Reviews written by IKSURFMAG

At a Glance

With a pedigree running bock to 2008 the Bandit has arguably been the making of F-One. It turned thorn into one of the big international players in the industry. They now sit amongst the heady heights of the top 5 kite brands in the world in terms of sales. A lot of that has to do with the Bandit, and the chances are you have already heard of it and probably flown one over the years. So let’s cut to the chase, how do you go about making one of the most popular kites on the market even better? Tough call, but Raphael and the crew have approached it with their usual vigour. The Bandit IV is not just a tweak as you might expect, but a complete redevelopment of what was there before. The profile has changed, the canopy arc is different, there are two struts instead of 5 and the wingtips hove been squared off. Oh and if you always wanted a trim option your kite then this has now been provided. Just a bit of an update to the kite then!

The Bar

The new bar from F-One is still in the production stages, we got to see a sample of the now one piece aluminium moulding and we can confirm it is super light and really stiff. What we did get to try on our test 11 m we brought home with us was the new rigging set up on an old bar. The now chicken loop still uses the Velcro release system but this year sees a moulded plastic release handle, the same handle is on the end of the depower strop which is again above the bar. As over it is a beautifully simple system and the bar feels totally uncluttered. Whilst we liked the new chicken loop release we did feel it rubbed a bit on your hands every now and then. Perhaps with time it will soften up.

In the Air

Launching the Bandit IV you immediately notice the three-strut layout, and this is perhaps the most important aspect of the kite. The Bandit has always had good range, but by removing two of the struts the kite has become much lighter, the panel layout actually uses less Dacron in its Force Frame than the older versions too. The weighs loss means there is much more bottom end as the kite is keener to get up in the air in lighter winds. This then allows them to narrow the arc profile to give the kite more of a C-Shape. In turn that means the kite turns in a wider arc rather than pivot on its wing tips and develops a much more exciting loop curve. Does all this work in reality? Yes. The kite is very lively in the hands and the wider loop arc yet foster turn allows the kite to really loop like a C kite, it is also really easy to get the kite back up above your head for smoother landings. The wider tips make the turning speed come alive and the bridle, which is actually very similar to last year doesn’t detract from the “fool” of the kite too much. Perhaps most impressive is the stability in the air. We really thought that the loss of two struts would affect the canopy stability somewhat. But even in gusty conditions the kite is solid as a rock, considerably more solid than last year. In terms of the performance the kite is a blast to fly, the jumping this year is insane, we were boosting so high in strong winds we never felt we would come down! And the kite is so well behaved as well. Last year the Bandit Ill was a kite for everyone, this year it definitely has more of a performance edge to it. The kite loops, unhooked riding, speed and jumping capabilities are all notable. So is that going to leave the not so confident rider wanting? Well, no it shouldn’t, remember the Bandit IV is still a Delta, and that means whilst it has the performance to impress the best riders it is still a very stable shape that is so easy to relaunch it is perfect for people learning. Last year some riders felt the Bandit lacked a little in top end performance, this year they won’t be disappointed...

For

Classic F-One build quality and design, faster, lighter and more responsive than last year the top end of this kite just stepped up a gear.

Against

Our only bug was the chicken loop release was a little annoying on the hands, being hard plastic it sticks out a bit. Other than that we really couldn’t find fault.

Overall

It looks like F-One have another winner on their hands with the Bandit IV, we wondered how they would improve it, but improve it they have, get a ride on one soon...

At a Glance

The Rebel is one of the most popular kites on the planet, it has a huge number of dedicated followers. The kite is aimed as a do it all machine, happy in the waves, boosting big airs, freestyle you name it the kite can do it. This year there are a few changes that are worthy of note. The centre strut “floats”, to allow the canopy profile to be shaped, as it should be rather than having to conform to the shape of the centre strut. The loaded 5th line design is back, this allows for increased depower with a shorted throw of the bar, perhaps the biggest change is the techno force canopy material. This super durable woven fibre cloth feels really tough when you unroll the kite for the first time. It is much more resistant to tearing than standard rip stop and should ensure you kite lasts even longer. The Rebel keeps the 5th line set up and there is no bridle on the kite at all.

The Bar

The 5th Element system from North has been at the top of it’s game for what seems like an eternity now. This year is no exception, the Trust bar features everything you need and nothing you don’t, making it one of the simplest, best put together systems on the market. The Iron Heart III is as solid as ever, easy to activate and very simple to put back together. The above the bar depower uses a simple cleat design as before and is really functional and there is also a sliding stopper should you need it.

