COVER IMAGES: Sensi Graves / Photo: Vincent Bergeron Manera Lifestyle / Photos: Matt Georges CONTENTS: When it’s on, be tooled up and ready, like Ruben! Photo: Alex Revers / Mystic 2
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As kitesurfers, we know that some of the most useful items don’t have to be really expensive. Who ever thought that a towel with a hood could be such a vital part of your gear?! Things like getting changed in comfort, travelling with less clutter and having ways to keep your stoke alive, even when you’re off the water, can make all the difference to how we feel about the sport. You won’t find kites and boards in this guide. Instead it’s packed with products that support and enrich the kitesurfing experience. Over these 48 pages we feature everything from neoprene accessories, tech products and tools to clothing and kit for your van. We’ve also included some innovative environmentally focused products that are very handy. The guide is of course cunningly released close to Christmas, so leave it lying around, book marked on a certain page, or subtly screengrab a page and whoops! You’ve emailed it to your family! See you on the water in 2019, ready for action, whatever the weather. The Kiteworld Team
CONTENTS FEATURING ACCESSORIES AND GIFT IDEAS FOR: 004 > RIDING 014 > BEFORE AND AFTER 018 > TECHNOLOGY LOVERS 022 > SAFETY 026 > VAN LIFE 030 > ECO FRIENDLINESS 032 > INDOOR STOKE 036 > APPAREL 040 > TRAVEL
*All prices are an approximate guide. Currencies may vary.
FOR RIDING
IT’S NOT JUST KITES AND BOARDS THAT MAKE US RIDERS. TAKE CARE OF THE LITTLE DETAILS FOR THE ULTIMATE COMFORT AND SENSORY EXPERIENCE
AK DURABLE SUPPLY CO: y A new brand fresh from the Airush design hub, expect to see more durable and performance oriented accessory products designed and tested at the Cape Town HQ. The AK Cord Traction is the lowest profile traction pad in their range, allowing for the most direct connection with your board without compromising on grip. PRICE GUIDE: £63 / $84 / €73 (Full set)
The AK Thrasher fins combine a larger outer and smaller centre fin that deliver a loose feeling at slower speeds when surfing and then more grip for the higher speeds of kitesurfing. PRICE GUIDE: £120 / $159 / €139
www.akdurablesupplyco.com
AQUAPAC z The TrailProof Phone case is fully submersible and waterproof so you can take your phone on the water and use it normally through the TPU case. Fitting all sizes of phone up to and including the iPhone 8 Plus and Samsung Galaxy S9+, you can even take video underwater! (Supplied with carabiner; shoulder strap available as an accessory). PRICE GUIDE: £13.99 / $19 / €16
If you need to carry more, the TrailProof Waist Pack has a 3-litre capacity and is available in three colours. Waterproof to IPX6 (firehose-proof!) PRICE GUIDE: £34.00 / $44 / €39
www.aquapac.net
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CABRINHA x This is Cabrinha’s new H20 footpad and strap system, their most customisable fit yet. Featuring a four-point connection, tripledensity pad and strap, micro-adjustment and interchangeable heel insert for comfort adjustment. PRICE GUIDE: £185 / $240 / €210
www.cabrinhakites.com
FORTY1 KITESURFING w You won’t have seen this on the water before - a low cost upgrade towards foiling! The low profile Hydrofin retrofits to your existing twin-tip and allows you to ride in lighter winds and stay in shallower waters. Full launch coming in 2019. PRICE GUIDE: £400 / €400
www.forty1kitesurfing.co.uk
FOR RIDING ION z When the cold weather strikes, don’t be deterred. ION’S Ballistic boot offers support and stretch in all the right places while maintaining great feedback even through layers of warm neoprene.
The hooded 2/1mm Neo vest will bring you through the toughest months with the hood connected directly to the collar of the vest, saving brain freeze and ice water flushes.
PRICE GUIDE: £75 / $99 / €86
PRICE GUIDE: £65 / $85 / €74.50
The 4/2mm Neo gloves feature a Plasma Plush lining and are also available in 2/1mm thickness. PRICE GUIDE: £45 / $59 / €51
www.ion-products.com
KITELEMENT z If you’ll be riding somewhere warm, this ‘Re ason’ T-shirt from Kitelement has a specially designed and strengthened hook hole and is made from a comfortable, quick-drying material. PRICE GUIDE: £60 / $66 / €69
www.kitelementshop.com
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LIP SPORTS z LiP’s Vivide Ice Blue lenses in the Surge frame are optimised to deliver crisp, high contrast vision by filtering out blues and enhancing red and green light, especially good for seeing details on the water or in the sky. Surge models also feature 100% UV protection, polarized lenses with hydrophobic, oleophobic and scratch resistant coatings, a lightweight flexible frame with a built-in venting system to counteract fogging and a failsafe leash and retainer system. PRICE GUIDE: £95 / $125 / €109
A good set of watershades can keep you out on the water for longer and will save your eyes from a lot of discomfort as a result of saltwater and the sun’s glare. The Typhoon is LiP’s original premium model packed with high-end features, like hydrophobic Carl ZEISS lenses and a light, flexible TR90 frame. PRICE GUIDE: £160 / $218 / €185
www.lip-sunglasses.com
LIQUID FORCE y The Hiker boot features a removable ‘Walk Liner’ that lets you make the trek to your launch spot in comfort. Easy entry and removal, the boot has medium stiff flex, adjustable length closure, flushing inner foot bed and gives you the confidence to shred all day long. PRICE GUIDE: £300 / $390 / €339
Unisex sizes: 12/13, 10/12, 8/10, 6/8 and 4/6 www.liquidforcekites.com
FOR RIDING MANERA t
Featuring three layers, the Blizzard jacket is light, waterproof and windproof, creating a cocoon around the kiter, allowing a better resistance to cold when worn over the top of a standard wetsuit. Two side-pockets let the spreader bar of your harness fit through when kiting. Whether on the water or packing up after a session, the Blizzard will keep you warm, comfy and looking great! PRICE GUIDE: £165 / $220 / €190
www.manera.com
Check out this water bag. Sailing around in the ocean, whether its warm or cold, saps energy and salt water makes you thirsty. This will hold 1.5 litres of liquid and features a bite valve.
