IMPORTANT: WE RIDE THE GEAR WE TEST, RESEARCH THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS AND GET VIEWS FROM A VARIETY OF SOURCES. OUR SOURCES ARE SOMETIMES INSTRUCTORS, PRO RIDERS, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT TEAMS AND ORDINARY KITERS FROM OUR LOCAL BEACH. ALL REVIEWS AIM TO GIVE YOU AN ACCURATE PICTURE OF WHAT IS NEW THIS YEAR.

Cabrinha // Drifter

In 2012 the Drifter surf kite was a breakaway success. Surfers worldwide have now come to know the benefits of “drift stability”. Drift stability, one of the Drifter’s prominent features, is the kite’s ability to stay afloat and drift downwind when the kite is de powered.

Kite Mag: This kite will allow you to power into the wave, then shut the kite, power down and surf as if the kite was not even there. The drifter is quick to re-engage and power the rider to the next section. 

Liquid Force // Envy

The Envy is an all-terrain efficiency engine, offering highly versatile, easy-access performance whether you want to shred the surf, lock into boots for wakestyle, or go high-speed blasting. This kite can do it all.

Kite Mag: This is great option for beginners to intermediate riders who want something easy to use, low fuss and stable. The Envy has a high-wind range and is one of the lightest kites on the market.

Airush // Varial X

The Varial X is known for C-Kite performance on a 4 line high de power platform. The kite has a C shape arc outline, which makes it very responsive. The swept back wing tips and bridle give it great range and relaunch capabilities.
Kite Mag: This is a stand-alone kite in a class all by itself. This is ideal for riders with aggressive handling in the waves, freestyle and free ride. Get that C kite feeling and a stability of a bridal kite, the best of both worlds. 

F-One // Bandit VI

The B6 gives a more steady traction and a less violent reaction to gusts. The rider will discover a feeling of smoothness and control. The low wind range and the legendary power of the Bandit is still there but it is even easier to bring into play.

Kite Mag: More stable, less unwanted movements (fluttering) while riding with a greater smoothness, control and less lateral force. All this added to a definite lighter feeling and a more efficient and direct feel in the bar.

Airush // Lithium

The Lithium is focused on being the do-all kite for the everyday rider. Due to its wing tip and strut positioning, the Lithium has a direct and agile feel through the turns, essential for wave and freeriding. The sweep of the Delta Hybrid design of the wingtips guarantees a hassle free and quick relaunch. 

Kite Mag: The Lithium is ideal for riders looking to do a bit of everything, whether it’s your first day, cruising, freestyle or riding waves. It’s stable and has a very impressive lower end. For heavier riders, over 80kg, this will help you keep on the water longer.

Cabrinha // Chaos

The Chaos is Cabrinha's all new competition Freestyle kite. This kite is dedicated to one thing, delivering the absolute best performance in Freestyle competition. Designed with PKRA superstar Alby Rondina, this bridled C kite represents the progression taking place in today's touring freestyle arena. 

Kite Mag: This is a technical performance kite that will help you get on the podium but it doesn't feel like a true C kite. KSS Altona’s Steve Dyson said: “The big bonus is learning freestyle tricks with this. The kite’s ability for boosting is phenomenal.” 

Wainman // Punch

The 10.5 meters Punch is the latest addition to the gang and it sits comfortably between the Smoke and Boss. It is very agile and deploys extra power when you need it. A three-strut configuration keeps the Punch very steady in a wide range of wind conditions and keeps it light.

Kite Mag: The Punch is very agile, it deploys extra power, but is still user friendly and easy to handle. It suits multiple riding styles and skills. 

Airush // Razor Team Series

This is the third year Airush have designed and released products from their pro team. New construction designs like the Aramid Load Frame technology, which is the same material found in bulletproof vests, push the design limits of kiteboarding.
 
Kite Mag: We've just flown it and the planets aligned, a few minor changes have turned the Razor into something worldly in its excellence. This is a high performer and a game changer.

Cabrinha // Switchblade

The 2013 Switchblade has been rebuilt from scratch. This is a new kite, which turns faster but remains stable for wake style tricks. It also has lighter bar pressure and is easier to relaunch. 