On The Water

The Rebel 2011 has a certain urgency about it when you first launch it. It is eager to get to the edge of the window and delivers a smooth solid pull. Hitting the water in light winds the kite has a decent bottom end to it, whipping it around the window generates heaps of power and once up and riding you can relax the power strokes and let the kite do the work. The bar pressure is just about right to offer plenty of feedback without being too heavy on your arms. The turning speed is very quick and you can really get the kite to move through the air at quite a pace when you engage it This makes it ideal for waveriding on those days when you are looking to generate some extra power from the kite. Last year we found you had to really fly the Rebel off the front lines to stop it stalling during the bottom turn. This year it flies a lot better and you don’t have to think so much when you are waveriding with it. Boosting and upwind ability ore excellent and kitelooping is also a meaty affair. The kite is fast enough to get back to the top of the window yet it still delivers a solid pull. Last year the racers were riding the Rebel and that looks to be the case again this year. As you would expect at speed the kite is very stable and the short depower throw at the bar make the kite a dream to ride in gusty conditions.

For
Awesome construction, especially the techno fibre cloth. Fantastic all round performance with a 5th line, waves, big air, speed and freestyle are all achievable with the Rebel,

Against
If you don’t like 5th line set-ups then sadly there is no option for a 4-line set up with this kite. You’d be more suited to the Fuse.

Overall
The most popular kite on the market just got a little bit better, improved speed and flying characteristics means you can worry less about the kite and concentrate on your riding.

AT A GLANCE

The RPM from Slingshot has been pushing the boundaries of what can be done with a hybrid kite for just over a year now. It is one of the few bridled kites used by a top 5 PKRA rider. Youri Zoon has demonstrated that this kite really can be a freestyle machine as well as a freeride weapon. When you consider he could easily choose the Fuel as his ride that says a lot about the RPM. The kite was originally released quite late in 2009, and not a lot has changed on the kite for the 2010 version. The bridle is the same, the panel layout very similar and the kite features all the usual triple stitching and reinforcement that Slingshot is famous for. The biggest change for 2010 is the completely redesigned bar.

THE BAR

New for 2010 the Comp Stick control bar addresses some of the issues found on the 2009 bar. Probably the biggest change is the chicken loop, for a couple of years now Slingshot have been running the same design and while it worked perfectly safety there was an issue with unhooking. Because it was a pull release it was fairly easy to activate it when grabbing the chicken Loop to hook back in. This year they have adopted a push release system and it works really well. The trim rope is also thinner and has a tighter weave so wear issues on that should be reduced. The centre line safety system remains, although a new addition is the sure-fire spinner. This device allows the front lines to truly untwist. It is the first time we have seen a system like this that really works and it is very impressive. Only time will tell how sand and salt affects it, but the kite we were testing wasn’t new out of the bag and had been on demo a while and it was still working really well despite a few weeks of abuse. All the other usual Slingshot features are there, o’shit handles, 800lb front lines and the active stopper ball.

IN THE AIR

The RPM uses an open C profile; essentially it is a C shape kite with an arc that has been opened out. The manufacture of the leading edge, the full suspension bridle, the panel layout and the profile all, combine to ensure it holds its shape in the air and the kite is certainly solid. It is fairly high aspect and looks long and thin compared to some of the kites on the market today. Delta haters will be pleased to know this is about as far from a delta shape as you could get. The performance is impressive, the kite really penetrates the edge of the window pulling you upwind and the open profile and lightweight three strut design combine to give the kite a really impressive low end. The high aspect nature of the kite allows the top end to be almost limitless and the kite realty depowers when you want it too. The new bar is fantastic, we tried and tried to twist the front lines up, but the sure-fire spinner always did its job. The top end performance of the kite is very similar to last year; it boosts high, unhooks nicely and is very well behaved. There are no nasty surprises here, you can take your eye off the kite and pull your moves without worrying where the kite will end up. The bar pressure and feel in the turns combine to give you a kite that flies with precision around the wind window. Kite loops are impressive with the kite delivering a smooth pull all the way through the turn.

FOR
The RPM packs a mean punch; it can mix it with high performance C shapes and still win. The new Comp Stick Control bar is a very welcome upgrade.

AGAINST
The kite itself is almost unchanged from 2009, and while it was a great kite then we would find it hard to recommend upgrading your 2009 version for the 2010, just upgrade the bar. Of course if you don’t own an old RPM then you will be laughing!

OVERALL
Loaded with performance and a range that impresses, the RPM is about as solid as kites get, predictable and stable with the potential to scrape the sky...

AT A GLANCE

The Envy is a 3 strut design that Liquid Force dub’s as a Delta Hybrid. It keeps the diamond wingtips of the Havoc and the same USB 2.0 bridle. The build quality of the Liquid Force gear has always impressed us. In the past they have always paid lots of attention to the detail and the Envy is no exception. There are some really great touches in the design and layout, little things that make you realise they have thought about the final product. Black on black print on the struts is there purely for your pleasure. One-pump is standard and the kite is well made with plenty of reinforced stitching in all the usual wear points.

THE BAR

In a nod to their wakeboard roots the CPR control system is about as simple as you could make it. While simple though, it retains all the features you would need - they are just in a very tidy package. Oshit handles for added safety, a centre line safety and the all new CPR chicken loop. The loop is great, fully moulded with no moving metal parts it simply snaps on and off. One of the best systems we have seen so far it inspires confidence in your set up. There is also a sliding stopper ball and the whole bar is colour coded to ensure you set it up the right way.