MYSTIC x Mystic produce a massive range of neoprene products, harnesses and accessories, but we’ve picked out a couple of other vitals that caught our attention. First-up, if you’re a beginner, or if you are a foiler, you should be wearing a helmet. Even if you’re going out in strong winds for the first time, they’re never a bad idea. PRICE GUIDE: £55 / $60 / €70
PRICE GUIDE: £30 / $47 / €35
www.mysticboarding.com
NOBILE z
Designers of the ultimate board for travelling – the split-board range, as well as a full range of kitesurfing boards and kites - Nobile also have a generous accessory range, including this ‘Wet Collection.’. Featuring excellent aeration and a short drying time, this Kol-Sport material makes the T-shirts ideal for kitesurfing, as well as a first layer for snowboarding, a bike trip or a gym session. PRICE GUIDE: £23 / $31 / €27
www.nobilekiteboarding.com
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OCEAN SUNGLASSES t
The Chameleon is a new light weight, premium technical model for watersports that’s also compatible for cycling and snow sports. Featuring supreme ventilation with multiple cavities in the lenses and protective foam, the CAT3 Atom polarized lenses offer an expanded view and prescription lenses can be fitted. The Chameleons float, too. PRICE GUIDE: £77 / $100 / €89
www.oceanglasses.com
OCEAN RODEO s
Ever thought of wearing a drysuit in the winter? Although bulkier in feel than a wetsuit and with tighter seals, there really is nothing more toasty and you can layer up warmly beneath the suit. Ocean Rodeo produce three highly technical drysuits. The Soul continues to be their best seller for kiteboarding. Offering great flexibility and customizable levels of warmth, OR’s Captive Zip design, gives you the ability to choose fully ‘dry mode’ or ‘standby mode’ when relaxing between sessions and needing to cool off! Among other features there’s a removable hood as well as a pee zipper to make comfort breaks less of a wrestle! PRICE GUIDE: £800 / $899 / €899
www.oceanrodeo.com
OCEAN RODEO t
The new Ocean Rodeo Shift bar is engineered as a back line trim bar that provides reliable, seamless power adjustment. Trim via the twist / push mechanism on the right side of the bar and enjoy riding without having to take your eyes off the water. PRICE GUIDE: £609 / $699 / €699
www.oceanrodeo.com
FOR RIDING OCEANUS REEL LEASH t
One of the most long lasting and enduring products for new kiteboarders, almost since the beginning of the sport. Not everyone thinks leashes are a good idea, but the Oceanus design is on a reel, so extends without a sudden jolt and then retracts away neatly. The latest model is their Eel leash, which has a reinforced feed port and increased durability. In place of the standard shock cord is a 30 inch rope extension that’s been doubled over and then rubberized for toughness and to better repel water. PRICE GUIDE: £55 / $70 / €62
www.oceanustech.com
PATAGONIA w Patagonia have been at the forefront of developing greener wetsuits and clothing for years and they’ve gone a step further this year. All of their suits and rubber accessories are made from 85% Yulex, a bio-rubber material harvested from FSC certified rubber trees rather than traditional neoprene. They’re lined with recycled polyester too, which means the carbon released in making them is massively reduced. The brand also introduced the first ever Fairtrade wetsuits for the 2019 season. PRICE GUIDE: £55 - £450 / $49 - $579 / €65 - €550
www.patagonia.com
RIDE ENGINE x These Layover / Lago 2.5mm neoprene jackets are a cross-over between a wetsuit and your favourite jacket. Soft, stretchy and insulated, they’re available for women and men and will keep you warm and dry before, during and after your sessions. PRICE GUIDE: £169 - £200 / $194 - $221 / €221 - €254
www.rideengine.com 10
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SEASPECS z The Destroyer is a heavy-duty but light-weight pair of floating sunglasses, suitable for all extreme and obsessive sport enthusiasts. Cutting-edge materials, innovative aero and hydro-dynamics alongside evolutionary technology offer performance, style and affordable protection. Especially comfortable for riders with larger heads. PRICE GUIDE: £60 / $80 / €69
The Stealth are a light-weight patented design of floating sunglasses, offering high-quality impact resistance and 100% UVA/UVB polarized lenses. There’s also a secure, non-removable integrated head strap as well as hydrodynamic venting at the temples to allow airflow and water drainage. PRICE GUIDE: £40 / $50 / €43
www.seaspecs.com
SURF EARS t Constant exposure to water and wind can lead to a case of sore inner ears, known as surfer’s ear. SurfEars earplugs let sound in and keep water out. They come with changeable parts in different sizes that allow you to customize them for your ears in order to find a comfortable and secure fit. PRICE GUIDE: £45 / $59 / €52
www.surfears.com
FOR RIDING HARNESSES
AK DURABLE SUPPLY CO. y
New into the game, AK Durable Supply Co. have launched the Synth harness that has the option of switching from its primary function as an all-round waist harness to a fully supported seat harness. Seat harness support is often favoured by foilers and racers. PRICE GUIDE: £165 / $215 / €189
