TheKiteMag Brand Guide 2017 by Water Born Media

BRAND

2017

2 |

WELCOME TO THEKITEMAG BRAND GUIDE 2017... Back for its second year, welcome to TheKiteMag’s guide to all that is good and all that is great in the world of kiteboarding kit. In the ‘year of the curveball’ with plenty of jaw-dropping political events in the news, with nobody quite seeming to know what is going on, and with a potentially unpredictable year ahead, it’s nice to see that the kite brands haven’t let it get in the way of their creativity… It’s all guns blazing in the ever enjoyable arms race that is the evolution of kiteboarding equipment. It’s also pretty clear (and the brands would be the first to admit) that when it comes to kite and board design the evolutions are generally now more incremental – but these increments are taking us ever closer to our ‘perfect’ kite, or maybe opening our eyes to areas of design and improvement that we thought couldn’t be improved or ever attained. Then there have also been some genuine ‘outside the box’ releases as well. We have had the rear line adjustments bars (thanks North and Ocean Rodeo) the Fireball (Cabrinha) and we have seen some eyebrow raising new releases with a functional purpose at heart, but also designed to put a smile on your face (such as the Moon Patrol from Liquid Force). So, whether you are sticking to your favorite brand and keen to see what they have on offer, or whether you are thinking of jumping ship and maybe having a nose around at what the other guys have going on: it’s all in here. So enjoy…

THE BRANDS CrazyFly 4 CORE 12 Cabrinha 18 Liquid Force 24 North 30 Slingshot 36 RRD 42 F-One 52 Naish 58 Nobile 64 Axis 70 Mystic 76

Ocean Rodeo 80 SU-2 84 NP 88 ION 92 Epic Kites 96 Airbrush 100 Flysurfer 104 Best 108 Peter Lynn 112 Shinn 116 Blade 120

The Brand CrazyFly was founded by Jozef Bukovcak who started making windsurf boards back in 1989. The CrazyFly brand was born ten years after Jozef made his first surfboard. CrazyFly Kiteboarding was officially founded in 2001 and since that moment, CrazyFly has only focused on kiteboarding. Jozef, the founder and owner, built CrazyFly from zero to a global brand supplying over one hundred countries. Their products are a true reflection of Jozef ’s rich experience in design and manufacturing, attention to detail and a lifetime passion for watersports. He always strives for perfection and pushes his team to bring out the best products for kiteboarding. 4 |

CrazyFly is a family business and Jozef ’s family has helped him along the way. At the moment there are eight members of Jozef ’s family working for CrazyFly, including his wife and four sons.

What’s New? CrazyFly are proud to be the first and only brand that have started manufacturing kites in Europe. All 2017 kites are now made in their own kite factory in Slovakia along with all other CrazyFly products. Kite construction has been completely changed and they have come up with numerous never before used innovations, such as having 50% less panels on the leading edge or combining multiple panels on the canopy into one. These innovations resulted in the strongest, the most durable, yet the lightest kites

they have ever made. Shape wise, they have fine-tuned the Sculp and Tango kites, where they have also introduced a fixed bridle. The Sculp is now more Delta shaped with higher aspect ratio resulting in longer hangtime and better boosting capabilities while remaining a very user friendly and easy to fly kite. The surfboard production was moved back to Europe and they introduced a brand new Ultra Light Poly PU construction with carbon fiber tail reinforcements on the ATV Custom board. The most popular high end boards, Raptor and Raptor LTD received Nano Glide Skin foils on the bottom, which increases speed, tracking and the upwind ability. The Girls and the Allround boards have completely new shapes, plus the All-round got new bindings too.

SCULP

CRUZE

TANGO

SICK BAR

The 2017 Sculp is a versatile all-around performer, suitable for a wide range of riders and styles. It delivers consistency in all riding disciplines and offers incredible wind range and ease of use. For 2017, CrazyFly have completely reworked the Sculp, and it’s now made in their own kite factory which opened up plenty of options for improvements and innovation. The Sculp has higher aspect ratio, which makes it slimmer and much faster. This also results in a more Delta shape which offers smooth, stable, and predictable flight with progressive power delivery.

Third generation Tango is a high performance freeride and wave kite for advanced to expert riders. The Tango is a modern open C-shape kite with lots of pull, power and pop. The new Tango loves boosting and floaty jumps with amazing hang time. It turns quickly with predictable power and moves exactly where the rider wants it to go. Powered kite loops come with ease, plus the Tango provides amazing upwind abilities. The Tango is made in CrazyFly’s brand new kite factory in Europe and the construction screams innovation.

Cruze is a dedicated lightwind kite in the CrazyFly range, available in 15, 17 and 19m sizes. With a Flat-Delta shape, deep profile, and high aspect ratio, the Cruze generates a lot of power even in marginal wind conditions. Despite its larger size, the Cruze maintains the agility of a smaller kite thanks to its shape. Squared wingtips ensure stability as well as quick and precise turning. They’ve stripped down weight wherever possible without sacrificing the rigidity of the kite. And of course, it is made in Europe!

The Sick Bar is a state of the art control system blending together safety, comfort, durability and simplicity. With safety being the top priority, the Sick bar has a single front line flag out that conforms to AFNOR NF S52-503 safety norm. Sick bar exclusive, it features a premium leather grip for unmatched comfort and long lasting durability. The Sick Bar is topped with high quality German Liros® Dyneema flying lines. It’s the only bar on the market with full carbon construction and the only bar made in Europe.

1. SCULP | 2. TANGO | 3 . CRUZE | 4 . SICK BAR

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CRAZYFLY

ELITE

Blending together the most advanced technologies and materials while focusing on the best possible performance, CrazyFly created the Elite. It displays the sensuality of high performance and possesses the elegance of pure, uncompromising design. The Elite is a superb example of extreme light weight engineering and demonstrates the outstanding expertise of CrazyFly in all areas of carbon fiber technology. It is the lightest serial production board on the market with unmatched high-end freeride performance.

RAPTOR LTD

CrazyFly claim that the Raptor Limited is one of the best boards they have ever made. Extremely light full carbon masterpiece with Gullwing Double Concave Channels. Buttery soft in chop, yet dynamic for high end freeride and freestyle. The full carbon construction provides loads of pop while the shape ensures a smooth ride. For 2017, they introduced a brand new Nano Glide Skin on the bottom of the board. The micro channels on this foil help the board track and go upwind better. The deck has a brand new matt overprint for that eye catching premium look.

1. ELITE | 2. RAPTOR LTD

6 |

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CRAZYFLY

RAPTOR

Last year the Raptor received a complete makeover on its 10th anniversary, and immediately became CrazyFly’s top seller. The Raptor is a freeride, freestyle high performance board for intermediate to advanced riders. Thanks to a Multi Channel bottom shape and V tips, the Raptor has the perfect balance between speed and grip. The Step Cap deck technology allows for thinner rails for ultimate edging and brand new Nano Glide Skin foil ensures amazing tracking and upwind.

BULLDOZER

A freestyle/wakestyle crossover board for intermediate to expert riders. On the bottom, a Quattro concave shape providing superior edging, comfort, and softest landings, changing into a Hexa concave toward the tips for more stiffness and ultra load ‘n’ pop. CrazyFly have reinforced the Bulldozer’s construction with Uni-directional Kevlar throughout the whole length of the board. Plus, they added a Spread Tow Carbon reinforcement in the center of the board to increase the board dynamics and pop. It also makes use of Multi-axial Fiber Glass, providing a breathtaking amount of pop without making the board too stiff. Brand new Light Up sidewalls are stronger and lighter than ever with an attractive color changing look. Comes equipped with brand new 3.0 cm Razor fins.

8 |

ADDICT

The Addict is a freestyle, wakestyle crossover board for advanced to expert riders, designed and constructed to push limits. Right Angle Channels on the tips and Edge Control Track provide plenty of grip. Riding without fins makes it ideal for hitting kickers and sliders, and the board is equipped with 3.0 cm Razor fins for added grip if required. Construction is rock solid and the X carbon, Kevlar, and optimized flex provide explosive pop while the larger rocker makes landings incredibly smooth. Light Up sidewalls are stronger and lighter than ever with an attractive color changing look. The Addict has a flat deck and works best with wake bindings. It is also compatible with Hexa Bindings.

CRUISER LW

This is a lightwind machine, and the name sums it up perfectly. However, due to its unique core construction and extremely light layers of fiberglass, the Cruiser LW can also be seriously abused. The well balanced medium flex of this board suits intermediate and advanced riders, riding comfortably in choppy waters and the flat rocker and inverted outline ensure that it is an incredible lightwind board. The Cruiser LW has asymmetric fins position. The fins are positioned on the heel edge of the tips and in the center of the tips. Due to the asymmetric fin position, the fins stay in the water all the time and provide better upwind ability of the Cruiser LW.

1. RAPTOR | 2. BULLDOZER | 3. ADDICT | 4. CRUISER LW

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Sculp

Freeride / freestyle

7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

Tango

Performance freeride / wave

7, 9, 10.5, 12, 14

Cruze

Light wind

15, 17, 19

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Raptor LTD

Freeride / freestyle

132, 136, 140

Raptor

Freeride / freestyle

132, 135, 137, 140

Elite

High-end freeride

132, 136, 140

Addict

Freestyle / wakestyle crossover

136, 139, 142

Bulldozer

Freestyle / wakestyle crossover

135, 140, 143

Shox Green

Freeride Eco-board

132, 136, 140

Girls

Female-specific freeride

132, 135

All-round

Versatile freeride

135, 138, 145

Cruiser Double

Tandem freeride

154

Cruiser

Light wind freeride

145

Cruiser LW

Ultimate light wind freeride

154, 160

Skim

Light wind funboard

135

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

ATV Custom

Surf All-rounder

5’10, 6’0

Strapless

New school freestyle

5’8, 6’0

Strike

Strapless freestyle

5’4, 5’6

10 |

ATV

The ATV, the most versatile board in the CF range, was designed and developed with Tommy Gaunt, so the board handles a large variety of conditions ranging from small to big waves. With a medium rocker, the ATV planes early and generates speed. Even at high speed, the board has plenty of grip and is easy to handle. The new ultra light construction is as close to a proper surfboard as a kite surfboard can get. There is no bamboo reinforcement, so the ATV now offers amazing flex and a real smooth surf feel. It is very forgiving and comfortable to ride. Under back foot heels, CrazyFly use carbon fiber reinforcements, so the tail can hold a lot of pressure.

STRAPLESS

The Strapless is designed for newschool freestyle strapless tricks, small waves and light wind conditions. Designed and developed with the strapless wizard Petr Pechi Pechacek, for 2017 the Strapless has a brand new PU core and Polyurethane resin construction, and is now built in their European factory. Construction is lighter, but still strong enough for strapless air landings. The deck is reinforced with Bamboo for added strength and a more dynamic feel. It has a wide outline, lots of volume and the biggest surface area in the range. With this and the thruster set up, the Strapless gets going early, even in light wind conditions. The Strapless feels light, lively and is a lot of fun to ride.

STRIKE

The Strike delivers maximum performance in small to medium surf and is ideal for strapless freestyle tricks. Featuring a cut off nose shape for powered snappy turning and straighter outline for more control in the chop. The volume of the board is more centered under the riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet and provides easier and more precise control. With a wider center, straighter outline and cut off nose, the Strike is extremely easy to ride. For 2017, the Strike is made in Europe and features a PU core and Polyurethane resin construction. Overall, the new construction is lighter, but still strong enough for air trick landings. The deck is reinforced with Bamboo for added strength and more dynamic feel.

1. ATV | 2. STRAPLESS | 3. STRIKE

| 11

The Brand

What’s New?

Search “Fehmarn”, and you’ll find the home of CORE Kiteboarding, a global manufacturer of kiteboard equipment, and builders of advanced, German engineered gear. At CORE, form follows function. Their minimalist designs ooze with intuitive functionality; lightweight, hi-tech materials; and advanced manufacturing processes. They pride themselves on safe and efficient engineering solutions. Solutions that incorporate materials from leading European suppliers even if they cost a little more. This constant drive for perfection and investment in proprietary components has made CORE the respected brand it is today.

The company with the ubiquitous white and yellow performance kites is making kite selection easier than your morning coffee order. CORE now organizes its kites under three banners: the Universal+ Series; the Specialized Series and the LW Series.

After 10+ years of continuous growth, CORE still benefits from its Founder’s laser focus on the details. Never distracted by fads or unrelated products, he leads his team with the same passion he used to win the European Windsurfing Championship. CORE builds ‘em tough. The European sourced ExoTex frame and CoreTex canopy fabrics, for example, exceed anything out there for UV protection, ripstop and brute strength. And together with CORE’s unprecedented 6-year replacement parts availability, your new CORE kite will provide many years of silly grins.

12 |

The XR4, the updated GTS4, and all new Free complete CORE’s newly branded Universal+ Series of kites. A three kite family with broad capabilities and signature CORE character. They couldn’t quite call them all-rounders because each model has a distinctively powerful style attribute (identified by the “+”) in addition to their all discipline design. Find the + beside your favorite discipline, and you have found your perfect CORE performance all-rounder. The Specialized Series is strictly for hardcore riders. With kites that are exceptional in one discipline and pro level boards, this product family is what we all dream about. Like riding One Eye frontside with a CORE Section and Ripper 2, or nailing a KGB on an Impact and Bolt 2. You will know when you are ready for CORE’s Specialized Series. And you will be greeted with seriously wicked performance. Well known as lightwind specialists, CORE also builds a lightwind edition or what they call an “LW Series” for just about every kite and board model they produce.

XR4

The five strut, bow inspired, XR4 can do it all. But it’s known for never-ending hangtime. With huge range, a powerful canopy, and linear power delivery, they put the little “+” beside the performance freeride description to let everyone know that this kite shines in this discipline. Some even prefer its powerful feel in the waves. And others enjoy it understandably for hooked in freestyle.

GTS4

The bridled, Future-C, GTS4 is a freestyler’s first choice for its explosive pop and linear control. Some strapless riders prefer the GTS4 for its super fast bar response and turning speed. They added the little “+” beside freestyle to let everyone know the GTS4 is a freestyler’s all-rounder. Not as floaty as the XR4, the GTS4 will nevertheless take your breath away if you move the kite a little more. And if you are ready for kitelooping, you needn’t look any further.

FREE

The just released Free bridges a natural gap in our Universal+ Series lineup. The three strut, bow inspired, Free was designed to be a little lighter and softer than the XR. It turns out that the Free excels in waves due to its sweet drifting, linear power/ depower on wavefronts, and jack rabbit waterstarts. So they put the little superpower “+” beside the wave description even though we see this kite as a go-to freerider for just about anyone.

SECTION

CORE released its dedicated wave kite for the growing market of strapped and strapless wave warriors who have traded in their twintips for bigger wave adventures. They started with a blank sheet on this build and made sure they checked off as many needto-haves as possible including no tug, toeside down-looping. Huge range: check. Predictable drifting: check. Easy water starts in big waves: check. After ticking all the boxes, they ended up with a very active kite that wants to be thrown around in big waves or knee highs.

IMPACT

Meet CORE’s ultimate C-kite. Available in 4 or 5 line configurations. A kite designed for adrenaline pumping slacklined wizardry. It has the power to bring out your inner wakestyle ninjas with its unadulterated, unbridled and deep C-shape. Immediately recognizable by its long, square wingtips and optional 5th line safety that always remains perfectly tensioned regardless of the trim adjuster cleat setting.

SENSOR 2

Simple yet advanced. Direct feeling and safe. That’s how CORE describes the original Sensor 2. Their value leader is packed with advanced safety features like the only 2-way Rotor quick release system, height adjustable trim cleat, and CORE’s innovative flagging system. The titanium reinforced handle, variable width bar ends, and German made lines gives the Sensor bar its light and super direct feeling everyone loves.

| 13

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CORE

SENSOR 2S

This year, CORE took apart the Sensor 2 and replaced the swivel, main depower line, and added a few other bits to create a truly self-unwinding bar with better durability and feel “between the fingers.” They replaced the stainless steel auto untwist swivel with an ultra low friction, self-cleaning, ceramic ball bearing design. The Dyneema main depower line is now a reduced diameter, polyether coated, Tectanium line that is stronger, more aerodynamic and super durable. The new 2S is a winner and well worth the small premium.

SENSOR 2S PRO

For those who demand the finest bar, the new 200g Sensor 2S Pro is the ticket. They souped up the Sensor 2S bar with a 100% carbon fiber, unibody handle. They replaced the flying lines with 100% Tectanium from kite-to-bar. What makes Tectanium so good? The virtually no stretch Tectanium center and steering lines are 400% more resistant to elongation, have an unbelievable 50% greater breaking strength, and are more aerodynamic. They also added optional line lengths. The no compromise bar is here. And it’s called the Sensor 2S Pro.

FUSION 2

Not your average freeride board, CORE’s Fusion 2’s racecarlike build features 100% Cartan Carbon construction, G10 fins, and a concave deep-V hull. The proprietary, 30° biaxial, carbon fiber delivers superior longitudinal flex and better lateral control. Ride longer with this easy-on-your-knees bestseller. The Fusion 2 LW Series, CORE’s lightwind rocket features a refined rail outline to optimize planing.

CHOICE 2

Just add water and the lighter Choice 2 comes alive! For radical, unhooked, freestyle moves or lazy downwinders. In boots. Or straps. It incorporates a new variable rail thickness for better control and a smoother edging. The Vario Rails as they are known feature a 9.5mm shaped rail profile near the center of the board that progressively reduces in thickness to 3mm near the tips. And two new ¾ length channels produce incredible lateral resistance. Like the original, it carries forward a 100% Cartan Carbon fiber construction, extreme durability, and slider friendly bases.

2. 4.

14 |

1. SENSOR 2S | 2. SENSOR 2S PRO | 3 . FUSION 2 | 4 . CHOICE 2

| 15

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CORE

BOLT 2

The updated boot only Bolt 2 brings super tough, wakestyle construction with the right amount of flex, rocker and bombproof boot inserts in a 200g lighter package. Its refined channels and Vario Rails improve speed and control. And an extra layer of CORE’s exclusive Cartan Carbon fiber adds a whole new level of explosiveness. Unique to the Bolt 2 is the waxy, snowboard inspired base which is high-modulus polyethylene, a material with superior sliding properties. And just like snowboards, dings are easily repaired with the included PTEX candle.

16 |

RIPPER 2

CORE goes back to the future with the Ripper 2. Pro surfers know that poly works best in waves. And so, the Ripper 2’s medium width, poly surfboard construction absorbs nasty bumps like a Cadillac. Its closed cell foam won’t absorb water, so you don’t have to worry about the occasional chip waterlogging your stick. The board features a double stringer design, carbon fiber deck and fin box reinforcements and bombproof strap inserts. Strapped or strapless, the Ripper 2 delivers the smoothest lines and endless whoo-hoos.

1. BOLT 2 | 2. RIPPER 2

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Xr4

Performance all-rounder with huge hangtime

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5, Lw 15, lw 17, lw 19

Free

Performance all-rounder with wave DNA

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5, Lw 15, lw 17

Gts4

Performance all-rounder with freestyle DNA

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5, Lw 15, lw 17

Section

Pure wave

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, Lw 12, lw 14

Impact

Pure C. Pure wakestyle

7, 9, 11, 13

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Fusion 2

Performance all-rounder

133, 135, 137, 139 (NEW), 141, 144, 147LW, 152LW

Choice 2

Freestyle

134, 137, 139, 142

Bolt 2

Wakestyle

136, 139, 142

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Ripper 2

All-rounder

5’6, 5’8, 5’10, 6’0, 6’2

| 17

The Brand

What’s New?

Cabrinha provides premium kitesurfing equipment and premium service worldwide to people with a passion for the sport, from people with a passion for the sport. Inspired and driven by Mauibased waterman, Pete Cabrinha, the company became a subsidiary of the Pryde Group in 2000. Pete is not only the name behind the brand, he’s also the brand manager of the division working with chief kite designer Pat Goodman, the engineers, and the R&D and test team through the entire process of development, and oversees the graphic design and marketing department. With the support of a vast distribution network, selling and servicing over 40 countries worldwide, the company has climbed the ranks to become a leading kitesurfing brand, earning a great reputation for consistently producing high performance, high-quality, goodlooking kitesurfing products.

Cabrinha is all about innovations that matter. Some of the most important examples of recent innovations can be seen in the all new Fireball. The industry’s first purpose built kite connection system is a non-binding system that allows for free, unrestricted movement no matter where the kite is located in the window.

18 |

The most notable kite technology is the use of Pro Span used exclusively on the Apollo kite. Pro span improves the relationship between the actual canopy area and the “usable” canopy area. Then a unique and noteworthy twin tip development is the use of Volcanic Basalt construction. Basalt is an extremely fine volcanic mineral fiber that’s absent of toxic additives and is found in abundance. Known for its strength and durability, Basalt delivers vibration resistance to our boards with a really high strength to weight ratio. The 2017 surfboard collection features signature step rail designs, constructed with a blend of exotic composite materials. It starts with a 25kg density EPS core which is wrapped with a strategically placed sandwich of eco friendly cork, bamboo, and fiberglass. This combination has produced a lighter yet durable construction that is lively and positive under your feet.

FIREBALL SYSTEM

SWITCHBLADE

APOLLO

DRIFTER

Fireball is the first kite connection system that is purpose built for kitesurfing from the ground up. The unique design harnesses the specific forces and movements of kiteboarding, and combines them with ergonomic form factors to create a kite connection which is a seamless extension of your body. Fireball is a sleek new approach to one of the most important points in kitesurfing… the point where the power of the kite meets the power of your body. This exact point needs to be the most secure, yet fluid, part of the control system. It is right here where Fireball delivers an innovative connection system for the next generation of kitesurfing.

The Apollo is a performance freeride kite designed to pull every bit of power out of the atmosphere and deliver it right into your hands. The inflated skeletal frame, setting it apart from a ram air kite in may ways, provides the structure that keeps the kite design true to its intended shape while in-flight. In shifty winds, the inflated struts drive the kite through turbulence with a minimal amount of deformation. The inflated leading edge structure of the kite introduces the laminar flow of air across the kite’s Pure Profile panels, making it very stable even at low speeds.

The highly responsive platform of the FX gives you power for explosive pop, and the perfect amount of boost for huge lofty airs. The modified C-shape arc allows you to throw aggressive kiteloops, with the ability for the kite to hit the apex before transitioning into a soft landing. The pulley-less bridle is short and tight, increasing reactivity and user feedback. Its lightning fast turning speed, direct steering, and quick relaunch make it perfect for intermediate to highly advanced riders. The FX kite effortlessly bridges the gap between freestyle and freeride to create the perfect crossover kite.

The Switchblade sits at the heart of the Cabrinha kite range where style and performance are seamlessly interwoven. Loved by many for its unique combination of smooth power delivery, unrivaled predictability and uncompromising high end performance, the Switchblade has redefined the notion of what a single kite can achieve. The five strut design has distinct segments that hold the canopy true to its intended shape, increasing the kite’s performance regardless of the wind conditions or angle of attack. The wide ranges of attack angles give the SB the incredibly powerful, predictable pull it is famous for.

Purpose built for kitesurfing, the Drifter is known for drift stability, precise turning, and instant power and depower. Three well-placed struts keep the profile of the kite upright and compact, so you can turn on a dime and power and depower on command. Two bridle tuning options optimize performance for offshore wind conditions or onshore winds. Its standout characteristic, coined “Slack Line Drift”, defines its exceptional ability to drift downwind and stay aloft when the lines are slackened. The Drifter’s ability to get you up and going with a short depower travel allows you to drop in, accelerate, then dump the power completely to snap or carve turns.

RADAR

The Radar combines sophisticated performance with unadulterated simplicity. Its blend of function and versatility make this kite perfect for just about any riding style. The high sweep and low aspect ratio make the kite ultra-responsive and great for downloops. It provides immediate response with just about any input given to the control system. A simple bridle and thinned profiles keep the power in check, while still providing all the power you’ll want or need. It has a well-balanced, full body, and swept wings which make the kite easy to relaunch. The generously curved leading edge makes the kite roll into the relaunch position with very little input from the rider.

| 19

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CABRINHA

ACE

The Ace is Cabrinha’s most versatile performance twin tip to date. While designed to excel in the performance freestyle arena, the Ace is also perfectly comfortable boosting huge airs or throwing powered kiteloops. Its fast rocker line allows for explosive bursts of speed leading up to your tricks. It has great edge hold, amazing pop, a low spin weight, and it makes predictably smooth landings. The quad concave to quad V-bottom shape, and an advanced, lightweight, freestyle composition, make the Ace a high end freeride/freestyle performance board.

