVIEW

SIZES TESTED(m): 7 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 5, 7, 9, 11 / CONTROL SYSTEM: CSeries  SYNOPSIS  Compact and nimble, smooth through the gusts and great drift...

F-ONE BANDIT 11 REVIEW

SIZES TESTED(m): 9, 12 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Linx Bar  SYNOPSIS  Legendary...

LIQUID FORCE WOW V3 REVIEW

SIZES TESTED(m): 7, 9 / SIZES AVAILABLE(m): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Mission Control System  SYNOPSIS Great drift, responsive steering...

OCEAN RODEO ROAM REVIEW

SIZES TESTED (m): 9.5 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 7, 8, 9.5, 12 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Stick Shift  SYNOPSIS  Balanced, stable with great direct feedback from the...

NAISH SLASH REVIEW

SIZES TESTED(m): 7, 9 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Fusion Control Bar BTB  SYNOPSIS  Smooth...

CORE SECTION 2 REVIEW

SIZES TESTED (m): 9 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 LW, 14 LW / CONTROL SYSTEM: Sensor2 Pro  SYNOPSIS  Dedicated...

SLINGSHOT SST REVIEW

SIZES TESTED (m): 10 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Compstick Guardian  SYNOPSIS Smooth and ready for...

NORTH NEO REVIEW

SIZES TESTED (m): 7, 9 11 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Click Bar  SYNOPSIS The...

CABRINHA DRIFTER REVIEW

SIZES TESTED (m): 10, 12 / SIZES AVAILABLE (m): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 / CONTROL SYSTEM: Overdrive 1X  SYNOPSIS  More...

WAVE KITES TESTED: The Performance Edge in the Surf and Beyond

BY TEST EDITOR SHANE THOMPSON  Kitesurfing in waves or freeriding with a directional board continues to be one of the fastest growing kite disciplines. This...
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Head to Head: Naish Pivot vs Torch

"I've been getting a lot of questions on why I switched from the Torch to the Pivot. In this little video I'll give an...

ELEVEIGHT RS Review

Smooth power delivery, versatile for freeride with the boost and range driven by a proven Delta shaped, three-strut platform. SIZES TESTED(m): 9, 12 / SIZES...

Best Kites for Freeride Hydrofoiling

Riding on a hydrofoil board is kiteboarding’s newest discipline and the foil board category has major momentum in 2017 with new freeride foil models...

2016 Liquid Force Envy Review

Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes Available (m): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15 Control System: Response Control Bar REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Versatile freeride mastery, more...

2016 Naish Park HD Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Ready to pop-and-play in your local park, a refined legend reborn with optimal depower and smooth powered loops. Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes Available...

2016 North Dice Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Direct and responsive handling and pull, smooth-pulling pivots, solid performer for freestyle and waves. Sizes Tested (m): 12, 9 Sizes Available (m): 4, 5, 6,...

2016 Cabrinha Switchblade Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS:  Legendary power, refined precision handling, and a great blend of performance versatility. Sizes Tested (m): 11, 8 Sizes Available (m): 4, 5, 6, 7,...

2016 Slingshot RPM Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Aggressive but intuitively stable and direct flying performance that’s adaptable to general freeride or freestyle and waves. Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes Available (m):...

2016 Liquid Force Solo Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Exciting efficiency, impressive stability, plug-and-play, smooth pivoting gem. Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes Available (m): 4.5, 6.5, 9, 12, 15.5, 17.5 Control Bar: Response Control...

2016 F-One Bandit Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: All-encompassing, refined performance, unmatched versatility. Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes Available (m): 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,14,17m Control System: Monolith Bar THE GOOD STUFF: The legendary F-One Bandit shows the high...

Core Riot XR4 Review

REVIEW SYNOPSIS: Refined and easy flying kite, with great range, smooth pivotal turns and light touch steering. Sizes Tested (m): 12, 9 Sizes Available (m): 5, 6,...

2016 Airush Lithium Review

TEST REVIEW SYNOPSIS:  More to love than ever; simplicity merges with satisfying performance. Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Sizes (m): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,...

