Best Kiteboarding 2009 by sebastian spadari

2009 PRODUCT CATALOGUE

WHY DO YOU KITEBOARD? It seems like a simple question, but it has so many different answers. For the challenge. For the sense of freedom it creates. For the love of wind, sea, and snow. But more than anything, because it makes you happy. It makes us happy too. Kiteboarding is about spending time away from the office, kicking back with your best friends, and sharing those times that great memories are made of. We all remember our favorite sessions, most-loved gear and secret spots. And as we skip over the water – cutting loose from gravity for brief moments of flight – at least one thing is clear: it’s never been ‘just’ about the gear. So for allowing us to continue to have fun at what we do, and for giving us the chance to help spread the stoke that we get from kiteboarding, here’s a huge thank you from everyone at Best, sincerely, honestly, really. We have worked hard creating the 2009 line-up and believe that within these pages you will be able to find the perfect gear for the way you want to ride: our Best, for your kiteboarding.

TWO THOUSAND AND NINE

BEST KITEBOARDING TEAM / PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TEAM SHANNON_LEGEND

ALVARO_TEAM PKRA

ALEX_TEAM ALL TERRAIN

KRISTIN_WORLD CHAMPION

BRUNA_TEAM PKRA

MIGUEL_TEAM TRAVELLER

JOE_TEAM PRETTY BOY

IAN_OVERSEEING EVERYTHING

STACY_TEAM MOTHER

ALEX_FOUNDER

PETER_KITE ALCHEM

IST

GAVIN_PHOTOGRAPHY

KIAN_LOGISTICS

JEFF_FOUNDER_TESTING

BILLY_GRAPHICS

NECO_SERVICE AND WARRANTY

TYLER_PRODUCT MANAGEMENT

THOMAS_BO

ARDS AND BA

™ TWISTER TECH A NEW TWIST ON PERFORMANCE. Twister Tech™ brings C-kite turning response and handling characteristics to high performance SLE kites.

LIMIT OF TURNING-FORCE-ZONE WITHOUT TWISTER TECH™

KITES

The unique twisting ability of a Twister Tech™ equipped leading edge allows you to use much more of the kite canopy to generate turning response, not just the wingtip sections. Because your steering input is transmitted more effectively into the canopy, kites equipped with Twister Tech™ deliver faster turn initiation and hold a tighter turning circle with less bar input than you previously imagined possible.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Because every kiter has a different idea of what makes a perfect kite, we design kites to cover the demands of all riders and all riding styles. Our 2009 kite range reflects this philosophy better than any line-up we’ve ever released. NEMESIS HP

For riders who demand the highest level of performance to push the boundaries of big air, big surf and fully committed powered tricks, the Nemesis HP will allow you to define new limits of excitement.

WAROO

For freeriding, the Waroo continues to offer the perfect balance of ease of use and accessible performance. If your riding style includes a little bit of everything, then the Waroo is the perfect kite for the way you ride.

KAHOONA

It’s your first kite, you want it to be safe, durable, easy to use and great value for money; well the Kahoona has you covered on all counts.

The seamless integration of Twister Tech™ into our Cuben Equipped LE, VP2 bridle and 3D-K airframe delivers unbelievable turning speed and responsiveness, while retaining all of the speed, stability, and jumping performance of the underlying Nemesis HP design.

INCREASED TURNING-FORCE-ZONE WITH TWISTER TECH™

SURF TOUGH PROTECTING YOU AND YOUR GEAR. Surf Tough is more than just one feature; it describes our integrated approach to building durability into every part of every kite we make. Regardless of price point, every kite in the line is built Surf Tough; it’s our guarantee of absolute quality. 3D KEVLAR AIRFRAME 3D-K airframe joints are laser cut to ensure a precision ﬁ t. Kevlar reinforced webbing secures each seam to ensure maximum strength and absolute consistency. You’ll ﬁ nd no shortcuts here. CANOPY FRAMING TECHNOLOGY Often imitated but never matched; Canopy Framing Technology protects your kite from crash damage by harmlessly dissipating impact stress across reinforced curved canopy inserts.

GUROO

If you are thinking about taking your first kiting lessons, give yourself the best start in kitesurfing and book them with a school that teaches with the Guroo, there is no better kite to learn on.