XCALIBER

The Xcaliber’s high performance comes from the extensive use of structural carbon that stiffens the flex pattern, for increased response and explosive pop. Its performance rocker line allows for monstrous drive into powered freestyle tricks while retaining excellent upwind performance. The double concave with cantered rail panels shift into a quad concave tip bottom shape for maximum edge control, board response, and smooth landings. The progressive 3D molded top and bottom shape gives added dimension to the board. A single pour, ultra-bond liquid polyurethane elastomer around the entire board is the ultimate impact resistance material helping with rebound and vibration reduction. Designed to provide speed, pop, and the upwind ability to keep your performance spot on.

20 |

CBL

Whether hitting funboxes, kickers, or rails powered with a kite or cable, the CBL delivers a smooth power transfer from the power source to the water. The outline of the CBL enhances edge control and provides an explosive pop with optimal landing control. The stiff and rockered up design delivers stylish, powerful wakestyle performance. It features a deep double concave to a flat center, and rail channels. The flat center combined with the P-Tex base is perfect when hitting any type of obstacle. The rail channels provide the bite, and the flat top 20mm hex flow fins keep things grippy when needed, and don’t need to be removed at the park for added convenience.

TRONIC

While excelling at carving waves or throwing monster airs, the Tronic sits perfectly in the middle of the Cabrinha range as an all-around performance, freeride twin tip. Its narrow tips deliver power control for carving, while the quad concave to deep V tip bottom shape puts the control where you need, between your feet. Its tips flex naturally to hold power to boost and grip the water so it won’t skip out through turns and carves. The Parabolic Rails™ provide a stiffer center section while delivering a responsive tip and tail flex. The volcanic basalt fiber construction keeps the weight to a minimum while retaining high durability. The performance rocker line helps initiate G-force for turns. 3.

1. ACE | 2. XCALIBER | 3 . CBL | 4 . TRONIC

| 21

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // CABRINHA

S Quad

The fifth incarnation of the S Quad features Cabrinha’s signature parabolic ridge design which creates a double concave deck for a positive foot platform when riding strapless. The Parabolic Ridge increase the deck thickness without making the rail thicker which gives you a better grip on the rail and increases the board durability. The S Quad has a narrow outline which makes it great for riding fast and pushing hard in the turns and is ideally suited for down the line waves in side shore or side-offshore wind conditions. The quad fin arrangement is surfing’s tried and tested configuration for fast and powerful surfing. The S Quad can be ridden with or without straps.

Spade

The Spade is Cabrinha’s all new ultra-versatile performance surfboard. It has prominent design features that make it excel in the surf and in the air. It starts with a slightly wider and curvier outline than the SQuad, lending itself to tight turns in the pocket of any sized wave. The three fin configuration promotes rail to rail, and a top to bottom style of surfing. The wide outline also makes this board incredibly lively under your feet allowing you to generate speed even in onshore surf. The Spade will make your aerial maneuvers look pro with its generous amount of pop. The Parabolic Ridge creates our signature concave deck which is perfect for strapless trick riding.

Squid Launcher

The Squid Launcher dominates the surf freestyle segment of the Cabrinha line with its hugely versatile design. The Squid Launcher is a stealthy little creature that thrives on flat water lakes as well as it does in the ocean. It has a freestyle surf skate design made for the new era of strapless trick riding. The short and wide outline takes you from zero to planing in an instant. The same combination of length and width is perfect for taking your skate style air game into the surf. The Squid Launcher has a quad fin, swallow tail for a perfect track and release.

Double Agent Foil

One board. Two faces. Back for it’s second year the Double Agent is Cabrinha’s fun performance hydrofoil board that converts into a surf skate directional. When mounted with one of their foil systems you’ll be up and soaring in well under 8 knots. The aluminum mast and fuselage, compression molded deck, and fiberglass wings offer a solid and durable ride. The low aspect front wing design allows for slower planing speed which helps get you up on the foil plane early. When configured with the three surf fins it doubles as a fun bump and jump style directional board.

22 |

1. S QUAD | 2. SPADE | 3 . SQUID LAUNCHER | 4 . DOUBLE AGENT

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Apollo

High efficiency freeride

7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16

Big air freestyle

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14

Switchblade

Performance freeride / crossover

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Drifter

Surfing

4.5, 5.5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

Radar

Versatile freeride / ease of use

3.5, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14

Contra

Performance lightwind

13, 15, 17, 19

Chaos

Competition freestyle

5.5, 7, 9, 11, 13

Spark

Trainer kite

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Ace

Freestyle / freeride

131, 133, 135, 137, 139, 141

Xcaliber

Competition freestyle

132, 135, 138, 141

Cbl

Wakestyle / cable

136, 139, 142

Tronic

Freestyle / big air

137, 141, 145, 149

Spectrum

Freeride

136, 140, 144, 148, 152

Stylus

Light wind freeride

145, 155, 165

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

S Quad

Down the line surf

5’7, 5’9

Spade

Crossover surf

5’3, 5’6

Squid Launcher

Freestyle surf

5’2, 5’5

FOIL

BEST FOR…

SIZE

MAST SIZE

Double Agent

Hydrofoil / surf skate

145, 155

60, 85

| 23

The Brand

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New?

Liquid Force has been involved in kiteboarding since 1997, through designing and manufacturing boards for some of the pioneers in the sport. In 1999 Liquid Force established Liquid Force Kiteboarding, drafting off the DNA that brought Liquid Force wakeboarding to become a leader in the sport. Always focused on quality and innovation, Liquid Force Kiteboarding is credited for leading innovations in board hull design, the introduction of the first performance three strut kite, depower bridle technology and small, yet industry leading nuances such as Maxflow inflation for kites and our price conscious hydrofoils for the masses. The relentlessness never stops for Liquid Force Kiteboarding and is of course present in the 2017 line.

For 2017 LF Kite continues to evolve the sport of kiteboarding through unique products and improvements for the first time wind chaser to the seasoned veteran. In kites the re-innovation of the NV has brought it to new performance levels. The inclusion of the Elite foil kite that brings high efficiency, easy pack ability in an easy to use cell kite. The new Mission Control System offers proven reliability in a light weight package. With boards, Liquid Force continues to bring high performance materials at a price that is affordable with the introduction of the Carbon Drive. The Hippy Stix pay homage to the past mutants in a current technology that allows for an unsurpassed directional attack yet easy switch riding. Liquid Force has always been known for some of the strap and binding interfaces available, and for 2017 the Pro Pad takes comfort and adjustability to a new dimension.

24 |

The 8th version of the Envy is now here. Not only does the NV have a new name moniker, but also utilizes a complete new profile and airframe geometries, most notably in the wingtip. This drastic change has produced prolific improvements in kite input back to the rider, allowing the rider to focus on what is in front of them and not what is going on above them. Another benefit of this shape is reduction of wingtip flaring, allowing the kite to move faster through the wind window and reduce light wind back stalling. The leading edge diameter has become more tuned in shape by reducing the diameter in key areas. Reduction in LE shape adds in speed across the wind window and makes for a fluid turning radius. Support of the LE and canopy airframe has been improved over the past generations. The NV V8 utilizes a new bridle schematic that includes a V load transfer connection. This connection eliminates canopy distortion and creates a more stable bridge of bridle connection points supporting the LE. The NV still retains its legendary stability, it’s easy to predict on/off feel and bombproof construction.

WOW

Offering silky smooth sheet and go power delivery, exceptional maneuverability, and instant response, the Wow gives you the precision and freedom needed to position yourself right where you want to be — on each and every unique wave — for the ultimate, connected, surf-like feel. It lets you focus on the wave, rather than on the kite. It’s also stacked with freeriding traits, including stellar lift for big boost and long glide, pivotal looping for air transitions and gentle downloop landings, a small LE for banger upwind performance, and ultra-responsiveness for fluid, carving turns. Additionally, all of these characteristics, coupled with the Wow’s graceful drift, make it a powerful choice for an enhanced and simplified foil boarding experience.

SOLO V2

The SOLO evolved through multiple iterations from half struts to battens that eventually led to a very thin, low profile center strut. Liquid Force’s dream that became a vision is now a reality called the SOLO. An ultra light weight, single strut design that offers unparalleled efficiency, stability and wind range with the added benefit of pack-ability for travel. The SOLO is an all terrain kite that can be summed up in 3 words: simple, powerful, fun. Liquid Force are in the final stages of bringing V3 to life which will be available early 2017.

HIFI X2

Packed with potent and empowering qualities, the HiFi X2 features explosive pop, easily controllable slack, light bar pressure, reduced weight, fast flying, and a very crisp and direct feel. Durable and resilient as ever, the HiFiX2 is engineered to take a beating as you learn new tricks, and offers adjustable settings for customizable turning speed, bar input and bar feedback. Whether you’re into new school technical tricks, massive kiteloops, or old school freestyle, this 5-line, true C-kite is engineered to help you evolve and perform like the most demanding competitive freestyle rider on the planet.

ELITE

Superb upwind performance, light wind stability and downwind control highlights the benefits of a ram air foil and the Liquid Force Elite. The Liquid Force design team set out to make a kite that not only perfectly compliments aspects of kiting with a hydrofoil to reaching untracked snow fields, but also gives the rider an easy to use and seamless transition from a traditional inflatable LE kite to the technical advantages of the Liquid Force Elite. The LF Elite has been designed for fast and easy pressurization through the unique Double Barrel air intake ports and a baffle system that increases air cell communication. This is considered a closed cell ram air system that is stable and offers increased time for a water relaunch. Designed to fly on any equal 4-line kite bar, the Elite is versatile for any conditions across water and snow.

SOLO V2

1. NV | 2. WOW | 3 . SOLO V2 | 4 . HIFI X2 | 5 . ELITE

| 25

CARBON DRIVE

The Carbon Drive is the newest candidate in the carbon campaign. The Carbon Drive shares the same core configuration as its standard construction brother. A simple all around outline with a single concave bottom shape and a full wood core makes this board an all condition kiteboarder’s dream! The Carbon Drive is the first of its class in the affordable progression kiteboard category. From first time rides to sky high jumps, the Carbon Drive will never let you down.

ELEMENT

The reigning World Champion, Christophe Tack, collaborated with wakeboard and kiteboard shaper, Jimmy Redmon, to come up with a freestyle machine worthy of the best. The lightweight Element features an ultra shallow concave center with quad channeled tips, delivering explosive pop, fast landings, and upwind projection. With lightning quick response, this board is for anyone with an aggressive riding style. Again for 2017, a slight increase in the rocker line has been made for better chop deflection and projection in wave kicker hits. The continued use of vector net carbon weave bottom sheet eliminates excess weight while retaining the Element’s explosive flex pattern.

LEGACY

The Legacy delivers a cutting edge performance that spans all twin tip riding styles. Jason Slezak and Jimmy Redmon put their heads together in designing a board that would provide a similar feel as the Influence, but with thinner and lighter design for unrivaled board feel and control. The Legacy’s advancements include a progressive rail concave for added edge hold and enhanced durability, a full double concave for more efficient riding, and a state of the art flex profile for eating choppy conditions, softer landings, and more powerful takeoffs. The result: an organic, flowing, hand shaped feel. Drafting off the success of advanced material use, the Legacy gets a weight reduction with the use of vector net carbon weave base lamination allowing for the elimination of multiple glass layers.

LIBRE

Libre will make your ambition of being the first on the water, or the only one kiting when the wind is simply not windy! The engineering of the board does everything to promote lightwind performance. From the low entry rocker, to the soft manipulative flex, enhanced by an efficient side cut shape that will get you on the water faster and more often. Light wind specific features such as an offset stance and shallow bottom concave then round out this ultra-light weight gliding machine.

26 |

1. CARBON DRIVE | 2. ELEMENT | 3 . LEGACY | 4 . LIBRE | 5. ALOHA

ALOHA

The female specific Aloha uses all the higher performance technology that the LF profiled wood core boards possess aligned with an outline and flex pattern that is more geared to the energy of a woman! Combine this with crisp channeling for edge hold and pop riding it is like drinking a fine blended smoothie. 5.

| 27

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // LIQUID FORCE

HAPPY FOIL

The Happy Foil offers next level performance in a freeriding / free race design. A longer cord length, thinner profile mast, 78 cm fuselage with multiple wing position placement, and a fluid carbon lamination medium aspect wing set will have you running with the fastest hydro crew at the beach while keeping foiling fun. If you feel the need for a tuned ride, the Happy Foil wings come with variable rear wing shims to adjust the angle of attack for the perfectly balanced feel.

ROCKET FOIL

The Rocket Foil shares the mast and fuselage dimensions of the Happy Foil. A longer cord length, thinner profile mast, and a 78cm fuselage with multiple wing position placement. The easy to ride low aspect wings set this foil apart from the progression pack. The durable glass construction of the wings allows for easy entry up onto a foil and lower glide speeds, making this set perfect for the first timer to the advanced foil trick master.

New for 2017 is the Liquid Force Pro Pad and Strap Kit. The Pro Pad is the peak of comfort and customization in a kiteboarding strap and pad. Adjustable fitting to every rider’s individual foot profile, while the unique “tab” strap system offers multiple dimensions of adjustment to fit any foot out there, even with booties on! Dual density EVA inserts and the choice of a multi shock absorption heel pad adds high performance vibration dampening with hard landing shock absorption. A slot mounting system allows easy compatibility on any kiteboard on the market with standard inserts or a track system.

ARC HARNESS

The Arc harness addresses different body shapes head on with easy fit customization features. Starting with memory foam lumbar support highlighted by an adjustable back support, to the internal pressure dispersing full wrap suspension, comfort is simple to attain. Combine this with exclusive Liquid Force harness features like the single adjust spreader bar clamp, rash guard technology and a pre-curved spreader bar pad, you now have an extremely comfortable harness…

28 |

PRO PAD

1. HAPPY FOIL | 2. ROCKET FOIL | 3 . PRO PAD | 4 . ARC HARNESS

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

NV V8

All-round performance freeride / freestyle

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15

Wow V2

Kitesurfing

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14

Solo V3

Freeride / all terrain

3.5, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15.5, 17.5

HiFi X2

High performance freestyle competition

7, 9, 11, 12, 13

Elite

RAM air freeride for water and snow

6.5, 9, 12, 15

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Carbon Drive

Intermediate to advanced freeriding / freestyle

137, 140, 143

Element

High performance freestyle

133, 136, 139

Legacy

All-round freestyle / freeride

135, 139, 143

Libre

Lightwind performance

150, 160

Aloha

Women’s freeride / freestyle

130, 135

Carbon Element

High performance

136, 139

Echo

Freestyle / wakestyle

138, 141, 144

Drive

Progressive performance

134, 137, 140, 143

Over Drive

Lightwind / XL performance

142, 148

Moon Patrol

Fun

146

Space Craft

Fun

144

Edge

Rapid progression

136, 146

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Soul Craft

Soft waves

5’11

Cosmic Shift

Versatility

6’0

Axe Man

XL performance

6’2

FOIL

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Rocket Foil

Freeriding low to medium speed hydro

5’0 (board) / Low aspect wings

Happy Foil

Freeriding medium to fast speed hydro

4’10, 4’5 (board) / High aspect wings

Pro Pad Board

Freeriding / freestyle

S/M (men’s 7 - 10 / Woman’s 6 - 11)

Interface Arc Harness

L/XL (men’s 9 - 13 / Woman’s 7+) Freeriding / freestyle

XS, S, M, L, XL unisex

| 29

The Brand North Kiteboarding is part of Boards & More (B&M) which was founded in 2000. It now has a team of over 80 staff who work on developing, realizing and distributing products for customers who love their sports as much as B&M do. North Kiteboarding was conceived in the US by Ken Winner and Jaime Herraiz, two outstanding characters in the development of the sport. Once the current boss and CEO of B&M, Till Eberle, joined the club, the brand took off and hasn’t looked back. Till Eberle is the engine and entrepreneur of North Kiteboarding. He started the company and has turned it into a world-leading brand. He is hands-on with the development process and, being an engineer, the product development too, and ensuring 30 |

that products are of the highest quality is his main aim. North Kiteboarding is True Kiteboarding and wants to offer the bestfunctioning and best-looking products in any niche of kiteboarding.

What’s New? In 2017, the biggest commitment was on the D2 canopy material. As North worked together with Teijin from the very beginning, they get new developments offered first. Whereas they could have chosen from many different materials, they have committed to D2 double ripstop for one more season, as all the most important assets, such as the weight, strength in all directions and the necessary stretch in the important directions still spoke strongly for D2. New in the board range is the Pro Session,

replacing the Kontact, and built in a light weight construction, delivering the feel of a pure surfboard, and offering the necessary durability for a kitesurf board. It offers a lot of control but is a playful and carvey board, suited for medium to big waves. Then completely new in the twin tip range is the Jaime Textreme, designed for freestyle in straps. This offers the best of both worlds, combining the Jaime with the Select Textreme. And of course, last but not least, the Clickbar. It’s a real innovation in terms of safety and usability, and trimming your kite is completely different and much more comfortable and safer, just like switching gears on your bike. North make a promise: Try it, and you´ll love it.

REBEL

DICE

The Rebel’s all-time classic characteristics will deliver maximum performance at minimum steering inputs with super precise bar feedback. Since the beginning, the Rebel has long been known for its exceptionally smooth, stable and shake-free feeling through the bar, which has also been refined. The loaded 5th line delivers a short bar stroke for sheet and go power and superior direct bar feel, even in overpowered and gusty conditions. The new design update of additional segments through the center of the kite ensures rounder turning, enhanced wind range, as well as even more lift and hangtime.

The Dice is a perfectly balanced freestyle/wakestyle tool, redefining versatility and performance in a C-oriented three strut design which also works well in the waves. A new panel layout with an immensely stable Dacron frame and wave panels on the trailing edge enhance durability and the overall canopy stiffness. The dynamic curve of the tip strut offers responsive steering, whilst the variety of different length pigtails give even more variation between the different settings. 4 and 5-line compatible, the Dice is a confidence giver with great rider feedback and incredible stability in the air.

VEGAS/VEGAS HADLOW EDITION

EVO

The Vegas is the synonym for a pure wakestyle/freestyle C-kite machine with outstanding mega loop performance. North have improved its in-flight traits with pinpoint emphasis on precise handling. Having completely redesigned the middle section with extra panels and a Dacron frame to the new 3D shaped canopy, they’ve managed to create an extremely stiff and durable outline with better lift and even more aggressive pop with massive slack. No one-trick pony, the Vegas proved itself by taking its second Red Bull King of the Air title – the world’s most extreme kiteboarding event – in the hands of Aaron Hadlow.

The Evo is the all-rounder of the North range, best suited to freeriders comfortable in all disciplines. The 5-strut design combined with the new Dacron frame, 3D Shaping and an updated tip strut design ensures an even cleaner profile and faster turning than in previous years. When hitting the waves, the Evo wants the rider to use a proactive steering style. Boosting? The Evo offers powerful lift and incredible hangtime. And if unhooking is your thing, the Evo delivers. With this perfect blend of freestyle performance, the Evo won’t ever hold you back, no matter what you´re up to.

MONO

NEO

The Mono is a light wind specialist, with outstanding low end range. Use the power of the kite to catch the wave, crank the depower and shred the wave with zero pull. Its light weight allows the kite to drift and hang in the air as you ride down the line, and it has a comfortable and forgiving feeling via the bar - softer than the Neo but still progressive. The turning speed is quick, and the kite is also great for freeriding, offering easy jumping and excellent hangtime. With easy relaunch abilities, great power delivery and optimum sheet-and-go, you’re sure to fall in love at first flight.

The Neo is perfectly suited to hardcore wave fanatics and strapless wave freestyle riders, this powerful kite design allows you to use 1-2m2 less than you would normally do on other models. The high performance design concept makes the Neo travel fast and effortlessly when riding towards the kite or surfing down the line, but delivers smooth power when needed, e.g. in powerful bottom turns. The Neo guarantees a responsive ride with excellent maneuverability. Due to its accessible steering, the forgiving feel and a quick and easy relaunch, the Neo is also ideal for freeriding, twin tip or surfboard.

| 31

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NORTH

PRO SESSION

WHIP CSC

The Pro Session is a fast, high performance surfboard best suited for riders looking for a board in the Light Team Construction with powerful, carvey drive through turns. It replaces the Kontact, designed for medium to big waves, strong wind and aimed at maximum control and performance when the conditions get challenging. The shape of the Pro Session is quite wide thus offers a much wider range of use than the Kontact. It is also very versatile, turns very tight and is able to take explosive snaps. Ride it with or without straps, depending on your style and conditions.

Easy to handle, the Whip CSC is a forgiving and playful board, perfect for small to medium waves and strapless freestyle. The Whip got a major face lift for 2017 and it has a brand new outline and rocker and a wide swallow tail. The main goal with the Whip is to keep the low end speed, glide and stability, but to loosen up the turning to make it more snappy and user friendly. Straight rails offer superior grip and stability for smooth, wide and carving turns on the wave, with a glossy feel underfoot. For the more advanced, this model is fast and ready to be pushed through aggressive bottom turns, snapping back quickly in the top turns.

PRO CSC

The Pro CSC is a completely new shape for 2017, built in Light Team Construction, and best suited to wave riding in small to medium waves and strapless freestyle. Besides being a little shorter than the previous model, the main performance advantage is less catching in the nose when doing very tight snaps in steep sections. The CSC shape is matched with perfectly balanced volume and the all new Polyester Pro Fins for snappy turns. The scooped out area underfoot and a lower center of gravity in combination with the ultra thin new Traction Pad Pro increases grip and control.

CLICKBAR

The unique Trim Unit on the North Clickbar enables you to power and depower in precise steps at the flick of a switch, while the level of power/depower is visible on the Power Display on the bar, as well as on a neon orange mark above the right floater. Being placed on the right side of the bar, the Trim Unit is easily accessible offering to power and depower intuitively in any situation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it dropping into a massive wave or during an enormous megaloop. To reach optimum safety the Clickbar is equipped with the Iron Heart V, ensuring a quick and reliable safety release. Further more, lines, even the guided safety line, are automatically untwisted during rotations. A 5th Element Upgrade Kit is also available.

WAM

Classic, smooth and controlled, the Wam is a great all-round performer no matter the conditions. A genuine one-for-all board in your quiver. Its unique squash tail, wider nose, rock solid platform and increased rail line create a remarkable performer with outstanding light wind plaining abilities. The wide tail is still loose enough for smaller waves, the straight outline ensures good control and smooth carving whenever needed. For the freerider looking for a board to progress on, the Wam will do the work for you.

32 |

1. CLICKBAR | 2. PRO CSC | 3 . WHIP | 4 . WAM | 5 . PRO SESSION

| 33

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NORTH

Jaime Textreme

The new Jaime Textreme is a high-end freestyle board in the luxury Textreme construction that fills the gap between the Select and the Team Series. A board for advanced riders looking for a pure freestyle twin tip, specially developed for riding in straps. Geared toward hooked-in and unhooked riding, it’s a favorite amongst North Kiteboarding’s Product Managers. Due to its very light Textreme construction, maneuvers are easy to perform. A refined and sporty experience with enhanced freestyle and freeride characteristics.

X-Ride

The X-Ride is the highest selling board in the North range, and is the perfect all-round machine for the ambitious and advanced freerider progressing to their first freestyle maneuvers. Upgraded to the Premium Construction, with carbon beams for a progressive flex and better pop, this board is willing and lively, the narrow tips giving unmatched carving performance even in small to medium waves, whilst the rail length offers great grip and control. The Medium Flex creates a forgiving feel underfoot as well as smooth landings. Speedy upwind and able to boost, the X-ride is a great companion for fast progression.

