October 2008 - The Kiteboarder Magazine

Rider: Kevin Langeree | Location: Maui | Photo: Erik Aeder
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Featured this issue:
Save the World with your Kite Pg 14
Slingshot Roots: Behind the Scenes with Jeff Logosz Pg 32
Kiteboarding Grand Cayman PG 40
TKB 2009 Gear Preview Guide PG 64
PLus:
Analyze this: Eight New Products Reviewed, Tested and Videoed Pg 54
Designer’s corner: How to Deal with Four Common Kitemares Pg 82
Workbench: Ten Tuning Tips for your Control Bar Pg 86
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Rider: Moehau Goold | Location: Tahiti | Photo: Hira
Featured Video:
NPX Does Shippigan
CLICK BOX BELOW
New from NPX, Clarissa Hempel, Andre Phillip,
Damien LeRoy and Julien Fillion talk about the
chilly but unique conditions in Shippigan, the
farthest north part of New Brunswick in Canada.
Featuring sick slider and freestyle action,
check it out!
ASNews.net, The Kiteboarder Magazine
and Kiteforum.com teamed up at Surf
Expo 2008 to crank out over 30 video
interviews to give you a sneak peak of
what’s in store for the 2009 season.
CheCk out the sCoop
on Wainman haWaii
previeW in detail
the 2009 mystiC line
see slingshot’s
streamlined neW look.
Check them out along with the “Legends”
at www.thekiteboarder.com,
www.youtube.com (keyword
The Kiteboarder Magazine) and
www.kiteforum.com.

Rider: Fone team rider (unknown) | Location: Madagascar | Photo: Gilles Calvet
New at
The Kiteboarder
Website and Store!
SEARCHALE CONTENT BY CATEGORY. STARTING IN
MID-NOVEMBER, you will be able to search back issue content b y
category including T ravel, Instructional , Gear (Designers Corner and
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New instructional DVD: My Session
Learn to kiteboard with style as IKO instructors Marie Leclerc and Mark 2 Dog
coach you through the key steps to riding upwind. By focusing on fundamental skills
like kite control and body position, “My Session” helps speed up the learning curve,
and prevent bad habits - before they start. Learn to be independent and safe -
while still having fun!
DVD only: $29.95
DVD with annual subscription: Only $39.99
New PKRA videos from Tronolone Productions:
Venezuela Kiteboarding World Cup 2008 and Chile Wave Championship 2007;
Mexico Kiteboarding World Cup 2008 and Tarifa Pro World Cup 2007. Both DVDs
have an added feature of “The Aaron and Ruben Show”
Video only: $34.95
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2009 13-month wall calendar!
Calendar only: $18.00
Calendar with annual subscription: $34.99
Available November: DVD, Calendar
and Annual Subscription Great gift or
way to start off the New Year: $52.99*
DVD choices include Something Stronger
(snowkite), The Unknown Road (surf), My Session
(beginner instructional) or PKRA (2008 comp action
with bonus footage from 2007 events)
See www.thekiteboarder.com/catalog for complete selection.
Email marina@thekiteboarder.com for int’l inquiries with
full address info for pricing.

THEKITEBOARDER.COM
‘09 ProdUct
Preview Guide:
WhaT you need To KnoW Before you Buy Pg 62
+ 10
Born & Bred in the USA:
The STory of SlingShoT Pg 32
the PUcker FActor:
SoluTionS To four Common KiTemareS Pg 82
Pro TiPs for Tuning Your Bar Pg 86

2009
HAVOC
generation 3
photo: Kraft
Silvester Ruckdaeschel
2009
recoil
kiteboard
collection
2009 HAVOC GENERATION 3 Kite
Premium SLE High Performance Freeride Kite
Freestyle/Wave/Snow
size : :6:8:10:12:14:16
2009 RECOIL Kiteboard
Freestyle
127, 130, 133, 136
havoc
Giveaway
LIQUID FORCE 2009 HAVOC 3 GIVEAWAY!!!
Win an all new HAVOC 3 COMPLETE!!!
check out WWW.LIQUIDFORCEKITES.COM
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THEKITEBOARDER.COM
‘09 PRODUCT
PREVIEW GUIDE:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY PG 62
+ 10
BORN & BRED IN THE USA:
THE STORY OF SLINGSHOT PG 32
THE PUCKER FACTOR:
SOLUTIONS TO FOUR COMMON KITEMARES PG 82
PRO TIPS FOR TUNING YOUR BAR PG 86
Martin Vari sets the cover
on fire with this monster
Indonesian shack.
Photo Stef Fournet
Features
14 Save the World
How one rider is making a difference.
40 Kiteboarding Grand Cayman
More than just world-class diving.
Born
red
&
Ryan Riccitelli interviews Jeff Legosz
in the USA
THE STORY OF SLINGSHOT 32 Slingshot Roots
Behind the scenes with Jeff Logosz.
Naish kite designer Damien Girardin tests the limits of the new gear. Photo Jon Malmberg
remember when I first heard the name Slingshot. I was sitting in Gary Martin’s (The Kiteboarder’s
Technical Editor) shop in San Diego in 2000 and was immediately attracted to their cool flame graphics
on their 35 inch Spitfire control bar and their B-Series, trainer kite. Let’s put this in perspective. Until
this point, there was really no coolness factor in kite gear. Slingshot was one of the first companies
who was strictly a kiteboarding company in an emerging market of manufacturers who produced both
windsurfing and kiteboarding gear. Their cool graphics and unique approach turned heads quickly. Based
in the “Gorge”, the Legosz brothers were no strangers to the wind industry and founded Slingshot in 1999.
The company has now grown into a globally respected kiteboarding company and has innovated dozens of
products that have helped our sport evolve over the years. Slingshot has since expanded into the wakeboarding
market and is continuing to push the limits in that industry as well. I caught up with Jeff Legosz this summer to
document some of the history of Slingshot and also to give the world a peek into what drives this company.
64 TKB 2009 Gear Preview Guide
In-depth info on 14 new products.
i
Departments
22 OG
Chucktown’s Chris Councell-Donavan
36 Close Up
Real’s “Lulu” Vronman and Freak Dog’s Gary Rhodes.
54 Analyze This
The TKB test team’s take on eight new products.
68 Instructional
How to deal with four common kitemares.
86 Workbench
Ten tuning tips for your control bar.

THINK
The Kiteboarder Certified
T
he majority of kiteboarders who are reading this message are probably beyond
the point of choosing a kite school, but it’s very important that everyone read
on and hear what I have to say. Kiteboarding has been around for over a decade, yet
it blows my mind how backwards this sport can be. New kiters come into the sport
green as ever googling their way to find the cheapest gear and lessons online, never
knowing they could be potentially setting themselves up for disaster. We have all seen
it. The guy who shows up at the beach setting up his 2002 C-kite backwards in the
most dangerous spot on the launch. You go up to talk to him and he tells you how he
just bought the kite off the internet for $150 bucks and watched an instructional video.
As you try and reason with him telling him to take lessons, he gets offended and snaps
back that he should be fine, because he has water skied for years. You then notice
that his bar is modified and looks like it should have been retired a decade ago. The
saddest part is that kiteboarders like you and I are fueling this problem by ditching our
old gear for pennies on the dollar to anyone and everyone who will take the bait.
Paul squeezes in a session before an event.
Photo Jeremie Leucadey
Selling antiquated gear online is only half the problem. The other problem that new
kiters face is trying to find a legitimate school for lessons. IKO and PASA certified
are acronyms thrown around like they guarantee a school’s quality and legitimacy.
This is a huge fallacy. While these organizations intentions are good, they DO NOT
guarantee that a school has proper insurance or permits, or even a business license
to do lessons. Just because an instructor has taken an instructor’s course with one of
these organizations, does not mean they are qualified, insured or have the experience
to be out there teaching people to kite. Just like regular teachers, if they pass the
mustard and tests set by the governing body, they get their certification and ID card.
I can’t tell you how many lessons we have seen walk through the door or show up
randomly at our beach who have taken hours of budget lessons and have no clue
about many of the most basic fundamentals of learning to kite. In a sport that can often
have little margin for error, it is imperative that new and veteran kiters advocate and
patronize legitimate, insured schools.
You will do the overall livelihood and sustainability of this sport a world of good by
doing your homework when either choosing or referring kiters to qualified schools. In
the next two months, The Kiteboarder Magazine is going to create a school certification
and master list called The Kiteboarder Certified Schools. This list will highlight schools
around the world who hold insurance and have certified instructors. There will be no
cost to be on this list. Any school who wishes to be added must fax a copy of their
insurance and/or certifications to 805.457.1539. Our goal is to create a cumulative list
of schools that you can trust. The best analogy I can use for this is, would you go eat or
refer a friend to eat at a restaurant that did not have a health permit? I don’t think so.
So to all of you new kiters getting into the sport or seasoned veterans looking to
keep this sport alive, please do the right thing whenever buying or selling gear on the
internet or choosing or referring a kite school.
eNJOY!
10 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 11

EDITOR RYAN RICCITELLI
ryan@thekiteboarder.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR PAUL LANG
ART DIRECTOR SHANA GORONDY
TECHNICAL EDITOR GARY MARTIN
EDITOR AT LARGE ALEXIS ROVIRA
STAFF INTERNS ZACH KLEPPE, KURT MILLER,
DALLAS McMAHON
SENIOR WRITERS
Marina Chang, Paul Lang, James Brown, Gary Martin
EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS
Neil Hutchinson, Joe Bidawid, Lou Wainman, Paul Menta, Kevin “Top Hat”
Senn, Gregg Gnecco, Henry Dupont IV, Bill Lee, Paul Lang, Cliff Stone, Stefan
Ruether, Jeff Burton, Corky Cullen, John Romais, Eric Akiskalian, Ben Wilson,
Ruca Chang, Mira Kwon, Mike Danish, Mike Hedlund, Rick Iossi, Toby Brauer,
Jeff Howard, Hunter Brown, Dave Loop
CONTRIBUTORS
Steve Benaron, Lydia Snider, Chris Donovan, Bob Stalker, Jeff Logosz, Mike
Minichiello, Gillian Watson, Peter Stiewe, Pat Goodman, Ian Ponting, Peter
Schiebel, Jozef Bukovcak, Dimitri Maramenides, Raphael Salles, Eric Hertsens,
Julien Fillion, Max Blom Jr, Vanessa Ho, Damien Girardin, Tony Logosz, John
Doyle, Kinsley Wong, Brendan Richards, David Hastilow, Paul Menta, Todd
Thibodeux, Craig Young, Nico Ostermann, Audrey Meyer, Jason Slezak, Sonny
Freeman, Benoit Gauther, Sam Bell, Ben Wilson
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
Paul Lang, Kim Kern, Paul Javier, James Brown, Morton Skoll, Carol Bolstad,
Gregg “Tekko” Gnecco
PHOTOGRAPHY
Gavin Butler, Tracy Kraft, Stephen Whitesell, Chris Cifers, Henry Rico, Erik
Aeder, Eric Hertsens, Jason Wolcott, Steve Rafuse, Gillian and AJ Watson/
Cross-shore.com, Ben Kotke, Jon Malberg, Bryan Elkus, jesse hawk, Eric
Smail, John Pereira, Erin Loscocco, Todd Marti, MacKite.com, Chris Councelll-
Donovan, Sam Scrofani, Tom Clark, Chris Moore, Gilles Calvet, Mystic, Gabriella
Soos, Will Schouten, Roberto Foresti/Canon, Carol Bolstad, Henry Rico, Roby
Dillette, Stef Fournet, David Hastilow, Jim Stringfellow, Jadie De Lile, Chris
Riccitelli, Brendan Richards, Eric Marchand/Aerosport.ca, Luke Bilger, Homie
Bust, Carlos Altamirano, Anthony Spencer, Will Caldwell, Jerome Latapie, Matt
McFarland, Jesus Ponce, Cheryle Battrum, Hira, Nikki Riccitelli, shotbydoc.com,
catchsomeair.us, Mike Bradley, kiteboarding.com, Joris Lugtigheid, Cautionkites.
com, Linn Svendsen, Melissa Gil, Crazy Fly, shotbydoc.com
Thanks to all editorial and photography contributors for supporting this magazine!
Visit us on:
www.thekiteboarder.com
www.asnews.net
www.theringmedia.com
www.fubar.com/asnews
www.myspace.com/theringmedia
PUBLISHER
MARINA CHANG
marina@thekiteboarder.com
(805) 459-2373
ADMINISTRATIVE/ADVERTISING OFFICE
1356 16th Street
Los Osos CA 93402
(805) 459-2373
EDITORIAL OFFICE
The Kiteboarder Compound
14610 Villa Maria Isabel
Corpus Christi, Texas 78418
SUBSCRIPTIONS
subscriptions@thekiteboarder.com
www.thekiteboarder.com/catalog
(805) 459-2373
The Kiteboarder Magazine is a subsidiary of The Ring Media Inc.
Copyright 2008 by The Ring Media Inc. All rights reserved.
PRINTED IN USA
WHEN THE NEXT
BATTLE BEGINS,
THERE IS NEED
FOR NEW WARRIORS
The story continues.......................................
WWWMYSTICBOARDINGCOM
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launch
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Caution’s Going Green “trade in your trash for cash” promo can help earn you a
brand new kite for your old gear. Photo Kim Kern
Save the
W rld
with Your Kite Bag
BY PauL LaNg
Will that be paper or plastic?
when asked this on your next trip to the grocery store, you might have a unique answer: “Neither. i brought my kite.”
thanks to the efforts of Lydia Snider and her new company Kitecycle, you will be able to help reduce the amount of plastics
in our ocean by replacing disposable bags with durable ones made out of products headed for the dumpster: oLd KiteS.
The ubiquitous disposable plastic bags seem to be everywhere
in our lives. They clutter the kitchen drawers we stuff them
into, tumble in the breeze, get stuck in trees, and end up in the
ocean where they litter our playground and kill animals, who
often mistake the floating bags for food. It is estimated that
a mere 1 to 3 percent of plastic bags get recycled. Over 500
billion plastic bags are produced every year, and the 97 to 99
percent of them that are not recycled end up in landfills, as
litter, or in our oceans.
While standing in line at the grocery store, Lydia came up
with the idea for Kitecycle. “When the flat kite made C-kites
less popular, I thought about the yards and yards of nonbiodegradable
material that would be heading for the landfill and
began thinking about a viable way to recycle old kites. I noticed
the irony that many of the reusable bags being sold to reduce the
use of plastic bags were also made of plastic. Their production
still impacts the environment. By building reusable bags from
something that would otherwise be thrown away, Kitecycle is
able to help the environment twice – by reducing the use of
plastic bags and by reducing a stream of new plastic production.”
According to Lydia, she can make 10 to 12 bags from one 12
meter kite. Kitecycle will be making bags in two sizes, 18x24
inches for groceries and 22x16 inches for trips to the mall. Each
will be completely unique. Lydia is currently working with the
Santa Cruz County Workability program to incorporate building
bags into their curriculum for students with developmental
disabilities. Lydia said, “The staff is excited about the project,
as it requires practical application of many of the skills the
program wants to teach and it is an interesting and meaningful
project for the kids.”
Currently, the main source for the old kites is the Going Green
promotion being offered by Caution Kites. Customers can get up
to $400 off a new kite if they trade in an old kite. Lydia happens
to live around the corner from Caution’s headquarters and
said, “It was synchronicity. Caution was working on a trade-in
promotion to give customers the opportunity to upgrade while
getting old and dangerous second-hand kites off the market.
At about the same time, I showed up with prototypes of the
shopping bags and it just made sense to combine the two ideas.”
Kitecyle will also be accepting direct donations of old gear, and
once their tax-exempt status is approved you will be able to
receive a tax deduction for getting rid of your obsolete gear. By
using recycled kites to bring your groceries home you can help
reduce the production of plastic bags, reduce pollution in our
environment, keep old and unsafe kites off the market, support
employment of students with developmental disabilities, and look
stylish while picking up the milk. Sounds like a good deal to me.
More Information:
Kitecycle: http://www.kitecycle.org
Caution Kites Going Green: http://www.cautionkites.com/green
Sample of the finished product in action.
Photo: Kim Kern
A trunk full of old kites ready
for delivery to Lydia.
Photo Cautionkites.com
Founder Lydia Snider works on a new bag.
Photo Kim Kern
Other Green Products from the Surf Industry
ProductS that caN heLP aNY oceaN uSer LeSSeN their imPact oN the eNviroNmeNt.
Biofoam: Earth-friendly surfboard blanks -www.homeblownus.com
Offered by surf blank manufacturer Homeblown, about 50% of the material that goes into making a Biofoam
blank comes from agricultural products as opposed to petrochemicals. According to the manufacturer,
Biofoam surf blanks result in 36% less global warming emissions, a 61% reduction in non-renewable
energy use, and a 23% reduction in total energy demand.
PatagoNia wetSuitS: More warmth and environmentally conscious -www.patagonia.com
Patagonia has always been a very environmentally conscious company, but by using recycled polyester,
chlorine-free wool, PVC-free kneepads, and thinner (but just as effective) neoprene layers in the
construction of their wetsuits, they are able to keep you warm and comfortable and reduce your suit’s
impact on the environment.
reef greeNwaLL SaNdaL: Just as much style with a smaller impact -www.reef.com
Reef has integrated organic canvas, hemp, soy fiber, recycled post-industrial waste, and water-based
paints and cements into their Greenwall sandal. The result is a comfortable piece of footwear built from
renewable resources and material diverted from the landfill.
wet womeN Surf wax: Non-toxic, biodegradable, and compostable -www.wetwomensurfwax.com
The surf wax sold by Wet Women is made of safe biological nutrients that completely break down over time.
They claim that their wax is certified and scientifically proven to be completely harmless to the ecosystems
it is used in.
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411/smack
LA VENTANA BUILDERS FULLFILLS
NEEDS OF LOCAL KIDS
By Tim Hatler/Palapas Ventana | Photos Eric Smail
In the small Baja town of La Ventana and its neighbor El Sargento, funding for public schools is
very scarce. Their biggest primary school with 200 students had only one bathroom which didn’t
work and had no hand washing station. In January 2008, the La Ventana Classic and KiteXpo
organized by Palapas Ventana and The Kiteboarder Magazine set its sights on raising money to
help the local schools. With major contributions from Hands of Faith and La Ventana Builders,
along with funds raised from participating manufacturers in the KiteXpo demo, kiteboarding
competitors and raffle ticket sales, the event raised enough money to paint the entire primary
school and build a new bathroom, as well as buy playground toys for the kindergarten.
Mike Donahoe and Brooke Thomasser of La Ventana Builders built the bathroom at their cost
only and it has just been finished. It will be ready for the students when they return from summer
vacation. This new six stall building complete with two sinks is a great improvement and the
teachers and parents are very pleased. Be sure to make room for the 2009 La Ventana Classic
and KiteXpo, scheduled to take place January 22 through the 25. We’ll be bringing back the
11-mile crossing from Isla Ceralvo to La Ventana, short course buoy races and freestyle event
along with the free demo event where you’ll be able to see and try out a ton of new 2009 gear.
Thanks to all who made it happen!
Eclipse co-founder Chris Cousins
thinks he may have a new
modeling career. Photo Eclipse
18 thekiteboarder.com
The primary school now has six new stalls.
The partners of La Ventana Builders generously donated their time
and materials at cost to help build the new bathrooms. Author Best’s Mark new Ribkoff NY center now has something many state-of-art to smile about.
teaching aids for on and off the water training.
Tim from Palapas Ventana at the school’s
celebration for the new play sets.
A little girl enjoys the kindergarten’s
new play set.
Lessons are conducted in flat, shallow water.
RIDE THE ‘09
LIQUID FORCE HAVOC
FOR FREE
By TKB Staff | Photo courtesy LF
Liquid Force is so stoked about the release of
their new 2009 Generation 3 Havoc’s that they
are kicking off their launch with a free kite!
LF Rep Gregg Tekko concocted the promotion
to motivate riders to check out the new bells
and whistles on the Havoc, LF’s top of the line
premium performance SLE for ’09. Reviewed
in Analyze This and featured in The Designer’s
Corner 2009 Preview Guide this issue, Liquid
Force was finalizing the details at press time,
so to get the true 411 on how you could win
yourself a free 2009 Havoc SLE, surf over to
www.liquidforcekites.com
BEST LAUNCHES
FIRST INDOOR KITE GYM
By TKB Staff | Photos John Pereira
Best Kiteboarding opened its first kiteboarding center this June
in Amity Harbor, NY, just a one-hour train ride from Penn Station.
The waterfront facility includes a retail shop and the first indoor
“kite gym” specifically developed for kiteboarding instruction,
which has a trampoline set-up and a pro coach on location to
teach the latest moves on and off the water. Beginners will also
enjoy an interactive wind zone and many other instructional
gadgets. The center offers a complete instructional program
for beginners to pro, with radio helmets for real-time coaching
and jet ski support. Instruction takes place in the shallow waters
of the Great South Bay, which offers some of the best learning
and riding conditions in the country. Enzo Merluzzi, one of the
most respected members for the New York Area kite community,
has been actively involved in kiteboarding instruction for over 8
years and is managing the facility. For more information, contact
nykitecenter@bestkiteboarding.com.
Dimitri shows off the new branded kites.
Photo Rachel Hastilow
Photo Erin Loscocco
Smack Smack
Over 400 people attended a celebration
ceremony for Ryan Jones in the Presidio,
San Francisco, on Sunday, July 27, 2008.
Known for regularly pulling up to Crissy
Field on his bicycle with his kite and board
in tow, Ryan’s infectious smile, positive
attitude and warm heart impacted all
those came in contact with him. Ryan was
the Volunteer and Education Coordinator
in the Site Stewardship Program at the
Parks Conservancy in San Francisco and
touched many peoples’ lives in a positive
way. He was sent off by kiters who rode
out from Crissy to the middle of the bay and
released his ashes in a place that brought
him so much joy. To commemorate Ryan,
his passion and impact in the Golden Gate
National Parks, the Parks Conservancy has
established the “Ryan Jones Program Fund.”
www.inmemoryofryanjones.blogspot.com
Eclipse Kiteboarding is pleased to announce
that they have relocated their headquarters
to the new Kitty Hawk Kite Resort in Waves,
NC. Chris Cousins, president of Eclipse, said
that their new location will allow kiters the
opportunity to meet directly with the owners
of Eclipse and demo new gear anytime at no
charge, as well as participate in advanced
riding clinics with Dimitri Maramenides
and other promotional events. The area’s
steady constant winds allow kiteboarders to
ride consistently, perfect for the company’s
ongoing R&D. The miles and miles of shallow
waters create an amazing flat water riding
paradise and the area directly in front of the
new location is shallow enough to stand up
with a sand bottom surface. A short walk just
across the street features ocean riding, with
world class waves.
thekiteboarder.com 19