With a host of new features and added refinements right across the range, any of our ‘09 kites will allow you to progress your riding skill and enjoyment of kiteboarding further than ever before.

LOAD FLEX LE Our Load Flex LE seam with internal Mark Cloth reinforcement sets the industry standard for leading edge construction. DOUBLE TAPED STRUTS Double Taped strut placements with Mark Cloth reinforcements ensure you’ll never unzip a strut from the canopy no matter how you abuse your kite. DOUBLE DACRON Double Dacron wingtips ﬁ nish off our Surf Tough package, helping transmit all your steering force into blistering performance.

SURF TOUGH: 09 KEY FEATURES

3D KEVLAR AIR FRAME

CANOPY FRAMING

LOAD FLEX LE

DOUBLE TAPED STRUTS

DOUBLE DACRON WINGTIPS

KITES_NEMESIS HP 08_09

“With the addition of Twister Tech™ to our Cuben equipped leading edge, no other kite turns, jumps or throws tricks like the Nemesis HP.” Shannon Best

NEMESIS HP

AVAILABLE SIZES: 6M, 8M, 10M,12M, 14M

NEMESIS HP PERFORMANCE AND HANDLING LIKE NO OTHER.

The kite of choice for discerning, performance-focused riders worldwide, the Nemesis HP provides the perfect balance between C-kite responsiveness and SLE performance, making it an unbeatable choice for both ‘Big Air’ and ‘Big Surf’ riding styles. The addition of Twister Tech™ for ‘09 delivers faster turn initiation and tighter turning with reduced bar pressure, maximizing handling response even in low wind conditions. Our Cuben Equipped LE continues to deliver breathtaking jumping and hangtime performance. Add in a revised VP2 bridle for stability, and Best’s legendary Surf Tough construction and you have the number one kite choice for all performance-focused riders, in any wind, on any wave.

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS BIG SURF

BIG AIR

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE

RIDING STYLE> BEGINNER

INTERMEDIATE

ADVANCED

SKILL LEVEL> TURNING SPEED

TURNING POWER

HANDLING> LESS

BAR PRESSURE

LESS

STABILITY

LESS

DEPOWER

LESS

UPWIND

PERFORMANCE> LESS

LESS

PRODUCT FEATURES

TWISTER TECH™

CUBEN LEADING EDGE

VP2 BRIDLE SYSTEM

3D KEVLAR AIR FRAME

CANOPY FRAMING

ABC CUSTOM TUNE

KITES_WAROO 10_11

“A genuine all round kite. Literally any level of rider could get on with this and have fun straight away.” Kiteworld Magazine 08 Review

WAROO

AVAILABLE SIZES: 3M, 5M, 7M, 9M, 11M, 13M, 15M, 17M, 20M PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS BIG SURF

WAROO DO ANYTHING, RIDE EVERYWHERE

The standard against which all other free-ride kites are judged, the ‘09 Waroo doesn’t just blur the lines between new school and old school, wakestyle and freestyle: it erases them. The Waroo’s huge depower, fast turning, and easy handling helps riders of all skill levels to progress faster and further, and simply, to have more fun kiteboarding. The ‘09 Waroo comes with a revised VP2 bridle for perfect stability and ABC Custom Tuning for confidence-inspiring versatility and ease of use. Our legendary Surf Tough build quality and original Canopy Framing ensure your Waroo can withstand any abuse you throw at it. If your riding style includes a little bit of everything, then the Waroo is the perfect kite for the way you ride.

BIG AIR

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE

RIDING STYLE> BEGINNER

INTERMEDIATE

ADVANCED

SKILL LEVEL> TURNING SPEED

TURNING POWER

HANDLING> LESS

BAR PRESSURE

LESS

STABILITY

LESS

DEPOWER

LESS

UPWIND

PERFORMANCE> LESS

LESS

PRODUCT FEATURES

VP2 BRIDLE SYSTEM

CANOPY FRAMING

ABC CUSTOM TUNE

MODERATE ASPECT RATIO

3D KEVLAR AIR FRAME

LOAD FLEX SEAM

KITES_YARGA 12_13

KAHOONA

“The Kahoona is the easiest kite I’ve ever ﬂ own, it tackles everything from freestyle to big-wave.” Joe