2016 Freeride Kite Reviews – Head-to-Head

This past fall, Kitesurfing Magazine assembled a crew of experienced test riders in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. The team scored a remarkable number of...

2016 Slingshot Wave SST Review

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  6, 8, 10, 12 Control Bar: Compstick Test Review Synopsis:  Unrivalled surf-specific build, park-and-slash master with tons of depower and...

2016 Liquid Force Wow Review

Sizes Tested(m): 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 Control Bar: Response Control Bar Review Synopsis: Quick pulling and pivoting kite, reliable freeride-friendly, power, boost...

2016 Airush Wave Review

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 Control Bar: Core Bar Review Synopsis:  Evolved power delivery, dynamic drift and automatic...

2016 Core Section Review

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12LW, 14LW Control Bar: Sensor Pro Review Synopsis: Feather light feel, fast reactive steering,...

2016 Naish Pivot Review

Sizes Tested(m): 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 Control Bar: Fusion Control Bar Review Synopsis: Powerful and direct, but nimble and...

2016 North Neo Review

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 11 Sizes Available(m):  4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Control Bar: Quad Control Review Synopsis: Optimized wave handling with close-to-perfect stability, balance...

2016 Cabrinha Drifter Review

Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 12 Sizes Available(m):  4.5, 5.5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13 Control Bar: Overdrive 1X Review Synopsis: Set it and forget it, smooth and predictable...

WAVE KITES v 2016 Reviews

Surfing waves with a directional surfboard continues to be one of the fastest growing disciplines of kiteboarding. This past fall, Kitesurfing Magazine’s Test Team...

2016 Slingshot Wave SST Review

Sizes Tested (m): 8, 10, 12 We were excited to jump on Slingshot’s first entry into the full wave market and were not disappointed. First...

2016 Liquid Force Solo Review

The 2015 Solo was a ground-breaking kite praised by testers for its simplicity, range and performance. As expected, changes to the 2016 Solo are...

2016 North Rebel Review

The Rebel is North’s best selling kite and most recent seasons have been marked more by refinement than redesign. North has positioned the Rebel...

Flysurfer Boost Review

Kitesurfing Magazine SizesTested (m): 11 Review Synopsis: Powerful, smooth pull and quick pivots with exceptional big boosting ability. The Good Stuff: The Flysurfer Boost is the newest addition...

2015/16 Naish Ride Review

Kitesurfing Magazine Sizes tested (m): 6, 7, 9, 12 Review Synopsis: Top level beginner/intermediate qualities packaged in a very refined, and surprisingly high-performance package. Part of...

2016 Liquid Force Wow Review

Sizes Tested (m): 9, 12 Review Synopsis: Powerful, nimble, direct, upwind machine with superb drift and response on the wave and it boosts like a champion. The...

2015 Core Riot XR3 Review

Review Synopsis: Some magic handling for any level rider in any condition. Great low-end, sheet-and-go pull. The Good Stuff: The Riot XR3 is Core’s Crossride Kite that...

Blade Trigger

Review Synopsis: Matured performance with good low-end, efficient upwind drive and exceptional boosting. The Good Stuff: The Trigger is in its sixth generation and the 2015...

2015 Best TS Review

Review Synopsis: Solid canopy, with impressive depower and upper range, combined with aggressive boost and glide, and no limits for technical high-performance. The Good Stuff: The Best...

2015 Best Kahoona V7

Review Synopsis: More feel, more precision, but with the same lovely boost and glide that Kahoona riders love. The Good Stuff: The Kahoona V7 is a legit...

2015 North Dice Review

Review Synopsis: Direct and responsive handling and pull, smooth-pulling pivots, solid performer for freestyle and waves. The Good Stuff: The North Dice has a great blend of...

2015 North Rebel Review

Review Synopsis: A true legend with highest forms of rock solid, freeride precision and refinement. The Good Stuff: The 2015 Rebel continues to set the benchmark for...