ask the md
Photo Paul Lang
monteZuma’s revenGe
By Dr. Steve Benaron, Emergency Medicine Specialist
Montezuma’s revenge, otherwise know as “turista” or travelers’ diarrhea (TD) is the most
common illness in persons traveling to third world countries, largely in tropical and Central
South America, Mexico, Africa and Asia. Approximately 40 to 60 percent of travelers to these
countries may develop diarrhea. Episodes of TD are nearly always benign and self-limited,
but the dehydration that can complicate an episode may be severe and pose a greater health
hazard than the illness itself. Nevertheless, it is possible to educate a traveler to manage an
episode without compromising either their trip or their health.
Diarrheal disease in travelers may be caused by a variety of bacterial, viral, and parasitic
organisms, which are most often transmitted by food and water. Most episodes of TD occur
between 4 and 14 days after arrival. The illness is generally self-limited with symptoms
lasting for approximately one to five days.
symptoms
The classic symptoms of TD generally produces malaise, loss of appetite, and abdominal
cramps, followed by the sudden onset of watery diarrhea. Nausea and vomiting also may
occur. Rarely is there blood in the stool or a low grade fever. Belching and other upper
abdominal symptoms are not typical of TD.
Since TD is generally self-limited, treatment is often for symptom relief only. However, if
symptoms are severe and associated with toxicity, or if they persist beyond 48 to 72 hours,
intervention may be necessary.
treatmeNt — The treatment of TD may include three different modalities:
• fluid replacement • antibiotics • antidiarrheal agents
Fluid replacement is essential; antibiotics and Antidiarrheal agents may be required
depending upon the circumstances. Most cases are self-limited and resolve on their own within three
to five days of treatment with fluid replacement only. Antimicrobial therapy shortens the disease
duration to about one day and Antidiarrheal agents may limit symptoms to a period of hours.
milder symptoms may be treated with alternating sips of fluids with both salt and sugar to replace
and maintain hydration. Jell-O, broth, fruit juice, or similar fluids may be used. Pedialyte is frequently
useful with children. It is important to recognize the value of a combination of sugars and salt in the
solution to aid in intestinal absorption.
severe symptoms should be treated with oral rehydration solution; this replaces needed electrolytes
in the appropriate concentrations.
Packets of oral rehydration solution are available in the pharmacies of most countries and can be mixed
with clean drinking water. Alternatively, a similar solution can be made by adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt,
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 4 tablespoons of sugar to one liter (around 4 cups) of water. The
electrolyte concentrations of fluids used for sweat replacement (e.g. Gatorade) are not equivalent. The
diet while there are symptoms should only be clear liquids (Jell-O is ok), and for 12 to 24 hours after
symptoms clear. Then, advance the diet first with bland foods and slowly return to a healthy diet.
If the symptoms are greater than four TD episodes in 24 hours, then antibiotics may be very
helpful. Other symptoms of fever, blood, puss, or mucus in the stool will benefit by antibiotics. In
addition, some travelers may desire antibiotic treatment for milder disease if the illness is a large
burden on a business trip or vacation.
Medical help may be needed in patients who develop high fever, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, or
vomiting and empiric antibiotics have not been of benefit. For most patients while traveling or after
returning home, medical consultation is not needed unless symptoms persist for 10 to 14 days.
The most common antibiotic used for TD is Cipro (500mg twice a day). This antibiotic should not be used
by pregnant women, children or people who have a sensitivity or allergy to it. This antibiotic should lead to
resolution of diarrheal symptoms in the majority of travelers within one day. Although two to three
days should be sufficient for the majority of episodes of TD, a single dose of ciprofloxacin or similar
antibiotic may also be effective.
Azithroimycin ( Zithromax) is a good alternative and is safe in children and pregnancy. In Southeast
Asia, resistance has been developing to some of the bacteria sensitive to Cipro, therefore azithromycin
would be the antibiotic of choice. Check with the Center for Disease Control or your healthcare provider
to research your area of travel and noted resistance to antibiotics.
20 thekiteboarder.com
Rifaximin (200mg three times a day) is a non-absorbed antibiotic
that remains in the intestinal tract. This antibiotic is a very reasonable
alternative to cipro and azithromycin.
It is recommended that the patient be given enough pills for three
days of therapy. Patients who are not completely well at 24 hours
have the option of completing the three day course or stopping
sooner if they are well.
Travelers often elect to take antidiarrheal agents in certain
circumstances (e.g., a prolonged bus or car trip). Particular vigilance
about hydration is important in these patients since the antidiarrheal
drugs do not kill the pathogen causing the diarrhea or stop the loss of
fluids within the intestines. Patients may be unaware of how much
fluid they are losing into their intestine since they are no longer having
frequent bowel movements. I do not recommend anti-motility
agents for mild to moderate TD. If used for more severe symptoms,
they should be administered only in conjunction with antibiotic
treatment. Antidiarrheal agents should be stopped if abdominal pain
or other symptoms worsen or if the diarrhea continues to persist or
worsen after two days.
prevention
Topic
Photo Todd Marti
The best way to treat travelers’ diarrhea is to prevent it! Most diarrheacausing
organisms are water-born, passed on in untreated water or by
food handlers who have not washed their hands adequately. There are
several means by which travelers can reduce their risk of developing a
diarrheal illness, including the following:
• Improving food and drink selection
• Water purification
• Prophylactic medications
• Ice in drinks is not safe unless made from adequately boiled
or filtered water
• Fruit salads, lettuce, or chicken salads are examples of unwise
food choices; the ingredients may have been improperly
washed and/or may have been sitting for some time without
proper refrigeration
• Condiments on the table can frequently become contaminated
and should be avoided
Hot tea or coffee is usually a safe alternative to boiled water.
Bottled drinks should be requested without ice and should be drunk
from the bottle. Fruits that can be peeled are safe as long as they are
peeled just prior to eating.
Prophylactic antibiotics prevent the majority of diarrheal disease in
travelers, but cannot be recommended unless the complications of diarrhea
or an underlying medical condition make the consequence of dehydration so
severe that the benefits of using antibiotic prophylaxis outweigh the risks.
Remember that traveling in developing countries can be very
adventurous. Being prepared with the right medical information,
along with the proper first aid kit and medications, can often make
a difficult event into a very manageable one.
Dr. Steve Benaron is an avid surfer
and kiteboarder on the Central Coast of
California. He is a specialist in Emergency
Medicine and has been in active practice
since 1984. His entire family of four
kiteboards and can be found on any given
day tearing it up in Pismo Beach, CA.
Courtesy Mackite.com
Smack
Cabrinha and Island Riders in New York will
be hosting a race series Friday evenings on
the Great South Bay throughout August and
September. The Cabrinha Great South Bay
Race series hosted by Island Riders is an open
format race for anyone who can go upwind,
and is a great chance to get into some fun
course racing. Local pros like Jon Modica from
Cabrinha will be making spot appearances
and sharing racing tips. Island Riders will be
also be hosting an East Coast Kiteboarding
for Cancer (KB4C) event in late September or
early October. Hoping to duplicate or exceed
the success of the Hood River, Oregon, event
founded by Tonia Farman and Dr. Garrett Zallen,
organizer Zach Gottfried expects a large
turnout by the greater NYC and surrounding
kiteboarding communities. See
www.islandriders.com for complete info.
Mackite’s annual King Of the Great Lakes
(KOGL) kiteboarding competition is testimony
to how far kiting the Great Lakes has come.
The 7th annual competition has grown from
just a few locals competing for bragging
rights to yearly event that draws pro riders
like Damien Leroy, Jon Modica, Kevin Steen
and Agression’s GS to name a few. This
yea’rs event will be held at Mackite’s new
lesson center and beachside shop, the
MacShack, on Muskegon’s Pere Marquette
Beach October 3, 4 and 5. The KOGL has
been pushed back a month to ensure strong
consistent winds and the ability for riders
to demo the newly released 2009 gear. New
kiters and visitors are often amazed by what
the west Michigan shoreline has to offer.
The emerald water often gets as warm as 75
degrees and stays that way into the early fall.
The prevailing winds have worked for ages to
build miles of massive sand dunes that create
a magnificent backdrop for downwinders.
Check www.mackiteboarding.com for up to
date details.
thekiteboarder.com 21

TIPS FROM AN OG
By Marina Chang Courtesy Chris Councelll-Donovan
Name: Chris Councell-Donavan
Street Name: Mom, Miss Chris
age: 50
Hood: Chucktown (Charleston), SC
rootS: Wisconsin, scuba, snow skiing,
water skiing, surf kayaking
ProfeSSioN: Real Estate Agent –
specializing in finding properties near
the best kiting areas in the world
www.hometocharleston.com
ride: 125 twin tip Jimmy Lewis
SyStem: Kayak Rodeo, North Vegas
favorite SPotS: It’s a secret, but it is
somewhere between the Isle of Palms
and Sullivan’s Island
HeroeS: God, for creating the winds
that lift my kite and my spirits;
Davey Blair for his contagious
enthusiasm; Sammy Bell for teaching
me to kite; my husband Bruce for
chasing me and my kite up and down
the beach; my kids for living out
their passion and Mom and Dad for
teaching me to find adventure in life.
ClaimS: Winning a doubles surf
kayaking contest by doing a
handstand on the bow as we raced
down the face of a hurricane wave
Chances are that if you’ve ever kited in
“Chucktown,” your path has run across Chris
Councell-Donavan. The mother of eight, Chris
started kiteboarding at 46 after seeing a
few kiters catching air off the Isle of Palms
in Hatteras. Four years later, she obsessively
checks the daily wind forecast and can be
found on the water whenever it blows. What
does she love the most about the sport? Chris
said experiencing the thrill of life and the
awesome power of God at the same time. Her
first kites were hand-me-downs from pro rider
and local Chucktown boy, Davey Blair.
video RevieWs
when I was 45 5. Spend the time and money to take lessons
www.freakdogkites.com 386.506.8877 402B SeaBreeze Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL. USA 32118
from an experienced instructor.
featured dvdS aNd maNY more at
www.thekiteboarder.com/catalog
New dog designs by Tony Otto IronHorseTattoos.com Las Vegas, NV 702.866.6300
22 thekiteboarder.com
Chris cruising in Hatteras.
The Councell-Donvovan family’s kite taxi.
Chris and family on Costa Rica surf trip.
tiPS:
1. Don’t miss out on the spiritual aspect of the
sport. Wind in Hebrew means “Holy Spirit” and in
Japanese means “vital force in living creatures.”
2. When it comes to wind and storm conditions,
listen to your intuition and go with your gut –
not the other kiters on the beach.
3. Don’t kite further from shore than you are
willing to swim.
4. Find a friend or partner to learn with – it’s
more fun!
PKRA
By James Brown
Tronolone Productions is following and documenting the
PKRA world cup for another boundary pushing season.
The difference is that instead of releasing one video for
the entire season, they are putting together a full DVD
for each stop of the tour. An added bonus is that they
have included footage from one event from the previous
season as well as action from The Aaron and Ruben
Show which features top competitors Aaron Hadlow and
Ruben Lenten. The skill level at the top level of the sport
is just something that has to be seen. Check it out.
Mexico KiteboARding
WoRld cuP 2008
And tARifA Kite
PRo WoRld cuP 2007
The Mexico event features blue/
green water, swimming with dolphins,
Mayan dancers, insane freestyle,
course racing, and jumping into Cenote’s near Playa
Del Carmen. Tarifa is beautiful and had strong winds
that built to 50 knots, which made for a good show. The
topless beach action and nightlife are a plus in Tarifa
where having a lisp is actually cool.
BoNuS: The Aaron & Ruben Show featuring Alvaro Oneiva.
ruNNiNg time: 50+ minutes
VenezuelA KiteboARding
WoRld cuP 2008
And chile WAVe
PRo WoRld cuP 2007
The Venezuela section will make
your head spin as both the men and
women throw down the toughest
handle passes, kiteloops and combinations of both. This
location produced steady wind and flat water to really
let the freestyle riding shine. Special interviews give a
glimpse into what it takes to be one of the top riders
in the world. The 2007 wave contest in Chile was the
first wave discipline event on the PKRA. It showcased
some of the best wave riders around on pristine 6 to 8
foot waves which made for amazing surf conditions and
huge kickers for launching massive freestyle moves.
BoNuS: The Aaron & Ruben Show featuring Mark Shinn.
ruNNiNg time: 50+ minutes
avaiLaBLe at
www.thekiteboarder.com and www.tronolone.com
Re-VolVe
If you haven’t had a chance
to check out this FREE online
video, you are missing out. Video
editing magician Andy Gordon
has created the most eye-popping view of kiteboarding
you’ve ever seen. It doesn’t hurt that it features Aaron
Hadlow, top Flexifoil rider and four time PKRA world
champion. Aaron throws down the biggest, highly
technical moves on the planet. It is truly a treat to watch.
BoNuS: Andy’s previous film InVent is also available.
ruNNiNg time: 12 minutes
to watch, go to: www.hadlowpro.com
thekiteboarder.com 23

Bob squeezes in a session before
teaching. Photo James Brown
By Marina Chang
When did you first get exposed to kiteboarding and
when did you start? At Lake mcConaughy, ne, in 2001
we saw some kites on the beach. I had seen it on the
internet and wanted to see more. the local crew of about
six guys told me to hang around and watch. they took me
under their wing as the OG and showed me what they
knew. We sold all our standup jet ski’s and I bought my
first kites. the rest is history!
What made you decide to get into the kiteboarding
retail business and lessons? my wife and I saw some
property for sale with a home and a large building that
was being used as an auto repair shop, close to Lake
mcConaughy. We decided to try to buy it for a retirement
place. After our offer was accepted we were sitting on the
beach at the lake one night and I looked at my wife and said,
“Why don’t we open up a kiteboarding center in the old auto
repair shop?” so we did! I just retired as a 25-year air traffic
controller so we can live the dream all summer long!
What brands do you represent and why? Best is our
current school sponsor. they stepped right up and gave
us a great shot at starting the school with state-of-theart
equipment. We are a small shop so we stick to what
works for us and for now, that’s Best.
What is the kiteboarding scene like in your area?
We started out as a small group of seven or so kiters
hanging out helping each other. We have 20 miles of
white sandy beach so there’s lots of room for everybody.
What make it special in your view? With the
wide open launch spaces, we can all get along.
everybody seems to help each other out when it
comes to launching or landing kites. Our group
is expanding for sure. Whereas there used to be
only six or seven kites out, now it’s not unusual
to see 20 to 30 kites at a time. the lake we ride
on is 3 miles wide and 20 miles long so we can
spread out in all directions when we need to.
shop talk
the kite ranch
OWNER: Bob Stalker, co-owner with my wife, Billie
NICKNAME: THE OLD GUY
AGES: 50
LOCATION: Lake McConaughy, NE
RIDING FOR HOW LONG: 7 years
FAVORITE CONDITIONS: Side-on 20-25
knots with 4-5 foot rollers on Lake McConaughy
24 thekiteboarder.com
Do you teach year round or seasonally?
Our season runs from the beginning of
may riding with wet or dry suits. By mid-
June, we are riding in swim suits through
the end of september.
What is your idea of a perfect day?
side-on conditions, 20-25 knots, riding the
4 to 5 foot rollers that kick up on the lake
with my buddies! Having all our friends
close by to yell out on the water when
they do new tricks or just hang out on the
beach is always fun.
Any issues or everything all good?
everything is good for now. We still deal
with the occasional new kiter that puts
a kite too close to some campers. We
usually back each other up and tell that person right away
this is how to do it. We don’t ever want to jeopardize our
riding spot.
How does your shop support the kiteboarding
community? most of our kiters are from the front range
of Colorado, three hours away. We have offered free
lessons and trainer kites as draw gifts to the local Kites
and Castles event that is held here every July at Lake
mcConaughy. We are here to answer any questions new
kiters to the area might have when they arrive at the lake.
Are you involved in helping the local community
in general? We belong to the local Ogallala Chamber
of Commerce. We help them promote Lake mcConaughy
at their booth at all the expo’s they attend in Denver
and nebraska.
What tips can you offer kiteboarders who want
to learn your area? Go online and check out
www.lakemcconaughy.com or our site at
www.thekiteranch.com.
What is the best time of the year to learn and what
kind of conditions do you teach in? If you don’t mind
some cold water, our early season has good wind. midsummer
is hot with warm water and lighter winds. Fall
brings our best wind with warm water and cool nights.
early to mid-summer, we teach in deep water with full jet
ski support. Later in the year we are able to find shallow
water to teach in through the end of the season.
Where do you draw riders from? mainly the front
range of Colorado, but we have had people from Omaha
and the western slopes of Colorado come our way.
What tips can you offer experienced kiters who
want to come kite your area? Check the local weather
reports for wind forecast at: www.nws.noaa.gov Have a
full range of kites; we mostly use 9 thru 17 meter kites.
What tips can you offer visiting kiteboarders who
want to hook up with local riders and kite in your
area? Go to the Rocky mountain Kiters Assocaiation
(RmKA) yahoo group for front range of Colorado riders, or
come to our website at www.thekiteranch.com.
The lake provide ample room for land and water lessons.
Photo Sam Scrofani
Photo Tom Clark
Smack Smack
Two new exciting competition events have
popped onto the North American scene to
complete the 2008 year. The Cocoa Beach
Hilton in Florida, in cooperation with Xrated
Kiteboarding, Kitetricity Kiteboarding and The
Kiteboarder Magazine, will host a freestyle
pro-am competition on November 7, 8 and
9. With a $5-10k minimum purse, the event
will also kick off one of the first stops on
the Collegiate Kiteboarding Association’s
2008/2009 tour. Details are still in the works
so check the news at www.thekiteboarder.
com or www.collegiatekiteboarding.com for
complete details.
Three days later just 30 minutes from Miami,
the beautiful Caribbean island of Bimini will
kick off the first annual “Bimini Winds” event,
presented by the Bimini Bay Resort and
Adventure Sports Miami in cooperation with the
Bahamas Tourism Board. From November 12
through 16, kiteboarders, friends and families
are invited for a week of comps including pro
course racing and a kicker/slider contest, as
well as beginner to advanced lessons and all
around fun. Three schools will be on hand for
lessons during the five-day event and for nonkiters
or in case of no wind, Bimini offers shark
and wild dolphin dives, spearfishing, kayaking,
SUP boards and plenty more to keep everyone
entertained. See www.adventuresportsmiami.
com for registration and more info.
www.kiteboarding.com
has started a unique
new Team Member
program where you
and your buddies can
earn 3% discounts and
credits on gear and
accessories. Just go online to sign up and you
will receive a unique code to place on business
cards and hand out to friends and other kiters.
Anytime someone makes a purchase on
kiteboarding.com and enters your unique code,
you and buyer will earn an automatic credit.
The program costs $15 to become a member
and includes a kiteboarding.com t-shirt and
supply of business cards.

letteRs What Our readers
Rider: Joe Ruscito | Great South Bay, NY | Photo: Gavin Butler
WHAT’S UP DOC?
Dear Editor:
I really like The Kiteboarder Magazine for the great balance of
reviews (people, places, techniques and gear), plus the brilliant
photography. The gear reviews in particular are very useful.
Overall - inspiring. Keep up the good work.
Best wishes,
Dr. David Millar/Australia
Director, Medicine and Design
Readers like you inspire us to do what we do. Hopefully we will
one day cross paths and catch a session—Ed.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE KITEBOARDER MAGAzINE?
Dear Editor:
I decided to send you a letter and let you know what I like about your magazine. The instruction
is well thought out, clear and concise. Too many things to think about make learning any move
a pain. Outside of kite lessons, everything I learned was by feel and only one or two thoughts
throughout the move.
The travel parts of your magazine give you an eye for where you want to go on your next kiting
vacation. You get a feel for what the prices are by going to a travel website and entering the
info from your magazine. Also you see places where you have already kited and the info usually
matches your own experience.
The last thing I like about your magazine is that the printing is first rate and much better than the
other kiting magazines. I used to print furniture brochures, and I can tell that the paper, pics and
layout are first class, in fact that’s why I always renew my subscription w/o asking the price.
Whit Page
We are the only independently owned kiteboard magazine in North America made by
kiteboarders for kiteboarders. We pride ourselves on the accuracy of our content. Feedback
like yours shows us we are doing our job. Thanks for the support—Ed.
26 thekiteboarder.com
HAvE To SAy
letter oF the month
TELL US WHAT SUCKS
Dear Editor:
I am one of those readers who pours over every section
of the magazine. I read your editorial about kite reviews
last issue urging kiteboarders to try different gear before
buying. I find many of your reviews to be helpful, but
you never talk about the really crappy features a kite
or board has. I understand that advertisers are paying
your bills, but it would help all of us if you would just
come out and say something sucks. Now I know that will
never happen, but I wanted to give you my opinion on the
matter. All of the magazine’s write fluffy blow jobs in their
reviews. I will admit The Kiteboarder Magazine and the
German magazine (Kiteboarding.de) do the best job on
accuracy and detail. The main reason I decided to write
you is because I agree with your editorial that I know
what works for me best and the only way to tell that is
trying it out. I tend to troll forums, read reviews, listen to
podcasts and do my homework before buying and I have
never been let down. Keep up the good work, but don’t
be afraid to tell us something doesn’t work.
Sincerely,
Jeff G
So Cal Local
I love letters like this. Reality is, if the gear just sucks
or doesn’t work, we will not feature it in our magazine.
I think the best point you made is for readers to do their
research and ride the gear before buying—Ed.
AND THE WINNER IS…
Dear Kiteboarder Magazine,
I wanted to let you guys know that I just finished a
review of the top 7 Online Kiteboarding magazines on my
website and The Kiteboarder Magazine came out tops,
hands down! Of all the online magazines reviewed, none
came close to The Kiteboarder Magazine, which sets
the standard for both online and print magazines in my
opinion. You can read the full article at
http://www.ikiteboarding.com/kiteboarding/articles/7free-online-kiteboarding-magazines-you-must-read.
aspx
Keep up the good work guys!
Carlo van Wyk
iKiteboarding.com
Cape Town, South Africa
We were the first ones to launch a free online kiteboard
magazine and it’s constantly evolving. We are in the
process of going to the next level electronically and
are sure you will be even more stoked. Thanks for the
props! —Ed.
Send your banter, happiness, rants, raves to editor@thekiteboarder.com

competitions By: Marina Chang
GORGE GAMES
RETURNS WITH A ROAR
Photo Henry Rico
Organizers couldn’t have asked for better wind or
weather conditions as the Gorge Games returned to the
Pacific northwest this July 17 through 20 after a 3-year
hiatus. Drawing a mixture of top international riders
like Alvaro Onieva and sander Lenten along with north
American pros including Damien Leroy and madison
Van Heurck, spectators lined the banks of the Columbia
Gorge to check out the old school big air, freestyle
and course racing competitions. the competitors did
not disappoint and provided some of the best action
of all the sports at the event. In the end the winners
in freestyle were Alvaro Onieva (pro men), Clarissa
Hempel (pro women) and Reed Brady (outlaw men). In
big air, Damien Leroy (pro men), shane Gormley (pro
women) and again, Brady Reed (outlaw); and finally in
course racing, sky solbach (pro men) Clarissa Hempel
(pro women) and Ken Lucas (outlaw). For complete
results, see www.gorgegames.net
BOG SHOWCASES
NEW TALENT
Photos Carol Bolstad
spectators witnessed the highest level of riding yet
at this year’s annual Bridge of the Gods freestyle
competition held at stevenson, WA, on saturday, July
26. Clear skies and strong winds greeted competitors
after finishing a carb-loaded pancake breakfast, courtesy
of the Puget sound Kiteboarding Association. this
amateur event is all about having fun, enjoying the vibe
of kiteboarding and showcasing the epic conditions in
the Gorge. However, it has also been the springboard for
many aspiring pro riders which is why the competition
continues to attract top level riders of all levels and ages.
Congrats to Joe Ruscito (men’s), marie Leclerc (women’s),
Diego tron (Juniors) and Wally “the Gator” (master’s) for
their top place finishes and special thanks to slingshot,
Walking man Brewing, DaKine, nW Kite, the City of
stevenson and the Port of skamania County for their
continued support of the event. see www.nwkite.com
and www.dabridge.us for complete details, more
photos and video.
FUERTE DELIVERS
FOR PKRA
Photo Roberto Foresti/Canon
Fuerteventura delivered strong winds and challenging
conditions at stop six out of 10 total on the PKRA
world tour. Riders had a hard time making their
landings during the freestyle event due to gusty winds
and strong currents. In the end, experience paid off
as last year’s reigning world champions Gisela Pulido
and Aaron Hadlow prevailed by sticking more technical
moves than their counterparts. Just past the halfway
point, the rankings are close with Aaron tied in points
with Kevin Langeree for first and Bruna Kaijya hot
on the heels of Gisela. 2008 has seen an increase in
course racing and the return of big air competitions
mixed with new school moves. the level of riding has
also dramatically increased as riders continue to
push the envelope and develop more difficult and
impressive tricks. For complete details see
www.pkra.info or www.xtremelements.tv. For
PKRA action, check out the new 2008 event DVDs at
www.thekiteboarder.comm
28 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 29

send it
1. Eclipse beach game: Dimitri Maramenides,
Chris Cousins and Oliver Clatworthy.
Photo David Hastilow
2. Kite grom at Jetty Island. Photo Jim Stringfellow
3. Grom and Marina Chang wooping it up at the
Riccitelli wedding. Photo Paul Lang
4. Jason Slezak working hard at a Demo Daze.
Photo Jadie De Lille
1
5. Girls of the Triple-S: Anne-Marie, Lindsey, Clarissa
and Claire at the final party of the Triple-S
Invitational. Photo Bryan Elkus
6. The Best crew hanging out at the new
Best Kiteboarding Test Center in New York.
Photo Gavin Butle
7. Robby Naish chills out between sessions on the
Naish photo shoot in Hawaii.
Photo Stephen Whitesell
3
4
2
5
6
7
8
8. The Davey Blair clan hanging out in Chucktown.
Photo Chucktowninc.com
9. Dominican local kiters charming the tourist girls.
Photo Eric Hertsens
10. Litewave Designs team rider Mikey Bradley
getting jiggy on a landboard.
Photo courtesy Mike Bradley
11. Shannon Best hanging out in the Bahamas.
Photo AJ Watson
12. We are sorry we lost the photo info on this
one, but it’s such a great shot we decided to run
it anyway. Photo Unknown
13. REAL Head Coach Neil Ondrako proves it is
possible to go upwind on water skis.
Photo Bryan Elkus
14. Rockband Session with Kevin Steen, Lonny
Morris, Rachel Hastilow and David Hastilow.
Photo courtesy the Hastilows
15. Grom shows off his latest creation, a Ryan
Riccitelli piñata. Later that night, the new Mrs.
Riccitelli got to beat it up at the wedding party.
Photo Chris Riccitelli
16. Jesse Richman getting his freak on with Shane
Gormley. Photo Unknown.
If you have a photo that you would like
featured in The Kiteboarder Magazine,
please email ryan@thekiteboarder.com
30 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 31
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14
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16