PROGRESSION IN EVERY SESSION

The new Kahoona is the perfect choice for every rider looking for a super stable, easy-to-rig, easy-to-fly kite. The Redline Safety-bar delivers instant depower whenever you push the QR or drop the bar. A reduced aspect-ratio shape and highly swept leading edge design will help to make the Kahoona the quickest relaunching kite in your quiver. A new VP2 mini-bridle provides the Kahoona with a large wind range, maximizing stability especially when you ride unhooked. Single point front and rear flying line connections make the Kahoona incredibly quick and simple to set-up. Responsive handling, great downwind drift and auto-relaunch combine to help make the Kahoona the most evolved big-wave surf kite we’ve ever made. The Kahoona’s auto-relaunch, ease of set-up, large wind range and reliable safety will help you progress faster than you thought was possible. It comes loaded with ease of use and safety features that are out of this world- at a surprisingly down to earth price.

KAHOONA

AVAILABLE SIZES: 7.5M, 9.5M, 11.5M, 13.5M PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS BIG SURF

BIG AIR

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE

RIDING STYLE> BEGINNER

INTERMEDIATE

ADVANCED

SKILL LEVEL> TURNING SPEED

TURNING POWER

HANDLING> LESS

BAR PRESSURE

LESS

STABILITY

LESS

DEPOWER

LESS

UPWIND

PERFORMANCE> LESS

LESS

PRODUCT FEATURES

AUTO-RELAUNCH

QUAD-STRUT DESIGN

RED-LINE BAR

MINI VP2 BRIDLE

REDUCED ASPECT RATIO

HI-LO TUNING

KITES_GUROO 14_15

“So far the best teaching kite we’ve ever had. Thanks to Peter and the whole BEST Team for providing us with this excellent teaching tool.” Kitexcite.

GUROO

AVAILABLE SIZES: 3M, 6M, 9M, 12M PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

GUROO THE PERFECT LESSON KITE

FIRST LESSON

The Guroo is designed to be the most practical and reliable instruction kite, providing the perfect stepping stone towards owning your first all-around kite and becoming a safe and competent rider.

FIRST UPWIND

FIRST JUMP

BEGINNER

INTERMEDIATE

ADVANCED

SKILL LEVEL> TURNING SPEED

TURNING POWER

HANDLING> LESS

The Guroo has been created to fulfill kiteboarding instructor demands for a simple, effective and utterly dependable training kite. Built Surf Tough like the rest of the ‘09 product line, the Guroo is robust enough to survive seasons of school use. Its three strut plan shape, deep profile, and low aspect ratio generate solid power in low wind conditions without any trace of backstall. A pulley-linked front and rear bridle set-up depowers easily while retaining maximum stability, allowing learners to advance their riding skills in any wind condition.

FIRST TURN

RIDING STYLE>

BAR PRESSURE

LESS

STABILITY

LESS

DEPOWER

LESS

UPWIND

PERFORMANCE> LESS

LESS

PRODUCT FEATURES

LINKED FRONT/ REAR BRIDLE LOW ASPECT RATIO

MEMBRANE VALVES

CANOPY FRAMING

3D KEVLAR AIR FRAME

DOUBLE DACRON WINGTIPS

KITE TECH GLOSSARY When designing great kites, there is no shortcut to exceptional aerodynamic performance. It takes a skilled designer, a committed R&D team, and countless hours of fine tuning to deliver the level of aerodynamic refinement that Best riders demand. Here are just some of the design considerations that go into developing every kite we make. CANOPY PROFILING: The cross sectional shape of the center strut and adjoining canopy goes a long way towards defining the performance of your kite. From the flat, powerful profile of the Nemesis HP to the deeper profile of the Guroo, careful blending of the entry curve and draft allows us to provide a shape to match every possible kite use.

OPTIMIZED ASPECT RATIO: Every size of each model of kite we make is tuned to deliver a consistent feel when ridden against all the other sizes in that range. We modify the speed of our smallest kites to allow for easy handling, and maximize the speed and turning ability of our larger sizes to make lightwind riding more enjoyable.