www.akdurablesupplyco.com
HB SURFKITE x
This is the Legacy – a harness with a difference. A unique bendy hook design allows for increased freedom of movement when riding waves without the need to switch to a full locked-in rope spreader. Rated by the KW team and great to see a new way of thinking. PRICE GUIDE: £257 / $328 / €289
www.hb-surfkite.com
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PROLIMIT x
Part of a large harness and accessory range, Prolimit’s Kite Seat Pro is a high modus harness for high power riding. Solid bar stability comes from a double buckle system that combines with a moulded back support for a big adjustment of where the power from the kite can be directed into the harness body. PRICE GUIDE: £150 / $195 / €170
www.prolimit.com
RIDE ENGINE w
If you’re into waves then you need to try a rope harness. Ride Engine were the instigators of the hard shell design and also enlightened us to the benefits of the smooth freedom of a sliding spreader feeling. RE have a range of harnesses, including carbon integration, standout graphic designs and combination hook and rope spreader bar options. PRICE GUIDE: Starting from: £227.50 / $299 / €260
www.rideengine.com
FOR BEFORE AND AFTER ANTICIPATION, REPAIR AND AFTERGLOW
30 KNOTS t
The now infamous changing robe! Who’d have thought that such a simple idea would prove so popular, but when the wind’s blowing cold and you’ve got to get out of your wetsuit, these changing robes are a treat. This 100% cotton towel version from 30 Knots Kiteboarding features a hood and wide front pocket to keep your hands warm. PRICE GUIDE: £35 / $44.99 / €40
www.30knotskiteboarding.com
DOC TUBA z
This repair kit will help fix almost any kite-mare, whether it’s damaged ripstop, Dacron fabrics or rubber components, like bladders and valves. The tough travel box can be chucked into a bag without worrying about losing all the bits and the how-to guide will help minimise your time off the water. PRICE GUIDE: £35 / $45 / €39.90
Aftermarket kite bladders from docTUBA are done from the official blueprints for most major brands and you can search your model and year of kite on their website. Light but tough TPU that’s made in the EU is UV stable with great elongation and pre-welded valves, which are most important for top performing and long lasting kite bladders. PRICE GUIDE: Complete kite sets for 2018 models around £107 / $135 / €120 Bladders also available separately
These unique, transparent patches are for repairing tears and holes in practically all materials with an extremely strong and elastic bond. Their usability goes far beyond inflatable bladders; patch your canopy, Dacron or even your tent. Buy any docTUBA Ultra Repair Patches and get another small patch completely free until the end of 2018! PRICE GUIDE: From £6 / $8 / €6.90
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DRYROBE s
If you want to spend a bit more money and take your drying experience a little more seriously, Dryrobe’s Advance changing robe is a waterproof, fleece-lined jacket that’ll maintain a comfy core temperature while sheltering you from the elements. The lining wicks away moisture so you can wear it over your clothes or a wet wetsuit. Light and compressible, there’s also a waterproof chest pocket for valuables. PRICE GUIDE: £110 / $140 / €124
www.dryrobe.com
FORTY1 KITESURFING x
You probably don’t always want to remove your twin-tip fins after each session, but you may be getting fed up when they cut through bags or damage your car’s upholstery. Forty1 Kitesurfing fin protectors are made from a highly durable Silicone material and help keep your kit in top condition. PRICE GUIDE: £30 / $40 / €35 for a set of four / choose from two colours
www.forty1kitesurfing.co.uk
INDOBOARD z
The original balance trainer, the Indoboard is a great way to work on your balance, coordination and core strength in a way that’ll really help your kiting. A great way to pass the time as you wait for the wind to fill in, it doesn’t need batteries; just take it out the van, hop on it and you’re training! PRICE GUIDE: £130 / $160 / €140
www.indoboard.com
FOR BEFORE AND AFTER MYSTIC z
Sometimes the call of the hot shower at home is just too strong and you need to drive home in your wet wetsuit. These elastic fitting PVC coated 600D polyester single and double car/van seat covers are waterproof. Plus, they let everyone know you’re a serious waterman / woman! PRICE GUIDE: Single: £50 / $68 / €59.99 Double: £62 / $80 / €69.99
www.mysticboarding.com
NOBILE t
Looking for a bag to pile everything in for a weekend away or a flight? Nobile’s Lifetime backpack is their best seller with an internal pocket to safely hold your laptop. The bag is made of PVC coated 600D polyester with reinforced sidewalls, two neoprene carry handles, back straps and straps to attach your kite/snow/skateboard. Size: 57 x 33 x 22cm PRICE GUIDE: £52 / $67 / €59
www.shop.nobilesports.com
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OZONE z