Born
&
Riccitelli interviews Jeff Logosz
Ryan
redThe STory of SlingShoT
in the USA
ediTorS noTe: One of the coolest things
about kiteboarding is the people behind the
scenes who have sacrificed everything to
build a company in the sport.The Kiteboarder
Magazine will be featuring a series of
interviews documenting the history, roots
and culture of many of the top brands in
kiteboarding. Our goal is to show you the
humanistic side of these companies and
what makes them tick.
Amery Bernard and James Sitzer hold down the design department at Slingshot’s
Headquarters in Stevenson, Washington. Photo Henry Rico
iremember when I first heard the name Slingshot. I was sitting in Gary Martin’s (The Kiteboarder’s
Technical Editor) shop in San Diego in 2000, and was immediately attracted to their cool flame graphics
on their 35 inch Spitfire control bar and their B-Series trainer kite. Let’s put this in perspective. Until
this point, there was really no coolness factor in kite gear. Slingshot was one of the first companies
who was strictly a kiteboarding company in an emerging market of manufacturers who produced both
windsurfing and kiteboarding gear. Their cool graphics and unique approach turned heads quickly. Based
in the “Gorge”, the Logosz brothers were no strangers to the wind industry and founded Slingshot in 1999.
The company has now grown into a globally respected kiteboarding company and has innovated dozens of
products that have helped our sport evolve over the years. Slingshot has since expanded into the wakeboarding
market and is continuing to push the limits in that industry as well. I caught up with Jeff Logosz this summer to
document some of the history of Slingshot and also to give the world a peek into what drives this company.
32 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 33

When was the first time you saw kiteboarding and what was your
first impression? We have been in the windsurfing industry since
1981. Sailing everyday in the Gorge meant at some point you were
going to see Corey Roesler doing a downwinder on his kite ski. That was
in the early 90’s. Everybody loved to watch him cruise into the Hatchery
and boost a huge air. Most everyone at the time thought flying a kite
was only something Corey was capable of doing because he was such
an incredible athlete. In 1996, I was on Maui and saw Laird Hamilton
doing a downwinder. He was making it look pretty good. Again, it looked
unattainable because he was just going downwind. Then, in 1998, Elliot
Leboe kept calling me and could not stop talking about kites and this
freak guy named Lou Wainman. Apparently he was going upwind on a
wakeboard and just killing it. That summer they came to the Gorge and
legitimized it. After that, they got me into kiting; I spent endless hours
listening to Lou and learning a ton from him. He was easily 10 years
ahead of his time and the things he claimed back then are still true
today. The next year, it exploded. My brother Tony was already shaping
kiteboards by this time. So that we didn’t interfere with his custom
board business, we founded Slingshot.
As you started to get into kiteboarding, did you ever think it would
evolve into what it is today? Yes, I always knew it.
What was the catalyst to launching Slingshot? What was your
goal in creating the company? Kites are an incredible source of
power. We just saw all the advantages kiteboarding offered.
Who came up with the name and who were some of the founding
fathers? Tony came up with the name. He is the original founder that
put it all together.
The early Slingshot team had a reputation for being rowdy and out
of control. Who was behind all this? All our competitors at the time
were windsurfing companies that jumped into kiteboarding. Slingshot
was launched as a kiteboarding brand. We had a lot of freedom
creating our image because we did not have a legacy reputation that
we had to honor. We were having fun, innovating, and letting our riders
just be themselves to create a culture for kiteboarding.
What is one of the biggest mistakes Slingshot made in your
history and how have you learned from it? The biggest mistakes
are when your product does not live up to the hype. The first year we
made full size kites we made a kite called the Stealth. It sucked. We
were honest about it. We also took care of our customers. Inside the
business we learned a ton. And from that time on, we obsessed over
the quality of our products. We test all the time. Lessons from those
days are the values we try to live up today. We do our very best to
deliver the highest quality product available. If we screw up, we fix it,
and we take care of our customers.
Slingshot has the reputation of being run like a family. Please
explain what the Slingshot family is all about? We are all fortunate
to work in this industry. But at the end of the day, it is a lot of work. No
one person in Slingshot ever has it totally together. So when someone
is down or is dealing with life’s difficult lessons, the other members at
Slingshot step up and support the cause. It all goes full circle. Through
all of this people get tight knit. This culture translates all the way to our
customers. If you have an issue with our product, or want to have a
better understanding about “Why Slingshot?” we want to talk to you.
That’s why we don’t have any barriers – we’re a very open company.
Customers, regardless of skill or geographical location in the world,
can get on our website, and talk inside Slingshot. Or they are welcome
to call. We wish more people would do it. The stoke we get from
helping people, is why we’re really here in the first place.
34 thekiteboarder.com
Say hello to the Slingshot Family. Photo Henry Rico
Forest Rogers pulls an order
from the warehouse rack.
Photo Henry Rico
National Sales Manager (desk) and
co-founder Jeff Logosz talk strategy.
Photo Henry Rico
Amery makes final tweaks on the ’09 Rev 2.
Photo Henry Rico
Slingshot has expanded rapidly over the last 8 years and recently entered the wakeboarding market.
how successful have you been and do you plan on entering other markets like snowboarding
or skateboarding? We grew from nothing to one of the major players globally in kiteboarding. We’re
super stoked on that achievement. With that said, Slingshot is a business and a brand that we want to
continue to grow. Slingshot is still growing in kiteboarding. However, hyper growth for Slingshot would
be detrimental long term. Slowing down allows us to really focus on our products instead of chasing the
dollar. Wakeboarding was natural for us, because we came to wind sports from boating. Tony had a legacy
shaping and innovating some of the most important products for wakeboarding. It always drove us nuts
that sports would not embrace better technologies to make their sports better. Technology revolutions
happened in windsurfing, snowboarding, surfing, golf, tennis and bicycling. Markets would then explode.
Wakeboards have not changed in 15 years. Basically, wakeboard brands use what we call “turd polish”
to sell their products. Same old stuff, but with a new graphic, or some bottom shape they could hype.
Turd polish is just marketing crap. It does not do anything for riders. We felt we could bring technology
to wakeboarding. This is what we are doing and it’s starting to revolutionize the sport. We have created a
new category in wakeboarding with boards that flex. The advantages are more pop, softer landings, and
they press like snowboards on rails. It will legitimize a lot for the sport. We are already seeing the impact
it has and we have only be in the market for 18 months. Our efforts have spawned new brands that are
also thinking outside the box. Industry icon riders are switching for more performance. As riders switch
from the old boards to new boards, it is becoming apparent that they just can’t go back. So we’re super
stoked to bring flex into wakeboarding and to have been the first.
has the wakeboarding side of the company grown to be as large as the kite side? Do you see a day
when wakeboarding dominates Slingshot? No, we will have the same strategy for wake as we do for kite.
We just want to place our brand as top shelf and stay dedicated to building great products. Over time, we do
want to change riding. That is huge. The wake industry is just a market segment of a larger industry. Water
skiing, tubes, wake skates, wakesurfers and wakeboarding are all are just things to tow behind a boat. So,
when we look at wakeboarding we try to look past just the boating element. We like to think about the impact
cable parks are having; and the same goes for winching. As products change, riders will change the way
they want to ride. It will be the riders who change the sport. Riding the wake, rails or winching will continue
to progress. We believe it will go through a style revolution.
Who handles all product design for Slingshot? There are two departments now: wake and kite. Tony
Logosz is the chief designer who works closely with each department. After that, it’s a super team effort.
Amery Bernard handles most of the kite stuff and works super close with our team. While John Doyle and
Matt Gustafsen work very close with our riders on boards and Wade Wagley does the wake side.
Where is Slingshot located and why have you chosen to base the company in Stevensen? Several
reasons. We’re right on the river. That helps a lot because R&D can walk 50 feet and be on the water. We
operate our office and warehouse from here. It’s very economical and its closer to Portland. That’s great for
shipping and for some of our employees that commute from the city instead of Hood River.
“
SS team rider Ben Wilson doing what he does best.
Photo Ben Kottke
I think if you look around at our
competitors,the innovations that
are on their product were spawned
by Slingshot.
On any given day you will see
Tony Logosz testing new product.
Photo Henry Rico
Slingshot co-founder and designer Tony Logosz shows off his toys.
Photo Henry Rico
”
how popular is the current fuel? Will you continue to make a pure C-Kite, or do too
few people buy them to warrant their design and production? The Fuel is probably
one of the most popular kites ever made. It’s stature is iconic. The market share for the
Fuel is small but very stable. It actually may grow next year. We are fully dedicated to the
Fuel because it is a kite designed for hardcore freestyle riders. Performance is designed
into the kite specifically for this style of riding. Freestyle it the foundation of our sport and
our company. It would be a huge disservice to not see Ruben boosting insane kiteloops
that make our sport cool. He needs a kite, the Fuel, to do that on.
do all of your employees kiteboard? Not everyone rides. Every employee at Slingshot
has their own personal account that allows them to always ride state of the art equipment.
It’s a personal decision. You’re not required to ride. Most do. For example I get to ride when
I take a kiteboarding vacation, which I love to do.
What do you think sets Slingshot apart from other companies in terms of company
culture and how does this help your product development? I think if you look around
at our competitors, the innovations that are on their product were spawned by Slingshot.
Not saying we do it all. Others have done great things as well, but we have done a lot to
design kiteboarding equipment specifically for our sport. We are also proud of what our
riders have innovated over the years. They are still pushing it today. Ruben continues to
take it off the charts, and Ben is still pioneering wave riding and bringing it to the masses.
These are all good things for our sport.
do you think the development of high depower kites has helped the sport, or has it
led to unchecked growth and less capable riders? I don’t think growth is unchecked.
Kiteboarding is unique because the growth is so channeled through schools. I think kites
that offer the kind of range and overall performance that we are achieving has been an
essential reason the sport has been able to grow. Early adopters of kiteboarding dealt
with a lot of crap. The learning curve was needless to say, stressful. It would be virtually
impossible for the average newbie getting into the sport today to attain success without
these kites. They have made teaching viable.
have we reached a plateau in our growth, or do you feel the sport is growing as fast
as ever? I think the growth is steady and healthy. As far as the direction of the sport, the
fundaments have not changed since the beginning. The kite is still an awesome source of
power. The possibilities are endless.
What makes you most proud about the company every day? The way we pride ourselves
in taking care of our customers.
thekiteboarder.com 35

close-up
By Marina Chang
36 thekiteboarder.com
gary tests the new Tracker in the dR.
Photo eric Hertsens
A California native, gary likens his childhood to
Huckleberry Finn. Always ready and willing to
lend a fellow brother or sister a helping hand, he
grew up in Ukiah, a small, rural town in Northern
California, where a big happening night was a
get together at the local Foster’s Freeze burger
and shake joint or a party at the local lake. With
great parents, two sisters, a dog and six friends
that he grew up with since kindergarten, gary
fished hiked, sailed and just enjoyed being a kid
with endless dreams. His idyllic childhood has
definitely influenced his adult life. He still feels
like that young kid with a machete in a jungle,
exploring and cutting a trail in any direction
he desires. But don’t let his laid-back attitude
or quiet manner fool you. gary charges it in flat
water or waves, and is currently working on a
secret project that if it comes to fruition, is going
to have us all green with envy and rooting for him
at the same time.
How did you get into kiting? In 2003, I was
driving over the bridge by Kitty Hawk Kites and
Nags Head, and saw Dimitri boosting huge. I
had no idea what kiteboarding was but was
hooked immediately.
Have any other sports or disciplines helped
influence you’re kiteboarding? Surfing, sailing,
paragliding, wakeboarding and snowboarding all
help kiteboarding directly. The more you do, the
more you find everything relates to kiteboarding or
maybe that’s just me!
What riders influence you the most/inspire you?
Good riders that go out and throw down for a
two hour session yet will still come in and help
the new guy on the beach. New faces and ideas
are what make our sport stay alive and grow.
When everyone helps each other, it just keeps
getting better.
What do you do off the water to help you on the
water? Eat healthy and exercise some way every
day, using my mind and body and not the gym.
Age: 23 WeIgHT: 180 HeIgHT: 5’10” YeARS KITINg: 6 years FAvORITe SPOTS: OBX, NC; Central
Coast, CA FAvORITe CONdITIONS: 25-30 buttery glass or smooth curl
FAvORITe MOveS: F16, S-bend SPONSORS: Freak Dog Kiteboarding
GEAR SET-UP
BOARdS: 128 and 134 FD Tracker, 5’11” surfboard, skim board BINdINgS: Straps in slicks, boots
in park, unstrapped in waves KITeS: 5.5m Vicious, 9m Unleashed and 11m EZE
LINeS: 23 and 27 meter HARNeSS: Freak Dog Waist
Sailing is one of gary’s other passions.
Photo jesse hawk
What trick or style are you currently working on
and what is the challenge? Slim chances but my
timing is a little off and I keep missing the bar.
How do you think the current gear on the market
can be improved in general? It improves so much
every year its hard enough just figuring out the
current year’s new tech. Maybe some sort of
retractable line system to change lengths on the
fly or snowboarding style integrated bindings. They
have a much lower profile but clip in for easy exit.
What do you think is the biggest misconception
about pro riders? They’re all cocky, selfish and rude
with no time for anyone but themselves.
What is your favorite style of riding and why?
Freestyle in OBX because there are so many
variables and ways for it to change and improve.
On the West Coast, it’s all about the surf.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing
the kiteboarding industry? The amount of new
riders getting into the sport and people that only
think about their own fun factor. Spots are and will
get overcrowded and regulated. All it takes is one
person to ruin it for the rest. We need to make sure
the people on the water are qualified to be there
and adhere to local rules.
1. When in doubt, always ask for help and help others –
it’s just good karma.
2. Before kiting at a new spot, check it out first for
bailouts, rocks and other potential hazards and be sure to
ask the locals about any special rules or regulations.
3. When traveling, less is always better so only take the
bare essentials.
4. Instead of changing kite sizes, try changing your tuning.
You can ride most kites in a much larger range than
suggested by most brands by making sure your kites are
tuned correctly and changing the settings according to
the wind conditions.
do you have any plans to compete? Definitely!
Competitions are fun and exciting and the off water
events are always a blast. I also want to get into
course racing – it’s a great way to get all levels of
riders involved.
What is something about you that you do outside
of kiteboarding that most people wouldn’t know? I
like to weld, skydive, do ceramics and fly airplanes.
What is your worst wipe out? A debauched F16
ending in a cracked rib, board to the groin, a
horrible stomachache and no air.
Where is your favorite place to kite and why?
The Outer Banks takes the cake – there are so
many places to ride and explore and there’s
always someone down for a session. In any
direction, as long as the wind blows its possible
to ride somewhere.
What is your most memorable kiteboarding
experience? An ocean downwinder in the
Outer Banks in ‘04 on a full moon; there was
phosphorescent in the water and 10 guys throwing
it down in these silvery-looking waves for as far as
the eye could see. It was magical.
sarah@ChuCktowninC.Com
ChuCktowninC.Com
thekiteboarder.com 37
thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 37

close-up
By Marina Chang | Photos Bryan elkus
Laura grew up in Rochester, New York, where
she was a competitive alpine ski racer for 14
years. Always open to something new, she
learned how to skateboard, snowboard and
kiteboard in the summer after she graduated
from college with a degree in civil engineering.
At the end of her summer, Laura started what
she thought was her dream job: building bridges
for a Colorado firm. The call of the water and
kiteboarding was too strong though and after a
few months, she moved to Cape Hatteras and
took a job with ReAL Kiteboarding. Laura, a.k.a.
Lulu, now runs the ReAL lesson center and hits
the ReAL sliders every chance she gets.
When, where and why did you start kiteboarding?
I was working at a café in Hatteras the year of the
first Triple S contest. Once I saw the guys hitting
the dock and the sliders, I knew I had to learn!
Have any other sports or disciplines helped
influence your kiteboarding? I’ve always loved
hitting boxes and rails snowboarding; it definitely
made me want to hit sliders kiting.
What riders influence you the most/inspire you?
The REAL Crew, Clarrisa Hempel and my mentor
Enily who used to be my boss at REAL.
38 thekiteboarder.com
Lulu busts out a raley.
Age: 26 HeIgHT: 5’1” WeIgHT: 110 lbs KITINg: 2 years FAvORITe SPOTS: The REAL Slick!
FAvORITe CONdITIONS: 20 mph SW in the Slick FAvORITe MOveS: Raleys, unhooked back
rolls and anything on a slider SPONSORS: REAL Kiteboarding, The Rots (thanks guys)
GEAR SET-UP
BOARdS: Liquid Force Drop 132, Jimmy Lewis Park 128 BINdINgS: Liquid Force Melissa Ltd
KITeS: 6, 8,10m Havocs LINeS: Stock Liquid Force HARNeSS: Dakine Wahine
1. Take lessons! No matter what
skill level you are at, you will
progress much faster if you take the
time to learn from professionals.
2. If you’re going to hit sliders,
make sure you have health
insurance and wear a helmet!
3. Never go out further than you
are willing/able to swim back in.
4. Never borrow your significant
other’s bar, then self rescue with
it and hide it in a drawer because
you can’t get it untangled. They
don’t like that.
Lulu proudly displays her prize board.
“ ”
What do you do off the water to help you on the
water? I try to stay in pretty good shape and stretch
a lot. I’ve been doing a lot of pull-ups on a hanging
bar lately which is making it easier to ride unhooked.
What trick or style are you currently working on
and what is the challenge? I’ve been hitting sliders
a lot lately, working on front rolls and S-bends.
Can you give any tips to riders when hitting their
first sliders or kickers? Bend your knees!
do you think that riders without a surfing
background should get a directional wave board
or just stick with their twin tip to maximize their
fun factor? If you are riding in the waves you should
always try to get a directional wave board. This
increases the fun factor, but riding a twin tip and
using the waves as kickers can also be fun.
do you have any plans to compete? Right now I’m
really enjoying learning new tricks and riding with
friends, but I think an event like the Triple S would
be fun.
What is something about you outside of
kiteboarding that most people wouldn’t know?
My life is pretty consumed by kiteboarding, but
when I’m not kiting I’m usually skateboarding,
surfing or hitting sliders behind a jet ski.
What is your worst wipe out? When I was first
learning I didn’t really understand the whole
stopping thing and managed to send my kite and
slam into Slick Island.
Where is your favorite place to kite and why? Cape
Hatteras, NC, is the best place to kite. You can ride
flat water, sliders or the ocean; sometimes all in
one day. This location is also ideal for beginners
because of the shallow water.
What is your most memorable kiteboarding
experience? My first slider sessions with Trevor
and Nate at the center definitely ranks as my
most memorable experience. They really helped
me figure it out, made me more confident with my
slider riding and saved me a couple of scrapes
and bruises.