PLANFORM: The swept-back wingtip shapes of our SLE kites as seen in the planform diagram help us to create kites with exceptional stability and wide depower ranges. Each model of kite has a slightly different aspect ratio, defined by its wingspan and center strut depth. The Nemesis HP, with its higher aspect ratio delivers more punch for boosting and greater locked in power, whereas the Guroo, with its lower aspect ratio, provides much more sedate handling and power delivery ideally suited to beginners.

BUILD QUALITY/DURABILITY: We select the best materials and develop advanced construction techniques for building kites because you deserve and demand the longest lasting gear. Our proprietary Surf-Tough construction techniques deliver improved durability and performance. All these features are standard right across the range, because we are kiters too.

CUBEN EQUIPPED LEADING EDGE: Our advanced materials technology delivers unbeatable kiting performance. With a thinner and stiffer LE, the Nemesis HP is capable of jumping higher and pointing further upwind than any Dacron-constructed kite.

Canopy Framing Technology: the first choice canopy protection system.

PLANFORM DIAGRAM

3D Kevlar airframe construction: the strongest and most accurate way of joining leading edge and struts.

EASE OF USE: It’s great to have a kite that performs like a Formula One Grand Prix car; it’s even better to have a kite that does this yet is no more difficult to set up and maintain than a houseplant. Our ease-of-use features make your kiting less hassle and more fun.

HANDLING: Having great kite control is all about communication. Every Best kite delivers perfect feedback, reacting instantaneously to rider input. Our unique handling features ensure that you and your gear are always in perfect harmony.

Membrane Seal Valves: zero back-wash valves for easier inflation.

Twister Tech: torsion control for your leading edge, faster, tighter turning.

Color-coded braided LE bridle: safer set-up for easier rigging.

VP2 Bridle system: maximum high-end stability and uncompromised low-end power.

Replaceable Pulley Inserts: easy maintenance should you ever need it.

Custom tune ABC/ Custom Tune AB: user-adjustable depower, turning speed, and stability. Trailing edge battens: zero canopy flutter for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.

2009 KITE COMPARISON CHART MODEL RIDER LEVEL

Load Flex Seam: designed for higher inflation pressure. Double Dacron wingtips: designed for self launching on any beach.

RIDING STYLE

NEMESIS HP / WAROO/ GUROO / KAHOONA

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

TECHNICAL FEATURES PRODUCT FEATURES

CUBEN LEADING EDGE

3D KEVLAR AIR FRAME

CANOPY FRAMING

LOAD FLEX LE

DOUBLE DACRON WINGTIPS

NEMESIS HP

WAROO

KAHOONA

GUROO

BEGINNER INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED

GOOD

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

BIG AIR FREESTYLE FREERIDE ALL TERRAIN BIG SURF BEGINNER

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

N/A

EXCELLENT

BEST

N/A

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

N/A

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

N/A

BEST

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

EXCELLENT

BEST

TURNING SPEED TURNING CIRCLE BAR PRESSURE STABILITY DEPOWER UPWIND EASE OF USE

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

EXCELLENT

BEST

GOOD

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

BEST

EXCELLENT

GOOD

EXCELLENT

BEST

TWISTER TECH VP2 BRIDLE CUSTOM TUNE SURF TOUGH EZ-PUMP™

X X

X OPTIONAL 2009

BOARDS PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

OUIJA

Riders pushing the progression envelope can rely on the Ouija to help them defy the limits of freestyle performance. Built extra tough to take any abuse, the Ouija continues to deliver the hard-riding, big-jumping, sharp-carving performance that made it our most popular board last season.

IF IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE THAT COUNTS, THEN WE’VE TRULY PUT OUR HEART AND SOUL INTO CREATING BOARDS THAT BLEND SCIENCE WITH ART. Shannon Best’s proven theory on kite boards is that “it’s what’s inside that counts.” The ‘09 board line-up benefits from advanced materials and construction techniques skillfully blended to create the perfect boards for the way you ride. Here is a quick look at the technologies and materials that go into each and every board in our line-up.

THRUSTER

Surfers looking for dedicated big wave boards need look no further than the 5’7 and 6’0 Thrusters. The 5’7 is tuned for lightning fast jacked-up faces, while the 6’0 is tuned for slower moving rolling faces and mellow sets. If you are looking to ride them big, either board will help you make the transition from flat water to true kitesurfer faster than anything else you have ridden.