The Ozone Ignition trainer kite is light-weight, compact and has long been a trusted source of initial kiting stoke! The V2 model is super simple to set-up and fly with pre-attached lines and a 3-line internal landing and re-launch system. Performing in a wide range of conditions, no previous kite experience is needed and there’s an easy-to-use wrist leash for safety. There are sizes to suit all ages and land kiting activities. Sizes: 3, 2.5, 2 and 1.5m PRICE GUIDE: £170 - 260 / $235 - 300 / €189 - 289
www.ozonekites.com
RIDE ENGINE z
Whether you are getting changed before a session or unwinding with a cold beverage after being on the water, the thick cotton-terry blend Ride Engine Jedi Robe has you fully covered. PRICE GUIDE: £50 / $66 / €58
www.rideengine.com
SP BOARDING s
The Universal Wave Protector is designed to protect the most fragile parts of surfboards up to 7’6’’ in length. Weighing just 0.4 kilos, these pads are easy to mount and can save tears of sadness over dings in your favourite board! PRICE GUIDE: £43 / $55 / €48 per set
www.spboarding.com
TECH
CHARGE ‘EM UP AND THEN CHARGE YOURSELF
CAMRIG s
The Camrig line mount is still the most widely used mount by kiters the world over and Camrigs can fit everything from the GoPro 3 up to the GoPro 7. PRICE GUIDE: £40 / $45 / €50
www.camrig.com
FEIYU t
The Feiyu G6 gimbal is a splash-proof gimbal compatible with GoPro 5s, 6s and 7s. It’s a fantastic tool for smoothly shooting clips and is cleverly designed so as not to obscure the screen on the back of your GoPro. PRICE GUIDE: £180 / $230 / €200
www.feiyu-tech.com
GOAL ZERO s
The Venture 30 is a portable charging device that’s ready for action in rough environments. The weatherproof design means it can get rained on or dropped in the sand and will carry on regardless. There are two charging ports and it can fire up a tablet, a smartphone two or three times and a GoPro up to five times. PRICE GUIDE: £80 / $100 / €90
www.goalzero.com
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INBOARD t
This one’s at the upper end of this Gift Guide’s price range and there are cheaper manufacturers out there, but electric skateboards are growing in popularity and we’ve had an Inboard in the office all summer. Super smooth acceleration and braking from the electric motor that’s built into the back wheel are the key points on the Inboard M1. No bulky wires or belt drives, it has three speed modes that’ll get you quickly or steadily up to 22mph and it’ll run for seven miles on one battery. New transport? Yes! PRICE GUIDE: M1 Complete - £1,099 / $999 / €1,249 (Powershift battery: £218 / $199 / €249)
www.inboardtechnology.com
NOIR MATTER s
The Noir Matter kite line mount is compatible with their Quark stabiliser, the world’s smallest GoPro stabilising device. It allows you to stick a GoPro on your lines and film entire sessions with the camera the right way up. It’s a game changer for GoPro users. PRICE GUIDE: $50 for the line mount and $200 for the Quark stabiliser (currently only available in the US)
www.noirmatter.com
REVL t
The Revl Arc is a 4K smart action camera with an integrated gimbal that keeps the horizon level whatever angle your filming at. It has electronic image stabilisation which reduces bumps and camera shake when you’re throwing the camera (and yourself) around and it can also be mounted to your lines just like a GoPro. PRICE GUIDE: £400 / $499 / €445
www.revl.com
TECH SNUGS t
Snugs’ incredible fit and music sound quality is achieved by creating a state-of-the-art 3D scan of your inner ear which is then used to mould each ear bud especially for you. Snugs make sets for on-land and on-the-water use and they’ll even imprint your name onto them. A standard mini-jack will plug into most personal music players. Wearing Snugs earphones is also a good defence against surfer’s ear. PRICE GUIDE: Snugs start at £169.95 / $215 / €191
www.snugs.com
SUUNTO s
The Suunto Spartan Sport HR GPS watch allows you to track your session, see where you went and how fast you got there. It also tells you how many calories you burnt in the process so you know how much food you need to cram down immediately after your session! PRICE GUIDE: £300 / $350 / €330 approx
www.suunto.com
ULTIMATE EARS t
The UE Wonderboom is a super-portable, totally waterproof bluetooth speaker that even floats! Providing up to ten hours of sound it has a wireless range of up to 100ft / 33 metres. Ideal for a post-kite sundowner on the beach. PRICE GUIDE: £90 / $65 / €70
www.ultimateears.com
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M O D E E R F R ER #RESTUBEMOMENT MO RE YOU SHA
“I want to concentrate on kiting out there alone on the water. It´s just more relaxe d with Restube. With the new Quick Release you can seperate the buoy from yourself and give it to your buddy. See you out there!“ Emmanuel Norman, Kitesurfer
“We organize the German Champion ships in kitesurfing and RESTUB E is our official saf ety partner. At one of our eve nts our film drone crashed into the sea and was nev er retrieved again. Since then we are using Restub e automatic to pro tect our drones. Restube is a coo l team and the pro duct is great!“ Matthias Regber, Choppy Water Gm bH
MORE FREEDOM & WATER SAFETY RESTUBE sports is perfect for kite surfing. Attach it to your harness, go out & ride hard.