34 |

Jaime

As one of North Kiteboarding’s longest standing freestyle boards with a legendary status, the Jaime is great for both hooked-in and unhooked riding with the NTT straps. Its Quattro V Bottom delivers an engaging grip, whilst the medium flex pattern ensures comfort and outstanding freestyle characteristics. Fast and with great pop, freestyle riders looking for an explosive, yet forgiving ride will relish in the Jaime’s all-round attributes.

Gambler

If your passion is pure wakestyle and park riding, then the Gambler is for you. From slicks to sliders, kickers and lagoons, if the kite’s low you’ll be riding like the pros. Combined with the North Boot, the Gambler is a powerful performer which, with its deep channels, adapts outstandingly well to the variety of demands when riding without fins, and the ample rocker allows for optimum landing control. Tough, strong and packing punch, if you´re looking to ride hard then get ready to be pushed.

1. JAIME TEXTREME | 2. X-RIDE | 3 . JAIME | 4 . GAMBLER

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Rebel

High performance freeride / big air

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15

Vegas

Wakestyle / freestyle

6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14.5

Neo

Wave / freeride

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Evo

Freeride / freestyle / wave

6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

Dice

Freestyle / wave

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

Mono

Freeride

3.5, 5, 7, 9, 12

Juice

Freeride / lightwind

15, 18

Dyno

Race / freeride

5, 7, 10, 13, 15, 18

Buzz

Trainer kite

3.5, 5. 5, 7.5

Lizard

Trainer kite

1.8, 2.5

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Jaime Textreme

Performance freestyle

133, 136, 139, 142

X-Ride

Freeride

132, 135, 138, 141

Jaime

Freestyle

130, 133, 136, 139, 142

Gambler

Wakestyle / park riding

131, 135, 139, 143

Team Series

Competition freestyle

134, 138, 142

Team Series Hadlow

Competition wakestyle / freestyle

140

Select

Freeride

132, 135, 138, 141

Soleil

Freeride / entry freestyle

128, 132, 136

Gonzales

Freeride

130, 134, 138, 142, 151

Spike

Freeride / lightwind

141, 153, 163

Spike Textreme

High performance freeride / lightwind

153

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Pro CSC

Small waves / strapless freestyle

4’11, 5’2, 5’5

Pro Session

Medium to big waves / carving

5’8, 5’11

Wam

Medium waves / all-rounder

5’7, 5’10, 6’1

Whip CSC

Medium waves / strapless freestyle

4’11, 5’2, 5’5

Pro Surf

Small to medium waves

5’8, 5’11, 6’2

Woohoo

Medium waves / all-round

5’5

Nugget CSC

Small waves / lightwind

4’11, 5’2

Nugget TT

Small waves / lightwind

5’2

Quest TT

Small waves / freeriding

5’10

| 35

The Brand

What separates the extraordinary from the ordinary, cutting edge from customary, innovation from imitation? In kiteboarding, the answer is one simple put powerful word: Passion. Passion is the cornerstone of why we do what we do at Slingshot kiteboarding. We are a brand founded on a love for the wind, water and the great outdoors. After more than 15 years in the industry, a true passion for genuine innovation and high-quality equipment is what motivates us to keep pushing forward year after year. Slingshot was founded in 1999, in the windsports mecca of the Columbia River Gorge. Brothers Jeff and Tony Logosz grew the brand from the ground up and remain at the helm today, Jeff as the CEO and Tony as the chief designer. Over the years, Slingshot has built and maintained a reputation for constantly pushing the envelope, both in the innovative products it produces and the athletes who continually push and redefine the sport. Located in Hood River, Oregon, Slingshot headquarters overlooks the epicenter and birthplace of kiteboarding. From their office window, the crew has a front-row seat as they watch the sport evolve in front of their eyes. 36 |

What’s New?

2017 is an exciting year for Slingshot, and our growing foil lineup tops our list of innovation-packed developments. We’ve improved and refined upon our wildly-popular Hover Glide foil system, which we launched in 2016 with sell-out popularity. Along with the user-friendly freeride foil, the Hover Glide platform features multiple mast lengths, interchangeable components and a new (and FREE) online course that covers all aspects of learning to foil (www.FoilAcademy.com). We’re also launching the Ghost Whisper, an advanced freeride foil for next-level performance, and a total of six distinct foil boards, including the new Converter which is a surf-foil crossover board build around our popular Angry Swallow surfboard. In kite news, we’re super stoked to be releasing a full size range of Turbines for 2017. All the characteristics that make the Turbine such a renowned light-wind kite translate to high power, high flying, high efficiency performance as you go down in size and up in wind speed. Aggressive riders and experienced foilers will be amazed by the smaller Turbines for their sheer power and performance, while the larger sizes will remain the user-friendly light wind weapon for any rider.

6. 2. 4.

RPM

The RPM returns for 2017 carrying the reputation as one of the greatest kites ever produced. Spanning the broad spectrum of users, the RPM is capable of winning multiple world titles, as well as appealing to riders of all styles and abilities. From beginners who want a responsive kite with easy relaunch and great depower, to weekend warriors who want to boost big, to world-class competitors like Youri Zoon and Carlos Mario. The RPM’s Open-C Canopy is a proven shape that has spawned an entire category of kites.

TURBINE

New for 2017 is a full size range of Turbines, in odd sizes from 5 to 19. The larger sizes will remain the time-tested, high-efficiency light wind weapon of choice for kiters of all ability levels. As you go down in size and up in wind speed, the Turbine becomes a high-powered, high-performance kite for experienced riders ready for a kite that yields big air, high speeds, crazy upwind carving and more power per square meter than any kite on the market.

WAVE SST

Short for Slingshot Surf Technology, the WAVE SST has proven to have all the premium qualities of a dedicated surf kite. It drifts magically downwind, pivots tightly, maintains responsive turning event when fully sheeted out and is built with beefed-up surf tough construction. While perfect for charging waves, these characteristics also make for a great freeride foil kit. For 2017 we made only minor tweaks to construction for decreased trailing edge flutter and increased durability. We also added more sizes (now 4-10 and 12m) so riders can build their perfect quiver.

RALLY

The Rally is Slingshot’s flagship kite for all-around freeride performance. Featuring a Delta-C profile and a compact pulleyless bridle, the Rally is a proven shape that delivers amazing range and depower, solid upwind drive and downwind drift, responsive handling and confidence-inspiring relaunch. Whether you’re a beginner who wants a safe and user-friendly kite for learning the basics or an avid rider who wants one kite that can rule all conditions, the Rally has all the right ingredients to make it the most versatile kite on the market.

HOVER GLIDE

The Hover Glide is an all-around freeride foil designed for stability, early takeoff, playful handling and user-friendly operation. Featuring sturdy aluminum pedestal, mast and fuselage components and fiberglass composite wings, the Hover Glide is a robust setup that uses weight to its advantage in two ways—impressive durability and unrivaled stability. The Hover Glide is also the exclusive foil to Slingshot’s wildly popular Flight School mast package, which features mast of 15”, 24” and 30” that allow for user-friendly learning with less risk and faster progression.

GHOST WHISPER

The Ghost Whisper is the newest edition to Slingshot’s continually expanding foil lineup designed for more experienced foilers who want top-of-the-line materials and construction. This sleek, high-end carbon foil is fine-tuned for advanced all-conditions riding and aggressive freeride performance. As a testament to the commitment Slingshot has to developing the most comprehensive foil lineup in kiteboarding, the Ghost Whisper features a modular design and sturdy aluminum fuselage that allows riders to change wingsets, which will be released progressively, to achieve different performance characteristics.

| 37

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // SLINGSHOT

MISFIT

One of Slingshot’s longest-running twin tips, the Misfit is a timetested design perfect for general freeride kiters who want a board they can use anywhere, in any condition. The Misfit features mild rocker and a relatively stiff flex pattern, making it a board that cuts up wind and beats through chop exceptionally well. Laser-cut NACA channels give the Misfit precision contour at the tip and tail, which helps channel water to generate speed, grip, load and pop. The Misfit is a time-tested, rider-approved board for versatility and dependability in all conditions.

WIDOWMAKER

The Widowmaker is designed for superior lightweight, high tech freeride performance, for riders who want the most advanced twin tip on the market. Weighing less than five pounds, the 2017 Widowmaker features a cutting-edge hybrid Paulownia/Korroyd core. Paulownia wood is known for its strong, springy characteristic, while Korroyd is a thermally-welded honeycomb material that provides superior strength at a fraction of the weight of a fulldensity core. On the outside, the Widowmaker features a full carbon wrap with additional carbon Vectran weave for added strength in critical stress areas.

38 |

CELERITAS

The Celeritas is the most versatile board on our lineup, ideal for riders who want a classic short-board that can handle a variety of wind and wave conditions exceptionally well. The Celeritas features a stout body, curved outline and mild rocker. The result is a stable board that planes easily, performs great in light wind and slower speeds and carves upwind well. The Celeritas’ rounded thumb tail and three-fin configuration give it a snappy feel, while far-back stomp pad and foot strap inserts give riders the ability to position themselves directly over the rear fins for aggressive handling and locked-in turning.

SCREAMER

Featuring a progressive snub-nose shape to reduce front-end size and weight, the Screamer is a playful and agile board that will appeal to riders of all disciplines. Its pulled-in thumb tail and three-fin setup provide solid all-around performance and control at speed for traditional wave riding, while its shorter length and unique T-Rex nose profile makes strapless airs, tricks and strapped-in boosting considerably easier than with longer, more traditional shapes. A parallel rail outline and single-concave rocker make for a compact and maneuverable ride that can handle any conditions you throw at it.

1. MISFIT | 2. WIDOWMAKER | 3. CELERITAS | 4. SCREAMER

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Rally

All-round

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

RPM

All-round

4.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Wave SST

Surf

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12

Turbine

Lightwind

5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19

Fuel

Freestyle

7, 9, 11, 13

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Refraction

Freestyle / wakestyle

135, 143

Refraction Pro

Freestyle / wakestyle

135, 139, 143

Karolina Pro

Freestyle / wakestyle

135

Vision

Freestyle / freeride

134, 138, 140

Widowmaker

All-round

136, 140

Asylum

Powered freestyle

134, 138, 141

Misfit

Freeride

132, 136, 142, 146

Crisis

Freeride

134, 137, 141, 146

Glide

Light wind

149, 159

Super Grom

Younger riders

125, 130

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Tyrant

All-round surf

6’0

Celeritas

All-round surf

5’6, 5’8, 5’11

Screamer

Surf / freestyle

5’2, 5’4, 5’6

Angry Swallow

Surf / freestyle

5’2, 5’4, 5’6

| 39

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // RIDE ENGINE

1. 2.

40 |

TACTICAL TROLLEY

Ride Engine’s Tactical Trolley is a utilitarian roller bag that will have you hauling mass amounts of gear across the planet with ease. Large enough to take multiple twin tips up 158cm long, but compact enough to fit within standard airline baggage limitations, the Tactical Trolley features large interior compartments, compression straps, Kevlar reinforcements, a wet-dry compartment, rugged wheels and integrated runners to give the bag structure with or without a twin-tip inside.

HEX CORE HARNESS

Ride Engine’s innovative hard-shell design locks firmly into your lumbar and spreads load evenly across your back and sides. The Hex Core model is made from an exclusive injection honeycomb core technology. This creates the super strong but light weight shell that the rest of the harness is built around. For 2017, Ride Engine have improved our injection molding process for increased strength and visual appeal and have added an additional layer of padding to the integrated waist belt for a more comfortable connection with the spreader bar pad. There are two new sizes, XS and XXL, to fit a broader range of body types.

ELITE HARNESS

The Elite Carbon harness features a super stiff and light weight carbon fiber shell that the rest of the harness is built around. For those who want the very best in high-performance materials and construction, this is the harness for you. For freestyle and unhooked riding, pair the Elite Carbon harness with the standard fixed-hook spreader bar. For surfing and general hooked-in freeriding, pair it with our metal or carbon slider bar. For 2017 Ride Engine have added an additional layer of padding to the integrated waist belt for a more comfortable connection with the spreader bar pad.

APOC WETSUIT

Ride Engine developed the Apoc series with close collaboration from athletes who know exactly what they want, and need, from their equipment. Ranging from our warmest suit, the fully-sealed, fleece-lined, Apoc 5/4, to their sealed 4/3 and 3/2 full suits and 2m shortys, the Apoc is a full-range front-zip lineup designed with the utmost attention to detail to keep users warm and comfortable as they pursue their water-bound passions. All suits in the Apoc series are front-zip and feature internal neck gaskets to reduce flushing; then the 5/4 and 4/3 suits have internal poly-fleece lining for added warmth and water retention, and all are made from limestonebased neoprene.

ELARA WETSUIT

Designed and built with superior warmth and comfort in mind, the women’s specific Elara series features all of the same high-end materials and construction as Ride Engine’s men’s suits, but with an attractive splash of color and style to set it apart. The Elara’s easy-entry back zip design comes in two thicknesses, 4/3 and 3/2, with both thickest at the core and tapered at the extremities to balance warmth and flexibility where they are needed most. Both versions feature an interior liner of plush Poly Fleece to help retain body heat and minimize water absorption. The 4/3 is extensively lined with this material, in the front and back core and the entire midsection, while the 3/2 is lined exclusively in the front chest panel for core warmth.

CARBON SLIDER BAR

Ride Engine’s carbon slider bar is a low-profile, lightweight and streamlined setup that closes the gap between kite and rider. This hooked-in system connects the chicken loop directly to the spreader bar and allows the connection to slide effortlessly from side to side, creating the ultimate fluid ride and preventing unfavorable harness movement when riding toeside, carving upwind or catching waves.

1. TACTICAL TROLLEY | 2. HEX CORE HARNESS | 3. ELITE HARNESS 4. CARBON SLIDER BAR | 5. APOC WETSUIT | 6. ELARA WETSUIT

| 41

The Brand

What’s New?

We are passionate about combining quality, technology, artisanal touch and refined design that is functional and accessible to everyone in water sports. We make products that we like and that can be used by everyone, not only the elite water sports enthusiasts: ‘It’s all ride...’. We pride ourselves in using the latest technologies from fabric textiles to composite materials combined with creative design and genuine Italian style: this is what RRD stands for.

R&D is a never-ending process of development and prototyping and it’s only when we have a design that’s working significantly better than its predecessor does our production department bring it to the market.

RRD - Roberto Ricci Designs – was founded in 1989 between Tuscany and the island of Maui, Hawaii. The first products were custom windsurfing boards, designed and shaped by hand, for the top windsurfing racers around the world. Because of the technical expertise and contagious passion of Roberto Ricci, the company became a leader in the Windsurfing and Kitesurfing industry within a few years. Meanwhile RRD also has a full SUP and surf line and a fashion collection.

42 |

NON STOP RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT! The keywords for RRD are style and quality, supported by the continuous commitment to research and development. We are one of the only brands that break away from the yearly calendar cycle in order to deliver what’s truly new and improved. We just released our hydrofoil programme which is the new hype, next to that we launched a wood and LTD version of our PU directional wave boards.

H-FLIGHT HYDROFOIL

POP V2

After a year of extensive testing, RRD have developed a hybrid foil that incorporates a strong, durable, cost effective 90cm aluminum mast paired with a full carbon fuselage and changeable rear and front wings. They also offer two different additional mast lengths to the standard mast as an optional ‘RRD Aviation Academy’ package for schools and beginners. The standard 90cm ‘Full Flight’ mast is included, and the optional 40cm ‘Take Off’ and/or 65cm ‘Touch & Go’ masts are available as spare parts for your first flights. The front wing, fuselage, and rear wing enable the foil to rise out of the water progressively and smoothly at the right speed, increase stability, and allow it to easily go down-wind. Starting with a shorter mast length will also aid to the progressive entrance into kite foiling. Their 40cm mast is designed to develop the necessary skills to come out of the water, to get the feeling of a foil under your feet, and positioning your body on to the board. The 65cm MAST (‘Touch & Go’ level) provides the full foil feel for the first time without being too intimidating. The 90 cm ‘Full Flight’ mast has the perfect flex and stiffness that is very forgiving. Behavior is predictable and reliable.

ROCKET

The RRD Rocket is packed with speed, easy acceleration, early planing, and loads of control. Best suited in the flats, chop, or small waves, this surfboard will get you through those marginal conditions. It is a short board with a wide nose and tail, equipped with a flat scoop rocker-line, more volume in the middle section, and narrow rails. Thin rails and extra flotation make this board excellent for strapless freestyle maneuvers and increases its lightwind performance. Rail to rail directional changes and high speed turns are much easier due to the Spiral V bottom, the deep double concave, and the squash tail. Great freeriding performance and an ideal choice as the first introduction into a directional board.

The Pop V2 is the optimum contender when conditions are not ideal but you still want to ride strapless. Additional volume under your feet gives extra flotation, acting as a buffer when attempting tacking or trying your first strapless jumps. Landing’s are soft. The wide outline, and RRD’s Classic or LTD constructions, ensure forgiveness and durability. Inspired by the new mini-maxi surfboards, the Pop was designed around an entirely new outline base with a very wide mid point and a squared nose which increases the floating potential. If strapless airs are your main focus, the very wide but gently rounded swallow/ fish retro style tail maximizes the pop potential of this modern freestyle/surfboard shape.

SPARK

This board is the ideal choice for those who are torn between the Rocket or the C.O.T.A.N. The Spark finds its own during strapless freestyle, provides early planing for light wind performance, and still maintains proper wave riding characteristics in side-onshore or side-offshore conditions. Equipped with easy to ride parallel rails, a very straight outline, and extremely thin, but really wide from nose to tail, the Spark feels extremely comfortable and follows your line while cranking that bottom turn. The board is exceptionally stable as the nose does not lift up and down.

All surfboards are available in three constructions: Classic PU: The real surf feeling Wood: Built tough, made to last Ltd: Light as a feather

1. H-FLIGHT HYDROFOIL v2 | 2. ROCKET v2 | 3 . POP v2 | 4 . SPARK v4

| 43

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // RRD

The Barracuda V2 is created to be used for strapped-in riding, this board is fast and delivers an abundance of hold in the most extreme conditions. With a slightly wider outline in the middle and a narrow rounded pin tail to improve top speed, the Barracuda delivers great turning potential with plenty of grip at high speeds. The full monoconcave hull with heaps of rocker on the tail makes planing fast and holding control on choppy waters a breeze. Developed and tested in Cape Town by one of the most influential kiteboarders in the South African kite scene, Ralf Bachschuster, the Barracudas are fast boards born to handle power.

The C.O.T.A.N. (cut off tail and nose) is a high performance board that carries less length and momentum in comparison with traditional board shapes, allowing you to feel free and fast. It is available in five different sizes – all equipped with five fin boxes. When deciding which size C.O.T.A.N to choose, RRD recommend going five or six inches shorter than your normal ride. It comes equipped with RRD’s exclusive ‘1000 stripes’ diamond groove 4mm surf EVA pads with tail kick.

44 |

MAQUINA V3

BARRACUDA V2

C.O.T.A.N V2

The new Maquina V3 is a pure surfboard, a classic thruster with the right feel and flex, being the thinnest board in the RRD range, getting you where you want to be at any time. The super thin profile throughout paired with the thin rails, nose to tail, allow this stick to be ridden powered and have maximum control at high speeds. Although this board has all the drive you need for speed, the flat rounded squash tail releases instantly, aided by a progressive rocker. This gives you precise control over the direction of the board in any situation.

POISON V4 (+ POISON V3 LTD)

The Poison is most popular freestyle board in the RRD range since its introduction. The scoop rocker is the same one used on the Poison V3: constant curve with slightly lifted tip area, but the outline has been completely re-designed and features a totally straight line in the mid 45cms of the board, where riders can push hard when trying to edge and go upwind. The tip area is narrowed significantly, increasing top speed and allowing a quicker direction change, thus increasing pop. The re-designed Torsion Box follows the profile of the squared/swallow tips. This tip shape creates a higher angle of attack on the water surface, and increases control. To suit taste, RRD have added new ABS channels. The channels plus the RRD Rad Pads enable the rider to make the smallest adjustments needed to perfect their stance and performance.

5. BARRACUDA v2 | 6. C.O.T.A.N v2 | 7. MAQUINA v3 | 8. POISON v4

10.

JUICE V3

For wakestylers looking for a solid board that will deliver consistently in all conditions, look no further than the Juice V3. The Juice V3 is the paradigm of RRD’s non-stop research and development, and with a philosophy of constantly pushing the envelope, they have redesigned and integrated even more upgrades and high-tech features to make the favorite board of their international wakestyle team even better.

PLACEBO V6

Since its introduction in 2009, the Placebo represents accessibility due to its generous width, length and the correct flex and feet response dynamics. The Placebo’s forgiving profile design creates the perfect mix of comfort, fun, and support on the water and the new V6 enables its riders to put in the long hours necessary to progress to the next level with comfort and ease. The tip outline of the Placebo V6 includes a slight concave and a ‘rounded’ swallow design. The new tips increase the pop, thus aiding in the freestyle potential of the board. A true progression machine.

11.

12.

BLISS V4

This progressive freeride/freestyle board gives the sensation of security while riding in an assortment of conditions. The Bliss has a great amount of speed, comfort, and pop that comes from the mix of medium flex coupled with easy landings. The deeper bottom channels and the thin, slightly rounded ABS sidewalls allow this board to carve aggressively through the chop. It can be controlled at high speeds and offers strong upwind performance. Load up the lines and take to the skies…

BS45 V5 / BS45 PRO V5

The BS 45 V5 is the perfect board to use when the wind is light and the conditions are marginal. It is made with a constant curve rocker line, keeping the tips of the board high enough on the water to avoid spraying into your eyes and ensures fantastic maneuverability. The flatter bottom aids upwind performance as well as early planning. The PRO version has more curve and a slightly deeper concave, creating a slightly slower board with more pop potential. Additionally, the Pro version is easier to maneuver and more fun to ride in higher winds. For larger riders and those who need a lightwind board that rips.

9. JUICE v3 | 10. PLACEBO v6 | 11. BLISS v4 | 12. BS45 v5

| 45

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // RRD

EMOTION MK2

The Emotion is a strutless kite, specifically designed for light wind performance with great hangtime and boosting power while at the same time being something practical that packs 30% smaller than a conventional three strut kite. It has a redesigned body profile that is progressively flatter towards the tips which increases upwind performance and flies into the wind window. Perfect for frequent flyers that want to keep the luggage size to a minimum and for those who need less volume in their vehicles, the Emotion is an easy choice. Super compact and needs very little wind to fly and get you riding. Suited for all disciplines, from freestyle to freeride, to waves.

VISION MK5

A versatile, easy to use, fun, responsive and predictable kite that will allow you to freestyle, wave ride, learn how to kite or go fast on a freeride board both upwind and downwind, the Visionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shape is now more open which increases the turning speed and provides less bar pressure. The bridles and the pigtails are also shorter and overall the new features distinguish the Vision as a wonderful kite for all freeride and wave riding. All of the high quality finishing details on the kite have remained the same. The Vision MK5 is one kite that can do it all. In other words: a real all-terrain kite, great for freeride, freestyle and wave.

PASSION MK8

The MK8 delivers pure, predictable power, paired with amazing stability, and provides a perfect blend of turning speed, handling, and jumping ability. Changes made to the profile shape and aspect ratio increase the performance. Re-designed, refined and redefined, one of the largest differences is that the new Passion MK8 now has three struts instead of five. The reduction of two struts translates into a lighter kite with increased low-end. The MK8 is easy to relaunch, even in low wind conditions. Furthermore, the gradually changing power while sheeting is coupled with consistent bar pressure. Thus aiding in the MK8â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s predictability. Boosting huge airs is a blast because the kite is smoother and more stable in gusty conditions with increased turning speed.

OBSESSION MK9

The new MK9 has only received minor adjustments: the shape of the kite remains the same but RRD have changed the bridle and the pigtails so the kite becomes more stable in the air. This kite is light, fast, powerful, stable, and easy to be de-powered. The foil profile allows the Obsession to float through the air and brings a more direct type of feeling on the bar while always having an abundance of power when fully sheeted in. Sizes 10.5 and smaller can also be used as a wave kite, combining the freedom of improved maneuverability with an immediate and effective depower-ability in any wind condition.

1. 3.