HDPE OUTER SKINS

MICRO-MATTE SURFACE FINISH

220GM BIAX-GLASS

3/4 DECK SURF WOOD INSERTS

206GM UNI-GLASS

200GM BIAX-GLASS, FULL LENGTH RAIL WRAP

350GM BIAX-GLASS

220GM BIAX-GLASS, MIRROR IMAGE LAYUP

CNC MACHINED WOOD LAMINATE CORE

100GM UNI-GLASS, MIRROR IMAGE LAYUP

ABS RAIL INSERT

MODIFIED DENSITY EPS CORE

5-COLOR SCREEN PRINT GRAPICS

PROGRESSIVE RAIL PROFILE

MIRROR IMAGE LAYUP

SPARK

Because every rider has to start somewhere, we designed the Spark to be the perfect board to jump on at the end of your last lesson. From first tacks upwind all the way to throwing big air and beyond, the Spark will help you progress faster than you imagined possible.

AROONA

For riders pushing the limits of light-wind conditions to maximize their riding hours, the increased board width, lightweight construction and early planing of the Aroona will ensure you are always the last rider off the water whenever the wind fades.

HIGH GLOSS FINISH HDPE OUTER SKINS

WOOD HEEL INSERTS + 200GM BIAX PATCH

DISCRETE INSERT SYSTEM

160GM UNI-GLASS

220GM BIAX-GLASS 3/4 DECK

2X DIAGONAL STRIPE - 160GM BIAX-GLASS

350GM BIAX-GLASS

LIGHTWEIGHT FOAM CORE

CNC MACHINED POPLAR WOOD CORE

ABS RAIL INSERT

DIGITAL PRINT GRAPHICS

DIGITAL PRINT GRAPICS

MIRROR IMAGE LAYUP

REGARDLESS OF WHAT MOTHER NATURE THROWS AT YOU, YOU’LL BE GOOD TO GO.

The ’09 Best Board line-up focuses on providing you with the best balance of riding characteristics across a multitude of conditions. Unique core constructions and hand perfected layups satisfy the demands of different riding styles and varying conditions around the globe, allowing you to focus on expressing your own style.

BOARDS_OUIJA 20_21

“The Ouija isn’t a board, it’s a freestyle machine. Perfect for any riding style and ideal for perfecting any trick.” Shannon Best

OUIJA

™

SUPERNATURAL HANDLING & PERFORMANCE

Designed to help you take your riding to the next level, the Ouija™ makes it easier for any rider to reinvent their game. Our Primo wood core construction with ABS rail creates the perfect balance between lightweight performance and durability. Computer controlled 3D shaping provides a thinner rail profile, improving grip in choppy and overpowered conditions. Strategically positioned glass and wood laminates put the pop exactly where you need it, ensuring springboard take offs for every jump. Progressive concave and wide radius tips aid early planing and improve edge-to-edge control for those hard carving days. Low swing weight helps you stop trick rotations on a dime and our flex-tip design helps to make every landing butter soft.

OUIJA

129CM X 39CM

134CM X 41.5CM

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS RIDING STYLE>

BIG SURF FLAT WATER

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE HEAVY CHOP

BIG AIR DOUBLE OVERHEAD

CONDITIONS> HANDLING>

STABLE

FLEX PROFILE>

TECHNICAL FEATURES

SKATEY

TIP FLEX

BOARDS_SPARK 22_23

“The Spark board is great fun, you’ll never grow out of it.” Miguel Willis, Team Rider

SPARK

127CM X 39CM

SPARK EXPECT TO BE SHOCKED

You’ve just finished your lessons, and you already have a Waroo. Now you just need to choose the perfect board to help you progress. It has to be easy to ride, durable, and it has to look good as well. The Spark range has you covered. With three different size models in the Spark range, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your size, weight, and skill level. Designed with progress in mind, we are sure you’ll keep your Spark long after you have completed your first season. Priced lower than you would expect for a board with these specifications, the Spark’s core, layup and computer-generated 3D Circuit flex are inspired by the Ouija. Every bit as versatile as its big brother, with a more forgiving ride and flex to soak up any chop, it’s the perfect first board for any rider.