in/fb: restube.official
www.restube.com
SAFETY
SMART DEVICES FOR STICKY SITUATIONS
AQUAPAC y
The TrailProof VHF Pro case is fully submersible and waterproof, built to house and allow normal use of a VHF radio. PVC free, it’s available in safety orange colour as well as matt black. PRICE GUIDE: £29.99 / $40 / €34
www.aquapac.net
MYSTIC v
Everyone should have a safety knife tucked into a pocket in their harness to cuts lines and webbing in case of emergency. This Mystic one includes a small velcro pouch to mount to any harness. PRICE GUIDE: £9 / $12 / €9.95
www.mysticboarding.com
RESTUBE
An inflatable rescue buoy that is neatly stored in a small but robust bag with splint closure and exchangeable belt system that can be worn directly on your harness or a belt. Developed for rough use, it’s ideal for kitesurfing, surfing or any activity in and around water. At just 14 x 7 x 5cm, the Sport model is just 270 grams, a very handy size and could save your life. The Restube Sport model is also available with a quick-release that allows you to release the buoy at any time by pushing the red sleeve away, should you need to pass it onto someone else for example. Restube have also developed an ‘automatic’ device that will activate as soon as it hits water. Drone pilots are currently finding this a useful purchase! PRICE GUIDE: £58.55 - £124.94 / $74.95 – $109.95 / €59 – €140.60 (Including the top of the range Lifeguard model)
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SAFETY MANERA z
Whether you’re learning, pushing your limits or foiling, an impact vest can be a really important part of your kit. This Boom Vest from Manera features Shotgum foam and X10D neoprene, it protects your chest and back and is comfortable at the same time, allowing for the fit of your harness. PRICE GUIDE: £120 / $150 / €135
www.manera.com
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S U P P O R T YO U R WAT E R A D D I C T I O N WETSUITS | HARNESSES | FOILS | ACCESSORIES
RIDEENGINE.COM
VAN LIFE
LIFE IS BETTER AT THE KITE SPOT
30 KNOTS s
30 Knots Bamboo Vacuum Flask is perfect for storing hot or cold liquids, ready for use after a session. The flask even has a strainer included, so you can make your tea or coffee fresh at the spot. Made from stainless steel and bamboo, the vacuum flask is double insulated and provides up to eight hours of heat or cold retention. Bamboo Travel Mug also available. PRICE GUIDE: £15 / $19.99 / €18
www.30knotskiteboarding.com
DRYBAG t
The Drybag allows you to hang a suit up indoors without dripping water all over the place. There are two options: the Dry Pro which is designed for outdoors drying; and the Dry Elite which is better for drying indoors. They won’t dry your suit completely, but they’ll stop the initial expelling of water from the suit going all over your van! PRICE GUIDE: £60 (only shipping to the UK) / $75 / €68
www.thedrybag.com
GOAL ZERO u
If you’re planning on staying off the grid for a couple of days and want to preserve your van’s battery, the Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus can be left on your dashboard to comfortably charge things like GoPros, smartphones and power banks while you’re out on the water. You can even attach it to your backpack to charge your devices while you’re on the move. PRICE GUIDE: £100 / $100 / €112
www.goalzero.com 26
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ION s
Nobody likes scraping their wetsuit across the tarmac as they try to free themselves from it, so the ION changing bag is one solution. Stand on the soft surface as you take your suit off and then it folds in on itself to become a waterproof bag. Seal your sodden suit away, chuck it in the car and go. PRICE GUIDE: £30 / $40 / €35
www.ion-products.com
JET BOIL t
A hot cup of something after a sesh is an instant morale booster, but constantly grabbing takeaways gets expensive (and can be wasteful). The Jet Boil is one of the best and most portable gas cooking devices out there, taking just a couple of minutes to make a cuppa. This Flash 2.0 model can even be bought with a french press attachment. Yes, you can probably start a sideline as the ‘boarding barista’! PRICE GUIDE: £105 / $110 / €120
www.jetboil.com
LEATHERMAN s
There’s nothing more annoying that turning up at the beach frothing for a sesh, discovering a problem with your gear and realising you don’t have the tools to fix it. Thankfully, there’s not much you can’t sort with a Leatherman and they’re as sturdy and reliable as they come. The Rebar is a solid bit of kit that’ll see you through a range of snafus, at the beach and in life beyond. PRICE GUIDE: £85 / $60 / £90
www.leatherman.co.uk
VAN LIFE MR HEATER t
The Mr Heater ‘Buddy’ is a small, compact and portable propane heater than can partially heat an area of up to 200 feet, so just imagine how toasty it could make your van. It’s certified for indoor use and has a tipover switch so that it’ll automatically shut down if knocked over. ‘Buddy’ can also tell if the space it’s heating has too much carbon monoxide in the air and will switch off if that happens. Safe and reliable, it’s still not advised to leave it on overnight, though. PRICE GUIDE: £145 / $130 / €160
www.mrheater.com
MYSTIC z
The Mystic single roofrack is suitable for 1 - 3 boards, while the double system can manage up to 5 boards and fits all cars. No square roofrack needed as the foam protection between roof and board keeps both in good shape. PRICE GUIDE: Single: £49.95 / $74 / €64.99 Double: £59.95 / $85 / €74.99
www.mysticboarding.com