46 |

1. EMOTION mk 2 | 2. VISION mk5 | 3 . PASSION mk8

OBSESSION PRO MK3

An evolution of the previous version, the Obsession Pro MK3 has been refined and developed with precise input of the freestyle pro team. The Obsession Pro is a pure, fine tuned, 5-Line C-shaped kite, designed to be precise, powerful, or very neutral when needed. Each kite size has a unique diameter leading edge that allows for the correct speed of rotation. The leading edge is progressively increased in diameter towards the smaller sizes to ensure that the speed and handling of each kite in the range feels the same. The outside struts were also moved towards the wingtips to increase the turning potential during kiteloops. Very thin shaped struts and a thin leading edge diameter increase stability and save weight. It is designed with a very high aspect ratio C-shape that helps create the perfect de-power rope length. In fact, the whole power range of the kite is within 15-20cms of the chicken loop, enabling you to have the perfect power control without the need of moving your arms forward. RRD have added two adjustment options to the leading edge so it is possible to adjust the bar pressure. This kite is capable of stellar loops and huge pop for extreme maneuvers performed while fully powered.

RELIGION MK7

The new completely redesigned tips allowed RRD to increase the responsiveness of the kite and create better sensitivity from the bar. The bridles can be easily adjusted for a side-shore or an on-shore wind by moving the position of the bridle between two points, allowing you to change the pressure on the bar, the speed of rotation and position of the kite in the wind window. A new web of reinforcements of Dacron on the canopy give the whole structure added rigidity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; made up of 40% heavy duty Dacron fabrics and 60% lightweight canopy. A unique mix which creates superior crash resistance and extends the lifespan of the kite. The new Religion MK7 allows for a bigger range of use both on the high and low end of the kite. More power, better lift during jumps, and an enormous progressive de-power that will stop the kite power exactly when you need it.

4 . OBSESSION mk9 | 5. OBSESSION PRO mk3 | 6. RELIGION mk7

| 47

48 |

SHIFT PRO HARNESS

The Shift Pro is for riders with a flatter lower back shape for an ergonomic fit when riding with a lot of power, working well when the rail is dug in deep and the kite is low. The fiberglass reinforcements inside are positioned to correspond with a low kite angle and lead the pressure to where it’s most comfortable. The convex curved lower edge of the harness (‘Flexcurve’) is more flexible and designed to stay in contact with the rider during a wide variety of tricks. Also features a comfortable spreader bar protector, a safety knife, key pocket and a handles pass system that’s strong enough to lift a small car.

THRIVE HARNESS

The Thrive harness has a pre-shaped, comfortable, ergonomic back fit, with more curve in the vertical line and is the choice for riders with a more naturally curved lower back, or riders that prefer a more upright position, like free-riding and down the line wave riding.

SENSE HARNESS

The Sense Harness is a wind-kitesurf convertible harness for ladies with style in and out of the water. It has a slightly flatter lower back section to comfortably handle lots of power with maximum comfort andis equipped with all features available in RRD’s harness range.

1. 2.

1. SHIFT PRO | 2. THRIVE | 3 . SENSE

| 49

FAHRENHEIT

The Fahrenheit is a super quick drying wetsuit combined with extra durability and stretch. Featuring the RRD Quickdry lining, it absorbs 20% less water than standard linings and therefore dries quicker. It also holds more warmth, which keeps you in the water longer! The whole wetsuit is fully liquid taped on the outside and fabric taped on the inside to offer superior stretch and a longer lifetime. Also available in the hooded version in 6/4 thick neoprene – to be used in real winter waters.

AMAZONE

Made entirely with the RRD Superstretch limestone superflex neoprene and a 360 ultrastretch back panel to increase back flex and ease when getting in and out of a chest zip wetsuit, and the Amazone is built with the lowest number of panels in their collection, meaning even more flexibility. It is pure fabric taped and on the inside, and only on the seams of the joint areas, allowing for even more flex. The new asymmetrical panel layout creates a new look that will make you stand out from the rest of the crowd.

CELSIUS PRO

The Celsius Pro pattern design is combined with the best available neoprene in the market to provide extreme flexibility. The zippers close from the out to the inside – better for the pressure distribution, resulting in stronger crash-resistant front zips. The wetsuit is made with Superstretch limestone neoprene – the most flexible material available today, and is built with the lowest number of panels in the RRD collection, which means more flexibility. The Pro is pure fabric taped on the inside and on the seam joint areas, allowing even more flex, especially around the arms. The Razzle Dazzle version provides even more flexibility and has Quickdry material on the inside front panel.

50 |

1. FAHRENHEIT | 2. CELSIUS PRO | 3 . AMAZONE

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Emotion MK2

Strutless lightwind

12, 14.5, 17

Vision MK5

All-round

5, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15

Passion MK8

Performance freeride

3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17

Obsession MK9

Freestyle / big air

5, 6, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15

Obsession Pro MK3

Wakestyle

7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15

Religion MK7

Wave

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.5, 12

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Poison V4

Freestyle

135, 136, 137, 138, 140

Poison LTD V3

Freeride

135, 136, 137, 138, 140

Juice V3

Wakestyle

135, 138, 143

Placebo V6

Freestyle / freeride

136, 137, 138, 139, 140

BS45 Pro V5

Light wind performance

145

BS45 V5

Light wind

145

Bliss V4

Freestyle / freeride

135, 136, 137, 138, 139

Bliss Kiss V4

Freestyle / freeride

135, 136

Fifty / Fifty

Two-piece freeride

138

Easy Kite V2

All-round beginner

148

10 Knots LTD V4

Lightwind

146

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Maquina V3

Pro thruster kite surfboard

5’6, 5’7, 5’9, 5’11, 6’1

C.O.T.A.N. V2

Compact pro kite surfboard

4’10, 5’0, 5’2, 5’4, 5’6

POP LTD V2

Freeride / freestyle kite surfboard

5’2, 5’4

Rocket

Freeride / fast kite surfboard

5’3

Spark

Freestyle hybrid kite surfboard

5’3, 5’5

Barracuda V2

Strapped-in special kite surfboard

5’4, 5’6, 5’8, 5’10, 6’0

| 51

The Brand

F-ONE is a French company specializing in the production and distribution of kitesurfing and SUP equipment. It was founded in 1994 by Raphaël Salles, and the company has evolved steadily over the years and continues to grow. As one of the pioneers of the sport in France, and then helping it to evolve internationally for more than 20 years, Raphaël (a former professional windsurfer) has always developed and designed equipment for kitesurfing. By developing a range of equipment characterized by constant innovation, safety, comfort and maneuverability, F-ONE’s mission is to meet and exceed the expectations of all those who are passionate about kiteboarding.

What’s New?

This is the 10th model of the BANDIT! The BANDIT X is an exceptional kite and F-ONE continue to improve it year-on-year. For this year they have focused on traction and speed as well as the bar feeling. F-ONE have also added two new kites to their collection: the Breeze and Furtive, which both have different specificities. The Breeze is designed specifically for foiling and lightwind riding, the kite is powerful to enable early planing and is reassuring thanks to its great stability in a straight line but also during all kinds of maneuvers. The Furtive is designed for hangtime and high-performance on a twin tip, long distance racing and foil riding. For 2017 F-ONE have also added a new construction to their surfboards with carbon versions of the Mitu Monteiro board as well as the Signature. In addition there is the Mitu Monteiro ESL is built with a bamboo sandwich technology and a double bamboo deck.

52 |

4. 2.

FURTIVE

BANDIT

For its tenth year, the new Bandit provides a unique traction. Powerful enough to achieve early planing, the kite self-regulates naturally to pull you effortlessly. Now with no lateral pull you can ride with less pressure on your back and in your legs. Riding upwind is easy, traction is softer and totally regulated. When over-powered, it keeps its performance and the profile remains clean with no distortions. The Bandit remains stable, comfortable and efficient even in strong winds. For version 10, the wingtips of the Bandit X are slightly wider and squarer, bringing more maneuverability and a lighter feel. The Bandit X a thrilling kite and F-ONE’s motivation to improve it year after year is limitless and typifies their passion for kitesurfing and for R&D.

BREEZE

Designed for a very specific market, the Breeze applies all of the know-how from the F-ONE design department to offer a kite designed specifically for foiling and light wind riding. To save weight, the Breeze is a single strut kite. Aspect ratio is reduced to make the kite more stable and limit both acceleration and speed. Its profile is completely new as it needs to deliver both power and control and it has plenty of depower ability for a light wind kite. Then the wingtips are wide which helps with maneuverability, transitions and allows for backward relaunch. Then we have optimized the reinforcement patches to save as much weight as possible and facilitate light wind re-launch. The kite is compatible with Bandit kite bars.

The F-ONE Furtive is ideal for any rider who enjoys high speed riding, long distance racing and hangtime sessions. Its profile has been developed to ensure maximum traction at the edge of the window. It was developed originally to set a world speed record of over 56 knots, so the Furtive has been developed with more aspect ratio and 5 struts for added rigidity in high wind conditions. Its W5 bridle is totally innovative and brings together the function of a bridle and a 5th line! It’s called W5 due to its W pattern which includes a central line to control the leading edge arc, like a 5th line. It provides perfect distortion control and the central line further helps with the depower of the kite. You’ll be surprised by the enjoyment the Furtive gives when riding this kite. It’s performance (who doesn’t like speed and acceleration?) is insane, but it also has amazing hang-time…

DIABLO V2

For 2017 the Diablo V2 goes even further and is now a true racing weapon. The goal was to expand the wind range, raise the efficiency of the kite and to improve the upwind angle without losing any performance. F-ONE’s designers achieved this by increasing the aspect ratio, as well as the number of cells. These developments all boost the kites speed, power generation and its angle in the wind window. It also creates a more accurate profile across the span of the kite, which further enhances lift, stability and performance. The bridle has also been totally redesigned for 2017 to deal with the new higher aspect ratio. To reduce turbulent flow as the air leaves the profile of the kite some mini ribs have been added to the trailing edge, decreasing the drag and enhancing the airflow. The construction retains the lighter fabric on the underside of the kite, which was introduced last year. This method increases the responsiveness of the kite and also helps the Diablo V2 on the downwind legs of the racecourse.

1. BANDIT | 2. BREEZE | 3. FURTIVE | 4. DIABLO V2

| 53

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // F-ONE

TRAX HRD CARBON SERIES

F-ONE’s iconic Trax brings outstanding planing and tremendous comfort in high wind conditions. With unmatched upwind ability, acceleration is continuous yet remains controllable in any circumstance and you can expect smooth riding, incredible drive, earlier planing and an even better upwind performance, coupled with the ultralight feel and increased pop that only carbon can bring you…

TRAX HRD

For 2017 the Trax HRD brings you the future of freestyle kiteboarding. With top-of-class planing and tremendous comfort even in high wind conditions coupled with unmatched upwind ability and continuous acceleration. Yet despite these high performance characteristics it remains controllable in any circumstance and suitable for freestyle riders of all levels…

54 |

ACID HRD CARBON SERIES

If new school riding is your thing then look no further than the F-ONE Acid HRD Carbon. This is the ultimate weapon for new school. With a new rocker and concave shape dedicated to new school freestyle you can expect better control and better pop, then there’s a new improved deck layup and of course the carbon for an improved strength to weight ratio.

ACID HRD LITE TECH

For new school riders the 2017 Acid provides all that you need to start getting those ‘comp ready’ moves dialed in. It has the new rocker and concave as well as F-ONE’s inspired Helical Rail Design for superior edging, impressive stability and precision, and more comfort and smoother landings.

SPICY

The 2017 Spicy is a truly uncompromised wakestyle board with a unique shape developed for bindings and heavy duty inserts. To incorporate the thicker deck, the hybrid Cap rail technology combines a Cap construction with an ABS sidewall. For serious wakestylers, this is a true weapon…

1. TRAX HRD CARBON SERIES | 2. TRAX HRD | 3. ACID HRD CARBON SERIES 4. ACID HRD LITE TECH | 5. SPICY

| 55

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // F-ONE

MITU MONTEIRO PRO MODEL

Since the first Mitu pro model four years ago F-ONE have focused on one single objective: offering the best technology to bring unique riding sensations and exceptional comfort. The Mitu boards have become genuine technological marvels featuring many built-in features such as HD Foam flex composite, heel shock absorber and full pads…

MITU MONTEIRO PRO MODEL CARBON SERIES

The classic Mitu shape in carbon. What’s not to like? F-ONE have decided to use a HD foam carbon composite construction with a brushed finish that allows for a lighter weight. This sandwich construction has been used for several years in their SUP range and allows for an ideal weight/resistance ratio. For comfort, F-ONE have worked specifically on the flex of the board as carbon tends to naturally bring more stiffness. To resolve this they have selected a 45° bi-axial carbon fabric, to get rid of any longitudinal fibers and to keep the flex of the board just right...

MITU MONTEIRO ESL PRO MODEL

In this Mitu model, the ESL stands for ‘essential’ so this keeps the trailblazing shape of the Mitu and has all of the original F-ONE technology, so it is fitted with a full bamboo sandwich on both deck and bottom with double bamboo layer on deck to strengthen the area under your feet. So the board is very resistant to bumps and has a nice feel and flex pattern.

56 |

SIGNATURE

The Signature boards are designed for pure surfing with a shape that comes out of a long evolution of the F–ONE kite surfboards. With the Camel Deck shape, the volume has been maximized in the middle section of the boards before fading out towards the tail to keep the heel of the rear foot as low as possible for better control. The bottom shape features a single concave on the front half of the board into a straight V shape at the fins. The concave provides a smoother ride and a better balance while the V tail ensures the board remains super responsive. The Signature boards are equipped with a quad fin setup for tight turns and a perfect grip even when carving aggressively.

SIGNATURE CARBON

The Signature Carbon is an ultra-lightweight board which offers incredible tuned in sensations while surfing. So the shape is the same as the Signature but with F-ONE’s carbon technology which employs an HD Foam carbon composite construction with a brushed finish for the lightest possible weight and the 45° bi-axial carbon fabric to ensure you have just the right amount of flex as you are powering into a bottom turn.

1. MITU MONTEIRO PRO | 2. MITU MONTEIRO PRO MODEL CARBON 3. MITU MONTEIRO ESL | 4. SIGNATURE | 5. SIGNATURE CARBON

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Bandit

All-round performance

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17

Breeze

Foil / light wind

11, 13, 15

Furtive

High performance / hangtime

5, 6.4, 8, 10, 12

Diablo V.2

Foil kite

7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Trax Hrd Carbon Series

Pro freestyle

135, 136, 137, 140

Trax Hrd Lite Tech

Freestyle

135, 136, 137, 140

Trax Hrd Girl Lite Tech

Freestyle

135, 136

Acid Hrd Carbon Series

Freestyle

132, 133

Acid Hrd Lite Tech

Pro freestyle new school

132, 133

Acid Hrd Girl Lite Tech

Freestyle new school

132, 133

Acid Next Generation Lite Tech

Youth new school

132, 133

Spicy

Wakestyle

138

Unik

Freestyle / freeride

134, 135

Freeride

138, 140

Next Lw

Freeride / lightwind

148, 150

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Mitu Monteiro Pro Model

Pro freestyle / waves

5’4, 5’6, 5’8, 5’10’

Mitu Monteiro Pro Model. Carbon Series

Pro freestyle / waves

5’4, 5’6, 5’8, 5’10

Mitu Monteiro ESL Pro Model

Pro freestyle / waves

5’6, 5’8

Signature Carbon

Wave

5’8, 5’10

Signature

Wave

5’8, 5’10

| 57

The Brand Since 1979, Naish has been crafting the tools for you to heighten each and every moment on the water. Fine-tuning every curve, edge and seam along the way, each product is designed both to excel in the moment and to withstand the test of time. We are a boardriding company, yes, but we are also much more than that. Powered by, and deeply appreciative of, the incredible conditions that our home on Maui, Hawaii provides, we live boardriding day in and day out. Unlike most companies, we are driven not so much by our bottom line, but by our passion for carving up the wind and waves—and sharing that excitement with others. 58 |

Combining the talents of top athletes and engineers with cutting edge technologies and premium materials, Naish boards, sails and kites are designed for you to squeeze the most out of every moment on the water, session after session, season after season.

What’s New? At Naish, we’re always asking “how high, how fast, how far. . .” and we feed that insatiable curiosity by pushing the boundaries—our 2017 season expresses that credo to the nth degree. Quad-Tex—the 4x-reinforced ripstop that surpasses all other canopy materials on the market in strength, pull and durability— ensures Naish kites are the strongest, most

responsive yet. The new wave-dedicated kite, the Slash, is super-smooth, responsive and adapts well to a variety of conditions. The Torch pro-performance/freestyle kite sees the addition of an ESP adaptive bridle system, making it more accessible while maintaining its edge. Effortless to operate, the new Torque Control System is the function-rich trim line system featuring a ball bearing swivel and patented push-away quick release mechanism with linear release force for consistently smooth operation regardless of line tension. Not to mention new boards, updated bindings and user-friendly Hover Hydrofoil and Foilboards. . . we’ve been busy.

PIVOT

Turn up your riding experience with one of the most sought-after kites in the world—the Naish Pivot. Renowned for it’s predictable power development, direct bar feel and substantial low-end power, the Pivot will immediately be your “go-to” kite for a large variety of riding styles and conditions. Easy-handling, well-rounded and incredibly versatile, it’s clear to see how the Pivot has become the all-around choice for everyone, everywhere.

SLASH

Developed with elite riders on the crest of the most legendary waves in the world, the Slash is tested to perform in even the most sloppy, onshore conditions. Offering a smooth, yet responsive experience this wave kite delivers excellent drifting ability and impressive depower that adapts easily to a diversity of surf and trick riding. Born from the DNA of the renowned Pivot, the Slash features a lower aspect ratio and higher, wider wingtips for a compact overall outline which makes it easy to turn quickly and change direction. The swept wing tip delivers unmatched drifting ability, light bar pressure and quick relaunch. Perfectly balanced, the bridles and geometry are tuned to produce an incredibly stable shape and intuitive performance.

TORCH (w/ESP)

From design and testing to incremental perfecting, the Torch is a product of years of collaboration with the top kiters in the world in the most demanding conditions. Flown year after year on the world tour—consistently dominating the King of the Air—this kite has pushed the boundaries of what was ever conceived possible. Offering smooth power delivery, with depower similar to that of a bridled kite, the Torch delivers precision response for hooked and unhooked riding. Now available to a broader skillset, less experienced kiters can still ride like Jesse Richman, or Kevin Langeree with the Torch’s new ESP setting, which allows riders to adjust the depower to have more forgiving control with all the performance.

RIDE

Effortless and accessible, the Naish Ride is a fast favorite among riders of all levels. Ideal for those looking to progress their skills quickly, the open center section of this lightweight, two-strut design delivers superior low-end performance and maintains smooth power delivery through turns. Easy water relaunch provides added convenience while a slightly flattened arc generates more lift for easy jumping and “sheet-in-and-go” feel. A consistent performer with incredible control, its versatility will have both new and experienced kiters choosing the Ride as their “go-to” kite for a wide range of styles.

2. 4.

1. PIVOT | 2. SLASH | 3 . TORCH | 4 . RIDE

| 59

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NAISH

TRIP

Low wind; no problem! The Naish Trip excels in underpowered conditions. Perfect for dedicated intermediate-to-advanced riders, the incredibly lightweight, strutless design delivers the wind range of a larger kite while retaining the fast, precision turning of a smaller kite. An ideal fit for foiling, the Trip’s responsive depower and light weight—compared to other kites of this size—supports seamless transitions for a smooth ride. Log more days on the water with the Trip.

FLY

TORQUE BAR

The all-new Torque Bar comes with some huge innovations. The Torque ATB is a 4-line control system with an above-the-bar Clamcleat trim that is easily adjustable in height, whereas the BTB bar offers an ultra-clean look above the bar and easy trim below. Ideal for a wide variety of freeride, freestyle and wave riding, the Torque bars are equipped with the most advanced trim loop mechanism to date. Engineered for consistent, hassle-free operation, the quick release features a linear release force, for easy release and reload, regardless of the tension on the line.

Lightweight and tremendously fast for a kite of its size, the Naish Fly delivers a smooth, yet powerful ride in light-to-marginal wind conditions. The swept-back wing tip and anti-stiction window improve water relaunch, while the two-strut design offers exceptional low-end power. Riders will find themselves in super light wind, yet the speed of the kite will make it feel like a normal, windy day. New this year, our designers have modified the leading edge diameter, allowing the kite to fly farther forward for improved upwind ability and easy handling. Don’t let light wind ruin your day. Grab a Fly and maximize your time on the water.

60 |

1. TORQUE BAR | 2. TRIP | 3 . FLY

DRIVE

MOTION

Ultra-lightweight 3K Carbon creates a high-tension framework, so shape and flex are never compromised. The Drive’s rails gradually taper, providing lightweight tips and defined edges for outstanding grip and optimum flex.

Its surface area, full rocker, new beveled razor channel rails and responsive flex provide balanced power, superior edging, soft landings and a smooth ride in chop. The added fin beam in the tip section adds rigidity to the fin mounting area, thus increasing the edging ability of the board. Its solid pop and directional stability help riders of all abilities take their riding to the next level.

The Drive is designed for intermediate-to-advanced riders who demand an extremely lightweight and responsive board for speed and upwind performance.

When paired with Beveled Tunnel Edges, riders will experience unmatched edging, aggressive pop and dynamic ride through both chop and flatwater conditions.

The Motion is for riders looking for unrivaled versatility in one “do-it-all” design. This board offers everything from freeride and freestyle performance to twin tip wave riding functionality.

MONARCH

STOMP

The Monarch is designed for riders looking for a state-of-the-art design with no-compromise freestyle performance. It delivers very direct power for upwind drive and explosive freestyle pop on-demand. The Monarch features defined edges for outstanding grip, powerful engineered flex and directional stability with deep channels in the tips and the rails. A lightweight basalt fiber construction delivers an incredible strength-to-weight ratio and uniquely responsive flex. The new radiated Carbon V construction provides outstanding reflex for increased pop when loading for huge jumps/maneuvers, while keeping the center section free of Carbon fiber, makes the board very comfortable to ride in all conditions. Its 3D bottom shape, composed of beveled channel rails and steep quad tips, provides increased tracking and phenomenal edging. The further reduced concave in the center section also improves water

The Stomp offers riders the best of all worlds: superior freestyle and freeride performance with the advantages of a wakestyleinspired design. Ideal for aggressive wakestyle riders using footstraps or boots, this board delivers insane drive, edging and pop. The Medium-to-high rocker grants ample pop, while delivering a smooth ride in chop. Its tapered rails reduce weight in the tips, defining the edges for increased grip and solid directional stability. New 3D bottom shaping utilizes center razor channels for increased edging performance and trapezoidal skidplates with a large vertical area for unmatched grip when loading for a huge maneuver.

entry and optimizes flex in between the rider’s feet.

1. DRIVE | 2. MOTION | 3 . MONARCH | 4 . STOMP

| 61

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NAISH

GLOBAL

SKATER

Responsive yet forgiving due to the thinned-out rails, flowing outline, unique bat-tail and progressive rockerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Global is equally at home ridden slow and snappy, or fast and powerful. Driving off the bottom and snapping or carving off the lip, while still holding speed down the line, has never been easier. The relatively narrow release in the tail yields great power, grip and stability while its thruster design delivers the right combination of speed, control and driveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;regardless of wave size and wind conditions. Whether in flat water, big waves or small, the Global will have even the most novice rider ripping like a pro, session after session!

The outline and length of the Skater is finely tuned to deliver optimal control and balance, helping riders execute aerial tricks and hit critical sections with ease and confidence. An incredibly durable honeycomb construction and full deck pad provide outstanding impact resistance, while the angled channel flow, rocker and single concave combine to improve grip and maneuverability for a tighter turning radius. Thinner rails help twin tip riders transition to directional riding faster, while the compact shape makes for tighter, faster, snappier turns.

The Global is designed for riders looking for total confidence and unmatched all-around performance for both strapped or strapless wave riding.

A great fit for beginner up through advanced kiters, the modern shape of the Skater takes directional strapped or strapless riding to new levels in any surf condition.