ackwoods
Kite, dive and fish in
gRANd CAYMAN By Mike Minichiello | Photos Steve Rafuse
WHAT IS THe OFFICIAL SITe NAMe? East End,
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
WHAT IS THe BeST TIMe OF THe YeAR TO HIT THIS
SPOT? November through July are the most consistent
windy months in Grand Cayman, with the strongest winds
occurring in the winter. The island is blessed with steady
trade winds, with occasional cold fronts that push in from
the north.
WHAT IS THe BeST INTeRNeT SITe TO CHeCK
THe WINd/CONdITIONS? http://www.caymanchillin.
com/caymanchillin-weather.html
HOW dO I geT THeRe? Fly to George Town (GCM), then
drive 35 minutes east in a taxi or rental car.
WHAT IS THe USUAL WINd dIReCTION? The wind is
typically 10 to 25 knots, depending on when you visit. The
best directions for riding are anything from the northeast,
east, or southeast.
WHAT geAR SHOULd I Be SURe TO PACK? For a 180
pound advanced rider, in the winter bring your 8 to 12
meter kites and in the summer, your 12 and 16. Typically,
you wil only need a swim suit and good sunscreen, but
you should throw in a shorty if you visit in the winter and
like long sessions.
WHAT CONdITIONS SHOULd I AvOId? Onshore
conditions can be dangerous as the beaches are not that
big. As the island curves, there is usually a better launch a
few miles away where the wind direction is better.
WHAT IS THe LAUNCH/LANdINg LIKe? The launch
and land area is a sandy beach with some rocks in the
water that you need to watch out for. The water is mostly
shallow near shore.
WHAT ARe SOMe OF THe BeST PLACeS TO eAT
NeARBY? Over the Edge is about a 10 minute drive
from the Kitehouse, specializes in seafood, and has
waterfront dining at an affordable price (averge $20/
The Kitehouse’s Paul Menta boosting in the bay.
Better known for its incredible world-class diving, grand Cayman is also a little known destination for
kiteboarding which offers a multitude of things to do for non-kiting travel companions. With warm weather,
sandy white beaches, and wind nearly year round, the main riding spot can be found at the east end Lagoon,
which is far less built up than the west side of the island. Flat water lovers will appreciate the butter smooth
conditions found inside barriers reefs and shallow sandbars. Wave riders will be stoked on the long scenic
downwinders covering a variety of terrain.
meal). Portofino’s is just 2 minutes away and serves up
Italian/American food and waterfront dining, but is a bit
more expensive ($30/meal). Kaibo dishes out a variety of
meat and fish and goes upscale on the weekends, but is
more casual during the week and lunchtime (weekend
dinner $40/meal, lunch $15/meal.
WHO ARe THe LOCAL SCHOOLS ANd SHOPS? The
Kitehouse Cayman Island is currently the only school,
located at the Ocean Frontiers Dive Center at East End.
WHeRe SHOULd I STAY? Grand Cayman offers a huge
variety of places to stay, but they are located more on
the west side of the island. Compass Point and The Reef
Resort are middle to upper range properties that are
steps away from the main riding spot ($200 plus/night).
A hostel-type bunk house is also in the works, directly
across the street from the kite school and dive shop.
WHAT IS THe NIgHTLIFe LIKe? The East End is
quieter than the west side where the capital and the
grand Cayman is also known for world-class diving.
After a hard day of riding, gazos Creek grill is a
welcome sight and a local favorite.
infamous 7 Mile Beach is located, so nightlife is not that
abundant. However, the local dive and kite scene on the
East End makes the handful of bars here lively, plus is a
good excuse to throw a Kitehouse beach party!
WHAT eLSe IS THeRe TO dO IF I geT SKUNKed? Grand
Cayman offers plenty to do including the famous Sting Ray
Island, SUP, scuba, surfing, fishing and snorkeling.
IS THeRe ANYTHINg eLSe I Need TO KNOW ABOUT
RIdINg THIS SPOT? East End Lagoon is a big area with lots
of terrain. Different wind and swell directions make certain
places around the lagoon better at different times. There is
always a sandbar slick and usually a wave to ride no matter
what the wind direction. The barrier reef is shallow, but is not
When it’s crowded at Waddell, you can often enjoy a solo session up the coast.
east Bay has less tourists than parts to the west.
Mike enjoys a soul session.
that sharp. However, you should watch out for exposed coral
heads inside the lagoon – they can hurt!
ARe THeRe ANY SAFeTY ISSUeS OR RULeS I Need
TO KNOW ABOUT? The Department of Environment
has asked kiters not to park on the actual beach, but to
instead use the parking spots next to the beach. This is
just a courtesy to keep beach clear for other beach users
and kite gear.
ARe THeRe ANY INTeReSTINg BITS OF TRIvIA
ABOUT THIS SPOT? The Cayman Islands was a
legendary pirate occupation in the 18th century and
there are many tales of treasure caches left behind by
Edward Blackbeard, Neal Walker, and Henry Morgan.
Shipwrecks provide a dramatic backdrop to the riding area.
The Pirates Week Festival, the island’s largest event, is
held each fall. Additionally, the sea around the island owes
its extraordinary clarity to the fact that there are no rivers
or naturally occurring fresh water anywhere on the island.
Visitors have more than 159 dive site options to explore.
Grand Cayman is also the only island in the Caribbean to
have an operational turtle farm.
ReSOURCeS:
www.cayman.com.ky
www.thekitehouse.com
www.compasspoint.ky
www.thereef.com
40 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 41

ackwoods
Wind, duty-free shopping and nightlife in
NASSAU, BAHAMAS
Nassau has one advantage over many other “exotic” kiting locations: proximity! Just 60 miles off the coast of the
eastern United States, the Bahamas is easy to get to by boat or by plane. visiting kiteboarders will find virtually
deserted beaches and a small but friendly local kiteboarding crew when they arrive at South Beach ready for a day
on butter flat water. If the wind is out of the NNe, advanced riders gather at “go Slow Bend,” a highly visible spot
where curious onlookers come just to watch the kiteboarders ride the breaking waves and pull huge airs. Riders
share stories and tips in between sessions and on a good day, they consider the beaches “packed” if there are more
than 10 kites in the sky.
WHAT IS THe OFFICIAL SITe NAMe? There are four
main kiting spots in Nassau; South Beach, Yamacraew,
Go Slow Bend and Coral Harbour.
WHAT IS THe BeST TIMe OF THe YeAR TO HIT
THIS SPOT? October through June. Advanced riders
will want to visit in the spring, anytime between March
and May. Summer is off-season, but you may pick up a
few windy days.
WHAT IS THe BeST INTeRNeT SITe TO CHeCK THe
WINd/CONdITIONS? Weather.com, Ikitesurf.com
and Buoyweather.com.
HOW dO I geT THeRe? Nassau (airport code NAS) has
an international airport with flights arriving daily from
all over the world. You can rent a car if you’re feeling
brave, but remember to stay on the left! Parking is usually
fairly easy to find except downtown. If you’re particularly
adventurous, you can take the public bus system, but ask
at your hotel concierge before getting on the bus. If you
see somewhere you want to explore just yell “bus stop”
and they will pull over for you.
WHAT IS THe USUAL WINd dIReCTION? In winter,
ENE, and in summer it blows ESE.
WHAT geAR SHOULd I Be SURe TO PACK? You may
need a short spring suit if you plan to ride all day in the
winter months. In summer, you don’t need anything other
than boardies! A quiver of 9, 12 and 14m kites should
cover you for most conditions. Cross-shore also rents gear
if you don’t want to bring your own.
WHAT CONdITIONS SHOULd I AvOId? Offshore wind
conditions can be dangerous. Otherwise, use common
sense and don’t kite if the weather looks unstable. Talk
to the local crew.
WHAT IS THe LAUNCH/LANdINg LIKe? South Beach
has shallow, flat water at low tide and boasts a wide and
long sandy beach with plenty of room to safely set up,
launch and land. Yamacraw has deeper water, often with
a deserted boat or two, and is perfect for sliders or a great
starting point for downwinders when the wind is NNE. Go
Slow Bend is for advanced riders only as it has a rocky
shoreline and dangerous launch area, but once you are off
the beach, the water is flat on the inside with 3 to 4 foot
breakers close to shore and 6 to 10 foot waves nearly a mile
offshore. It’s a favorite spot for starting downwinders when
the wind is out of the north. Lastly, Coral Harbour serves up
great flat water riding with little islands to explore and play
around, and a great bar right at the launch spot.
Bucky Ashcraft shows off his South Texas style in the Bahamas.
By gillian Watson | Photo gillian Watson
Photos courtesy www.cross-shore.com
WHAT ARe SOMe OF THe BeST PLACeS TO eAT
NeARBY? The dining options in Nassau are huge. The
high end spots include Dune (at the One and Only Ocean
Club), Café Matisse (downtown Nassau), and Villagio
(western Nassau). For good local fare, check out The Poop
Deck (eastern Nassau), Travellers Rest (western Nassau),
or the Oyster Bar in Sandyport, which also has a fantastic
jazz band on Sunday afternoons. And for food that is
cheaper but still great in terms of flavor, go to Goldies at
Arawak Cay or The Sand Bar at Coral Harbour.
WHO ARe THe LOCAL SCHOOLS ANd SHOPS?
There is only one local shop and school, Cross-Shore
Bahamas. They have spent years developing the kiting
industry in Nassau and in the last few, have started to
develop daily kite trips to other Bahamian Islands, as
well as an intense kite camp experience in November.
The kite camp is for beginner to advanced riders and
includes lodging in a beachfront house and a three
island kiting adventure.
WHeRe SHOULd I STAY? Lodging ranges from $100 a
night to upwards of $5000 a day for a private bungalow
with a private staff! For budget, no frills, but safe
accommodations, check out Orange Hill Beach Inn, El
Greco Hotel or Grand Central. Moving up on the scale
Rocky Love Beach working in rare on his form. handlepasses Photo AJ Watson in the ultra flat water.
Aj Watson on the dock at kite camp
Spanish Wells. Photo Roby dillette
would be places like A Stone’s Throw Away Bed and
Breakfast, Compass Point, and any of the major chains of
hotel like Hilton, Sheraton and Radisson. And for high end
check out Atlantis and The One and Only Ocean Club.
WHAT IS THe NIgHTLIFe LIKe? Nightlife ranges
from quiet, intimate restaurants to all night, high-end
nightclubs and casinos. There is no limit to what you can
do at night in Nassau.
WHAT eLSe IS THeRe TO dO IF I geT SKUNKed?
Nassau has a well developed diving and fishing industry.
There are also powerboat trips to nearby Bahamian
Islands and world-class golf. There is a good art gallery/
museum scene and duty free shopping as well.
IS THeRe ANYTHINg eLSe I Need TO KNOW ABOUT
RIdINg THIS SPOT? Keep it safe. Nassau has been lucky
to avoid any major kiting accidents, and we would like to
keep it that way. Talk with the locals before you ride and
Bucky throws a Bahamian kiteloop.
The Wildcat Crew has worked hard to make the spot a kiter’s paradise
complete with showers and picnic tables.
Curious young locals checking out
kiteboarding in Nassau, Bahamas.
The large grass area is great for setting up kites.
find out where you should and should not go. Don’t take
valuables to the beach, as some locations are remote and
you will be away from your car for a while if you are having
a good ride. Never ride alone in case you get into trouble
and always tell someone where you are going and when
you expect to get back, in case you get into trouble and
need to be found.
ARe THeRe ANY SAFeTY ISSUeS OR RULeS I Need
TO KNOW ABOUT? Just be respectful of those around
you, especially beachgoers or those in boats.
Bucky charges an ultra-flat water session at Blue Hill,
South Beach. Photo gillian Watson
ARe THeRe ANY INTeReSTINg BITS OF TRIvIA
ABOUT THIS SPOT? The Bahamas has the clearest
waters in the world, with visibility of over 200 feet.
Until July 9th, 1973, the motto of the Bahamas was
“Expulsus Piratis, Restituta Commercia,” which means
“Pirates Expelled, Commerce Restored.” Junkanoo is a
huge street parade on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day
which takes place all over the Bahamas. It has been
featured in the films Thunderball, Jaws, The Revenge
and After the Sunset. The parade is named after John
Canoe, a 17th century African prince and slave trader.
ReSOURCeS:
www.nassauparadiseisland.com
www.bahamas.com
www.cross-shore.com
www.kiteboardingbahamas.com
42 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 43

The Goose is Loose
Born and raised in Tahiti, Moehau Goold
has reached international stardom in the
kiteboarding world with his aggressive
wakestyle moves. If you have ever met Moehau
in person, otherwise know as the “Goose,”
you know that he is one of the most mellow
guys off the water. Moe traveled back to Tahiti
this summer and the “Goose” got loose as
he boosted an S-bend over a sand gap just
minutes from where he grew up. Photo Hira
44 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 45

46 thekiteboarder.com
Bahamas Cruiser
Many kiteboarders spend hours in their car
driving to their favorite kiteboarding spot. The
Best team commandeered this golf cart and
turned it into their kiteboarding cruiser on a
recent trip to the Bahamas. This photo should
be reason enough for anyone spending too
much drive time to get on a plane and take
a trip. Photo gavin Butler
Shark Bait
Believe it or not, there is no
Photoshop work on this photo.
Jeremie Tronet stumbled across a
nurse shark while kiteboarding Union
Island in the Grenadines. Whereas
most of us would call it day, Jeremie
spotted the perfect opportunity for a
photo op and sent his girlfriend out
to take this photo. The good thing is
that nurse sharks are not aggressive,
but it does make for one of the most
beautiful photos we have seen in
years. Photo Linn Svendson

Elevator Up
Damien Leroy has been known to go big, but
this shot should be classified as beyond big.
Damien elevates himself to new heights in
Playa Copal, Costa Rica. Photo Mellissa gil
Shipwrecked
Dozens of shipwrecks are strewn across the
Florida Keys. While riding the back country,
Paul Menta came across this wreck. We asked
Paul what was going through his mind during
this session. He replied, “In the back country
where we ride, that’s are version of island
hopping. Just another day exploring the winds
– you never know what nature will give you to
play with in Key West.” Photo Shotbydoc.com
48 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 49

Air Assault
Currently tied for number one on the PKRA
tour, Kevin Langeree is one of the top freestyle
riders in the world. Kevin took a trip to Maui
this summer and traded his freestyle board
for a surfboard. Even the strapless riders can
appreciate Kevin’s strapped in, tweaked out,
air assault on this wave. Photo eric Aeder
50 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 51

product watch
Photo: Kim Kern/Cautionkites.com
08p r o d u c t w at c h
dAKINe PYRO HARNESS
With a clean style and new materials, the popular Pyro harness receives a rehaul for
the 2009 season. A unique four-part outer design provides maximum flexibility and
support, while a dual density molded interior offers optimal fit and comfort.
Features include Power Clip buckle system, spreader bar hold-down
webbing strap, and independent primary and secondary Power Belts.
Additionally, Dakine has added two side knife pockets with elastic key
loops, and an integrated handle and leash attachment to help improve
safety. The Pyro is available in four color combinations: black/snake,
white/cyan, black/gold, white/black.
SIZeS: XS (28”-30”) to XL (36”-38”) MSRP: $170
www.dakine.com
gO PRO HELMET HERO
The Helmet Hero allows you to conveniently capture photos and footage you never
thought possible by simply mounting it to any vented or non-vented helmet. The waterproof
camera packs in a 3MB sensor for high resolution photos and TV resolution, video delivered at
a smooth 30 frames per second with sound to boot. It has 16MB of onboard
memory and can accept up to a 2GB SD flash card for more
storage. A 2GB SD card will hold more than 3,500 photos or up
to 56 minutes of continuous TV resolution video at 30 frames
per second. No short video clips need apply; shoot up to 56
minutes continuously.
MSRP: $169.99
If you like wide angle photos, available starting September is the new 5MP Wide Hero with a
170° fish eye lens. The Wide HERO dramatically expands the field of view over previous GoPro
cameras by 315%. Features include five megapixel photos, 30 frame per second video with
sound and a new “photo every 2-seconds mode” for convenient action image capture during
sports. Included are the new wide angle camera and matching waterproof wearable housing.
MSRP: Wide Hero only $139.99; with helmet mounting $189.99
www.goprocamera.com
KITeBOARdINg.COM
ORGANIC COTTON T-SHIRTS
Kiteboarders are always looking for cool and different t-shirts.
The Kiteboarder staff came across
these new 100% organic cotton
ones from kiteboarding.com.
Available in white or charcoal
grey, we were not quite sure
what the rooster T is all about
but were told they’re selling
like hotcakes!
SIZeS: S to XXL MSRP: $15
www.kiteboarding.com
LIQUId FORCe COMP HARNESS
The 2009 LF Comp Harness is a high end, supportive
EVA thermoform-molded harness providing ultimate
support and flexibility. With a pre-curved, 3D-shaped
back support, new narrowed outline design around
the hips, and comfy neoprene lining and piping, the
new LF Comp harness was designed to be one of the
most comfortable and chafe-resistant harnesses ever. A
special low-V spreader bar attachment point guarantees
that your bar stays low without riding up, and the
new micro track double quick release leash track
allows for a simple, safe leash connection. LF’s high
quality spreader bar and bar pad round out this nice
addition to LF’s top notch accessory line.
SIZe: S to XL MSRP: $169.99
www.liquidforce.com
MCNeTT AqUASEAL & COTOL
240 CURE ACCELERATOR
Got a wetsuit, drysuit, booties or gear bag that needs to be repaired? Aquaseal Urethane Repair
Adhesive with Cotol 240 Cure Accelerator provides superior adhesion, wear resistance, flexibility,
and waterproofing to fix your torn neoprene. Unaffected by heat or solvents, Aquaseal cures to
a flexible thermoset rubber product and can be stretched and folded, yet still springs back to its
original shape without any damage. Cotol 240 is a urethane cure accelerator and pre-cleaner
that cleans and prepares the surface of your damaged rubber, readying it for Aquaseal. It helps
speed up the tack time to 15 minutes, and the full cure time to under 2 hours.
SIZeS: Kit includes a ¾ ounce tube
of Aquaseal, ½ fluid ounce bottle of
Cotol-240 and an applicator brush
MSRP: $10.95
www.mcnett.com or your local
ReI/kite/surf/dive retailer
MYSTIC CROSSFIRE 09/LEN10 SERIES
Developed closely with Ruben Lenten as part of his new signature
line, Mystic introduces the new Crossfire wetsuit for 2009.
With a stylish, new sleek design and unique neoprene
materials for maximum mobility and comfort, the
Crossfire features a sandwich neck closure, blind
zip Metalite cuffs to keep the warmth in and
water out, 3D composite kneepads, and a water
outlet/Aquaflush leg panels so your suit and legs
don’t balloon up. Available in black or white, the
Crossfire comes in full suit steamer or shorty models
to suit your riding needs and water conditions.
MSRP: $329.95 to $348.95
www.mysticboarding.com
NORTH SHORe INC. RAFAEL FLIPZ
New from NSI, Flipz are the company’s latest product release created with NSI’s
proven footstrap and traction technology to offer you superior traction, comfort and style
in your beach footwear. The Flipz Strap is constructed with multiple comfort layers and a
strong inner core that is encased with a soft, durable lycra-neoprene cover. This combo
provides cushy comfort from toe strap to top strap, and no hot spots between the toes.
The traction foot bed is built with NSI’s tight waffle pattern which aerates, massages and
supports your feet while offering excellent grip, wet or dry. Sandwiched between the waffle
foot bed and the durable rubber out sole is an
additional layer of cushion material.
SIZeS/COLORS: Men’s S to XL, Women’s S
to L, assorted colors MSRP: 34.95/pair
www.NorthShoreInc.com
NTeCH USA SKYWATCH XPLORER 1 & 2
NTech USA’s Skywatch Xplorer wind meters provide kiteboarders with exact
measurements of wind speed instantly and affordably. The smallest wind meter in the world, the
Xplorer’s are compact enough to fit in a pocket or kite bag pocket while not in use, yet the Swiss
design is durable, waterproof, and engineered for thousands of hours of use. Submersible in up
to 6 feet of water, NTech USA’s Skywatch Xplorers include a lanyard,
lithium battery, backlight, and replaceable impeller. The Xplorer
1 provides wind speed including maximum velocity gusts, and
the Xplorer 2 adds the benefits of temperature (air/water) and
wind chill info.
SIZeS: 3.5 x .75, 2 oz.
MSRP: Xplorer 1 $60, Xplorer 2 $74
www.ntechusa.com/products/xplorers. html
or your local kite/paragliding retailer
RRd PLACEBO
Brand new for 2009, the Placebo represents a completely renewed freestyle
line of boards that range from 39 to 47 centimeters in width. Slightly longer and built
softer than the popular Poison’s from the 2008 line, the Placebo was designed for pure
freestyle pleasure and features a laminar wood core, ABS sidewalls snowboard technology,
and RRD’s new Screw•IT ! system pads
and straps. The board is finished with
a crystal polished clear deck DC
and matte DC bottom.
SIZe: 132 x 39, 133 x 40, 134 x
41, 140 x 43, 142 x 45 and 144 x 47cm
MSRP: $595
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
TRANSCeNd APPAReL
MARK DOYLE SIGNATURE T-SHIRT
If you haven’t discovered this cool clothing company yet,
you are missing the boat on some of the best quality
kiteboarding t-shirts, hoodies, hats and lycras with
cutting edge graphics available! The newest design in
the Transcend t-shirt line is the Mark Doyle Signature
T-Shirt, available in black or olive, in honor of the
company’s newest team rider. Founded out of passion and a
serious addiction to kiteboarding, co-owner Andy DeFilippis
just took 2nd in the outlaw division at the Bridge of the Gods
comp in the Gorge. Way to go Andy!
SIZe: S-2XL to S to 2XL COLORS: Black, Olive MSRP: $21.95
www.transcendapparel.com
SLINgSHOT SPORTS
DIRECTDRIVE BAR WITH C.S.S.
Designed for the Crossover rider who wants versatility,
uncompromising safety, performance and convenience in a
4-line configuration, the Directdrive Control Bar comes stock with
SS technology innovations such as Center Safety System (C.S.S.)
and the Active Stopper Ball. Ideal for riders who value safety and
convenience, C.S.S. works like a 5th line for secure self landings and
to completely kill the power of the kite. The clean and uncluttered bar
features below the bar safety and depower, and works with all SS ’09
kites as well as the ’08 Revs and Fuels. Any kite designed to flag off of
one center line should also work as well.
SIZeS: 17”, 20” and 23” MSRP: $399
STEEL TEE
The new Steel t-shirt for 2009 embodies the core
“rock star” attitude Slingshot has always been known
for with solid branding in mind. Available in black,
features such as a sick silk screened design
made of 100% soft feel cotton and a true to size
fit, make this tee a staple for your wardrobe that
will help you transition from day to night with style.
Slingshot makes some of the best looking apparel and
soft good accessories of all the manufacturers so be
sure to check out their entire ‘09 line up.
SIZeS: M to XL MSRP: $ 20.00
www.slingshotsports.com
52 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 53