IN THE AIR

The Envy is a real powerhouse, it has loads of deep down low end power; the lower aspect ratio obviously helping to deliver some grunt. Bar pressure is minimal, just enough to give the rider good feedback as to where the kite is in the air. Steering is fairly direct, it isn’t as snappy as a direct connect rear line, but the bridle doesn’t hinder the experience too much. The instant depower that you get from the bridle set up is a welcome aspect and the diamond wingtips obviously help give the kite its range. The canopy was pretty solid, even when heavily depowered and the pull through the air was very smooth. The Envy has a tendency to sit a little further back in the window; this means that while it has lots of low-end power it is hard to get it to cruise upwind at the bottom of its wind range. Once the wind picks up a little this ceases to be a problem. Unhooked performance is great and the kite is very well behaved when you initiate moves. Jumping is impressive and the kite delivers plenty of boost when you send it back through the window. It is a fun kite that is easy to fly and lots of riders will get a great deal out of the Envy. If you are a heavier rider it definitely works better in the middle and towards the top of its wind range.

FOR
Welt built all round freeride kite which will come alive when the wind gets up. Jumping and unhooked riding is really impressive.

AGAINST
White it has lots of low-end power, it comes at a cost of upwind ability in light airs.

OVERALL
A well thought out and welt made kite that will appeal to lots of riders. The low-end power will excite wakestyle riders, it works well as a park and play kite. At the same time if you enjoy a freeride blast then the kite has plenty to offer you.

AT A GLANCE

The Nomad from Cabrinha is a totally new kite for 2010. It fills that gap that was previously empty for a high performance freestyle kite for pro riders. Cabrinha spent the best part of a year listening to their pro riders and creating a kite that fulfilled their wants and needs. It is about as close to a C-kite as Cabrinha dared to take it, yet it retains all the great features of a hybrid. It benefits from easy retaunch and a simple bridle set up. As standard the kite comes with the IDS safety system.

THE BAR

The bar this year from Cabrinha is an improvement on last years excellent design. It is simple, functional and has everything just about where you would want it. Arguably the neatest system on the market every aspect of the design has been well thought out. New for this year the IDS system is fitted inside the depower protective tube; this tidies up the set up even more. The trim straps are neatly placed above the bar and are easy to reach and the quick release is simple and functional.

IN THE AIR

Ever since Cabrinha launched the Crossbow in 2005 they have been missing a kite like this from their range. The Switchblade was used by the likes of Andre Phillip for his wakestyle riding and the Crossbow was a freeride machine that in recent years has had a hint of race applied to it. The Nomad bridges that gap and it is a stunning kite. The turning speed is rapid and when powered up the Nomad will put a smile on your face like no other. The kite launches you into the air with some impressive force and leaves you hanging there. Whip it into a loop and it turns in a wide arc around its wingtip generating heaps of power. The bar feedback is excellent and the rider knows where the kite is all the time. There is no heavy bar pressure often found on some of the other kites in the range. The Nomad is light and extremeLy responsive. The responsive behaviour also lends the kite really well to wave riding, you can flick it around the window whilst you are tearing waves to shreds and it behaves immaculately. Upwind the kite performs well, flying far enough forward in the window to get you there quickly, but retaining a good amount of pull at the same time.

FOR
A true high performance kite from Cabrinha, if you like hardcore freestyle then think of it as a return to form from the brand. And if you enjoy shredding waves you won’t be disappointed.

AGAINST
It depends on your riding style as to whether you will enjoy this kite or not. If you enjoy the way the Switchblade lies in a solid, locked in and predictable manner, be prepared for a different beast altogether. We loved it!

OVERALL
Fast, responsive handling with pinpoint precIsion the kite flies fairly far forward in the window, which allows it to fly upwind. The kiteloops are excellent and it realty filLs a gap that had previously been empty in the Cabrinha range.

AT A GLANCE

The Octane is an all new kite from Slingshot for 2010, based on the Rev, one of their best selling kites of 2008 and 2009. Essentially they have taken the Rev, which was originally designed to be used as a user-friendly wave/freestyle kite, and opened up the trailing edge to allow it to fly faster through the sky. This gives a little extra spike to its power and turning ability. They have pretty much kept the simple bridle system and the bombproof kite canopy layout. Finally no Slingshot kite would be complete without Slingshot’s pioneering one pump system.

THE BAR

Slingshot have really stepped it up for 2010 with the all new Comp Stick bar. They have pretty much ticked every box; with a whole new chicken loop using a friendly push away QR. A locking pin on top of the chicken loop locks out straight when unhooked to make hooking back in as easy as possible. There is an all-new centre line swivel that removes any twist left in the centre lines after spinning the bar after rotations and kiteloops. The de-power cleat and cleat line have been slimmed down for easy use, furthermore the bar features a removable chicken loop dick and a attachment for a suicide leash as well as the usual o’shit handles on both sides of the bar.