HOVER FOIL

Foil with confidence with the forgiving and accessible Hover Foil. With three available mast lengths* to swap out as skills progress, the Hover makes it easy to learn and advance. A low aspect main wing planes quickly for smooth take-offs and stability, while a relatively long fuselage lends additional support. Once up, the foil situates itself naturally in the water for a balanced ride that makes for easy tacking and moving upwind and downwind with ease. With 2 board options also available.

62 |

1. GLOBAL | 2. SKATER | 3 . HOVER FOIL

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Pivot

Freeride / wave

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Slash

Wave

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Torch w/ESP

Pro performance freestyle

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Draft

High performance freeride / big air / race

7, 9, 10.5, 12, 14, 17

Ride

All-round freeride

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Trip

Travel / freeride / wave / foilboard

8, 10, 12

Fly

Lightwind freeride

Xeon

Beginner / trainer

1.3, 2

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Drive

High performance freeride

134, 138, 142

Monarch

Pro performance / freestyle

132, 135, 138, 142

Stomp

Performance freestyle / wakestyle

132, 135, 138, 142

Motion

Performance freeride

134, 138, 142

Grom

Kids freeride / freestyle

125

Alana

Womens freeride / freestyle

132, 136

Orbit

Lightwind freestyle

152, 162

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Global

Performance wave

5’6, 5’8, 5’10, 6’0

Skater

Versatile wave / freeride

4’10, 5’2, 5’6

Skater Sport

Versatile wave / freeride

4’10, 5’2, 5’6

Mutant

Small wave / lightwind

5’2

Alaia

Lightwind / freeride

5’9

| 63

The Brand

What’s New?

Nobile are a Polish company from Bielsko-Biała and are a family business founded by Dariusz Rosiak. They do everything by themselves and are fully responsible for all elements of their board production. The world of kiteboarding is always changing, and the competitors’ and riders’ skills are becoming ever higher, while the tricks are more powered and demanding than ever. It requires the hard work of engineers from their R&D department to be ahead of these changes and to always deliver the best products which suit each riding style. This is why Nobile is searching for innovations, the best materials and correct technology at every stage of the design and development process. 64 |

Nobile recently introduced their new “Viva la Vida” collection. It’s a contemporary and modern collection and boasts an energy combined with style and elegance. With the ultimate kitesurfing technology from NOBILE, you can ride faster, fly higher, enjoy your passion safer. They’ve based the new collection on three words: TIME, FREEDOM, GAIA and NATURE-SPLIT. Because TIME is everything we have, FREEDOM is what we’re here to pursue, NATURE is where we belong, GAIA is what we admire and TITAN because on snow there is no place for weakness. So go out, explore the world and have the utmost fun. Viva la Vida!

The idea with the new T5 was to design a stable, durable kite which ensures full control in all conditions. It is used by everyone from experienced kiters through to kiting schools and you can always count on it. It is great in any conditions and is a favorite for fans of wave riding, where the steering simplicity and the kite’s stability matter. This year Nobile have introduced additional reinforcements and a new canopy material, Double Ripstop Teijin, which has been tested in the most difficult conditions and is super-durable and resistant to mechanical damage, as well as climactic conditions, such as salt water, high temperature and sand.

50/FIFTY

The 50/Fifty is the Superman of kites. It will do anything you want in the blink of an eye and is used by all Nobile pro-riders. They have combined the advantages of C-shape kites with complete, stiff bridling, thus getting the best features of both types of kite. The 50/Fifty quickly generates huge power that remains during tricks and allows you to reduce the power immediately. It is also characterized by an immediate reaction to steering and an incredibly connected feeling on the bar. It is extremely stable and easy to relaunch, and is very light which makes it fast, responsive and provides a wide wind range. Also now with Double Ripstop from Tejin…

MR. BIG

Mr. Big is the biggest kite in the Nobile collection and, as you would expect, has been built to withstand low-wind conditions. Our engineers have managed to design a kite which, despite its great size, doesn’t lose the agility, quickness and steering responsiveness of a smaller kite. It has a specific shape – flattened in the middle part – which enables it to find power in lower winds and you can ride it upwind and perform your tricks. Nobile have introduced the lightest and the most durable materials (T9600 Ripstop Teijin, Dacron Ripstop) and used a reduced number of reinforcements thus making the latest Mr Big very light.

| 65

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NOBILE

50/FIFTY

This is a truly exceptional board and one of the best in Nobile’s history. It simply has no substitute, and other boards are just unable to compete with the 50/Fifty. It has been created for extreme freestyle riding and is both easy to control and very dependable during landings. The Multichannel bottom and Hydrodynamic Rocker ensure perfect control during carves and turns at the highest speed, as well as enable the use of smaller fins, thus increasing the freestyle abilities of the board. As the rider’s safety is Nobile’s priority, they have also adjusted the flex engineering to take into account those riding in boots. Using the perfectly engineered construction, and carbon fibers in the upper part of the board between the bindings, this ensures that the board’s tips always stay on the surface. This increases the chances of landing even after the most difficult tricks, while you don’t have to worry about your joints.

INFINITY SPLIT

The NHP is a top-class board in which all the Nobile technologies have been used. It is perfect for freestyle and big air, without compromising on comfort and upwind performance. We have achieved this effect thanks to the Pre-Stress technology which magically stretches the wood fibers by weaving them and laminates it with glass fabrics in such an outstretched form. Owing to this unique Nobile technology, the board gains bigger torsion resistance which translates into fantastic upwind abilities and massive pop for jumps. Pre-Stress maintains energy within the board which, combined with perfectly chosen flex engineering, ensures low weight, responsiveness and exceptionally soft landings.

The Infinity Split is a wave folding board you can transport in luggage that’s less than 110cm long. It facilitates everyday transport of the board: by car, train or motorcycle, but most of all in airlines, because YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY ANY EXTRA FEES FOR TRANSPORTING SPORTS GOODS! This year Nobile introduced the third generation of the W-Connection patented solution. It is the result of many months of R&D by the department engineers at Nobile Sports and the improved connection has been redesigned from scratch. Some of the connection’s constructional elements have been reduced, while others have been replaced with durable composite. This has resulted in reduced weight, improved stiffness and durability. The new Infinity has a very thin core which lets you put your feet very close to the water and, as a result, facilitates steering and board feeling. The deck is covered with EVA foam ensuring comfort and keeping your feet in the right position. Thanks to the use of Hybrid Concave, the Infinity is maneuverable and has very good carving abilities.

66 |

NHP

NHP SPLIT

There are many fantastic kiteboards, but only the Nobile Splitboard line lets you enjoy the freedom of traveling with a board wherever you want – whether by car, train or motorcycle. You just collapse the board in two and pack it in to the special Nobile bag. That’s all. And the board doesn’t lose any of its properties, compared to classic kiteboard construction. This year we introduced the third generation of our W-Connection patented solution. This has resulted in reduced weight along with improved stiffness and durability. The shape and construction are the combination of Elliptical Concave, which gives you the maneuverability and great upwind performance, and Double Concave Tips Channels. Through the use of these technologies we have achieved the perfect riding track, enabling confidence during jumps and perfect landings.

1. 50/FIFTY | 2. NHP | 3 . INFINITY SPLIT | 4 . NHP SPLIT

OCEAN CRUISER

Nobile have released “Ocean Cruiser” to fill in their ‘performance’ line of kite surfboards. The board is designed to perform from shoulder high to overhead waves. A full rocker board with deep single to double concave, narrow nose and a balanced tail lift. This board is for serious wave conditions and will get the job done.

NOBILE SNAP

The Snap is the ideal summer board. This board has great volume distributed even in all parts of the board. It feels like skating smoothly on a miniramp. Then with a little pumping it will amaze you with how fast you can go through the powerless and mushier sections. Ride this board 4” to 6” inches shorter than your normal kite surfboard…

FLYING CARPET TANDEM

This is the board for schools where, together with the instructor, students will be able to learn all of the actions on the board quickly. The Wavy Channel system and asymmetrical shape ensure perfect edge grip and great upwind performance while, thanks to the Flat Continuous Rocker, it is possible to reach top speed on flat water. The ultimate teaching tool!

| 67

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NOBILE

FLYING CARPET SPLIT

The Flying Carpet Split is a low-wind board you can fold and pack into your bag. It facilitates everyday transport of the board: by car, train or motorcycle, but most of all in airlines. It is also one of the lightest boards in this size on the market and has the third generation of the W-Connection patented solution. It is the result of many months of R&D by the department engineers at Nobile Sports and the improved connection has been redesigned from scratch. Some of the connection’s constructional elements have been reduced, while others have been replaced with durable composite. Then the Wavy Channels System and asymmetrical shape ensure perfect edge grip and great upwind performance, while the Flat Continuous Rocker lets you reach high speed on flat water. In addition to this, the low weight of the board lets you perform freestyle revolutions.

T5 WMN

For 2017 Nobile put a lot of effort into creating this female oriented board. It is a real joy to ride and will help ladies progress.T5 WMN boasts outstanding riding properties which we achieved by using the improved Pre-Stress technology. Pre-Stress adds magic to the board’s construction by stretching wood fibers and strengthening them with glass fibers while they are in their outstretched form. You can’t see it with the naked eye, but you will definitely feel it in the water. The board gains improved torsion resistance which results in perfect upwind abilities and massive pop for jumps. The board is also “loaded” with inner energy which, combined with properly refined flex engineering, guarantees low weight, reactivity and soft landings.

FOIL INFINITY SPLITBOARD

This is an incredible hydrofoil/wave folding board you can transport in luggage less than 90 cm long! It is a board dedicated to ride with Nobile foil, that is suitable for wave riding as well. It was developed parallel to Hydrofoil Nobile which makes them both a perfect duo. The location of the hydrofoil mounting, an increased rigidity and properly adjusted strap positions – everything fits together in order to fully control the board’s behavior and make the ride comfortable. The Infinity Foil Splitboard has a very thin core which lets you put your feet very close to the water and, as a result, facilitates steering and board feeling. The deck is covered with EVA foam, ensuring comfort and keeping your feet in the right position. Thanks to the use of Concave, the Infinity Foil is maneuverable and has very good carving abilities. Wave riding on the Infinity Foil Splitboard is really a great fun!

68 |

ZEN HYDROFOIL

There are many fantastic kiteboards, but only the Nobile Almost 15-month research on Hydrofoil was conducted by the most experienced team of Nobile engineers under the care and management of Grzegorz Staszczuk, R&D Engineer and Dariusz Rosiak – the Nobile’s founder. Tomek Janiak – Nobile Rider and one of the world’s top Kite Formula competitors – was the project’s advisor and the main tester. The result is a product of the highest quality, based on the Human Concept philosophy. Nobile also wanted it to be user-friendly, safe and full disassembly, so you can pack it into a compact sized luggage. They recommend their custom-made “check in bag” which meets the criteria of airlines in terms of the maximum size of registered baggage. They’ve called their hydrofoil Zen, because “when you ride on it, your mind becomes free and your thinking clear as the water surrounding you!”

1. FLYING CARPET SPLIT | 2. T5 WMN | 3 . FOIL INFINITY SPLITBOARD | 4 . ZEN HYDROFOIL

KITES

BEST FOR…

SIZES

50/Fifty

All-round

5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14

Freeride / wave

5, 6, 7.5, 9, 10, 12, 14

No. 1

Training

3.5

Mr. Big

Lightwind

Rookie

Beginner

TWIN TIPS

BEST FOR…

SIZES

All-round

134, 137, 140

NBL

Freeride / wave

134, 138, 142, 146, 150

Flying Carpet

Training

160

Skim

Lightwind

130

50/Fifty

Beginner

130, 134, 138, 140

NHP

Freeride / freestyle

134, 138, 140, 143

NHP Carbon

Freeride / freestyle

134, 138

2HD

Freeride / freestyle

134, 137

XTR

Lightwind / freestyle

140, 143

T5 WMN

Freeride

131, 134

NHP WMN

Freeride / freestyle

129, 132

Flying Carpet Tandem

Freeride / school

163

50/Fifty WMN

Wakestyle

131, 134

NHP Split

Freeride / freestyle

130, 134, 138

Flying Carpet Split

Lightwind

160

Flying Carpet Carbon Split

Lightwind

160

NHP Carbon Split

Freeride / freestyle

134, 138

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Infinity Split

Surf

5’9

Infinity Carbon Split

Surf

5’9

SURF + FOIL

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Waterflow

All-round

5’11

Ocean Cruiser

Big wave

6’0

Snap

Freestyle / small wave

5’7

Infinity Foil Split

Foil / surf

5’1

| 69

The Brand

What’s New

We invented kiteboarding back in 1964 long before anyone else had even thought of it. Just kidding,. Since 1998 one of our founding members and designer Adrian Roper has pioneered kiteboard design with many of today’s industry standards. AXIS continues to lead the way in board design refining timeless concepts and integrating new technologies. At AXIS we put the work in to create only the best products for your kiteboard experience, why? Because we can, and we ride them too.

AXIS in 2017 sees an incredible new range of boards hitting the market. For the AXIS twin tips, fine refinements in rocker, board sizes and insert positioning are resulting to huge improvements in ride and versatility. The Liberty and Division boards are brand new designs in 2017 with incredible comfort and ease of use. There is also a 140x43 Division as a new size. The Grom is also a new design and has two new sizes for both kids and light riders. The Vanguard and Limited are the flagship shapes for high performance freeride/freestyle, and their new rocker has created an amazingly smooth and locked in ride. AXIS’s surf kiteboards have an upgraded construction and new five fin setups on most models for 2017. With the addition of Sebastian Sponholtz in the design team, AXIS is also introducing a new line of high-level wave-freestyle boards called the AXIS Climax. The Wake/Park style boards are getting a rocker and construction improvements as well and, under the guidance of Alex Lewis Hughes, the sizes are tuned for boot riders of all levels. AXIS in 2017 is also releasing a full range of hydrofoils, both carbon and aluminum, with matching boards covering multiple foil disciplines and conditions. If you are a foil beginner, foil surfer, foil cruiser, foil freestyler or foil racer, AXIS has a hydrofoil and board available for you. And for the New Wave followers who want even more options from their New Wave surfboard, AXIS is now offering a convertible New Wave for both foiling and waves. Stay tuned for the most complete board line on the market from AXIS Kiteboarding!

AXIS Kiteboarding is a growing family with roots at the beginning of our sport, our products represent the best on offer and fuel the stoke of kiteboarders and watermen all over the world. So join us and see for yourself that AXIS Boards will be the only board you will want to ride! 2017 sees an incredible new range of boards hitting the market with our established boards also benefiting from some new tech as well as the arrival of some all-new innovations such as the Climax surfboard and the Maroro foil…

70 |

LIBERTY

DIVISION

VANGUARD

Exposed wood graphics, a paulownia wood core and PU rails make the Liberty a favorite among beginner and intermediates alike. For 2017 the Liberty line gets a new rocker and smaller sizes. One of the comments AXIS received for the 2016 was that the Liberty board was a bit heavier compared to the rest of our product line. So for 2017, The AXIS Liberty is thinned out, which also makes it slightly softer in the middle. To counter act the additional flex, the board is pressed on a concave base mold, so the center of the board is concave, and it flattens out on the tips. This way we have nice flexible tips, and the AXIS Liberty feels really easy to ride and tons of fun.

It’s a new board for 2017. AXIS took the lessons and successes from the previous year’s Division and implemented them to the newer model. This is a straight taper core which is easier to machine and produce, then AXIS also took some of the features of the higher end boards like the Vanguard and the Limited, so they laser cut slots in the wood core, and then pressed the features into the board afterwards. This gives the board a great handling and ride with channels and features running on the tips. The Division has a medium soft ride and is very smooth, and very forgiving. The graphics on the Division are a digital print, with partial white behind it. On the background of the board you will see the actual construction and wood, which give a really nice 3D effect to the board.

The biggest change this year is the AXIS 2017 Rocker. It had a straighter section through the tip and more rocker in the middle of it so is now more continuous. It might sound like a small change but it has made a massive improvement to the ride. The Vanguard continues in 2017 with the FAT Rail technology we introduced in 2016. With FAT Rail technology, the thicker middle part of the board forces the flex to be more focused in the tails of the twin tips, giving the Vanguard a more refined and softer ride in chop. FAT rail tech also provides better edging and tracking as it causes the boards to ride more ‘nose up’, but its biggest performance advantage is the feeling you get when blasting high speed carving turns — your rail won’t skip out or skid and actually pulls and holds more like a surfboard rail.

LIMITED

GROM

The Limited continues in 2017 as the full carbon performance leader in the AXIS twin tip product line. There is nothing like riding a full carbon board and when you add our new rocker line, FAT rail technology, and PU rails, you have an explosive board that can hold its edge under any conditions. The Limited is not for everyone but if you can afford it, you will keep it forever! Similar to the Vanguard, the 2017 AXIS Limited gets the AXIS 2017 Rocker. It had a straighter

Borrowing its design concept from the 2017 Division, the 2017 AXIS Grom offers medium FAT rail technology, 2017 AXIS Rocker, more flex than last year’s model, and a very comfortable ride for lighter riders. and wood, which give a really nice 3D effect to the board.

section through the tip and more rocker in the middle of it.

1. LIBERTY | 2. DIVISION | 3. VANGUARD | 4. LIMITED | 5. GROM

| 71

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // AXIS

PATROL + ULTRA

TANDEM

The Patrol and Ultra maintain the character of 2016, with flatter rockers specially designed for light wind conditions. The Patrol borrows its construction from the Vanguard, while the Ultra is a full carbon light wind machine, designed to dominate any light breeze destination. It’s incredibly fast, stable and fun to ride. Both boards are designed for light wind performance, while maintaining their freestyle/freeride heritage. So while with most lightwind boards you can only ride back and forth, with the Patrol and Ultra the riders can push freestyle performance under light wind conditions.

The Tandem board continues in 2017 with a new rocker and borrows its construction from the Vanguard boards. We tuned up the stiffness in the middle of the board with more carbon, improving the board’s flex pattern so the board rides better with less deformity with the weight of two people. Many shops are using the board as a teaching aid and also just taking people for rides to give a taste of what kiting is like, without having to take a lesson. The response from schools and individuals alike has been awesome.

TWIN WAVE

BOOTLEG / BILLY / TRANQ

The AXIS mission has always been to offer products that enable the widest array of riders to enjoy the wind and water. In addition to specialized strapped, strapless and freestyle surfboards we wanted to bring surf-like riding to kiters who want to play on the waves. The Twin Wave project started back in 2008/2009 in an effort to bring a surf-like riding feeling to kiters who only want to use a twin tip when they ride waves. This project has evolved the past few years and in 2017 it has become the AXIS Twin Wave 148. The Twin Wave is a 148cm long by 43cm wide twin tip with a scaled down version of the surfboard rail. The stance has a directional bias and the board can be configured with four to five (recommended) or even six fins. On the water the board has a ‘locked-in’ feeling, carves amazingly and gives the smooth rail feeling that a surfboard has when riding waves.

Designed together with Alex Lewis Hughes, the AXIS Wake line of boards also has a number of changes. The 2017 boards are fast and have less drag due to less channeling through the center. Additionally, the tip shape of all boards feature similar tip channels, with a single 10cm concave in between two load dispersing beams in the center of the board. This concave gives better grip for air tricks and also allows you to lock into pipes and rails more easily. The beams help disperse friction for a faster and longer lasting slide on obstacles. Then last year we added a new rail shape to the wake line which was successful and continues for 2017. The rails are now also now PU and the thickness of these mimics the core thickness of the boards. This gives a much smoother ride through chop and additionally lets the AXIS wakestyle/park boards build up speed quicker and gives you a looser feel which is something that makes kicker tricks like Moby Dicks (which are initiated from rail to rail edge control) easier to achieve and feel better. Then the 2017 AXIS wakestyle boards also have a new base construction which makes them even stronger hitting rails and ramps.

72 |

AXIS MARORO CARBON HYDROFOIL The Maroro Foil is the outcome of many months of R&D by AXIS’s team and provides a modular design that follows the rider as their level evolves. The Maroro Foil is a high end/high performance freeride foil inspired by racing but also made to have a super wide sweet spot with a wide range of easy riding characteristics so it is friendly to ride and a super fun foil to ride and play on. In 2017, AXIS will be releasing a whole range of foil products, including race, free ride, hybrid, convertible and strapless foilboards…

CLIMAX For 2017 team rider and shaper Sebastian Sponholtz worked with Adrian Roper to design the Climax. Sebastian found that when he’s kiting, he’s either really far forward on the board for going upwind fast or all the way back on the board for smacking the lip. Consequently the wide point of this board is slightly more forward. Sebastian also found that having a centered stance really helps to keep the board on your feet because you rotate around the halfway mark of the board rather than having more nose volume to swing around. Then the rails on the back half of the board are fairly parallel which makes light wind kiting and going upwind easier, and the tail of the Climax was kept pretty narrow which allows the rider to easily stall the board and stay in the pocket of the wave.

| 73

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // AXIS

KAPUA STRAPLESS 5-FIN The Kapua is born from the desire of a featherweight surfboard that can stand up to the punishment of kiting. The use of Innegra results in a surfboard that is strong but light, so light that AXIS named it ‘Kapua’, a Maori word meaning cloud. The Kapua also features a carbon fiber patch to further reduce compression under your front foot, which is covered with a trippy white pattern to stop the black carbon melting your wax on a sunny day. Wax it up or fit the optional front deck grip. Whatever floats your boat.

RĀKAU Designed for powered strapped kitesurfing, the Rakau (meaning ‘stick’ in Maori) range will take whatever you can throw at them. The EPS core has a 6mm Paulownia stringer, PVC reinforced deck, and tough oak veneer with 6 oz ounce glass on top and 4 oz glass below. The 6’0” is a dedicated thruster for the big stuff, but the smaller shapes have 5 PVC reinforced futures fin boxes. Sharing the same finely tuned family of shapes as the Kapua, the Rakau is the board to grab if you want to ride powered up, bust some big tricks, drop into the gaping maws of the ocean itself, or just enjoy the security of knowing your feet are happily strapped to your ‘stick’.

74 |

TWIN TIP

BEST FORâ&#x20AC;¦

SIZES

Liberty

All-round

135, 138, 141, 145, 150

Division

Freeride

133, 135, 138

Grom

Young rider

115, 125

Vanguard

Freestyle

133, 135, 137, 139, 141, 148

Limited

Freestyle

132, 134, 136, 138, 140

Patrol

Lightwind

144, 147

Ultra

Lightwind

144, 147

Tandem

Doubling up

147

Bootleg

Wakestyle

137

Billy

Wakestyle

141

Tranq

Wakestyle

145

Twin Wave

Wave

148

| 75

Jalou Langeree enjoying her Mystic kit... Photo: Toby Bromwich

The Brand

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New?

The Mystic journey started in 2002. A group of kiteboarders and windsurfers who loved everything in the extreme wanted to go after strong winds and bigger waves in harsher conditions. Passionate as they were about kiteboarding and windsurfing they felt that the majority of the existing equipment on the market was holding them back, so they decided to break out on their own and fill the gap. They set out to create kite and windsurfing equipment that was durable and able to support a rider in extreme conditions allowing the rider to go harder, faster, higher. Mystic now have a team of 40 people working for the brand and creating products for everyone who is as passionate about the sports as themselves.

2017 promises to be an insanely exciting year for Mystic. One of our biggest developments is the Majestic X full carbon waist harness. We have been working on a hardshell for quite a while but we faced some issues during the development process. Because of these challenges we decided to work only with the best materials and manufactures to achieve the best outcome. The Majestic X contains our revolutionary bionic core frame. This frame is made out of thermoplastic composite. Instead of using an epoxy resin we use a thermoplastic resin, which gives the harness a number of interesting features. The shell is 200% stronger, then we added more flex in the upper and lower part giving the frame more vertical flexibility. The harness also contains newly developed IV foam for better support and a nice soft feel, and we added a leash eye on the front of the harness. The process of thermoplastic composite is a very advanced and innovative technology and we have patented this construction. The Majestic X will come out with a freestyle or wave spreaderbar and will be in stores spring 2017.