2015 Naish Pivot Review

Review Synopsis: Low-end efficiency, great hang time, with a silky-smooth wave and freeriding prowess. The Good Stuff: The Pivot is a Naish’s new four-line, three-strut, kite...

2015 Naish Park Review

Review Synopsis: Ready to pop and play in your local park. A refined legend, with optimal depower and smooth powered loops. The Good Stuff: The Naish Park...

2015 Liquid Force Envy Review

Review Synopsis: Impressive handling and all-terrain performance, this is an all-new, more enviable Envy for any level and discipline. The Good Stuff: The 2015 Envy has...

2015 Liquid Force Solo Review

Review Synopsis: Exciting efficiency, impressive stability, plug-and-play, smooth pivoting gem. The Good Stuff: The Liquid Force Solo is the new one strut kite that breaks the...

2015 Slingshot Rally Review

Review Synopsis: Ultra-powerful and stable, with solid, all-around performance for any condition. The Good Stuff: The Rally has been a popular kite for riders that want sheet-and-go...

2015 F-One Bandit 7 Review

Brand: F-One Kite Model: Bandit 7 Sizes Tested(m): 7, 9, 11 Sizes Available(m): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17 Review Synopsis: Smooth depower, smooth pull, quick turns equal industry...

2015 Cabrinha Switchblade Review

 Review Synopsis:  Great power, great boost, solid handling; the legend continues. The Good Stuff: The Cabrinha Switchblade has a decade of legendary performance and is revered...

2015 Cabrinha Radar Review

Brand: Cabrinha Kite Model: Radar Sizes Tested(m): 12, 9 m Sizes Available(m):     3.5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14 Control System: Overdrive QuickLoopTM Control System Review Synopsis: Effortless relaunch, smooth...

2015 Airush Lithium Review

Brand:                        Airush Kite Model:               Lithium Sizes Tested(m):    12 Sizes Available(m):     5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16         Test Review Synopsis: The ideal all-rounder...

Takoon Furia Review

Sizes Tested(m)        11 m Sizes Available(m)     6, 7, 9, 11, 13            m Test Review Synopsis: Smooth and forgiving power, with the right agility and depower to excel in waves. The Good Stuff: The...

2014 Blade Trigger Review

Size tested: 7m Suggested retail: $ 999 (7m Kite only) Sizes available: 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14m Test Team Report The Blade Trigger is in its sixth generation and...

2015 Slingshot Rally Review

Size tested: 7m The most versatile kite in the Slingshot line, the Rally returns for 2015 with some minor tweaks, including two new sizes (5 and...

2014 Best Kahoona Review

Size tested: 11.5m Suggested retail: $1,349 (kite only) Sizes available: 3.5, 5.5, 7.5, 8.5, 9.5, 10.5, 11.5, 13.5m Test Team Report The Kahoona+ is a four-strut kite with a Delta platform,...

2014 Epic Surf Review

Best Jumbo Wave Kite Size tested: 12m Suggested retail: $1,299 (12m—kite only) Sizes available: 5, 8, 12m Test Team Report: The Surf is a new model from Epic aimed at...

2014 Airush Wave Review

Size tested: 6, 9m Suggested retail: $1,329; $1,479 (6, 9m; kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 9, 12m Test Team Report: The Airush Wave kite is in its second year...

2014 Naish Trip Review

Best Travel Companion Size tested: 10m Suggested retail: $999 Sizes available: 10m Test Team Report The Trip is a kite that promises to be the true answer for a one-kite quiver to...

2014 Cabrinha Drifter Review

Top Balance, Drift and Stability   Size tested: 7, 9m Suggested retail: $1,259; $1,359 (7, 9m—kite only) Sizes available: 5.5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13m Test Team Report: The Drifter is back again...

2014 North Evo Review

Size tested: 9m Suggested retail: $1,289.95 (9m—kite only); $1799.95 (9m—complete) Sizes available: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14m Test Team Report: The North Evo 9m captured excellent test...