IN THE AIR

After a fast responsive Rev2 for 2009 we didn’t think the Octane could be improved by much, but by opening up the trailing edge and a new stiffer shape from the new strut lay out and tweaked bridal they have managed to squeeze a bigger wind range from a kite that travels through the sky quicker than ever. After moving the rear lines up a knot or two closer to the kite to tighten the steering tines up, the kite becomes very responsive enabling it to turn on a sixpence allowing the rider to be able to throw impressive kiteloops without any drastic consequence. Boosting with the Octane has been fun with the kite turning and moving faster, however the kite demands extra kite piloting skills to use its full jumping and hang time potential. This kite seems to demand input and likes to keep a nice forward speed. Without a good amount of board speed and keeping the rear lines tort, the kite will fly further around the wind window then desired. Any inexperienced riders will want to use the most inner pigtail attachment point on the wingtips. Riding waves with the Octane is more fun than ever, being able to stick the kite where you want it and have confidence the kite will keep up with board speed on lighter wind days. It parks realty well and just hangs in the sky allowing you to ride down the line.

FOR
Wave riding and freestyle on this kite is a dream. The all-new bar is a pleasure to use leaving only the riders to hold themselves back.

AGAINST
Any riders looking for a kite they can lock down and load a rail for wake style tricks should stick to the RMP or Fuel.

OVERALL
The Octane is a quick responsive kite with a huge wind range and great up wind potential to make ground up after ripping up a huge wave down wind or some big lofty jumps. The build quality is as ever second to none!

AT A GLANCE

With a pretty good year in 2009 Blade are able to hold their heads up high knowing that they are on a similar level with the larger kite brands producing quality hard wearing kites. In 2010 this doesn’t change. The Trigger has come through with a real feeling for quality and the kite as a whole has been made to take a beating, if it hasn’t got a tough bumper pad or a piece of kevlar on it it would have been reinforced with double stitching. Blade have now split the bridle attachment points getting rid of the pulleys between them, which seems to be the general trend now with performance freeride kites. The Kite has a nice simple one pump system with a clever clip holder to keep everything tucked out the way of any bridles or loose lines if you end up in the washing machine of any waves.

THE BAR

The bar has a clean functional design that drew a few positive comments on the beach. The grip is 3D moulded and extremely comfy to hold. There are o’shit handles for added safety and a stopper ball should you wish to use them. The trim strap is made up of a pull-pull webbing affair, which is situated above the bar, whilst the chicken loop is very impressive too, an update to last year’s swivel and ropes to ensure maximum durability. The entire system also swivels so you are able to untwist your lines if you choose to spin one way with your rotations.

IN THE AIR

In the sky, the Trigger has quite a high aspect shape and with the new bridal layout you will have yourself believing you are in for an aggressive ride. However, the kite is like a pussycat compared to its high-end performance Prime in the Blades range. I would describe the bar pressure as moderate and not to heavy, similarly there is a sense of connection in the middle, which enables you to throw the kite around when you really want to give it some, giving you time to not have to concentrate when trying something new. When you do amp things up and give the bar some real heavy handed input you can get this machine to kiteloop really well, even sending the Trigger out in front of you without the consequences you receive from the Prime. With help from the kites AR (aspect ratio), the kite surges forwards searching for any extra board speed you might want to carry. Unhooking disables you a little from being able to throw the kite around as well as you can when hooked in, its performance has enough grunt for the majority of riders, but as you would expect from a high aspect design, it lacks that real Low down power, that said the top end is fantastic. The Trigger works well in some swell and is responsive enough to ride waves of all sizes.

FOR
The trigger is great for getting stuck in, with plenty of performance for most to try everything you dare to but without the sting you get from a dedicated freestyle kite.

AGAINST
Think of the Trigger as a freeride kite with some real performance, but if you want a dedicated freestyle kite look to the Prime.

OVERALL
A well built strong kite, perfect all rounder, allows you to try new things enabling you to feel like you can take your kiting to the next level without being punished for any mistakes.

AT A GLANCE

It has been a while since North have released a totally new kite onto the market. This year sees the end of the Rhino from the line up and the Fuse is there to make up the numbers. It is totally unrelated to the Rhino however, sharing features more akin to the Rebel than any of the other kites in the range. As usual the build quality and attention to detail is right up there, the one-pump is excellent and there are plenty of reinforcements in the right areas. Unlike some new kites though it isn’t made up of tons of dacron, instead it uses a new D2 material from Techno Force, which is far more durable than traditional material The kite is also one of the first dedicated 4 line kites from North, yes the Evo can be flown on 4 or 5 lines and arguably you can add a 5th line for added safety to the Fuse. But the Attack Force bridle has been specifically developed for this kite to ensure it flies at its best on 4 lines.