Kite Mag: The legendary "feel" has made the Switchblade the world's best selling kite model. This is the kite of choice for Andre Phillips. KSS Altona’s Steve Dyson said: “This is a kite you can easily progress with. For beginners, this is a great option.”

F-One // Volt 2

The Volt 2 is a Delta C Shape kite. Wave riders take note this is a viable and worthwhile. Beginners, the Volt 2 gives you confidence during your first session and great control of its power due to its depower capabilities. A good rider will be surprised at the ease with which it can aid new tricks.

Kite Mag: The Volt 2 is less famous than its big brother the Bandit. People expecting the performance of a Bandit will not be disappointed. We tested the 7m and found it to be a superstar in strong winds.

                WAINMAN // Mr Green 

Mr Green is a quick turner and is capable of pleasing every rider, no matter what the skill level or riding style. The natural gentleness mixed with nuclear potential make it a strong choice.

Kite Mag: Darren Perryman said Mr Green is a tough kite, which has severely punished in the surf. It has hit rocks and fences and has survived. 

CABRINHA // Vector

This is one of Cabrinha’s newest models and a great all-rounder. The kite’s design is based on simplicity and usability and brings the fun back to the sport. The kite has the turning speed and power delivery of a C-kite. These features make it a great choice for both advanced and less experienced riders. The Vector is all about fun and performance. It is a reliable all round flying machine.

KITE MAG: The Vector is a ripper of a kite and is fast gaining fans. The Vector is built on a hybrid platform which makes it very stable and easy to use. This is a great option if you are new to the sport.

TAKOON // Reflex

This is Takoon’s new pride and joy and it is acclaimed as one of the most versatile kites on the market. Freeride, slash waves and unhook freestyle, this kite makes you want to do it all. The four strut kite has a very large central section for maximising power output. All seams and one pump connectors have been reinforced. The bar has a very large chicken loop with PU coated de power and safety lines.

KITE MAG: Mallory said: “The low end power and wide range of the Reflex is awesome and the strong construction and easy re-launch make it a good option for schools. This kite is just out and looks hot.”

F-ONE // Volt with 5th line

F-One is always looking to improve the existing equipment and the company is not afraid to introduce new tweaks and innovations. The new Volt is a kite based on this concept, and it is intended to suit all styles, skills and weather conditions. It is the flying machine which adapts to the rider as well as to the wind and waves and offers the ultimate kiteboarding experience.

KITE MAG: Adding a 5th line to the Volt makes it the ideal teaching tool. George Tarr at Kitesurf Australia kiteschool said: “We use and recommend the M8 5th line kit on all our teaching kites, it has proven itself a 1000 times over this season.” A great entry level kite. If you have been kiting for a while, don’t under estimate it, it rocks.

Airush // Razor

As a dedicated 5-line kite, the Razor draws C-kite enthusiasts, freestyle fanatics, and wave purists with its high-end performance. The kite has plenty of power and pop but retains a smooth flight during gusts and is easy to control. The kite works best for intermediate and advanced riders, but it can be used without problems by beginners as well.

KITE MAG: The Razor was developed with the help of pro freestyle team members, Gisela Pulido and Alex Pastor. Now Bruna Kajiya is on them and our very own Simon Wichtermann. The Razor was released one year ago and it is now one of the most sought after C kites on the market.

                   AIRUSH // Sector V3    

This board is all about light wind riding and racing. The Airush R&D team spent numerous hours designing a concept called the Progressive Ride Configuration to maximise the capabilities of every board.

Kite Mag: Raceboards are hard to ride and take a while to
get used to. Enter the Sector V3, which will help you make the transition and be competitive enough to help you win races on. Add this to your kit and win! 

              F-One // Signature series

Profound changes have taken place on the Signature 5’10” and 6’0”. Kitesurfing causes more stress on boards than normal surfing so you need a board like this which is purpose built for kitesurfing.

Kite Mag: This is the board if you are a fan of cruising, a committed rider, expert surfer or a kitesurfer beginner. The range of surfboards is the most complete yet. 

                  Revo // Windspeed 

The Windspeed is made with REVO Crystal lenses, a glass lens. The design is classy and timeless.

Kite Mag: bands that we are most sensitive to allowing the natural spectrum of color to come through vividly and clearly. The result is sharp color contrast and crystal clear vis