76 |

LEGEND X This year Mystic have redesigned their most high-end wetsuit and it has come out better than ever before. The proud leader of the range is packed with the best materials and features. It features a unique quick dry lining, which will not only dry faster but also keeps the water out longer, which helps to maintain your body temperature creating an insulating shell. In addition to the 5/3 model, there is a new model (Legend X) with a power seam construction, which takes the suit to the next level by preventing water coming in at all the seams around the suit. Finally the angle of the zipper has been changed for the easiest possible entry. The Legend is made for the rider who wants to stand out from the rest of the pack. Be legendary

with the all-new Legend!

MAJESTIC ZIPLESS The Majestic series is loaded with features including: 100% M-Flex 2.0, waterproof stretch taping and ultra lightweight foam. This all-new Majestic has a zipless entry to completely minimize water entry in to the back of the suit. It also features polar lining in the lower back to provide extra warmth to this valuable nerve centre. This will help you reach your maximum performance potential.

DIVA The all new Diva wetsuit is loaded with features including: 100% M-Flex 2.0, waterproof stretch taping and ultra-lightweight foam. The patterns of the Diva suits have been renewed to maximize the stretch and comfort of the suit. The front-zip construction will provide more flex in the upper body, giving you freedom of movement. The front-zip construction allows less water to enter the suit, keeping you warmer. The Diva wetsuit is very light, super flexible and it comes in three funky color combinations.

1. LEGEND X | 2. MAJESTIC ZIPLESS | 3. DIVA

| 77

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // MYSTIC

MAJESTIC X

WARRIOR V

The frame of Mystic’s trailblazing new harness is made out of thermoplastic composite. Instead of using an epoxy resin it has a thermoplastic resin, which is 200% stronger. Then there is more flex in the upper and lower part giving the frame more flexibility vertically. The harness contains with newly developed IV foam for better support and a nice soft feel, and there is a leash eye on the front of the harness.

The Warrior has been the best selling and most comfortable harness in the Mystic harness collection since day one. It’s built to withstand the toughest conditions, and the Battle Belt waist closure makes sure the harness doesn’t move around while you’re riding and stops any unwanted discomfort. A modern-day-classic guaranteed to keep you on the water for hours...

LEGEND The Legend is a single layer harness with an entirely new and unique Mystic Concept at its core – the Flymould. Think of a traditional harness, then throw away all of the various layers and combine them into one single piece. This is a one-of-a-kind harness which combines simplicity together with a new construction method to completely prevent complete water absorption... The Mystic R&D team developed the material with the ideal density to give perfect body grip with or without a wetsuit, and this minimalistic approach makes the Flymould a revolutionary step in the world of kite harnesses!

DIVA (Bruna Kajiya Harness) The special Bruna Kajiya version of the Diva harness is the ultimate harness for female riders. With a specialized female shape in the anatomical backplate, and soft edging, it’s the perfect fit for the female body. It features double power leash rings, the Battle Belt waist closure and comes in a unique Bruna Kajiya colorway.

MYSTIC OCEAN JACKET

For those days when checking the conditions means getting yourself seriously protected from the elements, the Mystic Ocean Jacket is completely wind and waterproof, with a breathable neoprene collar and water outlets in the pockets and the hood. It’s a serious bit of kit.

MYSTIC PONCHO The new Mystic poncho is made from terry fabric, and has a large hood and wide arm openings. It’s water absorbent and features a small front pocket and the embroidered Mystic logo. It comes in four separate colorways.

78 |

Photo: Justin Nan

Photo: Toby Bromwich

| 79

The Brand

What’s New?

Founded in 2001 by former Olympic windsurfer Richard Myerscough, Ocean Rodeo is based on Canada’s rugged west coast and builds an inspired line of high performance kiteboarding equipment designed to meet the rigors of the harsh Pacific Northwest riding conditions. Never happy with the status quo, we have a number of highly innovative products in their line up past and present, including the industry’s first push away release; leashless board recovery; the first flexible twin tip boards ever sold; the unique standby mode enabled line of drysuits, and the all new and highly refined back line trim adjustable Stick Shift bar launched earlier this year at the Surf Expo.

Having invested over five years in product development, refinement and design 2017 promises to be a break out year for our brand and for the Stick Shift, rear line trim adjustable bar. Back line trim has always been a key design goal for kite control as the benefits are so clear-cut. With obvious benefits to the rider’s safety, usability and control as well as a much cleaner overall design, back line trim is here and is poised to revolutionize our industry. Simply put, kites and their abilities have vastly improved in years since 4-line kites were first introduced. Our new Stick Shift rear line trim adjustable bar is the first bar designed to maximize the performance and handling of these new, cutting edge kites. Beyond the bar, we are also excited to continue to expand our product offerings to include a dedicated wave kite with the Roam and a new, more playful version of our hugely successful Duke with the introduction of its smaller cousin the Jester. And this fall we were proud to introduce the first comprehensive overhaul to our Soul line of drysuits since their introduction and mass adoption in 2012.

80 |

STICK SHIFT BAR Traditional kite control bars have served us well these past 15 years but the Stick Shift kite control bar has been designed to deliver precise handling and trim control for today’s modern and highly refined kites. Traditional trim control is a clunky, imprecise process that is often punctuated by slipped lines that pop the kite to full power or a ‘set it and forget it’ mentality that leaves the rider with one trim setting throughout their time on the water. The Stick Shift is designed to deliver precise (5mm) incremental trim control settings through a beautifully designed and thought out infection molded carbon composite bar that is both lightweight and comfortable to hold. The bar’s simple and intuitive design eliminates the clutter associated with traditional trim control means and opens the front lines up for near infinite sheeting range with the bar and a safe and reliable front line re-ride eject system free of any potential tangles with the trim strap or cleat. Simple and intuitive to use, the bar end winder is always in reach for distraction free trim adjustment and riders can leave their hands firmly in place when depowering – delivering a safe and in control way to depower your kite in gusty or over powered conditions.

SIDEWINDER

G-STOP

FORCE TENSIONER

GROOVE BAR

THE BUILD - Featuring R3 Components: SIDEWINDER > Twist to add power, bump to de-power. > Quarter turn increments deliver precise (5mm) trim control in easily adjusted steps. Micro-tune your kite’s trim settings on the go and without distraction. > Rapidly depower with stronger swiping nudges at the winder. > Ultra-simple pall bracketed tension winder offers precise trim control with one moving part and virtually no required maintenance. > Should trim line need replacing, the winder assembly is easily removed and replaced in one sub 10 minute repair, with two set screws. GROOVE BAR > Carbon polymer, ultra-lightweight open channel bar. > Injection molded carbon composite bar is ultra lightweight, stronger and warmer in cold weather. Open channel design allows sand and other debris to easily flush free from the system. > Integrated bar grip and floats offer minimal line tangles.

THE FINER DETAILS:

> 22m Liros DC 401 590kg tested high performance lines. > 1.1m trim tube – from QR assembly to front line split (“Y” joint). > Push away eject safety leash.

G-STOP > Grip adjustable stopper. > One handed, on-the-fly adjustable sliding bar stopper. > Variable tension for maximum versatility. > Quick and easy throw level adjustment. FORCE TENSIONER > Clean pay out of your lines, every time. > Easy trim adjustment, regardless of back line tension level. > Clean spooling and pay out at all times for easy and safe setup and launch. SPIN TUBE > Front line twist and flag out management. > No internal twists of front and safety lines for better flag out performance. > PU covered front line for better durability and finger protection from abrasion.

> Compatible with all brands of 4 line SLE kites. > Positive buoyancy for increased safety and easier self-rescue.

| 81

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // OCEAN RODEO

SOUL DRYSUIT

MAKO DUKE

Our first major overhaul of the Soul line of drysuits since their launch in 2012! The new Soul retains all the style that made the original suit such a success while adding a ton of new features, including:

The Duke’s deep Mako concave ensures this board rides smoothly over the chop, reducing nose chatter often associated with other directional boards. The concave also helps the Duke rip up wind and leads to a much more stable board with a massive sweet spot, good for transitional footwork and landing tricks. The Duke can be setup with 3 distinct fin setups, each give the board a unique character. In tri fin mode the Duke becomes a flat water chop strapless freestyle machine. For more bite, move the side fins up one for true thruster setup, snappy pivot turns on the wave face. When the conditions are really good, we like to crank up the fin count with the quad set up. The Duke in quad mode is a pure delight for the dedicated wave rider.

> 2-way jacket zip for kiteboard spreader bar freedom. > Ultra lightweight & flexible main entry zipper, now 40% lighter and thinner than before. > Laser cut drainage for all pockets. > Articulated knees and elbows for ergonomic fit and look. > Reinforced hanging loops and added zipper car docks and flanges on all zipper closures. > Newly adjustable waist for outer jacket. > Larger pockets.

ROAM Built with a tight, three strut frame and big lifting wingtips the Roam is a dedicated Wave kite that drifts down the line while maintaining positive steering with tight, pivot turns for ultra fast changes of direction. The thick LE tube with powerful wing tips, provides session saving rapid water relaunch. The kite’s intuitive feel and ultra short bridle ensure zero complications when at sea. Built tough with proven materials and manufacturing techniques honed since 2002, like all our kites the Roam features high flow valves with a single point inflation / deflation system. The Roam is compatible with front line re-ride control bars.

MAKO JESTER The Jester joins the Duke as the trickster of the court, rounding out the world’s first line of kiteboard-dedicated funboards! Built for riders of all sizes who crave a light and lively ride or ideal for a smaller, lighter rider who will appreciate the thinned volume and outline. The Jester is ideal for strapless freestyle riding or charging the outside peak and into a wave that only a fool would dare. Built with our Duke tested compression molded construction, full eva deck pad and future fin boxes; the Jester ships ready to ride with three possible fin set ups: Quad, Tri-Fin or Thruster. The Jester ships complete with five fins, foot straps and a multi tool.

RAZOR C/SLE The new Razor is a pedal-to-the-metal kite for those committed to fast, exhilarating riding and bold, fully powered kite loops. With over a decade and a half of pedigree, the Razor delivers over-driven power with instantaneous and precise handling for highly skilled riders. Built for those on the extreme edge of kiteboarding who are well aware that the sport’s most lucrative rewards can come with their own set of consequences. 1.

82 |

1. SOUL DRYSUIT | 2. DUKE | 3. JESTER | 4. ROAM | 5. RAZOR C/SLE

Photo: Sarah Chisholm

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Roam

Waves and directional riding

7, 8, 9.5, 12

Razor

Freestyle and unhooked

7, 8, 9, 10, 12

Flite

High performance crossover freeride

8, 10, 12, 14.5, 17

Prodigy

Freeride and wave

5, 7, 8, 9.5, 12

Storm

Predictable performance in unpredictable conditions

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Mako Jester

Smaller and/or blown out conditions, strapless freestyle

5’1

Mako Duke

Directional Wave

5’4

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Mako

Freeride

135, 140, 150, 165

LT-138

Professional series freestyle

138

Origin

Progressional all-rounder

142

Origin Lite

Lightwind

159

| 83

The Brand The very first SU-2 kiteboard was produced in 1999. In those days the market was in its infancy. Unsure of which direction to go, it was a time of improvisation and experimentation. SU-2 tested lots of new designs and enjoyed surprising and unexpected effects. After a couple of years of challenging work, testing tons of various materials, SU-2 presented their first high-tech boards which are unique, complex and different from any other boards on the market. At first just hugely popular in Poland, SU-2 are now becoming recognized all around the world. The success of their boards was achieved with no marketing tricks. They have never advertised, and they decided that the best form of advertising is having positive opinions from satisfied customers. Once they ride them and like them, they become addicted to them. Then, they share this revelation with their friends. And it has been working like that – like a domino effect – for the last ten years.

What’s New? Many years ago SU-2 created their Hyper-Parabol technology. With this technology, the deck of the board isn’t flat compared with many others boards – you can recognize the smooth arch on 84 |

the upper side of board, and the single concave of the bottom. Hyper-Parabol technology will be at the center of our new collection for 2017. We are using this tech also in our flagship board for this season: ON the EDGE. It is a classic twin tip shape with a full wood core and kevlar and carbon reinforcements. “OtE” was our big success in this year and for next season we will be able to create cores in this board from different kinds of exotic wood (like bamboo and others), so with a variety of flex and pop this fantastic board will have an even bigger audience. Also, the construction of our split boards which are made with an extra connective carbon plate has had a very enthusiastic debut to the market and we have been amazed by the great feedback we have had from our customers. Because of this we have decided to develop a bigger range of split boards for next season. It will even be possible to order the 168cm Big Foot Yeti as a split board! In 2017 we will also launch the new model of our carbon hydrofoil (HYDRO3) with a completely new shape, and we will have new ultra-low weight twintip boards made from our top secret new material! So see you on the water and Happy New Year from the SU-2 Kiteboards team

YETI

BIG FOOT

PROSERIES

PRORIDER CL

PRORIDER 3D

SPLIT

The Yeti is a lightwind rectangular shaped board with medium rocker. It is light weight despite its to big dimensions and is very maneuverable with perfect upwind abilities, even in choppy condition. The Yeti is also the right choice for beginners who wants to make learning easy, and for riders who love really gentle breeze (and we now have the Yeti in up to 168cm!).

This is an excellent freeride board with medium hard flex, and with good pop and edge control for riding all day without getting tired and suffering knee pain – even for “big guys” (and there is a specially made 146cm). So if you want to practice your skills as an intermediate rider we recommend this board.

If you want full speed-full control then this is it – the PR3D board was create by SU-2 for professional riders who loves to keep the kite low and go hard out. The unique technology and “3D water channel” further improve performance with massive pop and controlled landings so anyone can make more progress!

This is SU–2’s legendary board which has been over 12 years in production. It is the perfect freestyle shape with a generous rocker and classic all around ﬂex which make it easy and pleasurable riding for anyone in any conditions. The versatility of the Big Foot can be perfectly discovered on choppy water and in waves where you have the pleasure of riding in controlled comfort.

Do you want MORE? If you want higher jumps, harder ﬂex, more control, bigger air ﬂying, and exceptional edge power? Then the ProRiderClassic is for you. Advanced and intermediate riders will appreciate abilities of powerful pop and easy landing of the ProRiderClassic, and Big Air hooked tricks will be perfect executed.

NEW! After two years of testing SU-2 proudly launch this new type of kite split board with the extra carbon connective plate which gives the board all the best performance characteristics: ﬂex, pop, stiffness and control like a normal board. The size of the 138 when split is only 69 cm x 42 cm so you can load into standard airplane luggage! And SU-2 are so confident in the performance of the board that they provide a full three year warranty on the board!

| 85

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // SU-2

ON THE EDGE ‘ON the EDGE’ explains what SU2 wanted to achieve in creating this board. It has all of the extensive knowledge of SU2 loaded in to one board… There is a full A+ wood core, with Kevlar and carbon bottom and deck reinforcements. This carbon-Kevlar layer gives stiﬀness and huge pop, while the wood core gives soft landing and edge control. The SU-2 test team love this board. And it’s light weight too: the 137 weighs in at only 2.4 k... SU-2 ON the EDGE was created in Hyper–parabol technology with a smoothly arched upper side of board and single concave of the bottom. Hyper–parabol gives maximum strength, flex and minimum longitudinal twisting. The ON the EDGE gives you full control on flat water, chop or surf and with 2mm extra thin rails, you can maintain speed, cruise upwind and easily hold your edge in carves.

SU-2’s flagship new board, On the Edge

86 |

TWIN TIP

BEST FORâ&#x20AC;Ś

SIZES

Grand Kitebird

Lightwind / freeride

148, 158, 168

Big Kitebird

Freestyle / freeride

140, 145, 150, 155

Pro Kitebird

Freestyle / freeride

134, 138, 142, 146

Kitebird CL

Freestyle

132, 136, 140, 144

Kitebird 3D

Freestyle

132, 136, 140, 144

Bigfoot Yeti

Lightwind / freeride

148, 158, 168

Bigfoot

Lightwind / freeride

140, 145, 150, 155

Prorider 3D

Freestyle / freeride

132, 136, 140, 144

Prorider CL

Freestyle / freeride

132, 136, 140, 144

Proseries

Freestyle / freeride

134, 138, 142, 146

On the Edge

Freestyle / Freeride

133, 137, 141, 145

| 87

The Brand

What’s New?

NP is a performance accessory brand built for athletes and explorers who push the limits in, on and off the water. As a sub-brand of NeilPryde and part of the Pryde Group, which was established in 1970, NP can tap into a deep well of engineering experience and waterman testers. Besides its own staff, NP collaborates with its sister brands, Cabrinha, NeilPryde Windsurfing, JP Australia and Imagine in order to engineer athlete-approved products with specific features for every wind and surf sport. The NP head office is officially in Hong Kong, alongside other Pryde Group brands. However, the design, engineering and testing teams are spread across all continents, spanning from Maui to Munich to New Zealand to Japan.

For 2017 NP have introduced a new model of wetsuit into their line, the Combat, and carried their unique protective material Armor-Skin across more product groups. Amor-Skin is NP’s exclusive hybrid neoprene that combines the warmth and wind-chill protection of a mesh wetsuit with the durability of a double-lined suit. Armor-Skin is made from Apex-Lite core, laminated with an elastic jersey and sealed with a waterproof, Super Durable Skin (SDS) layer that cuts down on wind-chill and protects the suit from wear and tear. Armor-Skin is featured on the shoulders and thighs of the Combat wetsuit, where it’s most needed. The new Combat wetsuit is the ultimate in warmth and protection.

88 |

COMBAT WETSUIT

SERENE - ARMOR-SKIN FZ

Packing serious heat for the wind sport adventurer, this hybrid wetsuit is engineered for the best combination of warmth, flexibility and durability. Armor-Skin neoprene fights wind like nothing else while strategically placed Apex-Plus panels allow for unrestricted freedom of movement. Also featuring ultra-warm and quick drying Fireline lining and a combination of P-skin tape, double-wrist cuffs and griplock seals for minimal water entry.

Designed for female athletes that demand only the best, the Serene is a wetsuit that fits perfectly, looks great and includes NP’s top materials and technologies: Armor-skin durable wind-chill protection, Apex-Plus ultra stretch neoprene, ultra-warm and lightweight Fireline insulation and odor-beating Bamboo Charcoal inner lining.

MISSION FZ

Again designed exclusively for female athletes, the Serene is a perfectly fitting wetsuit that looks superb and includes NP’s top materials and technologies: Armor-skin durable wind-chill protection, Apex-Plus ultra stretch neoprene, ultra-warm and lightweight Fireline insulation and odor-beating Bamboo Charcoal inner lining.

The Mission FZ wetsuit was built for unrestricted freedom of movement and superior warmth. Designed for multi-sport use, it is constructed with stretchy Apex-Plus neoprene and features P-Skin taped seams and ultra warm Fireline insulation placed along the enlarged chest/upper-leg panel. The Mission wetsuit provides an ultimate combination of warmth and flexibility.

SERENE BZ

3. 1.

EDGE BZ The Edge is an extremely warm and flexible cold water wetsuit designed for ultimate performance and multisport use. Featuring ApexPlus ultra-stretch neoprene, warm Fireline insulation, heat-trapping Matrix Mesh on the chest and back, and full P-Skin tape, the Edge will keep you toasty, dry and flexible. Take your performance to the next level…

1. COMBAT | 2. MISSION | 3. EDGE | 4. SERENE | 5. SERENE ARMOR

| 89

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // NP 1.

RISE The Rise is your ticket to affordable performance. It features highstretch Apex-Flex neoprene in critical zones allowing for great flexibility and strategically placed seams to achieve a high level of comfort.

SPARK The Spark is loaded with many of NPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest features and materials offering a high level of flexibility and comfort. Super stretchy ApexFlex neoprene ensures maximum comfort and maneuverability while the chest and back feature Apex-Mesh closed cell neoprene that dramatically reduces wind chill resulting in increased warmth. All that in a package that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t break the bank.

90 |

1. RISE | 2. SPARK

MIRAGE

The 3D offers maximum support due to its unique pre-bent shape that comfortably wraps around your body. The Back Base system provides support where it’s needed most, while the cushioned interior matches the concave shape of your lower back perfectly.

The Mirage has been designed as NP’s ultimate freestyle multisport harness. The unique contour and low cut side panels allow for extreme maneuverability and freedom of movement. Lumbar support and padded hips provide maximum comfort.

BOMB

RAVEN

A multi-sport harness designed for those long sessions, the Bomb offers a perfectly balanced combination of support, comfort and light weight. The ergonomically designed shape with lumbar support provides great stability while the inner EVA pattern ensures the harness always stays in place.

Neck-snapping looks, ultra-comfortable fit and the Back Base system make the Raven one of the most luxurious harnesses on the water. Designed specifically with the unique demands and body shape of female riders in mind.

TRACKER

S1 Tracker is a pivoting hook which reduces the torque load experienced when a kite starts pulling with a side vector to the body. The spring powered hook effectively makes the connection point much closer to the rider, negating sideways forces experienced during turns or toe-side riding. The hook self-centers once the load is removed, making hooking in after performing unhooked tricks easier.

NP HELMET

The NP helmet is CE approved at the highest level, whether you’re a learner getting to grips with your first body dragging or enjoying a light wind foil session, this NP helmet will give you piece of mind. Made in an ultralight non-water absorbent material and includes removable ear protection and an air vent system to keep you cool in hot conditions.

EDGE TOP WIND This new skin top is perfect for all types of wind sports, with a smooth outer repelling water and reducing wind chill. The new Edge Wind Top features the Armor-Skin material and comes in a thickness of only 0.3mm!

| 91

The Brand

ION is a brand run by passionate people, whose big love has always been watersports. Launched back in 2004, ION focused on wetsuits and neoprene products for the international windsurf, kitesurf, surf, SUP and wakeboard scenes. The product range also includes accessories, harnesses, travel gear and an apparel collection. ION’s unique combination of high quality products wrapped in a progressive style and design has found fans all over the world – and ION have become a major global player for wetsuits and harnesses in the wind and kitesurf world. In late 2012, ION took the same approach to the world of bikes, and launched a separate bike division with functional cycling gear, clothing, accessories, gloves and protection. Looking back on ION’s quite short history, it is fair to assume that the future won’t be boring … 92 |

What’s New?

ION have continued to innovate and develop their ever expanding range of top quality products designed to meet all of the needs of the kiteboarding community. Our wetsuits have seen improvements every year and this year we are stoked to continue expanding our range of truly revolutionary zipplerless suits, such as the new Strike Amp zipplerless. Then, with our harnesses, we have introduced our entirely new composite harnesses – the Wave TS and the Hadlow TS which both bring insanely exciting new technologies to our harness range…

STRIKE AMP ZIPPERLESS

The time was ready to try something new: A unique entry level concept that delivers maximum freedom of movement! The Zipless version in ION’s wetsuit line turned out to be incredibly flexible, at the cost of a little warmth. Therefore no inside lining is used, and we also left the single lined back panel which results in less weight and insane amounts of stretch and flexibility.

ONYX AMP

APEX SELECT

Get ready to sink into the cushiest harness ever created. The Apex Select features new technology and innovation to further enhance its performance. The improved Wire-Tec disperses direct pressure points, whilst the X-Spine complements its overall function. Thanks to the hidden seams the Apex Select has a stunningly clean look.

TEAM SERIES WAVE

The Amp level represents ‘exceptional performance’ especially in terms of stretch. The Ninja-Knee construction is primarily supported by Maki-Tape for superb flex and water resistance. Then ION have enlarged the back panel which saves some weight and increases the area of plushy lining.

The Team Series Wave is the choice for all hardcore wave fanatics. It has an extremely stiff preshaped carbon plate in the center, then smooth and comfy PE shapes on the side and on the top and bottom. Exactly where you need it for a maximum freedom of movement combined with a perfectly speed load. The no hook spreaderbar is included and this is the ultimate weapon for some radical action.

TRINITY AMP ZIPPERLESS

NOVA SELECT

The ultimate suit for surf chicks with a shed load of flow! The front zip creates a stylish vibe, while the sophisticated panel layout completes the smooth Trinity Amp. High-tech features – including the new and reduced Single-Seam in the lower leg – gives mind blowing freedom of movement. Durable and warm, you’ll fall in love with this suit the moment you touch the water.

The Nova Select is the pride and joy of ION’s women’s range. Incorporating high tech features, it’s easy to use and offers incredible support. The refined Wire-Tec disperses direct pressure points, the X-Spine has been reworked to complement its overall function, and the outline is designed specifically for women.