dESiGnER’S corner cont.
analyze this
ANALyze tHiS
cABriNHA
Liquid Force
SyNc BAcKLeSS BiNdiNgS
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
The Cabrinha Sync Backless Bindings are on the cutting edge of kiteboarding footstrap design. Why fool with Velcro
adjustable straps when you can dial your comfort and size in with laces? The Sync binding is based off the top piece
of any normal wakeboard bindings and has a drawstring to tighten down across the top of your foot. The pads are
designed with a firm foot bed but still are soft with plenty of grip. The foot bed also includes an ergonomic arch
and toe grip to help prevent slipping. The overall quality of construction
is really nice and is ultra cush for big hard landings. One notable
characteristic is the wider than average strap which really holds
your feet in. During testing, we did notice they can be a little
tricky to attach to your board. We used slightly longer
screws and the problem was solved. Overall, the
new Sync Backless Bindings are great for those
riders getting into more powered moves or any
kiteboarder looking for a footstrap that will keep
your feet locked in.
‘09 coMp StrAp
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
Updated for 2009, Liquid Force’s Comp Strap is still the only molded kiteboard strap on the market. The
strap is built around a molded and pre-curved piece of rubber, instead of being built from layers of webbing
and fabric. This means that the straps arrive pre-curved out of the box and don’t distort like traditional
straps. The ergonomic foot bed is super comfortable and soft. LF definitely deserves props for making a
strap and pad that is effortless to attach to the board. The comps
offer an amazing adjustment range and will fit a wide range of
feet comfortably, as the strap maintains its molded shape as
it is adjusted, as opposed to flattening out when tightened.
When testing we noticed the wide strap gives you a
solid feeling of connection to the board and our feet
felt locked in as if we were wearing boots. If you are
looking for a premium adjustable straps that is both
comfortable and functional, your money will be well
spent on the Comps.
dimitri Maramenides | Location: greece | Photo: Chris Cifers/eclipsekites.com
REPORT CARD
StrapS: Easy, adjustable and keeps your feet in Excellent
padS: Have a soft structural design with lots of grip Excellent
adjuStability:
Great range and quick to adjust on the fly Excellent
Comfort: Wide straps and soft, but firm footpads Excellent
EaSy attaChmEnt:
We had to use slightly longer screws Average
ovErall Support: Great support when
tightened down to your foot properly Excellent
coNSuMer FeedBAcK:
No reviews at this time due to the newness of the
product. The new bindings should be available when
this magazine releases.
REPORT CARD
StrapS: The wide molded straps hold your feet
solidly to the board Excellent
padS: Pads are very comfortable Excellent
adjuStability:
Very adjustable, with easy to use lacing Excellent
Comfort: Very comfortable and supportive Excellent
EaSy attaChmEnt:
Pre-curved, so easier to install than average Excellent
ovErall Support: Great support, especially if
you adjust them to be a little snug Excellent
coNSuMer FeedBAcK:
No reviews at this time due to the newness of the
product. The new bindings will be available in the fall.
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Struts and LE inflate individually, no single pump system Excellent
Control bar: N/A, 2008 bar tested n/a
Control bar aCCESSoriES: N/A, 2008 bar tested n/a
SafEty SyStEm: N/A, 2008 bar tested n/a
bridlE: Simple with multiple attachment points for noticeable tuning differences Excellent
Stability: Cuben Fiber leading edge with twister technology above average
powEr: Plenty of power for a seemingly smaller size kite Excellent
turning: Highly responsive and fun to kite loop Excellent
pop: Provides huge yet controlled levitation-like hang time Excellent
bar prESSurE: Medium bar pressure with a nice feel above average
dEpowEr: Lots of on/off power adjustment within a short throw above average
rElaunCh: Quick and easy
durability: No durability issues, and noticeable Kevlar and
Excellent
reinforcements in high-wear areas Excellent
KitE bag: Plenty big to fit the kite in, but it’s almost awkwardly big above average
pump: Long lasting pump with metal shaft and also includes a pressure gauge Excellent
tipS:
8 Make sure to pump the leading edge rock solid. The HP will perform better with
the leading edge firmly pumped.
8 Play around with the multiple attachment points. Our favorite was the A-B setting.
The designer’s favorite was the A-A setting.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: Sea breeze.com.au review, Jonno Mojo
Good kite. Lighter on the bar than the ’08 and has more depower. When depowered, it
seems to have a more of a C-shape with less flat surface area. I think this is good, e.g. it
makes the kite seem smaller and allows the kite to sit back in the wind window when not
under power, and it doesn’t get that invert look you get on bows (the wind hitting the top
of the canopy & fluttering). But with the power on, the canopy has a similar shape to the
‘08, although the trailing edge is now slightly scalloped and could be slightly deeper. The
kite has a good snappy feel about it, much better than the ’08. I did notice the Twister Tech
working when turning the kite under load; that may be why the kite feels snappier and
lighter in the bar. The relaunch is, well, OK but it does take some skill, in light wind.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39696
MUlTiPle reAr
ATTAChMenTS
TWiSTer TeCh 3
CUBAn fiBer
leAding edge
BeSt
‘09 Hp NeMeSiS
TeSTed: 12m TyPe of KiTe: Sle SiZeS: 6,8,10,12,14
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
The kite of choice for discerning, performance-focused riders worldwide, the
Nemesis HP provides the perfect balance between C-kite responsiveness and
SLE performance making it an unbeatable choice for both ‘Big Air’ and ‘Big
Surf’ riding styles. The addition of Twister Tech for ’09 delivers faster turn
initiation and tighter turning with reduced bar pressure, maximizing handling
response even in low wind conditions. Our Cuben equipped LE continues to
deliver breathtaking jumping, upwind riding and hangtime performance. Add in
a revised VP2 bridle for stability, and Best’s legendary Surf Tough construction
and you have the number one kite choice for all-performance-focused riders, in
any wind, on any wave.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
Best sent us the 2009 12m Nemesis HP which we tested in 17-23 mph
conditions and smooth flat water. Out of the bag, we noticed the new look
with screen printed tribal patterns for a laid back island style aesthetic. The
HP has always been an interesting kite due to the Cuben fiber incorporated
into the leading edge of the design. Most notably, Cuben fiber allows for
a much smaller diameter front LE and is able to handle higher air pressure
allowing for more rigidity. We can only assume a smaller leading edge has
aerodynamic benefits, and we believe it adds to how highly reactive this kite
is. The HP Nemesis is ultra fast and generates power very quickly. This year
Best added “Twister Tech” to the leading edge, which adds veins of Kevlar
interspersed in the Cuben fiber to allow the kite to twist where you want it,
and stay rigid where you don’t. While testing we noticed the ’09 kite was more
nimble than the ‘08. When setting up, we were taken back by the traditional
inflation system. We had to pump it up one strut at a time. This kite can be
purchased with an EZ-pump system, but Best offers the traditional inflation
system for those that prefer it. The HP’s bridle system was relatively simple,
yet allowed for a wide variation of tuning with A-B-C bridle attachment points.
We began the test with the setup out of the bag on the A-A attachment.
Unfortunately, we were not shipped the ‘09 bar, so we used the ‘08. When the
HP got on the water, its cool island look was overshadowed by its fiery speed
and power. Among the kites we tested, this seemed to be the smallest of the
12m kites, yet its reactive speed gave it more than enough power for new
school tricks and old school boosted airs. Most testers loved the speed, but
some thought it was too fast and almost twitchy. After a quick adjustment to
the A-B bridle attachments, most of the testers liked the more controlled feel
and this setting made the kite go upwind even easier. The adjustability and
tuning potential with the various attachment points are endless. The amount
of power and depower available within the short bar throw was impressive
and handled gusts extremely well. Relaunching the HP was very easy and no
one had trouble getting it back up. One of the most noticeable characteristics
besides the quick turning in the HP is the HUGE jumps you can get. They
definitely takes some timing, but the HP can literally levitate and hang you
there for an incredibly long time. This kite would be manageable as a first
kite to a new rider, but its benefits will be much more appreciated by more
advanced riders. Overall, the ’09 HP is a solid kite, built for the rider looking
for a C-style SLE kite with range, speed and performance. Bow style kite riders
might be intimidated by the zippy fastness, but will like the power range and
adjustability in tuning. There is no doubt the new Nemesis HP is an ultra high
performance kite that deserves a test ride. We were simply blown away with
the jumping ability, and, if you time one right, you might be coming back to the
beach to change your board shorts.
54 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 55

dESiGnER’S corner cont.
analyze this
ANALyze tHiS
SLiNgSHot
TeSTed: 13m TyPe of KiTe: hybrid SiZeS: 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15m
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
The New Slingshot Rev 2 is the answer for every kiter looking for the
performance requirements of a traditional “C” shape kite but more of
the depower and range of a dedicated bow kite. The Rev 2 is a 4-line
hybrid kite that has a unique compact bridle and comes complete
with the new Directdrive control bar. The new Directdrive control bar
eliminates the use of pulleys on the bar and features the new Center
Safety System which brings 100% depower, safety and convenience
below the bar. So whether you are the likes of Ben Wilson smacking
waves all day long in the surf or a flat water freerider looking for a Fuellike
feel with depower, look no further than the Slingshot Rev!
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
In its second year of production, the 2009 Slingshot Rev 2 still holds its
own unique feel and performance. We were fortunate to have the chance
to ride the 13m in winds of 15–20mph, in water flatter than you could
imagine. Right from the start, we noticed the bar had been changed up
with new graphics and grip. The new grip allows for a much stronger
hold in those moments of intensity, while the bar setup still comes with
the same below the bar depower and Center Line Safety system for easy
access. This year’s Rev comes with little sleeves on the plastic hose
clamps for their one pump system, to prevent them from tearing up the
canopy. This addition also adds a nice stylish and clean look to the kite
up close. The depower of the 2009 Rev still puts out a smooth but direct
feel of depower in the correct range of wind. The ‘09 Rev 2 had a less
on and off feel. Whereas some flatter SLE kites have a really noticeable
feel of depower with the chicken loop pulled in just a couple of inches,
The Rev 2 has the ability to hold a smooth range of depower in about 6
to 7 inches of throw on the chicken loop before you start getting that
complete depower feel from the kite. Turning, the Rev was direct and
responsive, with little pivoting and more of an arched turn. This helped
the kite hold power better through the turns or even when you have to
pump the kite for power. The turning on the ‘09 Rev 2 is less twitchy than
’08, but the kite has remained ultra fast making some jumps and tricks
require slower kite movement. The fact that Slingshot has kept a short
compact bridle on this kite has helped the Rev’s ability to relaunch with
almost no tendency to wrap the wingtips, ultimately making for easier
and faster relaunching. The Rev 2 gives you optional attachment points
on the kite for the bridle. This allows you to adjust the bridle and tune
to your liking. The forward attachment points offered greater upwind
ability and a little depower, yet the kite still had really nice pop. The
durability of the ‘09 Rev is what you would expect from Slingshot with its
reinforced leading edge and paneling throughout the canopy. For a rider
looking for a kite with great pop, anyone who has spent time flying this
kite will tell you this kite is a freestyle SLE with nice lift and hang time.
One of the coolest improvements Slingshot made was smoothing out the
depower cleat and making it easier to adjust on the fly. All of our testers
all agreed that the ‘09 Rev 2 was easy to jump onto the water with and
feel comfortable on. Beginners will really like the depower, safety, and
easy relaunching and the advanced riders will like the quick turning,
moderate bar pressure, and solid pop from this kite. Kiters who do not
like fast moving kites may not like the quick turning of the Rev 2, but give
it a try as it is a performance driven SLE. Overall, the ‘09 Rev 2 is a kite
that works great for that rider looking to cross over from a C-kite or for
that rider who is into the bow kites but is looking to change to a more
versatile, performance SLE.
56 thekiteboarder.com
‘09 rev 2
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Standard Slingshot one pump Excellent
Control bar: Comes with a completely new grip and bar graphics.
Still small diameter and easy to grab Excellent
Control bar aCCESSoriES: Comes stock with a below the bar depower
and safety system with its quick release above average
SafEty SyStEm: Center Safety System is simple, effective, and very efficient Excellent
bridlE: Short and simple with multiple attachment points Excellent
Stability: Well balanced kite with consistent feedback Excellent
powEr: Solid pull and great low end above average
turning: Smoother than ‘08 and fast Excellent
pop: Generates solid lift for big airs above average
bar prESSurE: Light to medium bar pressure above average
dEpowEr: Improved from 2008 with less on and off feel Excellent
rElaunCh: Effortless relaunch Excellent
durability: Your typical solid Slingshot build Excellent
KitE bag: Easy to pack your kite into above average
pump: Durable pump with metal shaft and a pressure gauge Excellent
tipS:
8 Make sure to try the multiple attachment points. The forward attachment points offer
more depower and better upwind ability, and the back attachment points give you
more bar pressure and a C-kite feel.
8 Do not confuse the red release on the chicken loop with the depower strap.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: Angelo, Kiteforum
You can pull the release system on the chicken loop, whilst in the water out of your depth,
and the bar travels about 15 metres up the centre line. It may seem that your session is all
over and that you are swimming back to the beach, but you will have the kite back in the air
and riding within 20 seconds. This is done by pulling on the centre line until you reach the
bar, enabling you to hook back in and re-seat the safety system at ease. Guiding the centre
line allows the kite to sit in the correct re-launching position. I did this 7 times on the 11m
and every time there was 100% no problems as we previously found with the 2008.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.kiteforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=2349452
MUlTiPle reAr
ATTAChMenT PoinTS
ConTrol SySTeM
CenTerline
SAfeTy SySTeM
neW And
iMProVed griP
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Durable Sprint Inflation System with a great one way valve Excellent
Control bar: Very comfortable with a new improved bar ends and grip Excellent
Control bar aCCESSoriES: Easy to use depower strap but no stopper
SafEty SyStEm: Simple and effective: IDS allows for complete
above average
depower for self landing above average
bridlE: Color coded and short reconfigured from ‘08 with multiple attachment points Excellent
Stability: Nicely balanced for such a big kite Excellent
powEr: Pulls like a truck and extremely powerful for its size! Excellent
turning: For a big kite, it predictably moves where you want it above average
pop: Very big and lofty hang time and solid power for wakestyle too
bar prESSurE: Medium bar pressure, what you would expect
Excellent
from a bigger kite above average
dEpowEr: Very smooth depower and goes upwind efficiently Excellent
rElaunCh: Will relaunch but can be tricky if she lies on her back average
durability: Nice reinforcements with molded EVA skid guards above average
KitE bag: Very compact design and cool look Excellent
pump: Two options for pumping Excellent
tipS:
8 Make sure you read the manual and watch the online videos about how to use the
IDS system.
8 Move your bridle attachments to the forward setting for more upwind ability or keep it
on the back settings for lighter bar pressure.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: Hapa13, Kiteforum
First thing you notice is that the bag is smaller. This had some of us worried at first, but
alas, the kite fits back in with pretty minimal effort. I love the lighter feel at the bar while
flying the kite. Most 2:1 users will probably like it set at the “light” setting. 1:1 kite flyers
will most likely prefer the “lighter” setting. The unhooking is fairly good as well. This kite is
a little more trim sensitive than say an SB 3, but is definitely more friendly unhooked than
previous CB models. The new soft bar ends are a nice touch as well. If your hand slips
down to the bar end during mid loop, or you accidently whack yourself while un-spinning
the bar, you’ll be glad those bar ends are now soft.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.kiteforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=2349661
MUlTiPle reAr
ATTAChMenT PoinTS
ConTrol SySTeM
idS
SAfeTy SySTeM
SPrinT inflATion
SySTeM
cABriNHA
’09 croSSBow idS
TeSTed: 13m TyPe of KiTe: Bow SiZeS: 7, 9, 11, 13 & 16m
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
The Crossbow IDS launches Cabrinha into an entirely new era of Performance
Freeriding by raising the standard of kite control and handling yet again. At the
heartbeat of this new design is our innovative Intelligent Depower System (IDS)
technology. The Crossbow IDS delivers in all areas of power and range of use
that you would expect from a Cabrinha Freeride kite. We have implemented a
Dynamic Arc progression which reduces the flatness of the arc as the kite sizes
get smaller. The larger sized kites have the flattest arcs and highest aspect ratios
for light wind efficiency and a wider wind range. The smaller kites have a more
conservative arc and lower aspect ratios for control and handling in stronger
winds. This unique design progression makes the Crossbow a chameleon when
it comes to challenging wind conditions. Fast flying, quick turning and a wide
wind range blows the doors wide open for high performance riding in any type of
discipline or conditions.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
First off, we must define the Crossbow 13m IDS and where it fits in. If you were a
Contra 14m rider, the Crossbow 13m will fill its shoes for 2009. It is labeled a 13m, but
in reality is it is more like a 15 or 16 meter kite. As the wind began to come up, this
was the first kite we put up. The CB IDS handled the light 13-15 mph winds beautifully.
As the wind increased, it proved to be a solid, all around kite with lots of low end grunt
and high end range. Upon taking this kite out of the bag, we could tell that Cabrinha
had put the extra effort into every detail to make this a quality kite. The redesigned bag
although small, has two different expansion options. When we laid out the bar (same
bar as the Switchblade IDS), we appreciated the easy to read grip with noticeable
letters indicating the left and right sides of the bar. The foam padded bar ends were
also an appreciated feature. Unfortunately, the bar was without an adjustable stopper
to limit the handle throw, but this feature will be added to the bars in September, and
will be retroactively available for all kites sold before then. For most situations, this
was fine, but when un-spinning the bar after loops and rolls, it would slide up to almost
out of reach. New for this year, Cabrinha introduced the Intelligent Depower System
(IDS). We were very excited to try this feature and attempted to set it up quickly.
After several frustrating minutes of trying to figure it out, we broke out the manual
to discover we had it all wrong. We recommend all users read the directions to make
sure you have it rigged right and that your safety leash is connected to the correct
spot on the chicken loop. The IDS system is intended for instant and safe depower
in emergency situations, or for self landing. We found that it does a superb job of
both. After deploying the IDS, the kite falls to the water and the leading edge rests
entirely on the water toward the kiter creating minimal pull. Never did the kite want to
leave the water and spiral. Resetting the IDS system while still on the water could be
difficult, but it is well worth the safety trade-off if in a situation where all kite power
needs to be bled. Flying this kite in light to moderate winds was a blast! The 13m kite
tested produced more power than many 15m kites but still had the responsive turning
characteristic of its size, similar to the pull of the older light wind Contra but with
faster turning and better upwind ability. Our testers had a little trouble relaunching
the CB 13m. With such a big kite and flatter profile, when it laid on its back it became
hard to get off the water. The CB IDS was able to boost huge lofty airs. Cabrinha kept
freestyle kiters in mind with this kite as it provides the instantaneous power required
for unhooked tricks without sending the kite. The 2009 Cabrinha Crossbow IDS is a
very fun kite with many technical advances that make it more safe and performance
oriented than previously. For more information on our trials and tribulations with the
IDS, please read the Switchblade IDS review.
thekiteboarder.com 57

ANALyze tHiS
dESiGnER’S corner cont.
analyze this
cABriNHA
‘09 SwitcHBLAde idS
TeSTed: 12m TyPe of KiTe: Bow SiZeS: 4, 6, 8, 12 & 14m
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
The industry leading kite for wakestyle and freeriding just got better.
Thanks to the addition of our Intelligent Depower System or IDS, you
have more control at your fingertips than you ever thought possible. The
Switchblade IDS is a performance kite with a direct, light bar feel, and
easy handling capabilities. The Switchblade excels in the competition
wakestyle arena but is simple enough to make any rider feel like a pro.
The Switchblade handles the task of unhooked riding by delivering a
constant steady powerband. When unhooked the kite continues to fly
forward, making the power predictable during your tricks.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
The SB IDS is the fourth generation of the Cabrinha Switchblades. One of
our testers here in Corpus Christi, TX, has a quiver of them, so our criticism
hackles were up when we got the new kite. We couldn’t imagine anything
better than last year’s model, but much to our surprise, there are some definite
improvements as well as some downsides to the setup. Cabrinhas’s Sprint
inflation system works well with little hassle pumping the kite up. Looking
along the leading edge and throughout the kite, we noticed the beefed up
reinforcement to the panels. As we made our way down to the bar, we came
upon Cabrinha’s new IDS system which hooks up below the bar, just under
the chicken loop release for easy access. Setting up the IDS was a little more
tricky than we expected. Make sure you read the instructions and DO NOT
HOOK YOUR LEASH directly to the IDS ring. The IDS ring hooks into the pin
on the chicken loop itself. Our crew spent a little time on the beach with
many different thoughts as to where we were supposed to connect the leash.
Some of our theories would have been disastrous if we had not consulted the
manual. Upon further investigation, we noticed that Cabrinha had removed the
bar stopper on the chicken loop line. This was not an issue for anyone during
the testing phase, but based on consumer feedback from some early releases,
Cabrinha will be sending a supply to dealers in September for all retroactive
and future customers of the SB IDS. In the meantime, just be aware that when
you let go of the bar, you will really need to make a stretch to recover it if you
don’t grab it back quick enough. Cabrinha also revamped the grip and bar
ends which are a cool upgrade from ‘09. Another significant change was to
the bridle system which comes with multiple rear attachment points to adjust
the kite to your liking. We tested the 12m in 17 -20 mph wind and smooth
flat water. Right from launch, we noticed the SB IDS still had its powerful
low end grunt and smooth range. With the new bridle configuration, the SB
IDS upwind ability was amazing, with solid power at the edge of the wind
window and smooth depower. The bar pressure was medium and the kite had
a solid direct feel. The bar and bridle system gives you feedback from the kite
immediately when you’re looking for that responsiveness in a kite. The turning
on the new SB was a little slower than some of the more souped up bow/SLEs
on the market. Unhooked riders may be a little intimidated at first with the
power this kite can create while unhooked, but for the hooked in freestyle and
jumping, the SB IDS literally blew us out of the water. Relaunching was simple
and easy, but please note that the IDS is designed to help self land the kite or
act as a kill switch. It is meant to be used as a secondary safety system and
should not be deployed otherwise (refer to CB IDS review for details). Overall,
the ‘09 SB IDS is a super fun, all around package. Bow kite lovers looking for
a performance driven bow kite with SLE characteristics will appreciate the
power and pop. Hybrid SLE and C-kite fans may not like the slower turning
or medium bar pressure, but we guarantee that once they jump on it, you will
have full respect for the power this kite holds and the lift it generates.
58 thekiteboarder.com
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Durable Sprint inflation system with a great one way valve Excellent
Control bar: Very comfortable with a new, improved bar ends and grip Excellent
Control bar aCCESSoriES: Easy to use depower strap but no stopper
SafEty SyStEm: Simple and effective IDS System to allow for complete
above average
depower for self landing above average
bridlE: Color coded and short reconfigured from ‘08 with multiple attachment points Excellent
Stability: Solid feel with little to almost no tendencies to fly out of the window Excellent
powEr: Good all around kite with good low end and top end pull Excellent
turning: A little slower but not by much above average
pop: Great pop and tons of lift Excellent
bar prESSurE: Medium bar pressure above average
dEpowEr: Depowers smoothly within the recommended wind range Excellent
rElaunCh: Easy with little hassle Excellent
durability: Beefed up the reinforcements above average
KitE bag: Very compact design and cool look Excellent
pump: Allows for multiple settings when inflating your kite Excellent
tipS:
8 Save yourself time and some potential frustration by reading the manual and
watching the online video on the IDS.
8 Experiment with the bridle attachment points – there are noticeable performance
differences to be gained.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: South Central Kiteboarders Review, Daz
I like a kite company that knows the people flying their kites fly them because they like them
e.g. they like the feel and style. The last thing you want is the kite you are comfortable on
changing completely. What you want is the characteristics and comfort of your kite and have
it improved. To me this is what Switchblade IDS is. I cannot credit Cabrinha enough – this
kite really does boost huge and hangs forever. Overall, it’s a super smooth, awesome gusty
wind machine, that will boost you huge and allow for all those big tricks without fear of too
much punishment if you don’t make it. The kite will also be up there waiting for you when
you are done stuffing around. Steady and solid is this kite’s gig with power and grunt.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.southcentralkiteboarders.com/switchblade4_review.html
Molded eVA
SKid PAdS
ConTrol SySTeM
SAfeTy releASe
idS
iMProVed griP
And BAr endS
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Easy single pump system with a wingtip deflation system Excellent
Control bar: Comfortable on the hands with a nice narrow diameter Excellent
Control bar aCCESSoriES: Clean, simple and straightforward Excellent
SafEty SyStEm: Easy to deploy safety system and relaunch Excellent
bridlE: Ultra short and simple Excellent
Stability: Nicely balanced for such a big kite Excellent
powEr: Generates smooth power average
turning: Predictable and easy to steer average
pop: Very nice hang time for sent big airs above average
bar prESSurE: Very light bar pressure above average
dEpowEr: Shorter throw than on most kites but depowers nicely above average
rElaunCh: Just as easy getting it off the water as it was to crash it Excellent
durability: Very well put together kite above average
KitE bag: Easy to fit kite into above average
pump: Standard Pump average
tipS:
8 Move the bridle attachments to the forward setting for better upwind ability and
less power.
8 Try unhooking from this kite; you might be surprised at how easy it flies.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: ExtREME KitES AuStRAliA foRuM, StEvE
I put this (kite) first on this review this time, because that’s what I have in my mind 24 hours
after riding the kite and enjoying it. I think it will be a good all round kite for the majority of
riders. It relaunches quite easily, jumps high, and is extremely well made. In flight, the kite
is a medium to fast forward flight kite and it tips turns well, really nice pivot to it actually. It
has plenty of power in the turns and does a wider radius turn that the Slingy Rev 11m, but
similar to the Naish Helix 12m. Due to quick and responsive turns, it was easy to get good
height jumps. I tested the safety system, and the kite drops and depowers quickly, tending
to hit the deck LE up or TE down, whichever way you look at it. There is some residual pull,
but the kite does not take off. I think it would be possible to reconnect the chicken loop
easily while holding the 5th line, and then feed the 5th back out and relaunch hooked in.
The relaunches we tried were hooked in and only required a pull on the centre lines and the
kite quickly moved to the edge and relaunched.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.extremekites.com.au/forums/showthread.php?t=4623
MUlTiPle reAr
ATTAChMenT PoinTS
ConTrol SySTeM
CenTer line
qUiCK releASe
UlTrA
PlUSh griP
FLexFoiL
‘08 AtoM
TeSTed:12m TyPe of KiTe: hybrid SiZeS: 3, 5, 7, 9 & 12m
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
Our new Atom 08 has been designed to be comfortable and fun to ride with
superior performance in all conditions. The Atom 08 design and hybrid shape
delivers rock-solid stability, huge depower, predictability and responsive handling.
The development of the Atom 08 has been informed by feedback collected from the
original Atom (07). The common theme was: “Don’t change the kite, it’s perfect!”
This laid down a challenge to the R&D team - improve the apparently “perfect”
kite! After initial prototype testing, the Flexifoil R&D team knew that they could
enhance the feel and responsiveness of the Atom by altering components such
as the leading edge construction and the wingtip shape. The end result is that
the overall stability and useable wind range has been improved through detailed
refinement of the aerodynamic elements of each size of the Atom 08.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
Flexifoil has been making quality traction kites for over three decades. Right
out of the bag, we could tell the ‘08 Flexifoil Atom was an attractive kite. We
tested the 12m Atom in 18-26 mph winds, and not one person on our team of
riders could agree on just one feature they liked the most. From the build to the
performance of the Flexifoil Atom, this is a very fun and forgiving kite. Flexifoil
still has the traditional wingtip deflation valve for a quicker break down if needed,
while being quick to inflate as well with its single pump inflation system. As we
moved down to the control bar, you could tell the bar would be easy to grab and
hang onto with little slipping because of its ultra plush grip. The depower strap
is located just above the control bar and never seemed to be out of reach due to
the shorter throw in depower. The safety system was excellent as it was easy to
crash and burn, then relaunch and ride away. Your leash connects just below the
bar at the chicken loop right next to the quick release so in case of an emergency,
everything is right there at the riders reach. From the time the kite was launched
until it was landed, we all felt comfortable with plenty of power and almost no
stability issues. Flexifoil’s Atom had little bar pressure and was stable enough
to stay where you wanted it to. The Atom has a smooth and consistent range of
power within the throw of the chicken loop. Even if put into a situation where you
would need to depower the kite completely, the Atom has the capability to do
this efficiently and effectively with little effort. Boosting on the Atom was really
fun and perfect for any rider looking for an easy kite to jump. On a side note, if
you aren’t watching your kite position on the landings, the Atom had a tendency
to flutter back into the wind window, but this was preventable by keeping a
little more force on your front hand when landing jumps. Unhooked, the lighter
bar pressure made it easy to fly the Atom with one hand for unhooked moves
such as raleys, back rolls or even S-bends. When we did crash the kite, the ‘08
Atom had little to no issues relaunching, in fact it pretty much relaunched just as
easily as when we crashed it. We do not want to hype the Atom as a super high
performance kite, because that is not what it is. The Atom is great for a beginner
to advanced kiter looking for a predictable, easy to fly, and easy to relaunch
hybrid. One of our testers who rarely rides unhooked was attempting raleys to
blinds and crashing miserably commented that the Atom’s light bar pressure and
gentle flight characteristics gave him the confidence to try new tricks. Beginner
to intermediate riders going out on this kite for the first time will really appreciate
the control, stability, light bar pressure, and smooth range in power. Advanced
riders who are into really fast kites may be set back with the Atom a little, but
after one jump the Atom may send you home thinking twice about the kite. In all,
the 2008 is great for that beginner to intermediate rider looking to progress into
their advanced stages of riding.
thekiteboarder.com 59