THE BAR

Named the Trust Bar the Fuse is shipped with the quad control 4 line version as opposed to the now infamous 5th element bar. The iron heart has been reworked to make it lighter, slimmer and more efficient at releasing when you need to. It uses a reverse pin release mechanism, which is the first of its kind on the market. There is also a false 5th Line, which you can attach your leash to so the kite wilt flag out onto the front line of the kite and sit in the launch position awaiting your input. The bar floats slide up to allow you to trim the lines and the warrior cleat enables you to trim the kite to your desired style. The rear lines can be adjusted so you get two bar lengths in one and when you unhook the chicken loop sits perfectly waiting for you to hook back in again.

IN THE AIR

The Fuse is aimed at the freeride/wave market but like the Rebel it can also be used for racing. In the air the kite feels really solid, the new AC bridle helps to maintain the kites shape and form as well as the stiff framework. Even in gusty conditions the kite is solid and this helps it to give a smooth power delivery. The kite gives the rider plenty of feedback at the bar, yet the bar pressure isn’t too hard on the arms. Upwind is where the Fuse really flies, possibly slightly better than the Rebel, we found that pointing ability was really great with this kite. This means that getting back upwind after wave rides and big airs will be really easy. The low end of the 10m is realty impressive too, coupled with a surfboard you’ll be up and riding when most people are on 12m kites. Yet the top end is still there, with plenty of depower available when you need it. The 10m really could be a one kite quiver for people who don’t often have crazy winds. Jumping is great fun, the canopy is fast and responsive and when you send it back through the window it really lifts you off the water with some vigour. It is an easy kite to fly and one we enjoyed riding especially with the simple 4-line set up. Beginners may well be better suited to the Evo, but you could easily learn with this kite. In the waves the performance was effortless, the kite really flies itself with very little input needed from the rider.

FOR
The Fuse is a fantastic new offering from North, very similar to the Rebel but in a 4 line guise. Great upwind, jumping and wave riding characteristics.

AGAINST
The canopy layout is very simple, and compared to some of North’s kites. A little plain perhaps, if you like white, you’ll Like this.

OVERALL
We have been waiting for a pure 4-line kite from North for a white, and here it is at last. It rides superbly and offers excellent performance across the board. If you love 5-lines stick with the Rebel, but if you want something a little different light up a Fuse.

AT A GLANCE

For 2010 the Wainman range hasn’t undergone any radical changes. The Boss is now available in white or black with a gold print that is very striking. The main difference on the Boss this year will be the new bridle that has been tweaked to create a lower bar pressure and give the kite less tendency to want to tip forwards and fall in lighter winds. The leading edge on this kite is nearly twice as wide as some kites that are produced today. With such a thick leading edge the whole frame of the kite is super solid and rigid. The kite stilt features a 3-strut design, which have to be pumped up individually, however, although the Boss has a minimal strut design it does not affect the kites rigidity in the air. The whole feel of the kite is very heavy duty and the kite feels tough. The dacron material on the leading edge and struts is very thick and for added strength the trailing edge has been given a single layer of the same dacron material that runs from tip to tip. Every bridal attachment point as well as the tips and other areas, has had a large area of heavy duty, scuff proof material sewn on top to prevent the raised connection points wearing through. To finish the kite off, there are bumper pads all around and 6cm of Dacron between the leading edge and canopy. The Boss has been built to last, and to take a serious beating, if any kite can take being dropped into a big size wave and have any chance of surviving, this is the kite.

THE BAR

The Wainman bar, just like the kite, shows little change, but still compliments the kite with its well-built construction. By keeping it simple it limits the chances of something going wrong to a minimum. The chicken loop has a clean, simple push away quick release system, whilst the centre line has a rubber tube around it to ensure it never wears out. The bar has a very effortless, easy to replace cleat and rope system to adjust the power of the kite on the go. Above this there is a centre line swivel to remove any twists in the centre lines that are caused by spinning the bar after rotations or kiteloops. The bar does however lack a sensible place to attach a kite leash, the chicken loop has a small ring on the webbing to attach a suicide leash, but to ride on a re-ride set up you need to attach your leash on top of the depower system, which then means you do not have the ability to spin the bar after kiteloops or rotations. The bar comes with a set of 17m lines for some serious kiteloops and wave riding and for the rest of us mere mortals there are 7m extensions to give a total of 24m’s.