1. STRIKE AMP ZIPPERLESS | 2. ONYX AMP | 3. TRINITY AMP ZIPPERLESS 4. APEX SELECT | 5. TEAM SERIES WAVE | 6. NOVA SELECT

| 93

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // ION

3. 1.

BALLISTIC BOOT

The Ballistic range is ION’s premium line and the ultimate in water footwear. If you‘re looking for exceptional warmth and maximum protection then this is the line for you. With support and stretch in all the right places, it‘s further enhanced with well thought out and cleverly designed features.

NEO HOODY

From ION’s point of view, the smallest items in the product range deserve the same dedication and precision as every complex item. Therefore the Neo accessories are a small but essential part of your equipment. The Neo Hoody, with two harness hole openings, a warm hood and a relaxed fit, is no exception…

94 |

NEO LOGO BEANIE

If you find a hood to restrictive, then the Neo Logo Beanie is a fantastic alternative. It’s super warm and easy to get on and off, plus it is 100% windproof and there’s also a ‘loser leash’ if you don’t quite make that extra rotation and everything ends with a splash…

NEO GLOVES 4/2

We all know that when the cold bites the first things to really feel it are your fingers… The NEO gloves provide incredible warmth, while still providing you with enough flexibility to get your leash on and to adjust your trim…

GEARBAG CORE

With space for two boards and 3 or 4 kites you’ll have no difficult decisions to make next time you’re are packing for your next trip… And with its lightweight construction (3.82kg for the 152cm) you won’t have to worry too much about it sending you over your limit either.

1. BALLISTIC BOOT | 2. NEO HOODY | 3. NEO LOGO BEANIE 4. NEO GLOVES | 5. GEARBAG CORE

| 95

The Brand Dimitri Maramenides began EPIC kiteboarding in 2010. Having worked for several other kite companies, his philosophy was to release new equipment when he felt it was a genuine improvement on the previous version. His vision is to help fellow kiters by being honest with them and providing a top quality product coupled with amazing customer service and unbelievable performance. For this reason, EPIC release their kites by “generation”, and it usually takes 22 to 30 months to produce the next generation. At the heart of EPIC is their comprehensive demo program. Dimitri travels the world allowing kiters to try out their equipment. Due to the popular demand of this they have recently enhanced their demo program so interested riders can have a demo kite shipped right to their door which is ideal for riders in remote locations with little access to shops or testing facilities. Dimitri is 100% Greek but decided to base EPIC in North Carolina right on the water (exactly where the Write Brothers flew the first plane). The main reason for this is the weather which allows Dimitri to test the kites and boards in different 96 |

conditions. When he’s not at home, Dimitri travels all over the world doing demos and testing the equipment in different type of climates to ensure that he is producing the very best kit that he can.

What’s New? Right now EPIC has all their new 5G kit on the market. The Renegade received additional boosting and hang time, while the renowned Screamer has faster turning and improved low end for pop and huge boosting. The Junior Pro line is also growing and now comes in both 4 and 8 meter sizes. The lightwind Infinity boasts enhanced lift, upwind drive and 15% faster turning than the earlier model. The Renegade 5G 13-meter Limited Edition now enjoys great upwind performance, nearly auto relaunch and a lively feel. Then the Junior Pro has been a massive success with the help of Dimitri’s son Cameron - and has now grown to include both 4 and 8 meter sizes - and the SURF kite continues to be a true wave slayer.... All kites are designed with high quality materials, reinforced construction processes and a large diameter inflation systems (Speed Valve Inflation System) to get you on the water faster. There is also a new 6G bar just around the corner. Then the line of twin tips and surfboards compliments all of the kites...

SPARTAN V3

DROID V3

The EPIC Spartan V3 is an ultra-lightweight, high performance wood core board for hardcore freestylers in the intermediate to pro range, designed by Dimitri Maramenides himself. It has a full concave with SBS rails and flexible tips designed for maximum pop and utmost efficiency. In the V3, there is an additional large sweet spot for super forgiving landings. The Spartan is smooth and responsive when riding, and has plenty of upwind drive. Turns are sharp and powerful without losing edge, and the load and pop is solid. There are builtin Grab Rails for die hard board-off fans, with ergonomic-fit grab handles. Build is solid with the wood core, triple glass laminate and reinforced with EPIC’s “secret ingredient” – so it can take some hard riding. The Spartan V3 also features the new, redesigned VORTEX footstraps and pads for increased grip and comfort.

The EPIC Droid V3 is a lively, versatile, lightweight board aimed at novice to advanced wakestyle/freestyle riders. It features a strong wood core and a deep concave, with variable flex and just the right amount of rocker, making this a stable board that rides smoothly, gets up to speed efficiently and slices through the chop with ease. Although lively on the water, the Droid feels predictable and the power balanced, making control responsive and maintainable. Pop is effortless and riding on the progressive edge is fast and solid. The Droid V3 comes with the redesigned adjustment straps with plate pads and toe grip. It also happens to be Dimitri’s board of choice…

OXYGEN V2

JUNIOR PRO

The Oxygen v2 is a lightwind, performance all-rounder board for novice to advanced riders, fully ridable in winds as low as 8 knots when paired with the right kite. The Oxygen is built with Wood Core Tech and advanced glassing technologies borrowed from the snowboarding industry, providing a powerful, responsive board that is stable and predictable. Planing is simple and fast, while the edging is consistent and unlikely to skip out. There is plenty of pop, even in light winds, while the flat rocker, wood core and flexible tips offer a comfortable ride in all conditions. The Oxygen comes with both 4 and 5cm fins so that the rider can tune the feel based on conditions and power.

The Junior Pro kids board was designed by Cameron Maramenides when he was just 9 years old. This board is made with characteristics that benefit small riders. Have you ever had your kid complain about the stance of the board or not being able to edge because the width? This has been taken care of with the new JUNIOR PRO board as it was crafted for just that, a way to get kids on the water to have fun and rip in a board sized to meet their needs perfectly.

1. SPARTAN | 2. DROID | 3. OXYGEN | 4. JUNIOR PRO

| 97

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // EPIC

SURF

SCREAMER

The Surf 2016 is the latest model in EPIC’s kite range, and sits neatly between the fifth generation Renegade and Screamer kites. It has a unique Leading Edge design, and a deep profile which allows the Surf to sit back in the window, allowing for impressive power and drift, with efficient upwind ability, while the low aspect ratio allows for smooth, pivotal turns and excellent relaunch capabilities. The kite is reinforced in critical areas, allowing durability and confidence in crashes. The Surf comes fully kitted on 22m lines with EPIC’s XTEND bar which is responsive and gives good positional feedback should your kite be behind the lip. Amongst other accessories, the

EPIC’s Screamer kite is back in its fifth guise for 2016, and it remains a high performance kite for the intermediate to advanced riders who love an intuitive kite that specializes in big air and lots of pop. As a result of testing and pro rider feedback, the 5G version of the Screamer has been refined to be faster in the turns, with increased boost and hangtime capabilities, with the engineered wingtips allowing for speedier mega loops. The bridle in the 5G features the new Ronstan high performance pulleys, and the cone shaped struts aid solid trailing edge performance. The pop in the new Screamer is explosive, power delivery is smooth and it has excellent upwind capability. The new Speed valve allows quick inflate/deflate when rigging, and there is an extra valve in the LE to relieve pressure in the case of a heavy crash.

Surf 2016 also comes with a set of 18m lines for wave-specific riding.

RENEGADE The Renegade 5G is one of the most versatile kites in EPIC’s range, functional in most styles and terrains (including mountain slopes) and this continues for its fifth generation. The Renegade has an in-built ability to switch between wave and freeride, as it features these options as pre-managed settings on the adjustable bridle attachment points, with the waveride setting sitting deeper with better feedback when depowered, and Freeride allowing the kite closer to the edge of the window for wakestyle and big air boosting. The durable three strut design and intuitive flight characteristics make this an extremely stable kite to ride with, with consistent positional feedback and fast and precise in the turns. Power is easily turned on, with access to drift, boost and hangtime at the fingertips of advanced riders. EPIC’s new Speed Valve system uses a large inflate/deflate valve to allow for faster rigging, and there is an additional valve on the Leading Edge, easing pressure in the event of crash, and thus preventing LE blowout. Relaunch is extremely user-friendly, and EPIC claim the Renegade 5G is the easiest kite to relaunch on the market. This is a highly functional, reliable kite. Lightwind options are available in the Renegade 13 LTD and the Renegade Infinity.

98 |

1. SURF | 2. SCREAMER | 3. RENEGADE

JUNIOR PRO There is no greater pleasure than being outdoors and doing something you love with the ones that love you. And by doing so, you want to keep your kids safe, and so do EPIC. The new Junior Pro line was developed with fun and safety in mind. In the early stages of learning, you need a kite that is built to withstand the stress and keeps coming back for more. Reliable, fast relaunch and predictable characteristics reduce the frustration for young riders while the incredible depower will put your mind at ease. Simply let go of the Junior Pro Control Bar and the kite depowers, flutters to the water where it rests on a wingtip ready for more action - all within reach of a child’s arm. The Junior Pro is available in a 4 and 8m and it’s capable of some good height and hang time when they are ready to pull the trigger. Adults can also tap into the ease of use on either the Junior Pro 4 or 8 by swapping out the Junior Pro bar with the Xtend bar. Dimitri Maramenides has been seen pounding waves with the 4 meter while other kites were out on demo. What makes the Junior Pro 4 and 8 special for kids is the Junior Pro Control Bar (Kids Bar) which is the first of its kind. It features a reduced diameter handle and smaller chickenloop for young hands, a shorter throw, no stopper ball and break line 2 meters above the swivel for the ultimate is safety. Being safe has never been so much fun.

KITES

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Renegade 5G

High performance / all-round

6.5, 9, 11, 13LTD, Infinity V4

Screamer 5G

Big air / big kite loops / boosting machine

7, 9, 10 LTD, 12, 14

Surf

Wave riding

5, 8, 12

Junior Pro V2

Younger riders / small kite for adults

4, 8

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Spartan V3

Freestyle

129

Droid V3

Freeride / wakestyle

135 x 39cm

Oxygen V2

Lightwind all-rounder

135 x 41cm

Junior Pro

Younger riders

115 x 32.5cm

Surf Reef

All-round wave

5’7, 6’0

| 99

The Brand

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New?

Airush Kiteboarding was born on the shores of Maui in 1999 as one of the first brands in the industry. Focusing on accessories at first, many of the legends such as Lou Wainman, Rush Randal, Elliot Leboe and Mauricio Abreu flocked to Airush to help develop the next generation of products. This DNA of research and development still exists today. Since then, Airush joined the powerhouse watersports group, Starboard, and their elite brands of Starboard Windsurfing, Stand Up Paddle, Surf, Apparel and Severne Sails. The mantra of the group is to focus on product development, innovation and quality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bringing inspiration to wind and waves. Delivering industry firsts and patented technology by all of these brands while filling the needs of every discipline of riders. Brand Manager, Clinton Filen, heads a team of passionate visionaries who strive to create product for the riders enjoyment while pushing the boundaries of design, durability and performance. 100 |

The 2017 Airush Collection fuses our passion for innovation with the demands of the most discerning riders. As always our focus remains on creating the perfect kiteboarding experience through testing and innovative technical design, while always maintaining our demand for the highest level of craftsmanship. As outdoor athletes we engage deeply with our environment and we understand that it is the duty of all of us to actively seek a way of life that does less harm to the environment and leads to a sustainable lifestyle. At Airush we have increasingly focused on our environmental footprint over the last few years, and this will continue to be at the core of all that we do as a brand. This philosophy can be seen across out Team Series Reefer, Diamond and Core Series and we are stoked to introduce such a complete range of products that combines ease of use with the highest level of durability and ride refinement.

LITHIUM

wave

As the do-all kite in the Airush range, the Lithium has been proven to meet the requirements of riders looking to do a bit of everything: freeride, jumping, looping and waves. The focus of wingtip and strut layout in conjunction with the Delta Hybrid design ensures the quickest response through the air as well as instant relaunch. The square wingtip with increased area improves unhooked and overall performance without sacrificing the relaunch, stability or wind range. The Lithium 17m features the same Lithium freeride flying characteristics but optimized for extremely light wind. Reinforcement has been minimized to save weight and optimized for the unique loads in lighter winds. This optimization compensates for the weight of the additional struts, increasing the stability when the wind picks up, and working in conjunction with the load frame to increase the longevity of the canopy.

The unique design of the Airush Wave is engineered specifically for the true wave enthusiast. Flying forward in the window when required (keeping the rider deep in the pocket), steers immediately no matter where in the window, and sits back and drifts in the turns when more stability is required. Refinements in the chord length, wingtips and canopy layout make for a smooth power delivery and fluid steering which is consistent across the range. For 2017, the updated V3.2 bridle configuration features has reduced bridle length without compromising on turning and depower. The next generation Dyneema Load Frame combined with the Technoforce D2 by Teijin provides the ultimate mix of durability and lightweight performance. For wave performance, this optimized weight is essential for improved drift stability, while the load frame make all the difference when additional durability is required.

UNION

razor

The Union is the ideal kite for the intermediate to advanced rider looking for all round versatility. It unites the key freestyle characteristics of the Razor with the key characteristics of Airushâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high profile Wave kite and the freeride abilities of the Lithium. For 2017, the updated V3.2 bridle configuration features reduced bridle length without compromising on turning and depower. The result remains a superbly balanced kite that excels in the broadest range of conditions, responding to demands no matter the discipline.

The Airush Razor retains the dedicated C-Kite feel, and, with input from World Champ Alex Pastor, Airush have focused on fine-tuning the performance characteristics, specifically: mind blowing pop, unhooked ability and kite looping. The Razor has great range, along with comfort for everyday freestyle riders. The next-gen Dyneema Load Frame is combined with the Technoforce D2 for durability and lightweight performance. For 2017 the 5th line is set with slightly more tension for added structural rigidity and responsiveness. A new 6m replaces the 5.5m creating a more stable platform with better gust response, and makes the 6m as easy to handle in high wind as the 5.5m. An improvement in parked power for better bottom end results in a much more versatile kite, with a broader wind range.

1. LITHIUM | 2. WAVE | 3. UNION | 4. RAZOR

| 101

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // AIRUSH

reefer boot

core harness

The Reefer Boot takes the unique demands of wakestyle kiting and combines them with the performance of a dedicated wake boot. The Reefer Boot features increased padding of the inner and foot bed, along with additional reinforcing in key high wear areas and increased stiffening in the ankle area of the boot. These key upgrades take the performance to a whole new level. By introducing the new flex zone, the Reefer Boot’s comfort, support and rigidity is optimized. This flex zone reduces the strain on the binding for improved long term performance.

The Airush Core Waist Harness features an ergonomically optimized 3D thermoformed internal cushioning. This, in conjunction with the internal compression waist belt, ensures the harness fits every rider with enhanced comfort and support while preventing the harness from riding up. The Core harness features a compact spreader bar pad to make it as compact as possible while still allowing complete freedom of movement during all freeride maneuvers. The heavy-duty construction is specifically developed to withstand the rigors of the Airush freestyle, racing and wave teams’ requirements.

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Lithium

All around freeride

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17

Union

Intermediate to advanced all round versatility

6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16

Wave

Dedicated wave performance

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12

Razor

Perfect unhooked performance

6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 13, 15

FOIL

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Core Foil

Freeride foil performance board

4’11

Foil

80cm

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Switch

Smooth and comfortable freeride performance

132, 135, 138, 140

Apex

Advanced freeride and freestyle performance

135, 138, 140

Livewire

Dedicated wakestyle and park style performance

135, 138, 140, 142

ACCESSORIES

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Core Harness Reefer Boot

102 |

S, M, L, XL Kite specific boot

US 6-7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12-13

5. REEFER BOOT | 6.CORE HARNESS

CORE FOIL BOARD

foil

The Airush Core foilboard is designed to enhance the experience of freeride foiling. The board features a large bevel on the underside of the rail which allows the board to be ridden at a stronger angle with less surface area touching the water, thus reducing drag. The fine rail in combination with the strong bevel allows you to position the board on its rail for an effortless water start. Then the short, wide shape, combined with a reversed foil shaping on the nose reduces wind resistance and lift when riding at high speeds.

Features all of the shape technology of the Team Carbon Foil for true performance. The mast and the fuselage are constructed from aviation grade anodized aluminum alloy 6082 T6, with assembly parts precision CNC milled. A full fused connection between the mast and front fuselage means that the front wing, which deals with the majority of the load, has the least flex possible. The unique Airush modular design enables the rider to upgrade key components between the prepreg Carbon Team Foil and the Core foil, reducing the overall cost of ownership and allowing riders to step up components as they feel the need.

10.

switch

apex

There’s a good reason why the Switch has been Airush’s best-selling twin tip board year after year. More versatile and comfort-oriented than any other twin tip in the range, the Switch can be enjoyed by all riders — from beginner to advanced. Better yet, the 2017 model offers reduced weight for a more precise feel, a new 3D deck for optimized flex, and a wider outline for enhanced upwind performance. The 2017 model is fitted with their freeride specific AFT, featuring easy adjustability and allowing for easy entry and exit of the straps during freeride maneuvers.

Suitable for intermediate to advanced aggressive riders, the 2017 Apex delivers a unique combination of high rocker, increased width, and Airush’s new Venturi concave. Additionally, this state-of-theart board utilizes an asymmetrical 3D deck shape which ensures a more balanced response, enhanced user-friendly feel, and added comfort while riding at high speed. The Apex allows a rider to advance from footstraps to bindings without any compromise in performance. The reinforcement and style of the board make it a great all-round freeride/freestyle machine.

livewire Utilizing the same shape as the Livewire Team, the Reefer Series introduces a heavy-duty sintered base and bombproof layup to create a board which is ideal for sliders, park riding and general abuse. Increased stiffness in the tips of the board increase the pop and drive, while the dual rocker and deep channel tip make the Livewire Reefer ideal for riders who prefer to ride more powered. This response is focused on the perfect “load and pop” optimized by the tri-axial Glass layup and Carbon Torsion Control. The 3D re-enforced tips allow the new Livewire to hold its rocker while enhancing its durability with the increased force these boards are having to withstand when riding with boots and on obstacles. With the stiffest layup in the Airush range, the Livewire Reefer is ideal for huge powered moves and, combined with the higher rocker, it is the ride of choice for Alex Pastor in any park style session.

7. CORE FOIL | 8. SWITCH | 9. APEX | 10. LIVEWIRE

| 103

The Brand Flysurfer began back in 2001. The founders, passionate paragliding pilots and kiters themselves, made it their goal to follow new paths to optimize methods of wind-powered locomotion, and they quickly became the synonym for bridled ramair kite systems in the world of kitesurfing. Since then they have been committed to creating reliable, innovative products and offering extraordinary service and, since June 2013, have also brought tube kites and single-skin foil kites to the market.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New? For 2017 Flysurfer introduce the all-new SONIC2 to their line-up, this closed-cell ram air foilkite has even better performance, lighter weight and superb handling and this airstyle and racemachine will blow you away with its possibilities. Furthermore a new kite has been added to the Flysurfer range, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the PEAK trainer. A 1.3m single-skin foilkite, based on the technology of their popular PEAK land- and snowkite, making it a very 104 |

easy to fly and extremely durable kite, which can be flown in the lightest breeze. The BOOST2 remains in the Flysurfer line-up as the all-round high performance freeride LEI (from 7-18m). Same goes for the SPEED5, this easy to use closed-cell foilkite has proven itself last season and now the whole size range is on the market (from 6m all the way up to 21m) there is a suitable size for everyone. On the kiteboard side of things, Flysurfer have introduced the second incarnation of their splitkiteboard line-up, the FLYSPLIT2, available in sizes 134cm and 139cm, giving kiters the possibility to travel compact and light, without giving up on performance or durability. The popular freeride directional with snowboard technology, the RAZOR, also remains in the line-up, as does the RADICAL5 crossover twintip, which remains a great kiteboard for people who want to ride fast, powered and need super easy upwind performance, hooked or un-hooked. Then the FLYDOOR5 still is one of the best light wind twintip boards on the market, proven by its use in low-wind locations and the fact it is used by so many kite schools around the world.

RADICAL 5

FLYDOOR 5

Flysurfer create a “new rider experience” thanks to the RADICAL5’s optimized rocker curve, stiffer midsection and improved flex, giving even more control and grip, better pop and less spray while riding. The wood and foam core of the board makes it a very lightweight, durable and dynamic board. The increased rocker allows for more powerful landings, while the stiffer mid-section enables easier and bigger take-offs. The improved flex pattern still lets you go as big as you want, retaining maximum control while overpowered. Enhanced overall performance featuring a heel-side channel, tucked-under edges, ergonomic outline and the new Click‘n’Ride fin system, makes

The FLYDOOR5 has a performance oriented focus, which means it allows riders to start planing and heading upwind earlier and easier than ever. The light wind potential is guaranteed through the optimized design details (dimensions, optimized rocker curves and a balanced mix of core materials), and the proven center fin adds that last bit of performance advantage. Besides relaxed freeriding, you can also enjoy a variety of twin tip tricks or try out a strapless session and surprise yourself. With the black and white design, Flysurfer have managed to design a timeless and very sophisticated look.

traveling easier then ever before.

FLYSPLIT 2

RAZOR

The FLYSPLIT2 retains the performance of a normal kiteboard even though you can dissemble the board in the middle – a simple but savvy feature that wins you extra space when traveling. And being built in the Flysurfer factory in Europe, they guarantee that it’s built with maximum quality control. The zigzag connection joins easily and only needs to be fixed with a metal splint on each side, while the Click’n’Ride System ensures quick disassembly of your fins. On the board’s heel-side center and edges Flysurfer use a full-wood-core to ensure great durability and dynamic performance. For the less stressed areas a light-foam-construction is used to save unnecessary weight. Due to this construction and its special rocker line the FLYSPLIT2 offers great performance but also a great deal

The RAZOR is a performance orientated freeride directional board which is built with super sturdy snowboard technology. It becomes a machine when going downwind, and even in the lightest winds it gains speed rapidly when you head upwind. The board is designed in a way that you can edge and ride it similar to a twin tip. Tacking and jibing are easy, and thanks to its high speed, it glides very well even in gusty conditions. If you want to go touring, enter some fun races or slalom events, ride lakes or even boost a couple of jumps – the RAZOR will handle it – a unique board, offering maximum fun and the thrill of speed in a simple and durable package.

of comfort in choppy and gusty conditions. 1. RADICAL 5 | 2. FLYSPLIT 2 | 3. RAZOR | 4. FLYDOOR 5

| 105

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // FLYSURFER

PEAK TRAINER

PEAK 2

This 1.3m² kite develops considerable amounts of power thanks to its single skin design. It is durable meaning it can be crashed countless times whilst you master your kite skills. The proven 3-line safety lets the kite flag out, with no power as well as helping reverse launch. The PEAK Trainer is the perfect gift and a good starting point in the world of kiting – perfect for kite schools and great fun for kids!

The PEAK2 gets you to the summits! No pre-inflation or pumping is needed, so it’s always ready to go for a session. Its low-end power gets you going even in the slightest breeze and thanks to its effective depower, you’ll be safe and in control, even in stronger winds. Because of its small pack-down size, and the optional touring bag/ harness, you can literally take the PEAK2 anywhere you want – making it an effective toy for use on snow, sand, grass or asphalt!

VIRON 2 DLX Ideally for kids who are just starting out, as well as a kite for riders keen to challenge strong winds on water or land. The VIRON2 DLX is an all-in-one kite that ensures maximum safety and stability, with easy water relaunch. Equally at home on water, land and snow. All VIRON2 DLX sizes are made in Deluxe kite cloth, which has a noticeable effect on the kite’s performance – flying earlier, turning tighter, more stable.

SPEED 5 FLYSURFER focused the development of the new SPEED-line on functionality and product value, and the SPEED5 is known for its fun-factor in lightwind and plentiful hang-time. It has plenty of stability throughout the wind range, light steering and easy to relaunch. The optimized turning as well as the large depower make the SPEED5 controllable and safe. The combination of the sophisticated design and the robust DLX+ kite cloth creates a very harmonious bar feedback, while the reduced aerodynamic drag due to the Rigid Foil technology and the Double Cordwise Ballooning helps to increase the lift of the kite.