ANALyze tHiS
dESiGnER’S corner cont.
analyze this
60 thekiteboarder.com
Liquid Force
’09 HAvoc geNerAtioN 3
TeSTed:12m TyPe of KiTe: Sle SiZeS: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16m
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
Now in its third year of evolution, the 2009 Havoc Generation 3 is a
refined, tuned and evolved update to the 4-line original SLE Freeride/
Performance kite that set new standards in design, feel, performance
and reliability for bridled kites that have become common within the
industry. The new Generation 3 Havoc introduces the latest evolution of
our USB 2.0 – Ultra Stable Bridle, which along with the static wingtip
pulley and proven Diamond Wingtip, create extreme depower with a
short throw of the bar while providing precise control of the kite, even
when fully depowered. The staple of the Liquid Force line up, the new
Havoc features a flatter arc for 2009, providing increased lift and hang
time, while also incorporating the new Mullet Power Canopy, providing
more low end grunt by creating a wider section in the canopy at the
trailing edge without altering the aspect ratio of the kite. With a more
direct feel this year while preserving a light comfortable bar pressure,
and the added lift and upwind performance, the Havoc has been tuned
to be the ultimate freeride kite to suit almost any type of rider.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
The new Liquid Force Havoc Generation 3 is still designed as a supported
leading edge kite, and is categorized as a Hybrid SLE. The ‘09 Havoc is a
sharp looking kite and kept a little of the argyle graphics from last year on
the wingtips that just adds to the overall coolness of the design. The Havoc
Gen 3’s construction comes with beefed up seams, helping to reduce any
chances of the canopy splitting. We tested a 12m and had the chance to
take it out in steady 17–20mph winds and butter smooth water. The Gen 3
comes with LF’s Union Inflation System which makes pumping up quick and
easy. The valve clamps do not ship pre-installed, but are included in your
bag to install if desired. The set up of the kite was very straightforward, and
we liked that fact that we could just hook it up and go. We had no issues
with tuning the kite out of the bag and were able to go out for multiple
sessions with no problems. This is a dramatic improvement from the past
as last year’s kite required a little tuning. We couldn’t exactly tell whether
or not the static wingtip pulley and the new diamond wingtip design were
the cause of the light bar pressure and smoother turning of the kite, but
overall, we noticed the ’09 Havoc turned significantly smoother than the ’08.
The turning of the kite was reasonably easy and comfortable with light to
moderate bar pressure. The Havoc Gen 3 has a little more bar pressure than
last year but it is still on the lighter side and is great for unhooked riding that
requires quick response from the kite. The second major improvement we
noticed was in the pop. The ‘09 Havoc loves to jump and is in improvement
on the previous generation kite. With the kites’ leading edge being a little
more swooped back, this allows it to water relaunch easy and quick. The
new bar setup has been updated with a slight change in the graphics while
still holding its original below the bar depower system. The cleat may
take a good tug to release, and LF added a new notch to put the excess
depower line. The throw on the chicken loop may be a little hard to reach
for some with shorter arms, but it doesn’t take much to adjust the stopper
ball to keep the bar closer to the rider. LF has always been about simplicity
and performance and their bar set up follows that mantra. Overall, the ’09
Havoc Gen 3 was easy to ride and feel comfortable on instantly, and is a
stunner in terms of aesthetics and performance. Bow lovers may not like
the fast turning and lighter bar pressure, but they will like the depower,
range and pop. C-Kite and SLE hybrid lovers will like the smooth turning
and consistent power for hooked and unhooked riding. Any rider looking for
a solid, no BS package can’t go wrong with this kite.
REPORT CARD
inflation SyStEm: Fast and easy with their single point Union Inflation System above average
Control bar: Simple smooth grip and small diameter Excellent
Control bar aCCESSoriES: The below the bar depower cleat comes
with a new notch to attach the extra line Excellent
SafEty SyStEm: Chicken loop release and a center line kill above average
bridlE: Medium length with only one pulley Excellent
Stability: Easy to fly and stable, more C-kite than SLE feel in gusts above average
powEr: Nice low end and jumps; better than last year above average
turning: Ultra smooth and reminiscent of a C-kite Excellent
pop: Fun freestyle kite to ride and jump Excellent
bar prESSurE: Light Bar pressure, kite turns with ease Excellent
dEpowEr: Lots of depower Excellent
rElaunCh: Relaunches with little effort Excellent
durability: LF construction is built to take a smackdown Excellent
KitE bag: Plenty of room to pack the kite into above average
pump: Basic everyday kite pump average
tipS:
8 If you are into valve clips on your single point inflation system, the Havoc ships with
them in the bag.
8 Clip your leash to the knob at the end of the depower strap.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: Seabreeze.com.au forum Review, Mini_kiter-josh
I personally did not like the feel of the 08 Havocs. I just couldn’t get the feel of them and
it just wasn’t the kite for me. But after today’s session – wow! Liquid Force has done
a terrific job in creating the ‘09 Havoc. There is slightly more bar pressure, so you feel
a lot more in control of the kite. There is also a lot more reinforcing in this kite which
means if you’re like me and love trying new tricks but don’t like the big bang when you
stack, it’s perfect. It relaunches as good as the ‘08 Havocs, which is incredibly fast! This
kite is pretty much a combination of all the things I love about the LF kites. After today’s
session I think I have been converted.
FuLL reviewS At: http://www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=38387
Union
inflATion SySTeM
ConTrol SySTeM
BeloW BAr
dePoWer CleAT
reinforCed
SKid PAdS
Liquid Force ’09 prooF
Tested: 141 x 41.5cm SiZeS: 141 x 41.5cm, 151 x 42.5cm, 161 x 44cm finS: 4
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
The LF Proof series has defined entry level kiteboards for the past few years by being the easiest to learn to ride
on while providing the most affordable path into the sport for new riders purchasing gear. At $329.99, using the
same popular rounded square tail outline, single concave bottom shape, and round rails as the popular 151/161
boards, the new Proof 141cm size is better for smaller riders just starting out, or the rider that has progressed
further in their initial lessons and is ready for a moderate sized board. Experienced riders looking to add parkstyle
slider/kicker riding to their bag of tricks will enjoy the superior durability and stability of the 141 for riding
unhooked with less power.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
This year, LF added a 141cm to the Proof line. Don’t be fooled by the word, “entry level,” as even more advanced riders
will love this board. There is no doubt the 141 will be popular because of its quality construction and price. LF has
been making boards for over 20 years and knows the business better than most. One standout feature of the design
is the board’s aggressive rocker line. The rocker helps the board track upwind a little better but the trade off is less
board speed. The 141 is really stiff and offers an efficient amount of drive and glide across the water. Looking down
to the bottom of the board, you’ll notice its concave, which also helps with the boards’ ability to ride upwind easier
and hold to the water much better in overpowered situations. You’ll also notice that the rails are a little rounder than
the average twin tip . This rail helps the board hold to the water and also gives the rider a smoother ride through the
chop, which helps when you are struggling to hold your edge. The Proof has a fair bit of pop with its stiff structure
and heavier rocker, but in lighter winds, the board may struggle a little more as it will be harder to keep up your board
speed to create the pop needed. The board has some volume to it which will help it in the lighter winds, especially
since it has such a stiff design. Overall, the Proof 141 is a great board for entry level riders looking for a kiteboard with
solid construction matched with performance. Lighter wind riders might want to trade up to the 151cm. Intermediate to
advanced riders looking for a cost effective board that is easy to jump onto and ride with no hassles should definitely
check this one out.
SLiNgSHot ’09 LuNAcy
TeSTed: 135 x 43cm SiZeS: 130 x 39cm, 132 x 41cm, 135 × 43cm fins: 4
MAnUfACTUrer reVieW
In 2008, Slingshot introduced the Lunacy as it’s first ever “pro-model” board, appropriately named with
reference to how insane Ruben Lenten rides. After experiencing the benefits of Slingshot’s proprietary
core technology FRT used inthe Slingshot wakeboards, Ruben incorporated this feature into his kiteboard.
The Lunacy is a super aggressive twin tip and maintains a wide shape, sharp rail and extreme tip power.
Translation, it delivers unmatched drive and massive pop to deliver the ultimate kiteboard for hard core
freestyle riding and competition! New for 2009 are the 132 and 135 sizes for heavier riders.
The KiTeBoArder rePorT
At first glance, the Slingshot Lunacy has a real wide look from tip to tip and the graphics of the board give it really
cool aesthetics. The inserts for the straps and pads are positioned a little offset for those riders really looking to
toe out their stance more. The pads and straps come with the same texture, look, and design as last year, while
the fin setup on the board comes with aggressive 2-inch fins that noticeably help the board edge against the kite
and ultimately upwind. As you start looking closer at the board and its rails, you will notice it has a thin, hard rail
and a little concave to the bottom of the deck. This board is fast in smooth water but because of its width, on
the 135cm, it had a tendency to skip out while riding fast in the chop. Just the flex alone makes this board fun
to jump and lay into some monster carves while allowing you to still cruise around without feeling like you’re on
a noodle. The pop this board offers can easily be attributed to the flex and width of the board. While loading up
against the kite for a big jump or even just to go for a back or front roll, you don’t want to edge hard for too long.
This board relies on a quick load and release technique unless taken out in 30+ knots and doing huge Lenten
kiteloops. Slingshots’ Lunacy also tracks upwind exceptionally well due to its wide outline and small rocker and
with its 2-inch fin setup, any rider from beginner to advance won’t have a problem benefiting from this board.
Any beginner who gets a chance to ride the 135cm will probably dig its wide outline, smooth edging and upwind
ability, and a more advanced rider may prefer the 129cm or 132cm for more control. Bigger or light wind riders
should definitely check out the 135cm we tested. We can guarantee the Lunacy is going to be a big hit in 2009.
REPORT CARD
durability: Tough board that can handle a rough ride Excellent
wEight: Not too heavy but the straps do
add some weight to the board Above Average
turning:
Little flex with its rocker line helpsit drive through turns Excellent
pop: Stiff feel and direct pop off the water Above Average
upwind ability:
Good drive in the board to cruises upwind Above Average
StrapS & padS: Super comfy and adjustable Excellent
finS: Real solid 2-inch fins that help edge against the kite well Excellent
ovErall ridE: Great entry level or light wind board Excellent
tipS:
8 Be sure to keep your speed up to get the full performance out
of the board.
8 In lighter winds it may help to keep a little more weight on your
front foot to help the board drive upwind better.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK:
No consumer review available at this time. It’s a brand new board
that is scheduled to release in the fall.
REPORT CARD
durability: Wooden core board with a durable finish Excellent
wEight: Moderate to light weight, even with the straps and pads Above Average
turning: Lots of flex in the board allows it to drive through the turns Excellent
pop: Solid amount of pop with its width allows
good pop in lighter winds as well Excellent
upwind ability: The combination of the flex and
the little concave help the board track upwind Excellent
StrapS & padS: Pads are easy to mount to the
board but may not fit smaller feet Above Average
finS: The fins that come with the board offer a lot of bite when edging Excellent
ovErall ridE: Solid smooth feel and a great upwind board
with plenty of traction on light days Above Average
tipS:
8 Try not to ride with too much forward weight in choppier water.
8 The board is wide so make sure you can handle your edge
before you go for a speed run through the flats.
coNSuMer FeedBAcK: flexifoil Community forum, Darkside:
I’ve been kiting for roughly 6 years, weigh 86 kg and for the last two years
I’ve been riding a 132 Nobile 666. It (Lunacy) seems to ride a lot smoother
through small chop. Landing from unhooked jumps and tricks feel so smooth
and forgiving. I don’t know if it’s the extra width in the tips but it doesn’t feel
like your going to trip the rails. When I got this board I thought it was just going
to be a flat water only board, but I was wrong. I used it Tuesday in smallish
waves and yesterday in chest/head high waves and again, no problem.
FuLL reviewS At: http://community.flexifoil.com/showthreadphp?t=145196
thekiteboarder.com 61

designer’s corner
gear guide 09
By Marina Chang | Photo Ryan Riccitelli
it useD to Be so simple.
in tHe early Days, KiteBoarDers HaD two
options For tHeir Kite quiver: a 2-line leaDing
eDge inFlataBle (lei) or a Foil Kite, neitHer oF
wHiCH HaD Depower CapaBilities or reliaBle
saFety systems.
Bow Kites are a patented design that
incorporates a bridle on the leading edge. They
can be identified by a flat, swept-back profile
and concave trailing edge. Bows are typically
bridled, 4-line kites. They are a great choice for
both beginners and seasoned riders who want a
super user-friendly kite with a wide wind range,
excellent depower and effortless relaunch.
Foil Kites have air pockets cells similar to a
paraglider and thus require no pumping because
they have no bladders. Foils tend be more popular
with riders in light wind areas, landboarders
and snowkiters but recent technological,
performance and safety advances have regained
them more attention on the water side.
airush
www.airush.com
Best
www.bestkiteboarding.com
C-Kites are the original shaped LEI kites that have evolved to
trainers are smaller foils that are meant to teach you the wind window, how to sign
the kite (generate power), and develop your hand/eye coordination and flying skill.
64 thekiteboarder.com
product name sizes
delta
Today, gear has evolved to offer a multitude of safety and performance
features, tuned to match a wide variety of skill levels, riding styles
and wind/water conditions. Kiteboarders now have so many options
that the choices can often be a bit overwhelming and confusing. So
before you review what’s coming for 2009, check out how kite styles
are defined to help you better select your next kite or quiver.
integrate more of the characteristics associated with
bows/SLEs like depower and wind range. Their
shape is more C-shaped than a flatter bow/SLE.
C-kites tend to be the preferred choice of wake,
freestyle and unhooked wave riders because of
their direct feel, turning speed, constant power
and pop. C-kites come in 4 or 5-line mode.
HyBriD Kites are designed to incorporate the feel
and performance characteristics of a C-kite with
the depower, wind range and safety associated
more with bow/SLE kites. Hybrids tend
to be bridled 4-line kites that are often
convertible to 5-lines, and their shape
falls between a C-kite and flatter bow.
Generator 5,5, 7.5, 9.5, 11.5, 13.5 & 15.5m AUG 08
Vapor II 5, 7, 8.5, 10, 12, 14 & 16m AUG 08
Flow 5,7, 8.5, 10, 12, 14 & 16m AUG 08
types of kites
DNA 2, 4, 6, 9, 12 & 15m AUG 08
Crest 5, 7.5, 10 & 12.5m SEP 08
Yarga 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15m FEB 08
Guroo 3, 6, 9 & 12m (school kite) FEB 08
Nemesis HP 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 & 17m SEP 08
Waroo 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 & 17m SEP 08
c-kite
Bow
sle
Delta Kites are like hybrids but are differentiated by their
shape in that they have less area in the tips and more in the
center for ultra stability, turning speed, smooth
power delivery and ease of relaunch. They
are typically 4-line bridled kites with the
attachments positioned higher up on the
leading edge of the kite compared to
bows/SLEs.
hyBrid
foil
sle Kites also incorporate a bridle
on the kite’s leading edge and are very
similar to bows, but don’t have the
super swept back profile or concave
leading edge.
trainer
Beg-int.
int-adv.
release
date
designer’s corner
gear guide 09
Blade
www.bladekites.com
caBrinha
www.cabrinhakites.com
caution
www.cautionkites.com
eclipse
www.eclipsekites.com
flexifoil
www.flexifoil.com
flysurfer
www.flysurfer.com
fone
www.bayareakitesurf.com
freakdog/eh
www.freakdogkites.com
www.ehkiteboarding.com
gloBe kites
www.globekites.com
hq
www.powerkites.de
liquid force
www.liquidforcekites.com
product name sizes
delta
Vertigo 09 7, 9, 12 & 14m SEP 08
Trigger 6.5, 7, 9, 12 & 14m OCT 08
Prime 7, 9 & 11m OCT 08
Crossbow IDS 7, 9, 11, 13 & 16m AUG 08
types of kites
Switchblade IDS 4, 6, 8, 12 & 14m AUG 08
Convert IDS 3, 5, 7, 9, 12 & 15m OCT 08
Zombie 4, 6, 9 & 12m AUG 08
Mayhem 09 5, 7, 9, 11, 14 & 18m AUG 08
Kima 4, 6, 9 & 12m SEP 08
Thruster 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
Nano 6, 9 & 12m SEP 08
Poacher 4, 6 & 9m OCT 08
Hadlow Pro 09 7, 9, 11 & 13m DEC 08
Monarch 7, 8.5, 10.5, 12.5, 14.5 & 16.5m MAR 09
Empire 3, 5, 7, 9, & 12m FEB 09
Pulse 2 6, 8, 10, 12 & 14m SUM 08
Silver Arrow 19m SUM 08
Speed 2 6, 8, 12, 15 & 19m SUM 08
Psycho 4 8, 10, 12 & 15m AUG 08
Bandit Dos 4.5, 5.5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
EZE 7, 9, 11 & 13m SUM 08
Vicous/Beast V2 5.5, 8, 10 & 12m JAN 09
Ripper/Unleashed V5 6, 8, 9, 10 & 12m JAN 09
Trix 09 7, 9, 12 & 15m OCT 08
V-Sonic 09 6, 8, 11 & 14m OCT 08
Neo 6, 8, 11 & 14m AUG 08
Hydra 2.6 & 3.5m SEP 08
Apex II 5, 7 & 10.5m OCT 08
Montana IV 7, 9 & 12.5m OCT 08
Havoc 3 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
Session 2 4, 6, 9, 12 & 16m SEP 08
HIFI 2 7, 9, 12 & 15m SEP 08
HIFI COMP 7, 9 & 12m SEP 08
c-kite
Bow
sle
hyBrid
foil
trainer
Beg-int.
int-adv.
release
date
thekiteboarder.com 65

designer’s corner
gear guide 09
monkey kites
www.monkeykites.com
naish
www.naishkites.com
noBile
www.nobilekiteboarding.com
north
www.northkites.com
ocean rodeo
www.oceanrodeo.com
ozone
www.flyozone.com
royal
www.royalkiteboarding.com
rrd
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
slingshot
www.slingshotsports.com
by prokitesur f
kiteboarding trainer
sensei
www.senseikiteboarding.com
wainman hi
www.wainmanhawaii.com
windwing
www.windwing.com
product name sizes
delta
Griffin 5, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
types of kites
MK Trainer 2.5m only SEP 08
Cult 3, 4.5, 6, 7.5, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5 & 15m JUL 08
Cult Sport 3, 4.5, 6, 7.5, 10.5 & 12m JUL 08
Torch 7, 8, 9,, 10.5, 12, 14 & 16m JUL 08
Helix 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
555 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14 & 16 OCT 08
666 NHP 7, 9, 12 & 14m OCT 08
Rebel 09 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 & 16m SEP 08
Vegas 09 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16m OCT 08
Rhino 09 9, 12, 14 and 16m FEB 09
Evo 09 7, 9, 10, 12 and 14m FEB 09
Rise 7, 9, 11 & 13m SEP 08
Diablo 7, 8.5, 10.5, 12.5, 14.5 & 16.5m SEP 08
Manta MII 09 8, 10, 12 & 15m OCT 08
Access XC 09 4, 6, 8 & 10m OCT 08
Frenzy FYX 5, 7, 9, 11, & 13m
WINTER
08/09
Instinct 09 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15m SPR 09
Solo 5, 7, 9, 11 & 13m SUM 08
Obsession 5, 7, 9, 10.5, 12 & 15m AUG 08
Passion 3, 5, 9, 11, & 13m SEP 08
Addiction 7, 9, 10.5, 12 & 15m DEC 08
Rev 2 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15m AUG 08
Fuel 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15m SEP 08
Sensei 2 & 3m only (trainer kite) SEP 08
Rabbit 6.5, 9 & 12m SEP 08
Lou 6.6, 9 & 12m JAN 09
Batwing 09 10, 12 & 15.5m AUG 08
SOB (Son of Batwing) 2.5, & 5m AUG 08
Skyfoil 1.1, 2.1, 3.3, 4.4 & 6.6m SEP 08
Rampage III 5, 7, 9.5, & 12m SEP 09
c-kite
Bow
sle
hyBrid
foil
trainer
Beg-int.
int-adv.
release
date
The new Nemesis HP introduces Twister Tech into the leading edge design for increased performance
in turning radius and speed. Photo Gavin Butler
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing
design? The ‘09 HP is an evolution of last year’s kite, but the addition
of Twister Tech takes it somewhere different altogether. The intention
in making this kite was to keep all the positive performance factors
that are dictated by the kites plan shape, aspect ratio, and our use
of Cuben fiber in the leading edge. We retained the large depower
rate, excellent lift/drag ratio, the ability of the kite to point very high
upwind, and good low wind power.
If this is an extension of an existing design, what have you
improved, added or taken away? Adding Twister Tech to the
leading edge has opened up new possibilities in kite design with regard
to blending performance characteristics that are usually antagonistic to
one another. Twister Tech allowed us to do two things. We increased the
turning speed of the kite and we also significantly decreased the turning
circle so you get faster and tighter turning.
Twister Tech places rings of Kevlar reinforced fabric into the leading edge
of the kite with a unique fiber orientation. Because Kevlar, like Cuben
fiber, is a very high strength, low stretch fabric, the inserts are incapable
of ‘flexing’ or ‘bending’, so you lose none of the tip-to-tip stability and
strength of our Cuben equipped LE, but you gain the ability to allow the LE
to twist in response to steering input, right up to the center of the kite.
Normally when you steer your kite a Dacron LE will compress and
absorb a large percentage of your steering input; you have no control
over how this happens, the cloth just micro-buckles. Adding Twister
Tech into the leading edge allowed us to define exactly where and how
the steering input spread across the entire kite, resulting in a quicker,
faster turning end product –Twister Tech enables the entire canopy to
generate a more effective turning force, not just the wing tips.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype phase?
Developing completely new leading edge technology could potentially
impact every area of the kite, so we had to ensure that only beneficial
effects were transferred to the final product. This took a lot of time!
Months were spent just on the basic structure of the insert segments,
and different materials and construction techniques were trialed, both for
effectiveness and durability. Only when we had found the optimum size
and construction for the Twister Tech inserts did we start looking at their
position across the leading edge to provide maximum effectiveness.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety feature to
highlight, what would it be? It has to be the turning response. Twister
Tech does exactly what it says on the tin: it allows your steering input to
more effectively turn the kite and you get faster and tighter turning.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The Nemesis HP also uses our Cuben
equipped leading edge. Cuben is a none woven
linear fabric made up of multiple layers of Spectra
fibers, has virtually zero stretch, and provides
a higher yield strength than Dacron. These two
properties allow us to make a thinner, stiffer leading
edge which translates into better raw aerodynamic
performance, with the kite delivering a broader
power range and pointing upwind higher.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this
product? The HP is aimed at riders who want raw
performance and easy handling.
What type of conditions is this product best
suited for? You can take the Nemesis HP out in
any conditions; the smaller kites are superb when
the wind picks up above 30 knots and The 14m is a
great lightwind kite – it’s fast, stable, easy on the
upturn, and relaunches well in light wind.
What performance gains do you think the
average consumer will achieve if they get
this product? Riders will find that they will spend
less time thinking about what they are going to
do and more time just enjoying it. I think the big
difference will be measured by the smile on kiters’
faces at the end of each session – that’s what
really counts.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? Twister Tech itself is a new concept
and it’s unique to Best. We’ve never been afraid to
experiment with pushing the boundaries of kite
design to help make kiting more fun.
designer’s
corner
Kinsley Wong, Xtremebigair.com
66 thekiteboarder.com
thekiteboarder.com 67
tested
best
09 Nemesis HP
Designer Profile:
name: Peter Stiewe
Age: Old enough to know better, young enough still to care
location: Currently Brazil, before that Cabarete
Job Title: Kite designer Designing: 10 years
Kiteboarding: Since the beginning
ProDucT nAme: ‘09 Nemesis HP
ProDucT cATegory: SLE
sPecs/sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12 & 14m
I tested the new 2009 Nemi HP for one week and was very happy with its new
tighter and faster turning with the AA and AB settings for all around wave
riding, kiteloops, and freestyle tricks. Recently, I tried the AC setting on the
rear bridle and I was blown away by how much fun I had for freestyle tricks.
Experiment yourself – it’s like having three kites in one! With the AC setting, the
HP feels like a C-kite and just sits in one place while you pull your tricks. I am super stoked about
the new 2009 Nemi HP because it still has the super smooth big hang time and is extremely
stable, but with the new Twister Tech, is also faster and tighter turning than 2008. The new
graphics also look awesome!