IN THE AIR

In the sky the Boss has a very fat, dumpy design. With 3 struts and a leading edge of this diameter, you may have yourself fooled that you are using a big slow beginner kite that you might have learnt on 8 years ago. Nevertheless, despite its appearance the kite moves and responds like you have no lines between it and yourself. With this much response and light bar pressure you can throw the kite around as if it’s a couple of metres smatter than the size printed on the side. With a big deep canopy like this one, it leaves no material wasted on big long wing tips, so most of the kites surface area is exposed to the wind. Keeping some tension on the rear lines has the kite collecting plenty of power. Using the kites pure truck-like power you will find yourself locking the rail of your kiteboard to force the kite forwards in the window to really screw yourself up wind. Unlike many lower aspect kites of this design, the Boss has a good depower range, so with all the balls the kite carries you can ride out in some strong gusty conditions with a mixture of pushing the bar away and locking a good rail in the water. Chucking the Boss around and forcing it around the wind window is where this kite excels for a large 12m. It moves very well during kiteloops and downloops making for a reliable power surge that smoothly pulls and goes where you want it. Boosting sky high is not the kites massive strong point, but it has plenty of lift on the 24m lines that will have most riders grinning and exited. However, boosting is not what this kite is about, it is a reliable stable power source to create board pop with the ability for twisting and turning on its axis when riding waves which is what the Wainman range is made to do. Water relaunch is automatic, it’s hard not to relaunch the Boss, as the large, round like kite just simply rolls over and takes off.

FOR
Early light wind grunt and power for wake style riders to use as a cable and wave riders will appreciate its turning ability to get out and ride waves when most kites do not have the power and turning speed to keep up with large surf and tight winds.

AGAINST
The bar would be complete with a 5th line system or something similar that worked on a 360 spinning system. The kite could have been finished off nicely with a one-pump system as is standard on other kites in its price range.

OVERALL
Not much has changed for 2010; if it isn’t broken don’t fix it. The Boss is still a strong, well-built reliable kite that offers plenty of light wind power that will keep wake style riders going in the lightest of winds. For wave riders it offers a powerful agile kite they can throw around chasing down and out large surf. Design features kept to a minimum, but every stitch, patch and canopy remains well thought out and built to last.

AT A GLANCE

For 2010, Best have given the Nemesis a fresh new took with all the kites coming in an almost complete white colour. The older HP Nemesis was a high aspect SLE, pretty much designed with boosting in mind, whilst the new NXG has been given a deep more C-shape like design canopy for extra grunt and low end power. The reason behind this is to give the kite better wake style performance, quicker turning speed and better board loading ability. The Nemesis has a very skinny, aerodynamic leading edge that still features Twister Tech design which allows more of the kite to be used to steer as opposed to just the tips. The VP3 bridal gives maximum depower for a small amount of bar travel up the depower line. All five struts which inflate through a one-pump system, have been given a kevlar wrap style joint to attach them to the leading edge ensuring a strong rigid construction. The LE bridal attachment reinforcement points have been hidden out of the way on the inside of the leading edge to avoid any raised points that might be prone to wear. The leading edge has been triple stitched from tip to tip to give bombproof strength. Overall they have taken their performance SLE and made it more C-shaped to aid in its low end wake style performance as well as re-stitching, triple stitching and making everything as strong as possible.

THE BAR

Best have finally finished their new kite bar that can work across the whole kite range. The new bar comes as standard on 20m lines, but for a better low end from your kite and improved hang time Best are producing an upgraded extension line set. The bar still features a double pull down depower strap for adjusting kite trim on the go, and the chicken loop line is made up of two centre lines with a slide down stopper to adjust and set bar travel on the fly. Best have scrapped the line swivel on top of the depower strap and stuck a swivel within their all-new chicken loop. The new loop has a locking pin situated on top to lock the loop out straight for easy entry and exit when riding unhooked. The quick release is very sensitive and can release with ease under any amount of pressure. The leash system works on a false fifth line that travels through the middle of the chicken loop and up on to the two front lines, for complete safety and depower the new bar still has re-ride rings on both outside lines with grab handles.

IN THE AIR

Grabbing hold of the Nemesis had me prepared for a punchy, quick and aggressive session that I was used to from the old HP. Instead I had a reasonably well-mannered machine that wasn't trying to run away with me every time I picked up some extra board speed. The NXG was slower travelling through the wind window than its predecessor but with this steady, lower, more controllable kite speed came some extra grunt you could edge against to create extra power and drive. The extra grunt has the kite flying closer to the water using the rail of the board to control the power like you would on a C-shape, but when push comes to shove leaning forwards to add some extra bar throw tilts the kite forward enough to kill any unwanted low down raw power. Even though the kites forward travelling speed has been slowed down, the turning speed has been turned up and the kite spins quicker on a smaller circumference making the rider able to point the kite where they want, when they want. Be careful when really cranking the bar not to hang on too hard on the rear lines in light winds or you will find the kite wanting to stall. With a little front line pressure and enough wind travelling over the canopy the kite will keep turning and climbing through the wind like you wish it to. With less bar pressure from the new bridal layout and a faster responding kite the Nemesis still can, and does, boost very well. However, with this boosting ability comes a kite you can lock down low and use its grunt to create pop from your board. Water re-launch is pretty much automatic, so recovering from any bad crashes we normally associate from a performance machine, is made just that little bit easier.

FOR
An advanced rider who wants a kite that can depower but also boost when the wind is pumping as well as being able to perform technical freestyle tricks when they want to really mix it up. For a rider who goes everywhere, and does everything on a performance competition kite.