SPARK

134CM X 42CM

140CM X 43CM

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS RIDING STYLE>

BIG SURF FLAT WATER

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE HEAVY CHOP

BIG AIR DOUBLE OVERHEAD

CONDITIONS> HANDLING>

STABLE

FLEX PROFILE>

TECHNICAL FEATURES

SKATEY

FULL FLEX

BOARDS_THRUSTER 24_25

”For big breaks and fast waves there is no other board I trust.” Wawa, Team Rider

THRUSTER

FROM FLAT WATER TO WAVE DOMINATION IN SECONDS

The 5’7 and 6’0 Thruster Waveboards make the jump from twin-tip to big wave-riding as smooth and as much fun as possible. Tuned for different conditions, the additional nose kick, lower volume and more aggressive profile of the smaller 5’7 help you tackle the steepest and fastest moving sets, while the more progressive shape of the 6’0 is ideal for less-than-ideal swell. Squash-tail outlines and tri-fin thruster set-ups provide control for carving without trading stability at speed. A subtle bottom concave from front foot to fins balances fin drive and rail bite, maximizing edge-to-edge control. Three-piece EVA deck pads with kicked-heel sections help you to power through the turns whichever size you ride. Seamlessly constructed with double-wrapped rails, the 5’7 and 6’0 both benefit from a wood reinforced laminate construction that provides dent-proof strength to the upper deck without adding undue weight to the board. A micro-matte surface finish that sheds water like sharkskin finishes off each board for minimal water drag and early planing. With the proven durability of our production board designs, blended with the ride you’d expect from your favorite short board shaper, the Best 5’7 and 6’0 waveboards deliver.

THRUSTER 5’7

THRUSTER 5’7 LTD 157CM X 44.1CM

157CM X 44.1CM

THRUSTER 6’0 160CM X 47.9CM

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS RIDING STYLE>

BIG SURF FLAT WATER

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE HEAVY CHOP

BIG AIR DOUBLE OVERHEAD

CONDITIONS> HANDLING>

STABLE

TECHNICAL FEATURES

SKATEY

BOARDS_OROONA 26_27

“Ten knots or below, there is only one way to go, Aroona.” Joe Ruscito, Team Rider

AROONA

142.2CM X 46.1CM

AROONA NO WIND? NO PROBLEM

The Aroona will help you unlock maximum enjoyment from light-wind days and marginal conditions. Designed to be used in tandem with Waroo and Nemesis HP kites in sizes 13m and above, the Aroona is the natural choice for turning those light-wind sessions into fun-filled days. The Aroona’s Helium foam core and lightweight construction deliver maximum low wind riding potential. A subtle bottom concave and reduced water-line provide the crisp handling and lively feel you would expect from a much smaller board. Designed as a light-wind tool, the Aroona also provides heavyweights with an exceptionally stable and forgiving all-conditions board. If you need to make the most out of light-wind conditions, then you need the Aroona.

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS RIDING STYLE>

BIG SURF FLAT WATER

FREERIDE

FREESTYLE HEAVY CHOP

BIG AIR DOUBLE OVERHEAD

CONDITIONS> HANDLING>

STABLE

FLEX PROFILE>

TECHNICAL FEATURES

SKATEY

MID FLEX

BOARD TECH GLOSSARY

LAYUP

PRIMO WOOD CORE A CNC finished vertical laminate construction delivers crisp handling, awesome pop and exactly the right amount of damping to help smooth out the heaviest chop. Variable laminate orientation allows us to dial in added stiffness across the middle of the heel edge rail.

CONTROLLED FLEX ZONES Carefully combining 3D core geometry and glass fibre positioning and orientation allows our board designers to place the ‘pop’ and flex exactly where you need for the easiest takeoffs and the softest landings.

WOOD FLEX CORE A thin section core profile made from lighter graded Poplar wood provides the added flex and comfort that riders need from their first board.

WOOD DECK INSERTS The lightweight Helium Core of the Aroona is reinforced around the footpads with a thin hardwood veneer and a 200gm biaxial glass fibre patch. The Aroona proves a lightwind board doesn’t have to be heavy to be strong.