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NORTHCORE z
Northcore have a huge range of inspired and useful accessories for the surfing life, including things like this magnetic hook which you can stick to the side of your car or van to hang your wetsuit off as it dries. PRICE GUIDE: £13 / $17 / €15
www.northcore-europe.com
PATAGONIA y
If you’re going to spend a weekend away in the van chasing wind and waves this winter then you need a decent sleeping bag. Patagonia make a range of bags that can keep you warm in temperatures as low as -7°C / 19°F and they’re made with ethically sourced down that’s not plucked from live birds. PRICE GUIDE: £500 / $499 / €560
www.patagonia.com
RINSEKIT y
There’s not much that smells worse than a fetid wetsuit left stinking your van out, but if you rinse it off right away you can avoid many of those unpleasant odours. The RinseKit system holds enough water to deliver a pressurised spray for up to six minutes and it can also be filled with hot water for a quick shower. PRICE GUIDE: £85 / $100 / €88
www.rinsekit.com
ECO
AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL SHREDDER, LEAD FROM THE FRONT
EIR NYC z
Eir founder Jun Lee is a former art curator and extreme athlete, now an avid surfer who studied green medicine while recovering from an injury in 2013. Her first product, Surf Mud, a reef-safe clean sunblock became a fast favourite amongst her Montauk surfing community. She began incorporating the principles of herbal healing into a growing range of natural, functional skincare products. The Toiletry Kit is an all-natural assortment of organic necessities for the active traveller, including: Active Face Wash, Active Body Wash, Pitted Deodorant, Surf Mud and Cooling Lip Balm. PRICE GUIDE: £60 / $80 / €70
The Surf Mud Pro SPF 50 water resistant sun stick for your face is made from clean, food grade ingredients and is 100% biodegradable, including the packaging, which Jun says was a huge challenge itself. The stick contains zinc for UV sun protection, chocolate for deep hydration and increased blood flow to the skin and antioxidants that fight free radicals. Surf Mud Pro is safe for kids, too. PRICE GUIDE: £23 / $30 / €26
The Rolling Liniment Heat Rub is an extra strength, mentholated, herb-infused oil. Apply topically for muscular pain, strains, sore muscles, and headaches. A great anti-itch solution to bug bites. PRICE GUIDE: £18 / $24 / €21
www.eirnyc.com
KLEAN KANTEEN z Get a decent reusable cup and you’ll have no need for extra plastic water bottles. The Klean Kanteen Classic is durable, free of BPAs or any other toxic coatings and comes in a range of sizes and colours. PRICE GUIDE: £30 / $30 / €34 (800ml bottle)
NUKAK z
Nukak make a wide range of bags from totes to bumbags and backpacks out of recycled fabrics. Old kites as well as more heavy-duty materials, like truck tyres, get cut up and repurposed to make Nukak’s bags. All products are handmade in Barcelona. PRICE GUIDE: €5 - 150
www.nukak.es
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www.kleankanteen.com
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REVOLWE z
Revolwe’s leashes are partially comprised out of recycled plastic bottles with an ankle cuff made of Yulex - a bio-rubber derived from FSC-certified rubber trees. Tackle turns, not ocean litter! PRICE GUIDE: £25 / $30 / €28
www.revolwe.com
SCHWERELOSIGKITE
Schwerelosigkite produce kite-inspired clothing designs for men, women and even kids. There are also travel bags and backpacks to clutches and wash bags, all made from recycled kites and no two products are the same. PRICE GUIDE: Various
www.schwerelosigkite.de
SEWN AGAIN z
Sewn Again make bags out of old kites that once belonged to Mr Aaron Hadlow himself - and they’re sewn by Aaron’s mum! There’s everything from individual carry-sacks for your kites to handbags and little things to help cut down on single-use plastic, like the bamboo straw holders. PRICE GUIDE: Head to the Facebook shop to see more
www.facebook.com/sewnagain
INDOOR STOKE KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE
KITEWORLD z
Kiteworld boosts your brain box more than any other mag and is the ultimate reading material for any kiteboarder, so a subscription to the mag is a true essential! Subscriptions are available in print and digital and if you sign up for a combo subscription (print and digital) then as well as six issues through the year, we’ll also send you a Kiteworld T-shirt, the 2019 Travel Guide supplement in March and the 2020 Gift Guide before next Christmas for free! www.kiteworldmag.com
KITEWORLD TAKES YOU DEEPER... SUBSCRIBE
THE SPORT’S MOST INSIGHTFUL STORIES, ADVICE AND GEAR REVIEWS COMBINED WITH THE HOTTEST IMAGES EVERY ISSUE, SIX TIMES A YEAR. DIGITAL EDITIONS Digital subscriptions on the sleek Zinio platforms start from just £9 / US$14 / €13. View the designed layouts or hit the TEXT button to read all our features in a neat text form on your device – ideal for any commute and the finer details!
PRINT Enjoy the shiny print magazine for the ultimate read. Opt for our highlight package and get a combo print / digital subscription and we’ll hook you up with everything and also send you a free Never Come Down T-shirt.
TEXT MODE
EVERY ON IPTI Digital: £9 / US$14 / €13 SUBSCR ITH OUR Print: £33 / US$56 / €43 COMES WUAL TRAVEL N Combo: £35 / US$60 / €45 FREE AN IN PRINT D GUI E ITAL! The sport’s most insightful stories, advice and gear OR DIG reviews, combined with the hottest images every issue, six times a year.