2014 Cabrinha Switchblade Review

Awards—Top Low-End Power Size tested: 11m Suggested retail: $1,489 (kite only) Sizes available: 4.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report For years now, the Switchblade...

2014 Kite Tests: Head-to-Head Reviews

With the massive number of kite options available today, the decision of replacing your old kite or purchasing your first kite may seem like...

2014 Best Cabo V2 Review

Size tested: 11m Suggested retail: $1199.00 Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11m Test Team Report: The Cabo is positioned as Best’s dedicated surf kite, and it has all the...

2014 Flysurfer Cronix Review

Most Innovative  Size tested: 10m Suggested retail: $1,399; $1,799 (complete); Sizes available: 6, 8, 10, 12m Test Team Report The Flysurfer Cronix is a unique design that caught the attention of many...

2014 Core GTS2 Review

Sizes tested: 8, 12m Suggested retail: $1,229; $1,399 (kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 13, 14, 15m Test Team Report The GTS2 blends the traditional...

2014 HQ Ignition Review

Sizes tested: 9, 12m Suggested retail: $999, $1,099 (9,12m kite only) Sizes available: 5, 7, 9, 12, 14m Test Team Report The Ignition is HQ’s first-ever LEI kite design, and the...

2014 Liquid Force NRG Review

Size tested: 10m Suggested retail: $1749.99 (10m Complete) Sizes available: 6, 8, 10, 12m Test Team Report The third year in its evolution, the Liquid Force NRG is one...

2014 Slingshot Rally Review

Size tested: 8m Suggested retail: $ 1,739 (9m Complete) Sizes available: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14m Test Team Report The Slingshot Rally has evolved again and stepped up its...

2014 Epic Screamer 4G Review

Size tested: 12m Suggested retail: $1,365 Sizes available: 7, 9, 10, 12, 14m Test Team Report The Screamer 4G from Epic Kites is all about big air, big glide...

2014 Core Riot XR3 Review

Best Progression Kite     Sizes tested: 9, 12m Suggested retail: $ 1,249; $1,399 (kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 ,11, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19m Test Team...

2014 Airush Lithium Review

Low-End Power and Turn Speed Size tested: 12m Suggested retail: $1,339 Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16m Test Team Report The Airush Lithium was well...

2014 North Dice Review

Best New 3-Strut Size tested: 9m Suggested retail: $1,189.95; $1699.95 (complete) Sizes available: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13m Test Team Report The new model in the North...

2014 F-One Bandit VII Review

Most Versatile All-Terrain  Sizes tested: 8, 10m Suggested retail:  $1,762; $1,862  (8, 10m—complete) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report: The Bandit VII, one of...

2014 Best TS Review

Test Favourite: Advanced Freestyle Size tested: 12m Suggested retail: $1449.00 (12m—kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12m (also available in sizes 15, 17m TS Lightwind) Test Team...

2014 North Rebel Review

Test Favourite: Performance & Versatility     Size tested: 9m Suggested tetail: $1,319.95 (9m—kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14m Test Team Report The...

2014 Liquid Force Envy Review

Test Favorite: Best 3-Strut Wakestyle    Sizes tested: 10.5, 12m Suggested retail: $ Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15m Test Team Report This year’s Envy has significant...

2014 Slingshot RPM Review

Best High-Performance Unhooked Freestyle   Size tested: 11m Suggested retail: $1,849 (complete) Sizes available: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report The RPM stormed onto the...

2014 Cabrinha Vector Review

Size tested: 12m Suggested retail: $1,309 (kite only) Sizes available: 3.5, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report The Vector scored big marks with the Test Team...

2014 Naish Park Review

Best Wakestyle-Wave Crossover Size tested: 9, 12m Suggested retail: $1,170; $1400 (9, 12m—kite only) Sizes available: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report The fourth...

2014 Cabrinha Switchblade Review

Top Low-End Power Size tested: 11m Suggested retail: $1,489 (kite only) Sizes available: 4.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m Test Team Report For years now, the Switchblade...