AGAINST
The Nemesis isn't for the less experienced rider who needs a kite to fly itself. The Nemesis likes a nice amount of input on the rear, and front line tensions need to be in tune to be able to use this kites full potential.

OVERALL
A durable, well-built performance kite with plenty of added grunt compared to last years Nemesis. This kite will keep the best of riders exited with heaps of boosting and popping potential. Plenty of leading edge pressure is recommended to keep the kite flying at its full capability, but once tuned in to its turning and flying characteristics, the kites aptitude is endless. A real kite flyers kite.

AT A GLANCE

A first look at the new Kahoona and it is very impressive; the design of the kite has a high-end finish with black and white graphics and a choice of five different centre primary coLours. The Kahoona still has a four strut set up leaving the very centre of the canopy completely open to aid catching and keeping a clear air flow in the centre of the kite where it counts most. The struts this year have been given a kevlar wrap around the connection point to the leading edge, giving the kite a nice strong rigid frame. The inflation valves have been given a new housing to ensure they stay put and all bridal attachment points are now attached on the inside to avoid snagging and wear, as opposed to being stitched on top. A new mini VP2 bridle has been fitted to give maximum depower for a small amount of bar travel, the bridal also helps with stabilization, whilst the leading edge has plenty of bumper pads for all terrain use as this kite has proven to be a popular choice of kite for ATB and snow kiters. To finish off, the new revamped, stronger, better looking Kahoona V2, there is a new leading edge seaming system for added stiffness and lighter construction called Flat Pack LE barrel seams.

THE BAR

Best have finally finished their new kite bar that can work across the whole kite range. The new bar comes as standard on 20m Lines which works perfectly on the 9.5m, however on the larger kites Best are producing an upgrade extension line set if the rider wishes to use longer lines. The bar still features a double pull down depower strap for adjusting kite trim on the move, and the chicken-loop line comprises of two centre lines with a slide down stopper to adjust and set bar travel on the fly. Best have scrapped the line swivel on top of the depower strap and stuck a swivel within their all-new chicken loop. The new loop has a locking pin situated on top to lock the loop out straight for easy entry and exit when riding unhooked. The quick release is very sensitive and can release with ease under any amount of pressure. The leash system works on a false fifth line that travels through the middle of the chicken loop and up onto the two front lines. For complete safety and depower the new bar still has reride on both outside lines with grab handles.

IN THE AIR

The new Kahoona is a pleasure to ride, as it sits solid as a rock in the air and shows no signs of the canopy wanting to ripple or flutter. For a small kite, the Kahoona 9.5m has plenty of low end power which means you can stay at a pleasant riding speed without the kite getting carried away and wanting to out fly itself at any stage. You can stick the kite at 12 and leave it when fumbling about for your board like a beginner would, without much chance of the kite falling. The new bridal gives a well connected positive bar feedback, and the kite responds realty well to rider input. Re-launching is automatic and really impressive, you will struggle to keep this thing in the water! For 2010, this new Kahoona has really been made for pretty much anyone to use regardless of discipline. Wake style riders will benefit from the ability to park the kite and have the confidence it will behave itself and won't become too active without bar input. The Kahoona does not send you to the moon when jumping, but there is plenty of float and glide and learning to kiteloop or performing complex kiteloop tricks is made easy with the ability for the kite to loop at the riders chosen arc. The Kahoona is a brilliant wave riding machine as well, having great low end enabling you to put up a small kite early. The fast re-launch and the all-new stronger kite construction give you plenty of confidence when things do go wrong in the waves. The responsive well-behaved nature also helps make wave riding simple and easy. However, one area the kite does not excel is its forwards flying speed, which is typical on a kite of this aspect ratio. Big air junkies would definitely prefer the Nemesis.

FOR
Not just beginners, but advanced wave riding, free riding and wake style riders alike. It is a durable kite at an affordable price.

AGAINST
Speed sailing in high winds and high attitude freestyle is not made easy by such a deep powerful canopy.

OVERALL
The kite is priced affordabty and designed to be easy enough for the beginner entry level kitesurfer, however is it also built strong enough for the toughest of kitesurfers to learn high end wake style tricks and wave riders to give it a hard time in the biggest of surf.

AT A GLANCE

We have been getting more and more impressed with Blade kites as the years have gone by. The build quatity and finish rivals some of the top brands and the kites themselves are always exciting designs. The last time we saw a Vertigo it was a strange 5th line with bridle affair that to be honest we weren't realty fans of. The 2010 Vertigo is a different beast altogether though. A three strut flat delta design the kite has a noticeably wider arc than last year. The bridle is short and simple and has a direct connection to the rear of the kite. Three struts make the kite really light and the wing tips have changed slightly as well. The kite is pitched at the wave and freeride market boasting great turning ability and on/off depower in an instant to enhance your wave riding.