cabrinha
The fourth generation Switchblade is Cabrinha’s premium wakestyle kite which introduces Intelligent Depower
System (IDS) tech to riders for self landing or completely killing the power of the kite. Photo Tracy Kraft
Designer Profile:
name: Pat Goodman
Age: 51 location: Hawaii/ Asia
Job Title: Kite Designer
Designing: 27 years in wind and kite
Kiteboarding: 7 Years
ProDucT nAme:
Cabrinha Switchblade IDS
ProDucT cATegory:
Bow kite
sPecs/sizes:
4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14m
Paul Menta, thekitehouse.com
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design? The
SB IDS is an evolution of the SB3 design.
If this is an extension of an existing
design, what have you improved,
added or taken away? We refined
the outline of the kite and repositioned
the canopy area slightly without
actually changing its aspect ratio. We
now have a larger percentage of the canopy
area near the center of the kite, allowing for
better balance and faster depower, as well as
improved turning speed. This is achieved by
having a greater ratio of taper towards the tips,
therefore lowering the wing tip swing weight.
This in conjunction with the simplified IDS bridle
and control system makes the kite very fast, yet
stable and predictable. Our unique IDS bridle
system also allows the kite to flip on its back
at the end of your session to achieve very low
residual pull while you walk up your lines to the
downed kite. The IDS control system is 4-line
only and also has a lot of new features such as
integrated EVA control bar ends, eliminating the
need for external floppy foam floats.
What was your biggest challenge during
the prototype phase? The biggest hurdle for
me was getting full functionality of the IDS
bridle on our current bow kites. It was not easy
tested
Since the birth of bows, I have been waiting for a system like the IDS. To be
able to self land the kite or completely kill it with only four lines is a fantastic
advancement; no mess or fuss. When testing the new SB, I found that it
was much quicker turning than last year. It also has a really steady pull and
smoothness which is great for unhooked tricks and kiteloops. I love being
able to change the bar settings. I like a stronger bar for flat water and in the chop, light bar
pressure. I gave the kite to a friend to try who had just learned to ride and he was going
upwind much easier and was instantly comfortable on the kite.
designer’s
corner
to perfect a bridle that was stable at all attack angles and provided
good depower and fast turning, that would also flip upside down and
redistribute loads to hold the kite powerless while in that position!
If you could choose one standout performance or safety feature
to highlight, what would it be? The introduction of the CB and SB
started the movement toward bow-type designs with a larger range
of depower and improved safety. This was great for the future of the
sport and allowed us the opportunity to focus on performance.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The SB IDS is a simple and
predictable five strut design making it light, lively and well behaved.
The bridle is stable even when the kite is under inflated. Since the
design has a slightly higher aspect ratio than the other kites in our
range, we added one more bridle cascade. This higher aspect ratio
also gives the SB IDS incredible upwind performance. The swept
wing tip bow kite design allows for the slightly flattened arc design
to fly perfectly in harmony with the trailing edge, ensuring all profiles
throughout the wing are at the proper attack angles, optimizing
performance. The other benefit to this design is that the wing tips are
higher up off the water when the LE is down, allowing for faster and
easier relaunch.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? Although
the SB IDS is our premium wakestyle kite preferred by our pro riders,
its docile behavior, good upwind performance, sick boosting ability and
hang time also make it an ideal freeride kite.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? Its
focus is on wakestyle and freeride kiting, but the smaller sizes are the
weapon of choice by many for the waves.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? There is no question that the
SB IDS is faster turning, more stable, better constructed and especially
safer than any Switchblade to date.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? All
of us at Cabrinha are avid participants in kiteboarding and are 100%
dedicated to the sport and safety. We have a large design, development,
engineering, and full-time test team with years of experience.
Additionally, our parent company is involved in a wide variety of water
sports, snowboarding equipment and sail manufacturing. This gives us
access to an enormous amount of technology and many advantages in
manufacturing and sourcing, allowing us to always be on the cutting
edge of development in both kite development and construction as
well as with all of the control systems and related components.
Brand new for 2009 with new construction and mateials, aggressive freestyle riders will most appreciate the
performance of Caliber. Photo Tracy Kraft
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing design?
The Caliber is a new aggressive freestyle board in our collection.
If this is a new design, what was the goal in designing
this product? We designed the Custom model to fit the needs of
wakestyle riders, but this board was not quite right for the freestyle
rider. The Caliber is targeted at the rider who likes early planning,
good upwind ability and excellent pop.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype
phase? We have gone to new 3-D shaping in the bottom of the
boards that promotes a very solid edge control but remains loose
and easy to ride. Integrating these shapes into production requires
modifications to the existing processes used in manufacturing. Our
factory is key in this process.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? The 3-D shaping used
in the boards is integral to the performance. By pushing the shape
out into the tips of the board, the control is increased greatly. Also,
by having a flat center, section the boards are forgiving in flat or off
axis landings. The boards tend to settle in the water much better
and give a smooth ride.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? We have gone to a full wood core
in all the boards this year. The paulownia wood makes the boards
close to unbreakable, and they have a very smooth feel due to the
added dampening. We can focus on the profile of the boards for the
flex and not have to add extra glass to keep the strength.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? The
Caliber planes early, tracks on edge, and flies upwind. So any rider
looking for these attributes will be
stoked on the Caliber. Specifically, it
is for riders who want the best of pop,
early planning, and control.
What type of conditions is this
product best suited for? The Caliber
works well in all conditions, but really
comes into its own in flatter water.
What performance gains do you think the
average consumer will achieve if they get
this product? The average rider will see gains in
control, upwind ability and all around performance.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? Our overall package has been
updated and tuned. The bottom shape is unique,
innovative, and has real performance gains that
can be felt by the average rider. Combined with
our new Sync Backless Bindings, the Caliber offers
an unparalleled level of comfort and control.
ProDucT nAme: Caliber
ProDucT cATegory:
Twin Tip
sPecs/sizes:127x38, 130x40,
133x41 and 136x42cm
David Hastilow, team rider
designer’s
corner
What I love about this board is its range. I’ve been riding the 136 x 42 and in light winds, I can get up and
riding while others are still on surfboards. When the wind starts cranking, the new 3D channeled bottom
and 3D top deck combine to create an edging and boosting machine. One standout feature that I really
appreciate is the width. It not only makes the low end great, it also helps with powered freestyle where
you need that extra width to help with pop and landings. The new Caliber doesn’t fall into just one bracket
of riding – it’s a great all around board for cruising and throwing some big airs or new school wakestyle moves.
68 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 69
69
tested
Designer Profile:
name: Ian Ponting
Age: 38 location: Maui
Job Title: Product Manager/Designer
Designing: 7 years
Kiteboarding: 8 years
cabrinha
09 Nemesis HP

caution
ProDucT nAme: Zombie
ProDucT cATegory: Hybrid
sPecs/sizes: 4, 6, 9 and 12m
designer’s
corner
Designer Profile:
name: Peter Schiebel
Age: 35 location: Santa Cruz, CA
Job Title: Head of Kite Design
Designing: 20-something years
Kiteboarding: Since the beginning
Brendan Richards, sckitesurfing.com tested
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design? The
Zombie is a little of both. It comes out of
our overall hybrid design philosophy, but
offers completely different performance
features compared to the Mayhem series
of kites.
If this is an extension of an existing
design, what have you improved,
added or taken away? Our goal was
to create a kite that anyone could just jump on
and start having fun on, regardless of their style
of riding level. Essentially, we wanted to create a
solid all around freeride kite. We maintained the
simplicity and uncompromised functionality of our
original line of hybrid kites, while developing a
new blend of performance characteristics to make
the Zombie. We’ve taken our proven bridle/control
system and our bulletproof construction methods
and developed a smooth handling kite with solid
range and impressive stability.
What was your biggest challenge during
the prototype phase? As we moved through
each round of prototyping, sometimes we
took a step forward, sometimes a step back.
Ultimately, the challenge was to keep the
qualities you want while eliminating those that
you don’t want. It’s a balancing act that requires
creative problem solving.
The Zombie makes the logistics of teaching easy. Even when my students are
making all the classic mistakes, the Zombie readily relaunches, is rock solid
when in the air, and takes serious abuse as students learn to control and fly
the kite. The Zombie also has solid range. This keeps students out on the
water and helps them in the initial stages of power control. The best part is
that at the end of a long day, I can just grab a Zombie from my student, steal a quick session
in the waves and have a great time too until things shut down. It’s a kite that both beginners
and seasoned riders will appreciate.
The main goal in designing Caution’s new Zombie was to offer an ultra stable and predictable hybrid kite that would
be enjoyed by beginners and advanced riders. Photo cautionkites.com
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? The standout performance
feature for the Zombie is its stable and predictable flying characteristics.
Kiteboarding should be all about the rider and we have created an all
around kite that helps riders become better and have more fun while
they working on new skills.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The Zombie delivers a quick and
easy relaunch and the control bar is lightweight and simple, yet highly
functional with smooth play, proper throw length, and a durable trim
loop line that will last the life of the kite. The quick release can be
put back together in the water and is slick, lightweight, and ideal for
unhooked riding. The Zombie offers the hassle free simplicity of four
line rigging and short tangle free bridles, which is ideal for riders who
want to get the most out of their time on the water.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? As a
freeride kite, the Zombie was designed to meet the needs of entrylevel
riders, yet deliver all-around performance characteristics that
our advanced team riders appreciate. We received rave reviews
from the schools that used the Zombie this summer, and our team
riders had positive things to say about the kite’s smooth handling
and unhooked performance, so it’s really a kite that any rider can
have a good time with.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? The
Zombie is a great kite with freeride roots and wave-proof construction.
With its smooth handling, the Zombie will deliver the all-around
characteristics and durability that new riders need, but will also
provide performance for more advanced levels of riding.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? The Zombie offers the
superior performance of Caution’s hybrid designs, but also delivers
unparalleled simplicity to get people out on the water and riding,
and in some sense that’s where the biggest performance gain will be
made, in the rider.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? We
have been building bulletproof kites since the beginning and our
innovative hybrid designs offer superior performance with a simple
yet proven single inflation system. The Zombie is an all around fun kite
with predictable handling characteristics that will help newcomers
through the early stages of kiting, yet will deliver solid performance
that skilled riders can bank on for all types of riding.
Crazy Fly boards are constructed with a full carbon lay-up and for 2009, have more flex to affect pop and carving. Photo courtesy Crazy Fly
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing
design? It’s the next generation of the Raptor.
If this is an extension of an existing design, what have you
improved, added or taken away? For the 2009 Raptor, we put
some serious thought into specific flex patterns throughout the
board. We found that by controlling the flex in a more precise way,
we were able to make a smoother riding board that gives riders
unreal pop and carving abilities.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype phase?
Getting the correct balance in the full carbon lay-up to control the
flex to load transfer, but keeping the board stiff in the center area.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? Full carbon lay-up
construction! Carbon is still the best material to use when it comes
to longevity and offers an unreal release of power when loaded in
a kiteboard. If you get a chance to load up a Crazy Fly, you will feel
the difference.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? We have been testing and
experimenting with some molded footpads, but have come to find
they don’t last as long under long term use or hard riding, So we
still use our highly loved hand built Pro-Contour pads and its paying
off as we are selling a bunch more extra pads and straps to dealers
worldwide. This combined with our quick-fix strap set is an ultimate
combination for board attachment.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? The
Raptor was designed as an aggressive riding board, but seems to
be the most popular in the line up. Many pick this board up as their
first board and grow into it as their riding progresses. But if you’re
looking for a fast, quick turning board, the Raptor will give you that
and much more.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for?
Truly about anything! We have had excellent feedback from the
flat water to waves. We recommend that a rider who looks to ride
waves more move up a board size to give you the proper surface
area, because these boards handle and feel like a much smaller
board than they are.
What performance gains do you think
the average consumer will achieve if
they get this product? The average Joe
will feel a big difference in the handling
and control of the board when riding fast
or overpowered. These boards can be easily
shut down when needed by the rider. Get
your feet on one and let the speed increase
– you will feel how this board really
handles when you start increasing your
riding speed.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? Every CF board is hand built in our
own factory, not just another board coming from
the same mold in a big factory. We control every
aspect of construction. That’s why we can give
every board we make a 12-month warranty and
stand behind that with top customer service.
ProDucT nAme: Raptor
ProDucT cATegory: Twin Tip
sPecs/sizes: 127 x 38/40, 132 x 39/41/43
and 137 x 39/41/43
designer’s
corner
Todd Thibodeux, Team Rider
The graphics and carbon fiber showing through the 09 board grabbed my
attention first. I have a 2008 Raptor. The new Raptor had a very similar feel, but
the 09 version seemed much faster and went upwind easier. Possibly having a
little less rocker made the difference. The new footpads are super comfortable
and had a locked in feel that made me feel very secure when trying out new
tricks. At first the footstraps felt slightly big, but after undoing the Velcro and pushing the ends
of the straps all the way down to the board, they fit perfect. The flex is still just right to let me
cruise through the chop, but still lets me load up the rail and jump. I have tried out some other
boards that went upwind a little easier, but this is my favorite for riding fast and doing huge
carving turns.
70 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 71
71
tested
Designer Profile:
name: Jozef Bukovcak
Age: 45
location: Trencin, Slovokia
Job Title: CEO, Head Engineer
Designing: 20 years
Kiteboarding: 2 years
crazy fly
Photo courtesy Cabrinha

eclipse
09 Nemesis HP
designer’s
corner
The Kima is Eclipse’s first pure wave kite, designed with performance characteristics specific to riding ocean swell. Photo Chris Cifers
Is this a new design or a next
Designer Profile:
generation on an existing design?
name: Dimitri Maramenides This is a totally new design concept which
Age: 30’s location: Hatteras, NC we have been working on for the past two
Job Title: Design Team/Co-founder years. It has been our goal since day one
Designing: 3 years, but part of
to design a pure wave kite. Initially for
2007 and 2008, we used the Nano as our
process for 10
wave kite since we only wanted two kites
Kiteboarding: Since it started! in our range. Thus, we were limited with
the design since we wanted the Nano to
also be a versatile all around style kite in order to
appeal to a broad range of riders. Now, with the
decision to make the Kima, those limitations are no
longer present, so we had the freedom to go and
make a full, all-out wave kite.
ProDucT nAme: Kima
ProDucT cATegory:
Delta SLE
sPecs/sizes:
4, 6, 9 and 12m
Craig Young, KittyHawk.com
If this is a new design, what was the goal
in designing this product? Our first goal was
to take advantage of our proven kite technology
to design an exclusive wave only kite. Super fast
turning, auto relaunch, stability, and effortless
unhooked riding were top priorities.
What was your biggest challenge during the
prototype phase? Our biggest challenge was to
design a wave-specific kite that was truly unique
and provided immediate, noticeable benefits for
riders of all levels. To make a kite that does its
job as well as the Kima required rigorous ongoing
testing, with input from both pros and average
riders as everyone always wants something a
little different.
tested
I was able to test the Kima for two days in a row under various wind conditions
from 12 to 25 mph .The Kima is a fast, high performance kite that will do exactly
what you tell it to with no bad habits. Relaunch was flawless and there was
no tendency for it to back up in light wind, over fly in high wind or fall forward
when over sheeted. The kite is also a solid performer unhooked and although
made for the waves, will be a great wakestyle kite as well due to its great boost and truly
amazing float and glide. Bar pressure was perfect with just enough feedback. Of the 34
different kites I have tested this year, I rate the Kima as one of the best.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety feature
to highlight, what would it be? The Kima has amazing speed and a
unique turning style which allows the rider to easily stay on the wave’s
face without having to pay attention to the kite. It just feels like a
natural extension to your body and surfboard.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? We have a totally new bar system
for 2009 that allows the users to need only one bar for every kite in
our line up, as the bar can adjust from 45cm to 60cm. This is a great
convenience and money saving feature. Also for 2009, the safety
system has been vastly improved to offer 5th line style safety without
the hassle of a 5th line – a benefit that is quickly realized in the surf.
The bar also features a redesigned quick release that allows the user
to the release mechanism by pulling in any direction.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? Riders
that ride primarily in the ocean will immediately see the benefits of
owning this kite, however, if you still like to ride flat water, the Kima
does perform very well unhooked. We think intermediate level riders
through experts that enjoy ocean and wave riding will best appreciate
the Kima’s unique performance attributes.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? The Kima
was designed for one type of riding: big ocean swell. Well, even if you
have small waves, you’re going to like the Kima – it’s just a fun kite
to ride in the waves.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? Riders will notice their ability
to ride with a surfboard will improve dramatically as they use the Kima.
This kite reacts instantly to riders input. The speed and power this kite
generates is truly amazing. Equally impressive is the Kima’s ability to
depower when on a wave. The Kima will also relaunch instantly if
it is dumped into a wave face. We built it very strong to endure the
pounding when 10 foot waves are trying to eat it.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? All
Eclipse kites feature the industry’s only standard Bullet Proof warranty.
This warranty service is provided by Eclipse and Airtime Kite Repair,
and covers any and all kite damage, no matter how it happened. Just
register your kite and there is no need to call or email anyone when
you need warranty service; just send in the kite and it will be fixed free
of charge for one year!
designer’s
corner
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing
design? The new Freak Dog Unleashed is a fifth generation design.
If this is an extension of an existing design, what have you
improved, added or taken away? Our latest goal was to stiffen
up and strengthen the center section of the LE to keep the power
generation steady and smooth. We doubled up the Dacron fabric
on the six center sections of the LE and ended up with a very
strong and stiff airframe. This dramatically improved the new kite’s
performance and smoothness, and helped make the turning speed
more quick and predictable.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype
phase? The Unleashed V5 is an ultra-flat design so keeping the
center section flat and stiff without weighing the kite down was
a huge challenge we needed to overcome. We reached our goal
and then some.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? Smooth, gradual
depower combined with very fast, on-the-spot turning is what
riders appreciate the most about the Unleashed.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? We wanted to make sure that we
did not take anything away from the Unleashed when working on
stiffening up the center section. Because of the ultra-flat design,
the Unleashed can eat 15 to 20 mph gusts with ease and boasts a
huge wind range, all accessed with a short 35cm depower that is
easily within reach for most riders, big and small.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? The
advanced freestyle or wave rider will best appreciate this kite.
Heavier riders will also really enjoy the extra square meters of an
ultra flat design without sacrificing turning speed.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for?
Although more experienced freestyle riders really love the Unleashed,
it especially excels in medium to strong winds with average to
large surf.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? This product is oriented
toward the advanced to expert wave rider. These riders need a
The fifth generation Unleashed offers a much stiffer and reinforced leading edge which dramatically increased
the kite’s performance, smoothness, and turning speed. Photo Eric Hertsens
fast turning kite that does not hang half
way out of the turn. They also need gradual
and 100% depower on command, and a kite
that will relaunch readily before getting
crushed by a wave or incoming set. The
Unleashed will give the wave rider the
freedom needed to shred the surf with ease
and confidence.
What differentiates your product from
your competitors? Originality. It’s still a little
confusing for some that Freak Dog and EH Kites
offer the same kites and boards, just branded
under different names. Freak Dog is the North
American arm for EH, and the relationship gives
our US and Canadian clients better access and
quicker response times for dealers, customers,
fulfillment and any warranty issues. We pride
ourselves on being on the cutting edge of the
industry without mouthing off about it and
being influenced by the marketing off others.
The Unleashed V5 has been described several
times as a surprise and a unique experience by
seasoned testers.
Audrey Meyer, dare2fly.com
72 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 73
tested
Designer Profile:
name: Eric Hertsens
Age: 48 location: Cabarete,
Dominican Republic
Job Title: Designer
Designing: 25 years wind and kite
Kiteboarding: 9 years
ProDucT nAme:
Unleashed V5
ProDucT cATegory:
Ultra-Flat Bow
sPecs/sizes:
6, 8, 9, 10 and 12m
freaKDoG
Photo courtesy Cabrinha
The main difference between the V4 and V5 models is the construction which
you can not only see, but also feel in the performance of the kite. The V5 has
added some reinforced Dacron inside the leading edge to make it stiffer and
faster. This also helps for relaunching and during gusty wind conditions as the
kite holds its shape and does not deform. For unhooked riding, the kite still has
very low bar pressure, super pop/hang time and reacts instantly to your input while still offering
total control and stability. In the waves, the power is smooth and doesn’t switch off/on. One of
the best features on this kite though is the huge depower range you get from the short trim strap
– I can readily reach it for easy and smooth tuning while riding, which is sometimes difficult for
us girls with shorter arms than the average guy.