Subscribe at:
WWW.KITEWORLDMAG.COM
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PROGRESSION y
Progression’s foiling video series is go-to material for anyone looking to learn to foil with in-depth info on everything from technique to equipment. Breaking down the process from the early stages and your first forays into foiling to more advanced manoeuvres, these stepby-step videos lead you smoothly through the learning curve. Progression have also produced instructional videos for all levels of twin-tip and surfboard riders. Buy individual chapters or complete collections and watch all their content on any digital device wherever you go. PRICE GUIDE: Free to £29.99 / $38 / €33
www.progression.me
STOKED PUBLICATIONS z
There’s no more of a complete guide to the planet’s kiteboarding hotspots than the Kite and Windsurfing Guides to the World and Europe. Featuring in-depth explanations of wind, wave and weather conditions throughout the year, the guides also offer authentic travel information on what to expect in each region, the practicalities of travelling there and what you’ll need to take with you. The guide to Europe is even more comprehensive than the World edition and, although it covers a much smaller area, it details a whopping 2,500 kiting and windsurfing locations in 17 different countries! PRICE GUIDE: €49.90 + shipping
www.stoked-publications.com
TRICKTIONARY y
Learn the precise movements of tricks at every kiteboarding level. Available in several languages, the Kiteboarding Tricktionary is a complete guide for twin-tip kiteboarding – divided into three main categories: Super basics - built as a reference for schools and teaching, including techniques for all riding styles. Airstyle - hooked-in jumping, flying and sliding. New school - unhooked moves, starting with raleys and rolls, though to complex handle-passes. At 424 pages, this is a beautifully finished hardcover book. PRICE GUIDE: ₏49.90
www.tricktionary.com
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WALL ART BY YDWER VAN DER HEIDE z
Photographer Ydwer van der Heide’s images have graced the pages of many a kiteboarding mag, and he’s landed more front covers on Kiteworld than anyone. Hanging one of these in the home will deliver daily stoke and Ydwer (pronounced ‘idver’ if you were wondering...) has a range of iconic shots to choose from. PRICE GUIDE: From €67.50
www.ydwer.com
APPAREL
CLOTHING AND ACCESSORY IDEAS
30 KNOTS x
30 Knots ethical apparel utilises eco-fabrics such as bamboo and organic cotton. The clothing is therefore not only comfy to wear, but environmentally friendly too. A range of useful kiteboarding accessories are also available via the website. PRICE GUIDE: £27 - £50 / $34 - $64 / €30 - €56
www.30knotskiteboarding.com
MYSTIC s
Mystic produce a large and diverse range of lifestyle and hardcore waterwear for men and women. This is their ‘Brand Crew Sweat’. A regular fit it features an oversized Mystic logo print and signature zigzag stitching on the back. PRICE GUIDE: £53 / €59.99 / €68
www.mysticboarding.com
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LIP SUNGLASSES t
The Twist is one of eight Urban models offered by LiP Sunglasses. Featuring Carl Zeiss Vision Multilayer PC lenses, super flexible and light-weight TR90 frames, Japanese stainless steel hinge screws, premium hard coating for superior scratch resistance, six base curve radius and 100% UV protection, the Twist comes with a hard case and microfiber cleaning bag. PRICE GUIDE: £76 – 106 / $99 - $138 / €84 - €107
www.lip-sunglasses.com
OCEAN RODEO z
This 7 panel limited edition hat represents Ocean Rodeo’s ‘No Excuses’ community both on and off the water. 100% cotton, one size fits most. PRICE GUIDE: £17 / $20 / €20
www.oceanrodeo.com
APPAREL RRD z
As well as making performance kiteboarding, windsurfing, SUPing and surfing equipment, RRD also do a massive mainstream urban line of clothing for men and women. Get threaded for cold streets or hot beaches. PRICE GUIDE: See online.
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
SAXX z
The Saxx Kinetics are ‘performance boxers’. Slim fitting and semi compression, they help improve circulation and offer more support for high impact sports. Ideal for wearing under a wetsuit or your shorts at the gym. The Quest are the popular standard fit, super light weight, allow good range of movement and are very comfy. Both the Kinetics and Quest are antimicrobial, wicking away sweat and are quick drying. The big news is the ‘Ball Park Pouch’ that all men’s Saxx underwear feature on the inside which stops chaffing. The outside flat seams are designed to fit men’s muscle groups better without riding up. PRICE GUIDE: £23 / $30 / €26
www.saxxunderwear.com
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SEASPECS t
The Glacier takes inspiration from a timeless design and combines it with the latest look for women. Shiny chrome contrasts polished matte silver with a golden pyramid faceted shape to complete this eye-catching product. Equipped with SeaSpecs grey performance polarizing lenses with a mirrored coating, they provide UV400 protection and cut glare. PRICE GUIDE: £63 / $79.95 / €70
www.seaspecs.com
STANCE SOCKS z
Remember when socks were that unbearably sensible gift that your granny gave you for Christmas when she was out of options? Well, bring on the socks! Not only are there countless designs and colours to choose from (including many surf inspired images) in the Stance range, they’re also the most comfortable socks we’ve ever tried. PRICE GUIDE: £10 / $15 / €12 upwards
www.stance.com
TRAVEL
BAG IT UP FOR GOOD TIMES!