THE BAR

The bar is a clean functional design that drew a few positive comments on the beach. The grip is 3D moulded and extremely comfy to hold. There are O-Shit handles for added safety and a stopper ball should you wish to use them. The trim strap is made up of a pull-pull webbing affair, which is situated above the bar, whilst the chicken loop is very impressive too, an update to last years swivel and ropes to ensure maximum durability. The entire system also swivels so you are able to untwist your lines if you choose to spin one way with your rotations.

IN THE AIR

The Vertigo has a very light bar pressure, and you'll notice this instantly when you launch. It isn't so light that you have no feedback but riders who are used to a heavier feet may find it takes a little getting used to. Round the window the kite flies with speed and purpose. Crank on the small bar and the kite will be pivoting round its axis on demand. The Vertigo is also very stabLe and deliberate in its steering. This isn't a kite that will go wandering off line without rider input. Instead it sits there well behaved waiting to be given feedback from the rider before it does anything untoward. In the waves this is a great characteristic when you want the kite to drift down the line and allow the rider to take on the wave using minimal kite input. The kite is also happy to drift back and not stall, another quality that lends itself to more surf orientated riding. Get it into freeride mode and it is sure to put a smile on your face. The Vertigo jumps well and delivers a solid pull off the water when you send it back through the window. Just be sure to redirect it, with the light bar pressure it is easy to get out of time and end up swinging under the kite. Once you are used to the light pressure though this ceases to become an issue. The small diameter canopy profile penetrates the window well which enables you to quickly get back upwind after smacking a few tips.

FOR
Great for wave hungry riders looking for a well-behaved kite that has good drift characteristics and will allow you to surf the wave.

AGAINST
Some riders wont enjoy the light bar pressure, others will love it.

OVERALL
More than just a wave kite the Vertigo offers simple stable flying and real plug and play kiting. Three struts means you'll be on the water faster than most too!

AT A GLANCE

The Bularoo is back, but there is a twist with this kite. For years the Waroo has been the stable diet of most Best riders. Offering excellent all-round performance and great value. This year though the Waroo has changed, it utilises a Delta wing tip shape and whilst it is still an all-round freeride kite Best felt there would be too many riders sad to see the old Waroo go. The Bularoo V2 is the next version of the Waroo in its popular SLE guise. Think of it as a 2010 Waroo and the Waroo as a totally new kite. Confused? We were a little. Out of the bag though the Bularoo V2 instantly feels familiar. The curved wide arc, the thin struts and leading edge and the simple bridle all point to the Waroo of 2009. Improvements include the EZ Pump as standard and a few tweaks here and there to enhance the performance over last years kite. The build quality is excellent with plenty of reinforcement along the leading edge for seLf landing and launching. There is also a load flex seam to ensure the kite will survive the harshest of wipeouts.

THE BAR

Best have finished their new kite bar that can work across the whole kite range. The new bar comes as standard on 20m Lines which works perfectly on the 9m, however on the larger kites Best are producing an upgrade extension line set if the rider wishes to use longer lines. The bar still features a double pull down depower strap for adjusting kite trim on the go, and the chicken loop line is made up of two centre lines with a slide down stopper to adjust and set bar travel on the fly. Best have scrapped the line swivel on top of the depower strap and stuck a swivel within their all-new chicken loop. The new loop has a locking pin situated on top to lock the loop out straight for easy entry and exit when riding unhooked. The quick release is very sensitive and can release with ease under any amount of pressure. The leash system works on a false fifth line that travels through the middle of the chicken loop and up on to the two front lines. For complete safety and depower the new bar still has re-ride on both outside lines with grab handles.

IN THE AIR

If the Bularoo V2 Looked familiar out of the bag, it will certainly feel familiar in the hands! The Waroo had a healthy following because it did everything so well, waves, hangtime, freestyle and just out and out blasting were never a problem. You'll be pleased to hear the same can be said of the Bularoo V2. No matter what you throw at it the kite comes back eager for more. Sending the kite up through the power zone produces a serious amount of lift and hangtime. Unhook and the kite is well behaved and stable allowing you to pop and perform your tricks without worrying what the kite is going to do. Upwind the kite attacks the front of the window, helped by the small frame profile. The bar pressure feels about right, not overly heavy and not too light, giving the rider plenty of feedback as you ride and manoeuvre the kite around the window. In terms of who the Bularoo V2 is for it is certainly a jack of all trades. Wave heads might prefer the Kahoona but everyone else will get plenty out of the Bularoo V2. Easy and simple to fly it will entice beginners to progress faster and ensure expert riders never get bored at the same time. Kite loops are still impressive affairs and the kite doesn't suddenly accelerate or pull the rider, it delivers solid pull from start to finish.

FOR
If you liked the all-round ability of the Waroo then you'll love the Bularoo V2.

AGAINST
Not much realty, the kite is well made, flies exceptionally well no matter what the conditions are and is sure to put a smile on your face.

OVERALL
Another cracking incarnation of the Waroo, if you realty don't want to wander down the DeLta route and you love Best kites then this could well be the kite you have been looking for.