In this interview, Sky Solbach, the lead designer at Duotone, takes us through the 2025 lineup of kites featuring Aluula, a cutting-edge material that has revolutionized kite design. Duotone has been at the forefront of incorporating Aluula since its early days, and Sky provides insights into the latest advancements with two of their standout models: the Rebel D–Lab and the Neo D-LAb.
Rebel D-Lab (2025)
The Rebel D-LAb is Duotone’s newest big air kite, designed to excel in boosting and hangtime, as well as kite loops. A key feature is the use of Aluula, which allows for a smaller leading edge diameter, pumped to a high inflation pressure of 10 psi. This improves the kite’s aerodynamic performance, steering speed, and reduces drag, especially toward the tips. The kite is built with a highly durable seam construction that can handle extreme conditions. Sky explains that the Rebel DB is one of the easiest kites to fly when powered up, making it ideal for those seeking huge air and smooth landings.
Neo D-Lab (2025)
The Neo D-Lab is a complete redesign from its predecessor, offering significant improvements in range, agility, and de-power. This new model, developed over two years, features a tapered leading edge that enhances its top-end performance while maintaining low-end power. With the ability to ride it more powered up and achieve better de-power, the Neo DB requires fewer kites in your quiver. This makes it the ultimate choice for freeride and wave riding, with a responsive, lively feel.
Aluula Material
Sky highlights the benefits of Aluula, which is lighter and stiffer than traditional materials. This stiffness allows for higher inflation pressures and smaller leading edges, resulting in more aerodynamic kites that perform better across a range of disciplines. Most notably, kites made with Aluula have a unique “Aluula feel”—they are highly responsive but also forgiving, absorbing gusts without harsh bar pressure. This combination of responsiveness and comfort sets Aluula kites apart from others.
Duotone’s experience with Aluula goes back to prototyping in 2019, and the team has since fine-tuned their designs, integrating seam testing and material analysis to achieve the perfect balance of durability and flex properties. Through this process, Duotone has mastered the transition between traditional materials and Aluula, ensuring optimal performance across their kite range.
Sky is excited about the progress Duotone has made with Aluula and looks forward to more innovation as the brand continues to lead in high-performance kite design.