HELIUM CORE For maximum lightwind enjoyment you need a strong lightweight core. Our Helium foam core construction allows for increased board volume for added buoyancy without any performance-sapping weight penalty.

PROGRESSIVE RAIL A progressively tuned tip to tail rail profile reduces drag whenever you ride the board hard on the fins, helping with easy planing and aiding stability.

WAVE CORE Offering the perfect blend of flow and drive our Thruster Wave Core takes foam core waveboard design to the next level. An optimized stiffness to density ratio delivers outstanding handling and feedback whatever size waves you ride.

DISCREET MOUNTING SYSTEM Utilizing individual mounting blocks for all fin and strap hardware means the natural flex patterns and strength of our twin-tip boards are not compromised by providing multiple foot strap position options.

0-45-90 LAYUP Combining multiple weight biaxial and uni-directional cloth, our 0-45-90 Layups provide precise control of torsional flex from rail to rail ensuring a lively feel and swift reaction to rider input.

SQUASHED TAIL OUTLINE Hard carving and slashing require an agile board, our Squashed Tail Outline provides stability at speed and a loose feel underfoot for slashing those cutbacks or driving those bottom turns.

45-90 LAYUP For a more forgiving flex and softer damping we use a multi-weight Biaxial fiberglass layup on the Spark range. Each size of board receives a different blend of cloth weights to provide a consistent handling feel right across the range.

2009 BOARD COMPARISON CHART MODEL RIDER LEVEL

SURF WOOD INSERTS A three quarter length, hardwood veneer insert protects the core on all of our Thruster waveboards. Surf Wood Inserts provide ‘ding’ resistance without adding excess weight. RIDING STYLE

SPARK

OUIJA

AROONA

THRUSTER

BEGINNER INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED

BIG AIR FREESTYLE FREERIDE BIG SURF LIGHT WIND

1=NOT SUITED / 2=OK / 3=AVERAGE/ 4=EXCELLENT / 5=PERFECT

ACCESSORIES_BEST BAR 30_31

PRODUCT FEATURES (A) BYPASS LEASH ‘QR’ CUFF (B) PULL-PULL TRIM STRAP WITH HIGH LOAD SWIVEL (C) DUAL FRONT LINE ‘OSR’ HANDLES

(C)

(D) DUAL-DEPOWER STOPPER BALL (E) REAR LINE ‘OSR’ HANDLES (F) EVA BAR END BUMPERS (G) ALL CARBON-BAR CONSTRUCTION (H) BAR END LINE BUNGIES

(B)

(I) 3D MOLDED ERGONOMIC GRIP (J) ‘BIG-BLACK’ PUSH TO RELEASE ‘QR’ CUFF (K) HANDLEPASS / BYPASS LEASH ATTACHMENT POINT

(A)

(D)

(E)

BEST BAR gripping stuff

To help you express your own riding style you need a bar you can rig and ride exactly how you want. The ‘09 Best Bar provides the perfect mix of ease of use, advanced safety features and maximum freeride versatility. Our new “Big-Black” molded chickenloop Quick Release provides easy one-handed release under any line load. With only one internal moving part, it’s a cinch to reassemble in the water, giving you security and confidence that adds to your riding enjoyment. The ‘09 Best Bar comes with “OSR” grab handles on all front and rear flying lines allowing you to self-land your kite safely regardless of wind direction. A multi-way bypass/handlepass leash can be configured as a bypass, back line, or suicide leash to suit your needs. Depower travel and bar reach are fully adjustable from just a single knot position, accommodating the needs of riders of any body shape. Our dual-depower stopper takes the strain against the bar so you don’t have to, reducing the load on your arms and increasing your comfort level. With color coded 700lb rated flying lines, matching bar colors, and a high load-rated centerline swivel, the ‘09 Best Bar is the perfect complement to either the Waroo or Nemesis HP kites.

(F)

(G) (I)

(J) (K)

(E)

(H)

(B) ACCESSORIES_RED-LINE BAR / WAIST HARNESS 32_33

PRODUCT FEATURES

(A)

waist harness strap one on

(A) RED-LINE SAEFTY LINE (B) 700LB FLYING LINES (C) PULL-PULL TRIM STRAP (D) VECTRAN DEPOWER LINE

(C)

(E) SAFETY/HANDLEPASS LEASH

A 3D-molded construction mixes form and function, bringing Surf Tough durability and understated good looks to the ‘09 Waist Harness. A dual-density wraparound liner provides anatomically correct support, while a plush surface finish offers skin-to-harness comfort and resists kite-induced harness twist.