CABRINHA t The Street backpack features a padded laptop and separate iPad sleeve as well as an MP3 / CD pocket with headphone cord port. There’s also a fleece lined padded sunglass sleeve, breathable 3D mesh back pane and shoulder straps. The finishing touch? A cooler pocket! Find this and many more technical gear bags on the Cabrinha site. PRICE GUIDE: Various
www.cabrinhakites.com
DAKINE s Individual kite bags are heavier than you might think and all the kgs add up when you’re packing for a kite trip. Dakine’s kite compression bags are a lot lighter, can be packed down tighter and they’ve got carry straps too for the daily walk to the beach. They come in a set of four and they’re colour-coded so you can remember what size kite is in each bag without having to label them. This is just one of many baggage solutions amongst the rugged accessory line for kiters, surfers, bikers and more from Dakine. PRICE GUIDE: £50 / $70 / €64
www.dakine.com
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DUOTONE z Ten bags have landed in the fresh Duotone baggage line, from single twin-tip protection covers up to the team surf bag. Travel rollers, day bags and foil bags also feature in the line-up. PRICE GUIDE: Various
www.duotonesports.com
FORTY1 KITESURFING z This rugged travel bag is made from 600D polyester and features edge and corner protection. 145 x 45 x 35cm it can fit two boards and three kites for your trip and has rollers for pulling heavy loads. Compartments allow you to separate you kit from your clothes. PRICE GUIDE: ÂŁ130 / $165 / â‚Ź147
www.forty1kitesurfing.co.uk
TRAVEL
KITELEMENT t In designing the ‘Re pack’ bag, Kitelement’s aim was for kiters to be able to avoid over-sized baggage airline fees and allow the possibility to get almost everywhere with all your kite gear on your back. ‘Better than a golf bag’ they reckon, it’s sufficiently spacious for a split kiteboard, all your gear, cleverly placed pockets for your personal items and is built to last. PRICE GUIDE: £175 / €199 / $186
Kitelement also offer the ‘Re press Vacuum’ bag to reduce the volume of kites by up to five times. The bag can also be used as a universal bag, protecting other gear from sand and water. PRICE GUIDE: £52 / €59 / $55
www.kitelementshop.com
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MYSTIC x Mystic’s entire boardbag range has been updated. A new HXcomb shell and heavy duty tarpaulin is prepared to take a beating, while XL wheels make it easy to take your gear anywhere, extra protection on the inside prevents wear from the sharp edges of your fins and the 3D mesh air vents keep your gear fresh! Pictured here in the Mystic Surf Pro. PRICE GUIDE: £195 - £203 / $248 - $260 / €219.99 - €229.99 approx.
www.mysticboarding.com
NOBILE x Check out Nobile’s extensive baggage and travel range when you’re shopping. Featured here are: the M/L size Boardbag which is 145 x 52cm (can hold a board of 143 x 48), weighs 1.1kg and costs €59. The Master Travelbag is strong, measures 150 x 46 x 14cm (taking a 146 x 45) weighs 2.2kg and is built for one set of kiting gear. It costs €119. The Golfbag Pro is also super strong, measures 146 x 36 x 34cm (can hold a 142 x 44), weighs 5.6kg, can manage one full quiver and costs €159. It also comes with two vacuum bags and pump. www.shop.nobilesports.com
TRAVEL
PROLIMIT z This is Prolimit’s light-weight kite bag, the ‘Golf Travel Light’ and features the best combo of two of their other bags, the Ultra Light and Aero. Assembled from 600D polyester and padded on the bottom and edges, there are also a set of short, compact and removable wheels. Fitting a complete quiver of 2 – 3 kites and a board, Prolimit’s easy storage loop also compresses the bag into a small package when not being used. Comes in two sizes: 150 x 45 and 140 x 45cm PRICE GUIDE: Various
www.prolimit.com
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RIDE ENGINE z RE have rolled out a series of technical and super useful lifestyle bags, from insulated duffel bags that fold out to reveal a wetsuit changing matt to backpacks and even beer coolers. Also featured here is the rugged and utilitarian dual-wheeled board bag, the Tactical Trolley, that’s designed to haul mass amounts of gear. Fitted with large interior compartments, compression straps, wet-dry areas and integrated runners to give the bag form even when empty. PRICE GUIDE: £120 / $206 / €185
www.rideengine.com
TRAVEL RRD y Urban, beach, bike or flight, RRD’s travel gear hides useful and protective features beneath the sleek appearance. Meanwhile, their broad range of board bags come in an assortment of sizes, features anti-corrosion zippers, generous padding and reflective tarpaulin to mirror heat and sunlight away from your gear. PRICE GUIDE: Various
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
THE KITEWORLD 2019 TRAVEL GUIDE Fill your dreams and choose your next kiteboarding holiday with the KW annual Travel Guide. Free with the March issue of Kiteworld, it contains detailed reports on over 50 epic destinations over 160 pages.
Subscribe and don’t miss out!
www.kiteworldmag.com 46
#BREAKBOUNDARIES
boardbags 2018 COLLECTION
GOING ON A TRIP? OUR FULL BOARDBAG R ANGE HAS BEEN UPDATED! THE NEW HXCOMB SHELL AND HEAV Y DUT Y TARPAULIN IS PREPARED TO TAKE A BEATING. THE XL WHEELS MAKE IT EASY TO TAKE YOUR GEAR ANY WHERE, EXTR A PROTECTION ON THE INSIDE PREVENTS WEAR FROM THE SHARP EDGES OF YOUR FINS AND THE 3D MESH AIRVENTS KEEP YOUR GEAR FRESH!
M Y S T I C B O A R D I N G . C O M