Owner Raphaël Salles talks R&D with Kitesurfing Magazine head tester Shane Thompson and walks us through the updated F-One Bandit 16 and new big air F-One Trigger kite.
In the interview, Raphael Salles, the founder of F-One, discusses the company’s process for improving kites and wings, their passion for R&D, and their dedication to continuous testing. He reveals that they can produce a prototype kite or wing in just five days and that they are currently working on new materials to improve kite performance.
He also shares that they focus on controlling the tension and orientation of the cloth in their kites to achieve better stability, wind range, and bar feeling. They have introduced stagger seams in their kites, which result in a cleaner profile and improved control over the draft.
The 16th model of their popular Bandit kite series boasts significant improvements in stability, wind range, and bar feeling compared to its predecessor. They are also excited about their new big air kite, the Trigger, which has a higher aspect ratio and a flatter arc, providing more support and height during jumps.
The company’s extensive testing process involves going upwind in various wind conditions and then comparing the results. Salles explains that the upwind test gives them a lot of information about the kite’s performance, which they can then use to make improvements.
F1 is continuously working on developing and improving their kites and wings, as well as their board development. Their goal is to optimize the use of classic materials rather than relying on more expensive alternatives that may not offer significant benefits.