(F) EVA BAR END BUMPERS (G) ONE PIECE BAR BUSHING (H) BAR END LINE BUNGIES (I) 3D MOLDED ERGONOMIC GRIP

(E)

(J) REMOVABLE CHICKENBONE (K) BIG-BLACK QUICK RELEASE

An integral spreader bar pad protects your ribcage from frontal impact and an additional lower strap helps keep the spreader bar locked down for riding in insanely overpowered conditions. All webbing hardware is easily replaceable.

(D) (F)

(G) (I)

(H)

A heavy duty webbing-reinforced handlepass leash attachment mounted via 20mm stainless steel rings and a hideaway safety knife provide the finishing touches, making the ‘09 Waist Harness the perfect choice for any rider who values comfort, performance, and versatility.

(K) (J)

RED-LINE BAR

SIZES FEATURES XS=28-30” S= 30-32” M= 32-34” L= 34-36” XL=36-40”

FUNCTIONALITY THAT WORKS

The Red-line Bar is the perfect complement to your Kahoona kite. Designed to offer the simplest and most practical safety system for all riding styles, the Red-line Bar should be the first choice of any beginner rider looking for safety, simplicity and ease of use. A 3D moulded grip and EVA bar end bumper inserts provides exceptional comfort, while the Big-Black quick release ensures faultless safety activation whenever you need it. The Red-line safety system provides maximum depower no matter where the kite is positioned when active. Our all carbon bar construction with one piece centre bushing guarantees lasting durability and colour co-ordinated 700lb rated flying lines help to make sure you never connect the wrong lines.

(A) DUAL DENSITY EVA SPREADER BAR PAD (B) ANTI LIFT SPREADER STRAP (C) FAST ACCESS SPREADER RELEASE (D) THERMOFORMED INNER AND OUTER SHELLS (E) SKIN-SOFT PLUSH LINER AND SEAMING (F) WEBBING WRAPPED HANDLEPASS-LANYARD

HARNESS DETAILS (D)

(E) (D)

The Red-line bar builds on the strengths and proven safety features of our 2009 Best Bar, it offers the right mix of proven features and simple safety activation that big-wave riders and beginners need.

(A) (C)

(F) (B) back

side

front

ACCESSORIES_SEAT HARNESS / BAGS 34_35

BAGS

seat harness are you sitting comfortably?

Brand new for ‘09, our Seat Harness brings the comfort and durability of our Waist Harness design to riders who prefer the lower spreader bar position and added lower back support offered by a seat harness. Dual-density internal padding and a scalloped back ensure maximum freedom of movement at all times. Wide padded leg loops help spread the load from your kite across your hips as well as across your lower back, allowing you to kite in more comfort for longer. Finished off with a heavy-duty grab handle on the back and a webbing-reinforced handlepass leash loop, the new ‘09 Seat Harness is the perfect choice for any beginner or advanced rider who has yet to find the perfect harness.

FEATURES

Sizes

(A) DUAL DENSITY EVA SPREADER BAR PAD

XS = 28-30” S = 30-32” M = 32-34” L = 34-36” XL = 36-40”

(B) COMFORT FIT ADJUSTABLE STRAPS (C) FAST ACCESS SPREADER RELEASE (D) HEAVY DUTY GRAB HANDLE (E) WEBBING WRAPPED HANDLEPASS-LANYARD

thruster waveboard bag Big enough for the 6’0 Thruster with space to spare, the Waveboard bag is an ideal international travel companion if you are chasing waves around the globe. With a fully padded liner and hideaway fin pockets the Waveboard bag is the ideal simple and practical carriage solution for your Best Thruster.

HARNESS DETAILS

golf bag (A)

(D)

(E)

back

side

front

Built to carry all your gear and help you get it on your flight without paying surfboard rates, the Best Golf Bag will comfortably take two twin-tip boards, two kites, two bars, a harness, and your favorite wetsuit. You might never win an Open like Tiger, but at least you know you have space for all your gear.