BOOST 2 For the new BOOST2, the Flysurfer team enhanced the 3D profiles and reworked the kite frame to optimize stability and top end controllability, so it continues to shine in light winds, with efficient airfoil for exceptional upwind performance. The five strut flat arc design is ideal for big, floaty jumps, and the fine-tuned bar feedback and super precise turning gives maximum control for the smoothest landings in gusty strong winds. The BOOST2 can be used with their Adaptive Airfoil Bridle Kit, which comes standard on sizes 15 and 18, and optional on sizes 11 and 13. Also comes with 12 months of Free Repair Warranty.

106 |

1. PEAK TRAINER | 2. VIRON 2 DLX | 3. SPEED 5 | 4. BOOST 2 | 5. PEAK 2

SONIC 2

INFINITY 3.0 AIRSTYLE BAR

The racetrack has repeatedly been a crucible for Flysurfer’s development of products and innovations. The SONIC2’s lightweight construction includes a LOTUS cloth topsail for a smoother airflow, as well as their DLX+ cloth for more control and responsive turning. The total rework on the airfoil improves the aerodynamic efficiency, which results in high speeds with improved angles on all courses. The SONIC2 was also thoroughly tested with twin tips and built specifically for extreme jumps with long hangtime. The SONIC2‘s high lift to drag ratio instantly shows the exceptional qualities that a foil kite with depower has to offer…

Anyone who likes big air or who occasionally kites in overpowered conditions should definitely consider the INFINITY 3.0 Airstyle BAR… With outstanding grip, a reliable safety function, high quality lines, endless rotations and several ways to customize the setup, it fully satisfies the needs of freeriders, airstylers and big air aficionados. The Quick Release 3.0 is AFNOR certified and the Pull-Pull Adjuster makes presetting the depower possible with one handle. The integrated swivel function untwists the lines smoothly and flawlessly — even after many rotations — by simply powering up the Bar. In addition, the Bar width and the steering lines can be adjusted and optimized to meet the needs of the rider.

KITES

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Sonic-FR

Race / hydrofoil / airstyle

9, 11, 15, 18

Speed 5

All-round

6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21

Speed 4 Lotus

Airstyle / freeride / lightwind

6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 21

Viron 2

Training

2.5, 4, 6, 8

Boost 2

Airstyle / freeride / hydrofoil

5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18

Sonic 2

Airstyle / hydrofoil / race

6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18

Peak 2

Single-skin versatility

4, 6, 9, 12

Peak Trainer

School / fun

1.3

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Radical 5

All-round performance

127, 132, 134, 138, 144

Flydoor 5

Lightwind

160, 170

Flysplit 2

All-round travel

134, 139

Razor

Cruising / freerace

165

| 107

The Brand

What’s New?

Best Kiteboarding was founded in 2003 out of a passion for wind and water. The sport was still in the early stages of development and expensive to get in to. Best’s founders decided to change this by introducing new distribution strategies. Within a short time Best became major players within the market and have been growing ever since. Best’s philosophy is all about dedication to the sport, quality, innovation and customer support. Its roots are still carried in the company’s claim, “Ride with us”, and reflected in Best’s main goal: to create gear for every rider and riding style while ensuring the highest possible customer satisfaction.

For the latest line up the focus was set to enhance the performance, the quality and the usability of the gear. To increase the performance, the draft, wingtips and overall shape of the TS, Roca and GP were optimized. Especially the freestyle kite GP, which was completely redesigned to achieve aggressive, performance driven characteristics.

108 |

New, highest grade materials such as Teijin Techno Force D2 canopy from Japan and ultra light and ultra strong bladder material made in Germany enhance the quality of the new gear. And lastly, Best introduced the Twist Lock Valve 2.0 inflation system which connects directly to the hose and therefore ensures the highest air flow possible. Furthermore, attachment points were revised for faster rigging. It has never been easier and faster to set up a kite.

The new TS delivers pure performance no matter what style you ride: mega loops, steep waves or unhooked freestyle. The new cylindrical shaped leading edge distributes your steering impulses over the whole wing for a faster and smoother turning kite. Enjoy enhanced stability when riding unhooked. This kite provides superior grunt and lift. Version 6 carries Bestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Twist Lock Valve 2.0 inflation system and highest grade materials from Japan and Germany.

The GP is a fierce catapult. No matter if used for the most advanced handle pass tricks or for mind blowing mega loops, it shoots you right into the sky. The kite was completely reworked: square wingtips, a new cylindrical leading edge, a revised trailing edge, a higher aspect ratio and much more. Benefit from radical slack, unhooked stability and aggressive steering speed, enabling you to perform on the highest level. Best also upped the inflation system as well as the materials so the GP will take any abuse.

From lightest breeze to the fiercest hurricane, a two kite Roca quiver allows you to face any condition. Going upwind was never easier, you can fully concentrate on jumping higher than ever while enjoying the incredible hang time for some old school moves. The steering is fast and direct, the bar pressure medium, relaunch and stability provide confidence. The quality of materials and manufacturing make the Roca last a lifetime. You can pump, rig and launch the kite in less than five minutes.

RED BAR

ROCA

Get the most out of your TS, Roca and Cabo with the brand new Best Red bar. The cleanest and most efficient front line safety system, the proven Iron Heart IV Quick release system and our extremely strong 22 meter lines make it the best and safest four-line bar you could possibly ride.

BLACK BAR

The Black bar with its loaded fifth line is fine tuned to match the incredible freestyle performance of the GP. It is super tough, safe and designed for handle passes and kite loops. Use it to have the kite rip you brutally from the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface to spit you into unknown heights.

1. TS | 2. GP | 3 . ROCA | 4 . RED BAR | 5 . BLACK BAR

| 109

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // BEST

ARMADA

SPIN

PROCREATOR

The Armada is made for those who prefer a board with the performance of a professional competition board but with the comfort of a freeride board. It is light, durable and aggressive while providing the flex your knees will love. The new version has a stronger but thinner 3D top deck and comes with Best’s new Prime pads and straps. This new setup is a complete 400g lighter than last year’s version. 45mm G10 fiberglass fins are included.

The Spin is all about getting the most out of every freeride session. It is very light, flexible and also can take a beating. It wants to ride upwind and eat chop. Thick box rails make it a favorite for jumping and holding the edge. It comes with 45mm G10 fiberglass fins and Best’s brand new Prime pads and straps that enhance comfort and control. This new setup is also about 400g lighter than last year.

STUBBY PRO-SURF

STING PRO-SURF

The Stubby Pro-Surf is the ultimate strapless freestyle board. Its noseless shape is combined with the easy to grab rails. The channel design makes it a favorite to pop out of the water where it clings to your feet while you perform rotations. But you can also go for grabs or even flips. It is incredibly light and incredibly strong.

110 |

The new Procreator is the most advanced high tech freestyle board that Best have ever built. It carries Best’s new Power Channel Bottom design to ride faster, edge harder and jump higher. Both this revolutionary bottom shape and the 3D top are entirely engineered with a progressive Textreme© Carbon construction, handmade in Europe. Its design is unique and enables the rider to accelerate to a higher speed and to pop out of the water demanding less physical strength.

Catch the fast and steep ones and slice them with unlimited control. The Sting Pro-Surf is an incredibly advanced board. An innovative PU-Vacuum technology ensures light weight that comes with more durability. The result is a faster more responsive board for carves and radical cutbacks.

1. ARMADA | 2. SPIN | 3 . PROCREATOR | 4 . STUBBY

5. STING

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Freestyle / freeride / wave

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16

Roca

Freeride / old school

4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17

Freestyle / wakestyle

7, 9, 11, 13

Cabo

Surf / freeride

7, 9, 11

Trainer Kite

1.5, 2.5

BAR

SIZES

Red Bar

47cm, 52cm

Black Bar

42cm, 47cm

TWIN TIP

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Armada

Advanced freeride, freestyle, new school

131, 135, 138, 140 (New!)

Spin

Freeride

134, 139, 144, 149 (New!)

Procreator

Freestyle

139, 143

SURFBOARD

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Sting Pro-Surf

All-rounder wave

5’7, 5’10

Stubby Pro-Surf

Strapless freestyle

5’4, 5’6

| 111

The Brand Welcome to the world of Peter Lynn. A wind driven world where our passion for kite sports fuels our desire to deliver the best kites for any kiting discipline. We believe that we can make kiting accessible and enjoyable for everyone, by making our products user friendly and fun to use. Peter Lynn kites are stable, give the user an instant feeling of comfort and safety and at the same time they inspire progression. From kiteboarding to powerkiting and everything in between, we do it all... It is in this spirit that we offer such a complete and uniquely wide variety of high quality kites and related products that suit all ages, any skill level and all sessions. At Peter Lynn we are all kite flyers at heart, and we have been for over four decades. This makes us one of the oldest and most trusted kite brands in the world. We take pride in our strong Dutch belief in honest, uncompromised and no-nonsense products. A belief that drives us to always use the best possible materials and innovative construction methods, in order to only deliver products that meet the highest quality standards in every aspect. Peter Lynn kites are only released when we feel that they offer a significant improvement over previous models. We refrain from launching new products each year that do not express our vision of innovative and cutting edge kite design. Our kites are thoroughly tested on different surfaces and under a variety 112 |

of circumstances all over the world. They are scrutinized, in every aspect, under the most demanding conditions, by the most demanding riders. Whether you are just getting started or already shredding waves, whether you’re ripping up the dirt or carving fresh powder: Peter Lynn provides you with capable and reliable tools to have fun with, progress fast and get the most out of your kiting sessions, every session!

What’s New? For the upcoming season we will launch an entire new range of kites. This range has all been renewed and redesigned – these kites did not only just receive a new colorway! Many kiters are influenced by today’s kite brand marketing which blurs the real knowledge about kites and can leave many kiters not very well informed. We were really satisfied with the improved performance of the current generation Escapes so we took a good look at how we could improve upon this shape and design. We decided to focus on the “nose” of the kite design to maximize its poppy freestyle performance. This focus resulted in a kite that enables you to pop harder and boost bigger, and gives you more time to get those tricks perfected. We are working hard on numerous projects as well so we will have plenty of surprises over the coming months. Watch this space!

| 113

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // PETER LYNN

SWELL V2 The Swell is a wave and freeride kite that excels in all conditions, good or bad. It is more than a wave specific kite – the Swell has great low end power and great upwind drive. Its well-balanced 3 strut design and responsive handling also makes it an extremely fun freeride option, more than capable of handling kiteloops, big boosts and smooth landings. By combining great stability with fast turning and smooth drift, the Swell delivers all the characteristics you need to focus on carving up the face and slashing the lip. The Swell´s specially designed shape allows it to be flown at a higher angle of attack (powered up), and gives it superb low end power and an incredible high end range. By using a 3 point cascading bridle with a single low friction ring the Swell offers the best of two worlds: quick turning and a huge depower range. 1.

ESCAPE

FURY

The Escape is built for ambitious and experienced riders who seek to amp up their riding to more extreme levels. The V5 Escape is a hard poppin’, big boostin’ freestyle machine that combines the best traits of multiple LEI design shapes into one. The result is a modern C-shape design that delivers its explosive power in a smooth and controllable way and offers performance for both hooked and unhooked freestyle tricks. Its deep profile gives the kite a lot of grunt without sacrificing the upwind performance – this ensures you can stay in the competition box to perform more tricks during your heat. Its C-shaped design gives it the ideal freestyle and wakestyle performance profile. Combined with other attributes such as great line slack, explosive pop, great hang time and soft landings, the Escape V5 is the ultimate freestyle machine that can pull you through some serious megaloops. Solid power through turns, the absence of backstall and an intuitive and responsive also make the Escape an excellent choice for the competing rider...

The 2016 Fury is built for those who go big and ride hard. But most of all it is built to provide you with everything you need to have mind blowing sessions every time you go out to play. It is built with maximum performance in mind, and this fantastic piece of engineering will maximize your jumps, provide you with massive airtime, have you screaming upwind and makes you ride at teeth grinding speeds. All of this insane performance is delivered in an easy, predictable and reliable way so that you will always feel in total control. Then the extremely rigid 5-strut frame combined with its high Aspect Ratio and high performance profile, also make it the perfect tool for boosting big air.

KITE

BEST FOR…

SIZES

Swell

Wave and freeride

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12

Escape

Freestyle and wakestyle

5, 7, 9, 11, 13

Fury

High performance freeride and speed

6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17

114 |

1. SWELL V2 | 2. ESCAPE | 3. FURY

| 115

The Brand

What’s New?

Shinn is the kiteboard brand of 2x World Freestyle Champion, Mark Shinn. Founded in 2005, Shinn have focused their efforts on making the lightest, best looking and finest performing boards on the market. With a focus purely on kiteboards they have the time and dedication to pursue even the most marginal of gains in their quest for the perfect ride.

With the Monk Gold and Bronq Heritage continuing to perform admirably in the Freeride arena, Shinn turned their attention strongly to the growing freestyle/enduro market for the coming season with the introduction of the all new Ronson. Developing an entirely new double concave/stepped tail hull design has allowed Shinn to introduce insane grip and pop that freestyle dictates, yet retaining the handling, control and comfort that allows riders to perform in all conditions, not just on the perfect days. This philosophy also carried through to the team favorite, ADHD, raising the bar for freestyle/wakestyle riders alike.

Shinn’s manufacturing and logistics are based in Southern Poland with the brands R&D base in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, making it an entirely European affair. With no parts sourced or produced from the East you can be sure of only high end products with amazing attention to detail make it through their quality control process. Models like the Monk (now entering it’s 7th generation) have cemented the brands reputation in producing boards that excel in real world conditions and putting a smile on riders faces even when the conditions are less than perfect.

116 |

It’s not all twin tips though… Shinn has been fully bitten by the hydrofoil bug, helping them to make the most of those summer sea breezes and lighter wind days – both El Stubbo and the Shinnster offer crossover boards that can be used for strapless fun and hydrofoil action through the use of their innovative foil plate. Plenty of flex for comfort and control on the strapless days, add the foil plate for added stiffness, important to ensure you have that direct feeling crucial to mastering those foiling moves.

RONSON

Utilizing all the technology at their disposal, the Ronson bridges the gap between freeride and freestyle. Their all new Split Concave/ Double Stepped Rails have allowed them to completely overhaul the flex profile of the board giving an inspired POP whilst maintaining the comfort and control needed for high speed boosting. Of course what goes up must come down and all that performance means nothing if you can’t stick the landing but Ronson slips (not slaps) back into the water - the Split Concave parting the surface and the Constant Curve rocker ensuring the tips will never catch.

MONK GOLD

The all new 7th generation Monk: Full wood core, constant curve rocker and progressive concave combined with Shinn’s proprietry SQ3 mould technology ensure that your Monk not only looks the part but is packed with all the most important innovations you need - all backed up with their comprehensive two year warranty. Effortless chop handling, amazing carving, perfect edge control and never a drop in your eye the Monk is living proof that in a world of compromises there is still something special and unique to be found. If you’re looking for the ultimate do-it-all board then your search is most probably over…

ADHD SUNSET

The 2017 ADHD is an all new creation. The vertical entry of their new Split Concave offers more edge grip when using smaller fins, increases the stiffness through the center of the board and works to split the water on landing leading to much softer re-entries. The Double Stepped Tips not only re-direct water as it exits the board, reducing drag, but also increases the rocker in the center of the deck. This rail to rail variable rocker provides a board that has fantastic upwind ability and light wind drive and yet retains the aggressive pop wakestyle riders are looking for. Stiff enough to perform and yet comfortable enough to enjoy riding in “less than ideal” conditions.

BRONQ HERITAGE

Faster, with more grip and controllable yet still hard carving Shinn have set quite the benchmark in chop handling and freeride performance with the new Bronq. Combining the best features of the past with the lessons learnt from another year of constant R&D at Shinn HQ, the Bronq Heritage is a convergence of designer ideology and manufacturing excellence – go test one.

1.RONSON | 2.MONK GOLD | 3.ADHD SUNSET | 4.BRONQ HERITAGE

| 117

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // SHINN

EL STUBBO

Short length, extra width for less than perfect footwork, high nose rocker to avoid touch-down catapults and a pulled in tail for easy control when carving – all features conceived for foil use which have proved infectiously entertaining for off-foil fun too. The El Stubbo excels in sliding skate style, wave or hydrofoil action. Utilizing their unique Foil Plate to add rigidity when needed and yet maintain controlled flex and chop-munching capabilities when ridden in more conventional mode, El Stubbo can be taken with 0,1, 2 or 3 straps, in Quad-fin, twin fin or hydro foil flight mode. Provides performance riding from 6-35 knots with only two kites, one foil and one board.

MONKETTE GOLD

The Monkette is the Shinn-honed to the demands of the fairer sex. Designed to offer high, yet accessible performance in a silky smooth package, this is a dream ride for both playful and demanding ladies alike. Their SQ3 mould technology, progressive concave and constant curve rocker deliver outstanding grip, effortless chop handling and superb, easy to access pop, all for one purpose – making your moves bigger, smoother and more effortless.

SHINNSTER FOIL

By taking advantage of their innovative foil plate, Shinn have maintained the shape and flex from the much loved original thus retaining the soft ride and intuitive feel however the addition of inserts means strapping it up and bolting the foil on is merely moments away, opening up a whole new dimension in light wind, flying fun. Choose from fins-only for conventional riding, or enjoy the full package with straps, surf pads, foil and plate for the open minded. Available as: Classic package (deck and 2x57mm fins) or the fully equipped foil package (deck, 2x57mm fins, pre-applied pads, 3xSneaker LTD straps, foil plate and your choice of ALU or Carbon Zeeko foil.)

KING GEE EL SOL

Now entering his 4th year in the line up the King Gee once again delivers truly enjoyable this is a board you can ride even as the wind fills in without the need to rush back to the beach for something smaller. A work of understated design, every part of this model has been tuned and optimized. King Gee truly is a step forwards in “less than” ultimate conditions enhancement. If you want to maximize both your time on the water and the quality of those sessions then look no further…

118 |

1. EL STUBBO | 2.MONKETTE GOLD | 3.SHINNSTER FOIL | 4.KING GEE EL SOL

TWIN TIP

BEST FORâ&#x20AC;Ś

SIZES

Ronson

Freestyle / freeride / enduro

136, 138, 140

Monk Gold

Freeride big air

129, 131, 133, 135, 137

ADHD

Wakestyle / freestyle

137, 140

Bronq Heritage

High-end freeriding

134, 135, 136, 137

El Stubbo

Skim style / hydrofoil

135

Monkette Gold

Ladies freeride / crossover

127, 129, 131

Shinnster

Strapless freestyle / hydrofoiling

160

King Gee El Sol

Xl riders / lightwind

146, 150

Bronq XL

Lightwind / xl performance

146, 150

Bronq Mrs

Multi-discipline

132, 133

Pinbot Red

Versatile

135, 138, 141

| 119

The Brand Blade is all about creating the perfect kite for each kiteboarding discipline. We don’t do boards, accessories or anything else other than kites, and it all stems from our desire to give each kite our full attention, focusing on details that will improve it to the point of perfection. This allows us to bring a large collection of kites to the market, making sure every rider will have at least one kite that feels like its tailor-made to fit his or her style.

What’s New? Many developments have been introduced by Blade over the past year, both in construction and design. The most significant feature was the implementation of the newly developed Cross-Fiber Ripstop to the Fat Lady 4th gen and the Trigger 9th gen. This double weaved fabric includes an extra layer of coating, which provides the kite with double 120 |

the strength and durability and increases its resistance to the notorious wear and tear. In fact, feedback on the CrossFiber Ripstop was so positive, we decided to apply it to all of our future kites… Then, as we know our riders can’t wait to hit the waters, we cut the inflation time by 44% with the MaxFlow inflation system and the 2nd gen XL pump, which come with all of our kites. Finally, after almost four years of exceptional performance and amazing reactions to everyone who rides it, we decided to make our UniBar even better. The UniBar 3rd Gen will be out this winter and will introduce many new features that will make the kiting experience easier and much more seamless: swivel below the bar, integrated bar-end floats, and an auto swivel just to name a few of the main features…

TRIGGER (9TH GEN) The immensely popular Trigger has been widely acclaimed for almost a decade, and rightly so. With massive hang time, remarkable agility and pinpoint responsiveness, the Trigger goes far and beyond what you might expect from your average all-around kite. As if it wasn’t enough, this year Blade made the Trigger even more exciting by moving it closer to the edge of the window, meaning you can jump higher than ever, loop, spin, grab and still enjoy maximum stability while doing it. Don’t just go for your usual tricks, though. The all new double-strength cross-fiber canopy encourages you to conquer those elusive high-complexity tricks without worrying about the kite wearing out. Whether you just started to ride or you’re a 15-year veteran, the Trigger is the perfect all-around kite to help you push yourself and reach new heights. Literally.

FAT LADY

HIGH SCORE

Aaaaaah those light wind days. What’s better than going to the beach on a calm day, setting up a towel on the warm sand, getting out your Fat Lady kite and ripping through the air with tremendous power. The 4th generation Fat Lady packs even more power to help you fly through the air and add new high-level tricks to your collection, courtesy of its extreme quick-turning and responsiveness abilities. The Max Flow quick- inflation system and the Double Ripstop Canopy for better durability make sure you can keep your focus on what’s important– going out there and shredding the water with a big smile on your face.

High Score is the latest link in the evolution of freestyle and wakestyle kites. It is the more energetic version of the former Mist, a highly powerful freestyle/wakestyle kite by itself. This action packed C-kite has some serious grunt to propel you to new heights with an extended sweet spot. Its sharp contoured wingtips help you stabilize yourself throughout the trick and stick the landing to perfection. With its explosive pop and continuous pull, the High Score will have you feeling like you’re actually inside a video game. So get creative, land the tricks and show them how it’s done!

1. TRIGGER | 2. FAT LADY | 3. HIGH SCORE

| 121

BRAND GUIDE 2017 // BLADE

SKINNY BOY

TINY BEAST

If an all-out wave riding session is what you’re going for, a wave-dedicated kite is a must. While the 1st generation of the Skinny Boy was a big success among wave riders, it just laid the foundation for the most thrilling wave kite yet. The 2nd generation Skinny Boy is more direct, more precise and more agile, allowing you to maintain complete control of the kite during turns. The Insta Depower has been improved to enable effortless bottom turns, while the Max Drift feature now provides a great drift not only in classic side-off conditions, but also in on-shore conditions. With the super quick Skinny Boy you can tackle even the most powerful of waves, with or without straps.

Some people are born ready, so why let them wait? That’s exactly why Blade created the Tiny Beast, an agile kite for kids who just can’t wait to get out there… This is not your average high winds mini-kite though. The Tiny Beast was carefully designed for light and moderate conditions, performing well from 10 knots and up. Its unique shape allows for maximized stability and effortless relaunch in lighter winds, while an increased depower level ensures the safety of the young riders. The Tiny Beast is the perfect kite for any boy or girl making their first steps in the kitesurfing world. Make sure you take a good look at them now, because you might be looking at a future star.

NEW GUY Blade’s 2.5m ram air trainer kite makes for a smooth first step in the kitesurfing world. The new guy includes all the features that will give any newcomer the confidence and excitement they need before going into the water. Its structure allows the kite to stay up

122 |

in the air from very light wind (around 2 knots) and provides enough power at the edge of the window to keep the kite from collapsing. It is made from durable ripstop material that makes it beach-proof and prevents it from wearing out. There is no need to inflate or assemble it, as it comes with a 45cm bar that is connected to the kite. Just unravel the lines and let the first time rider enjoy the maximum kite feel within seconds.

4. SKINNY BOY | 5. TINY BEAST | 6. NEW GUY

KITE

BEST FORâ&#x20AC;¦

SIZES

Trigger

All-round performance freeride

5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14

Fat Lady

Pure lightwind fun

High Score

Ultimate wakestyle and freestyle performance

7, 9, 11, 13

Skinny Boy

Wave riding specific

6, 8, 9, 12

Tiny Beast

Kids / youth

4, 6

New Guy

Trainer

2.5

| 123

124 |

THEKITEMAG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BRAND GUIDE 2017