f-one
09 Nemesis HP
ProDucT nAme:
Bandit Dos
ProDucT cATegory:
Delta C-shape
sPecs/sizes: 4.5, 5.5, 7,
9, 10, 12, 14 and 16m
F-One worked on fine tuning the Bandit’s range, unhooked performance, turning speed, and bar pressure,
as well as increasing the kite’s C-shape for its second generation Delta kite. Photo Gilles Calvet
Designer Profile:
name: Raphael Salles
Age: 45 location: France
Job Title: Boss- R&D manager
Designing: 32 years in
windsurf and kite
Kiteboarding: 12 years
Nico Ostermann, bayareakitesurf.com
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design?
This is the next generation of our ‘08
Bandit model.
If this is a new design, what was
the goal in designing this product?
In terms of range, we have improved
the high end of the kites and kept our
low end. We have also improved the
unhooked performance and the bar to
have lighter pressure. For 2009, we have a wider
range of sizes that are really close in sensation
from the smallest 4.5m to the biggest 16m. As
we only have one model, we worked on a super
large program with many different goals to meet
the needs of schools, pros, freestylers, wave
kiters and racers.
What was your biggest challenge during
the prototype phase? The final product should
be so much better than the previous one that you
should not look back when you try the new one.
This was quite hard to achieve!
If you could choose one standout
performance or safety feature to highlight,
what would it be? Many strong features are
evident with the new Bandit Dos, but what I’m
We recently tested the new 10 meter against the 2008 11 meter. The Bandit
Dos had similar power, hang time and stability, along with the same simple
line setup and Delta C-shape that a lot of companies seem to be adopting.
The intermediate strut position changed a bit, the depower rope is shorter
but had equivalent depower, and F-One added a bridle line to improve the
profile in high wind conditions. The new kite definitely has a more direct feel and less bar
pressure than last year. Combined with a more pronounced C-shape and shorter lines,
speed, turnability and overall performance all improved without losing the control.
74 thekiteboarder.com
tested
designer’s
corner
the most impressed with is its comfort and wind range. It’s a kite that
you take out of the bag and immediately feel at ease.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? First, we kept our Delta C-shape
and again will release just one model in 2009 for all disciplines and
conditions. We also shortened the depower rope but improved the
range a bit, and the bar is not pulling your arms when you’re fully
powered so you can keep a better body position. The overall design is
incredibly stable when overpowered so you don’t feel that it’s getting
windier or gusty. Additionally, the new design is more C-shaped and
turns in a tighter radius. Unhooked, the feeling is lighter and the kite is
not suddenly getting more power. This will give you more confidence
when doing your tricks, especially handle passes. Of course we still
have the famous Auto Relaunch and our 4 lines that give you 5th line
benefits when you release. The rock solid Force Frame construction
helps your kite take abuse so it holds up for a long time.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? All levels
and styles will enjoy the Bandit Dos, from the kite school teacher to
the speed, freestyle, wave, and unhooked riders.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? All types
of conditions, especially when it’s gusty. You will see this for yourself
and find more differences in feel when you compare the Bandit Dos
to others.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? If you always know what the
kite is doing and feel confident with it, you will be more likely to try
new moves; so at every level, you should immediately improve! You
will first gain in wind range and upwind ability with great comfort.
Wave riders will appreciate the handling and turning speed; speed and
racing riders will definitely go faster when using the right board.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? The
biggest difference is that we only produce one model that performs
in all disciplines. It seems that some of our concepts are now being
adopted by our competitors: the Delta C-shape, EVO bridle with 4 lines
working like five, losing area on the tips to reduce drag and increase
the effective projected area, trailing edge in full Dacron for strength,
and more curved leading edges to improve relaunch and stability.
We’re proud of these achievements and will keep working on our R&D
because it’s our passion.
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing design?
It’s a third generation, evolved and refined.
If this is an extension of an existing design, what have
you improved, added or taken away? For the Havoc Gen 3, we
improved the overall stability of the kite, made it with a flatter arc for
more lift and better upwind pointing and have reduced the amount of
bar deployment needed to depower the kite. We have also balanced
out the feel and turning of the kite to provide a more direct feel while
maintaining comfortable low bar pressure.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype
phase? We have a new bridle system called the USB 2.0 (Ultra
Stable Bridle). We must have tested almost every possible bridle
alignment and angle, choosing in the end the one that would give
the overall best stability, depower, relaunch ability, and perfect
direct bar feeling so that riders always know where their kite is
in the sky.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? The Havoc continues
to offer one of the industry’s most reliable safety and relaunch
systems on any bridled kite. It doesn’t do any of the ‘weird’ things
you see with other SLE or bow kites, such as inverts or bridles
getting caught up in the wingtips. It just works, simply and reliably
every time!
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? This is the kite with the most lift
we have ever produced, yet with a super smooth power delivery
making it great for all conditions. The proven Diamond Wingtip
and Static Wingtip Pulley provide precise control, even when
depowered. The ‘Body Armor’ is our new LE bumper protection
system, lighter with less drag while providing a durable and
protected kite. The IRS (Internal Reinforcement Structure)
construction consists of a complete skeleton of internal Dacron
and Mark Cloth reinforcements that give the LF kites their clutterless
design and high durability.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? This
kite was designed for riders who ask a lot of their kites, but we
know how important it is to have an easy to use and super reliable
performance kite for everybody. Beginners, intermediates and pro
level riders will love the new Havoc.
The Havoc Generation 3 is LF’s biggest boosting kite to date, modified to offer super smooth
power delivery and extremely reliable relaunch and safety features. Photo Tracy Kraft
What type of conditions is this product
best suited for? The Havoc Gen 3 is made
for any conditions you want to ride in. It’s
perfect for flat water freestyle, hooked and
unhooked wave riding, big air/hangtime,
racing, wakestyle, or just cruising and
mowing the lawn. Most people ride a variety
of conditions. The ‘09 Havoc offers riders a
comfortable, reliable, high performance kite
that will make you smile in all conditions.
What performance gains do you think the
average consumer will achieve if they get
this product? The new Havoc offers riders a
high performance kite with the feeling that they
are always in full control, as well as reliable and
quick relaunch. Riders will have the confidence to
push themselves and their skills in all conditions
without worry because they trust and know the
predictability of the product.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? All changes on the Gen 3 Havoc
came from listening to a variety of different
team and consumer feedback from around the
globe. For 2009, we truly wanted to produce a
kite that would appeal to every rider, not just
beginners or expert riders. The Havoc is the SLE
for every rider!
tested
designer’s
corner
Designer Profile:
name: Julien Fillion
Age: 27 location: Cape Hatteras,
Quebec, Maui, Gorge
Job Title: LF Designer / LF Pro Rider
Designing: 6 years
Kiteboarding: 4 years
Jason Slezak, Realkiteboarding.com
liquiD force
Photo courtesy Cabrinha
ProDucT nAme:
Havoc Generation 3
ProDucT cATegory: Premium SLE Kite
sPecs/sizes: 6,8, 10, 12, 14 and 16m
I have been flying LF Havocs for a few years now and continue to get more
and more stoked with their performance and reliability almost each session.
For ‘09, the newly configured ultra-stable bridle has four less bridle lines than
previous versions, providing stability while giving the kite a more responsive
feel. One of my personal favorite characteristics of the new Havoc is the
ease of relaunch every time. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner crashing your kite while
learning to water start, or pushing your personal progression into handle passes, sliders, or in
the surf. When you put your Havoc down in the water, it will relaunch time and time again!
thekiteboarder.com 75

mystic
designer’s
corner
Designer Profile:
name: Max Blom Jr
Age: 23 years location: Amsterdam,
The Netherlands
Job Title: Marketing Manager/
Design Team
Designing: 3 year
Kiteboarding: 4 years
ProDucT nAme: 2009 Mystic Warrior II
ProDucT cATegory: Accessory
sPecs/sizes: XS to XXL in 8 color and
styling combinations
Sonny Freeman, Live2Kite.com tested
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design?
For 2009, the Warrior II is a next
generation design but has been
completely redesigned to offer a
whole new level of support, comfort
and innovation.
If this is an extension of an
existing design, what have you
improved, added or taken away?
We added the new anatomical back plate which
provides massive back support. Besides that, we
added the clicker bar on the harness which is our
new quick release. We also changed the general
shape of the harness in comparison with the
Warrior I.
What was your biggest challenge during the
prototype phase? Since its first generation, the
Mystic Warrior harness has been a top choice for
performance riders. So you can imagine we had a
great challenge ahead of us when we decided that
it was time to design the next Warrior.
At the same time there were so many new ideas,
technologies, designs and energy in the team
that took the design process of the 2009 product
collection into a new experience for all of us.
I’ve used the Mystic Warrior II for about 20 sessions now. The first thing I
noticed was the updated shape/outline of the back which removes the chance
for the harness to dig into your rib cage and helps with added mobility for tricks
that require more range of motion. When loading hard, the load from the kite is
distributed evenly across the back of the harness, without feeling that there is
a pressure point stronger than another. I can now ride for hours throwing powered up tricks
without feeling any fatigue from my back/harness. A huge new feature is the Clicker spreader
bar. It’s super easy to hook in/out of and has a quick release in case things go wrong. Secure
but there when you need it, there’s no chance for accidental release when loading hard,
crashing or riding toeside.
For 2009, the Warrior has been completely redesigned with an integrated back plate incorporated into the
webbing and frame of the harness for improved maneuverability and support. Photo courtesy Mystic
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? The integrated back
plate incorporated in the webbing is revolutionary because it
allows the harness to adjust to your back at all times, while still
providing excellent maneuverability and support.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? To offer maximum support with
long term comfort we moved from the fiberglass batten design
to a newly designed plate which is integrated with the harness’s
inner webbing and framed structure. Coupled with the new
design, outline, shape and materials, the Warrior II is noticeably
lighter, offers increased range of motion and has more back
support to enhance your overall riding experience.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? More
and more riders are moving to waist harnesses for their increased
range of motion, overall feel and style of riding. For water, snow
and land kiters, in 2009 we are offering eight new color schemes
for the Warrior II and we also added a XXL size for larger riders
to complete the line.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? All
conditions – it’s a harness!
What performance gains do you think the average
consumer will achieve if they get this product? The Mystic
Warrior II is ideal for all levels of kiters but seasoned riders
who do more advanced tricks or wave riding will be able to best
appreciate the new construction, comfort and maneuverability of
our new harness.
What differentiates your product from your competitors?
With the extreme conditions we get in the Netherlands along
with team riders like Ruben Lenten, Youri Zoon and Kristin Boese
(Maui Magic girls line), Mystic has to set the bar high when
developing its products. As we’re dedicated to wind sports only
and sponsor world champion level riders, we are highly focused
and constantly working to refine our line. Our goal is to exceed
the expectations of our riders, customers, and even ourselves!
The standout features on NPX’s new drysuit exclusively made for kiteboarding is the zip in the
crotch and slits in the jacket to accommodate your harness hook. Photo Tracy Kraft
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing
design? This is a completely new take on the standard drysuit. We
started by looking at the drysuits on the market and asked ourselves
if we’d wear them. There wasn’t one instance where we would.
Everything on the market was so traditional – the drysuit silhouette
hasn’t changed since the 80’s. The technology, the fabrics – all those
have come a long way but somehow, the silhouette hadn’t. That’s
when we decided to start with a clean drawing board for a modern,
kiteboarding-specific drysuit.
If this is a new design, what was the goal in designing this
product? We wanted to design something first and foremost for our
customer. Something that included the latest drysuit materials and
technology, kiteboarding-specific features,and style. At the end of the
day, it was about what the core kiter would want to wear. We looked
around at some other core sports for inspiration, and saw what worked
and didn’t. That’s when the snowboard suit idea came up.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype phase?
The Lucifer is a very complicated suit but the design concept was
simple: make a one piece drysuit look like it’s made of two pieces
(jacket and pants). If you lift up the jacket you will find it’s connected
to the pants underneath. The hard part was to tweak the water entry
points at the neck and wrist/leg cuffs so we could have watertight
gaskets underneath the baggy jacket and pants. We made so
many samples I can’t even count. We put these through months of
kiteboarding, surfing and wakeboarding tests and tried to duplicate
every possible crash scenario to make sure it wouldn’t leak.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? For sure it’s the pee zip!
Some days we were out testing for hours and I kept on having to unzip
our testers’ back-zips so they could get out of the suit and do their
business. It was such a pain. This is why we decided to put a dryzip at
the crotch. You can pee in your wetsuit, but you definitely cannot pee
in your drysuit!
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The Lucifer is designed for
kiteboarders, so we had to accommodate a harness. Your harness
goes under the jacket, just like when you snowkite. The front of the
jacket has two small reinforced slits for your spreader bar hook to
poke through. The reinforcement is a sticky, rubbery material that is
designed to grip on the hook so it doesn’t slip back inside the jacket
when you’re unhooked.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy
this product? Everyone that needs a drysuit for
cold conditions!
What type of conditions is this product best
suited for? Any conditions – if it’s cold, you
wear some thermal underwear underneath like
when you snowboard, and if it’s warm, just a
pair of shorts is fine. The material is completely
breathable so you’re not going to be bathing in
your own sweat.
What performance gains do you think the
average consumer will achieve if they get
this product? This suit is a girl magnet for sure.
I suddenly found myself magnetically attracted to
all our riders the minute they put the suit on. It’s
like mojo. Seriously though, being comfortable
when you’re kiting is huge. The Lucifer is a very
comfortable, surprisingly streamlined suit that will
keep you on the water longer, which is what we
all want.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? You only have to look at the Lucifer
for a second to realize it’s completely different
from any other drysuit on the market. This is
a revolutionary product!We’re proud of these
achievements and will keep working on our R&D
because it’s our passion.
designer’s
corner
Benoit Gauther, windspirit-direct.com
76 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 77
tested
Designer Profile:
name: Vanessa Ho
Age: 36
location: Los Angeles when I’m home!
Job Title: Brand Manager
Designing: 7 years water and kite
Kiteboarding: 2 years
npx
09 Nemesis HP
Photo courtesy Cabrinha
ProDucT nAme:
NPX Lucifer Drysuit
ProDucT cATegory:
Drysuit
sPecs/sizes: S through XXL
My first impression after seeing the Lucifer was “wow, is this really a
drysuit?” After getting to test it for a few days, I found the Lucifer to be super
comfortable with a ton of kite-specific features. Absolutely no water got into
the suit through the neck or arm ends – a problem I’ve had with some other
drysuit models. I liked that the suit was nice and roomy for extra layering
underneath if needed, and that you wear you harness under it so it’s nice and streamlined. My
favorite feature though was the crotch zipper. It really came in handy between sessions!

naish
designer’s
corner
Two new technological advances are featured on the ’09 Cult, resulting in a next gen kite with more grunt, lift,
glide, turning speed, upwind ability and relaunch. Photo Stephen Whitesell
Designer Profile:
name: Damien Girardin
Age: 30 location: Maui
Job Title: Kite Designer/Product Manager
Designing: 6 years
Kiteboarding: 7 Years
ProDucT nAme: Cult 2009
ProDucT cATegory: Sigma SLE
sPecs/sizes: 3, 4.5, 6, 7.5, 9, 10.5,
12, 13.5 and 15m
Sam Bell, Team Rider
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design?
It is the next generation of the first
generation 2008 Cult.
If this is an extension of an existing
design, what have you improved,
added or taken away? We improved
the flying characteristics, mainly by
introducing two new technologies: Low
Drag Wingtips and Direct Response Steering. Low
Drag Wingtips are new wingtips that are reduced
to the minimal surface in order to reduce any
unnecessary drag on the kite. By doing this, we got
a kite that flies faster and more efficiently in the
air because the ratio of lift/drag is then bigger and
generates more power, resulting in more efficient
low end grunt, more lift, glide, and better upwind
ability. You also get a faster turning kite because
when it turns, the outside wingtip of the turn can
fly faster and lets the kite turn faster.
Direct Response Steering is also a technology
located on the wingtips of the kite. Basically, we
added more angle of attack at the level of the
wingtips in order to create a “pre-loaded” force
inside the leading edge at the level of the wingtip,
so as soon as you give any bar input to the kite, its
response is now much quicker to engage the turn.
It also helps relaunching the kite by ensuring that
the back flying will always be on the inside of the
wingtip and by catching the wind more easily.
tested
Naish did an amazing job with the ’09 Cult and bar system. The bar is as simple as
it gets. The 100% depower leash is right at the chicken loop; no more long leash
with only one option. You can launch your kite hooked to the flagging line, then
once in the water, switch it over to the trim line. This means safe launching on
land and no tangles if you let go of the bar when riding. The kite also has some
great improvements. The steering compared to last year is much faster with a smoother pull
throughout turns. Relaunch wasn’t even a thought – if you just looked at the kite it seemed to
launch right off the water. The durability is all time. Even the zippers are protected!
We also worked a lot on the control system. We wanted to again
offer a super functional and streamlined control system, so we
introduced a bar end with an internal bar length adjustment so you
can adjust your bar length from 19 to 21 inches, while still having
the pre-line starting from the bottom of the bar in order to avoid any
weird torque. In addition, we developed a new ergonomic grip along
with a swivel and a line organizer piece that allows the leash to now
go through the bar.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype
phase? Our biggest challenge during the prototype phase was to
make sure that our staff would not keep the kites with them after
they tried them!
If you could choose one standout performance or safety feature
to highlight, what would it be? It would have to be the smoothness
and easiness of the kite. This is what comes back from every person
that tries the kite.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The bigger sizes turn very fast and
don’t feel like “big” kites and the sweet spot of the kites in terms
of wind range are now even bigger than last year. Additionally, the
design and attention to detail of the control system.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? The Cult
will pretty much fit any rider. It pivot turns quickly without too much
pull, has direct and light bar pressure, provides good gliding jumps,
has a lot of depower, and has plenty enough pop for freestyle.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? The ‘09
is truly an all terrain kite that will perform in every type of condition.
This is how it was designed for and how we tested it – all conditions
and for all types of riding styles.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? The Cult is such an easy kite
to ride, you can now pretty much forget about the kite and focus on
riding 100%. We have noticed that any kiter that tries the new Cult
rides better because of it’s smoothness and easiness, no matter what
their level was before they rode it.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? The
Cult belongs to the Sigma series and is built with Naish’s exclusive
technologies such as Sigma outline and Geotech construction. As with
every Naish kite, it also has superior quality derived from 30 years of
product design and 10 years of kite building experience.
Slingshot’s Rev 2 features new bridle attachment points for custom tuningand the Center Safety System (C.S.S.),
which provides 5th line safety features in a simpler 4-line configuration. Photo Gabriella Soos
Is this a new design or a next generation on an existing
design? This is the next generation on the original Rev design.
If this is a new design, what was the goal in designing this
product? The original Rev was very well received so we didn’t
want to tweak very much. The satisfaction on this kite was so high
that our team riders and customers did not want the kite to change.
With this in mind, our goal was to add options to the kite. The 2009
Rev now comes with three bar pressure tuning adjustments. This
allows the rider to tune the feel of the kite to fit their preference.
What was your biggest challenge during the prototype
phase? Our biggest challenge was to create a bar pressure
adjustment system that was fully functional, yet simple to use. We
also didn’t want to change any of the good characteristics that the
Rev is known for. Oftentimes, when making design changes you
encounter tradeoffs in performance. But with the 2009 Rev, we’ve
kept the good and added that extra to it.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? Most definitely it would
be our Center Safety System. The C.S.S. performs much like a 5th
line safety system but better because it only uses four lines. It is
a simple to use safety system that activates off of one of the front
lines. Combine this with a moderately full wingtip and a compact
bridle, and you have the ingredients for a kite that will recover from
almost any tumble or safety activation. The C.S.S. can also be used
to self land your kite when you’re out on that soul session with no
one around.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? Bar pressure and kite feedback
are important and subjective to the rider. Some riders adapt easily,
others are very particular. With the new Rev 2, you can now adjust
the bar pressure to suit your preference. So, if you’re going for your
first front mobe or even your first backroll, you can adjust your kite
settings to better feel where the kite is to help you stick your move.
If you want a light hybrid-like or C-kite feel, adjustments are simple
and quick.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product? The
2009 Rev is a very versatile kite and is meant to cross over to many
styles and levels. From waves to freestyle to freeride, the Rev
excels. But if I were to pick one style and level of rider, I would
pick an intermediate to advanced rider who is focusing on stuffing
more into their bag of tricks. The Center Safety
System resets so well and the relaunch ability is
so easy, that it gives riders the confidence to try
new tricks and not have to worry about spending
much time relaunching their kite.
What type of conditions is this product
best suited for? The Rev can be used in all
conditions, but shines in the waves and as a
freestyle kite.
What performance gains do you think the
average consumer will achieve if they get
this product? Riders will get a fast kite that
is forgiving, but still with a lot of performance,
big boosts, and a customizable feel. Also, the
Center Safety System is a step above, because
of its unique re-rideable 4-line system. The Rev
will reset, ready to relaunch almost by itself.
What differentiates your product from your
competitors? We are one of the few companies
still making C-kites. Some would nay-say that,
but there is a reason that a lot of the top pros
still use them. It’s that certain feel that only a
C-kite can deliver. We understand this feeling
and performance, and strive to put as much of
the good characteristics of a C-kite into the rest
of our line.
designer’s
corner
Ben Wilson, Team Rider
78 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 79
tested
Designer Profile:
name: Tony Logosz
Age: 46 location: Windy Columbia Gorge
Job Title: Chief Designer
Designing: 29 years kite and wind
Kiteboarding: Close to 9 years
ProDucT nAme:
2009 Rev 2 with C.S.S.
ProDucT cATegory: Hybrid
sPecs/sizes: 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15
slinGshot
09 Nemesis HP
Photo courtesy Cabrinha
The biggest change from the original Rev is the attachment point options.
Just like the Old Fuel CFI (Custom Fuel Injection), you can now custom
tune your kite to freestyle or surf settings. The bar is a redesign with better
safety options, but doesn’t compromise on simplicity. I’m all about simplicity,
especially in the waves, as I don’t want stuff hanging off the bar all over the
place! I love that the depower and safety are both below the bar, but the biggest advantage
for me riding in the surf is the active stopper ball so I can control my power effortlessly.

slinGshot
designer’s
corner
The SST is now a quad fin design for slashier performance with more bite, and also features new
construction technology for a lighter, yet stronger board. Photo Will Schouten
Designer Profile:
name: John Doyle
Age: 52
location: The Columbia Gorge, USA
Job Title: Chief Board Designer
Designing: 25 years wind and kite
Kiteboarding: 8 years
ProDucT nAme: SST
ProDucT cATegory: Surf
sPecs/sizes: 6’ 2”
Ben Wilson, Team Rider tested
Is this a new design or a next
generation on an existing design?
With the expert help of Slingshot team
rider Ben Wilson, and drawing from
his experience and expertise as an
accomplished surfer, the SST has been
one of the most exciting projects to date.
The SST is SS’s all around gun for ’09 and
is in its second generation.
If this is an extension of an existing
design, what have you improved, added or
taken away? The SST is now a quad fin versus
a tri. It has a dome deck and deep single concave
running the full length of the board. It has boxy
rails in the tail and a low, round soft forward rail
towards the nose. It also has a wider nose with
a wider tail that provides a large surface area to
drive the quad fins. Overall, by making it a quad
fin, it is “slashier” and has a lot more bite. The SST
will turn on a dime and stay anchored until you
say when. We also integrated a new proprietary
construction make up called WVS which stands
for Wood Veneer Sandwich. The WVS makes
it stronger and lighter specifically to take the
punches that kiteboarders can dish out.
What was your biggest challenge during
the prototype phase? The biggest challenge
was being able to manipulate, change and
rework a proto to get it to perform the way I
The SST Quad is the perfect all around board. It’s ideal if you are looking for a
one-surfboard quiver to ride most conditions. The quad fin setup makes it fun
to ride in flat, mushy conditions, but it can also be driven extremely hard in
proper turns on waves. It has SS’s has SS’s legendary construction that makes
it strong without sacrificing it’s flex or weight, which are some of the most
important attributes to make a board feel alive in the water. This board is ideal for lighter
winds or bigger riders looking for better upwind performance. I mostly ride it in fun rip-able
conditions up to the 6-foot mark, or when it’s just junky and I’m looking for some fun.
wanted for production. Because we don’t use traditional materials,
I ended up doing a lot of the initial molds and protos by hand to
speed up the process. Flying Ben to the Gorge to work with him on
a day to day basis to dial in the subtle nuances was crucial. He put
up with the freezing cold temperatures of the Oregon coast and
was able to give me great feedback.
If you could choose one standout performance or safety
feature to highlight, what would it be? This board kills it in big
waves and can be paddled just like a regular surf board. On top of that,
the WVS construction makes this one of the most durable and stable
performing boards offered today. It’s the one board that you can stick
in your bag when going on a surf trip. It does it all.
What are some of the other key product features and
performance characteristics? The WVS construction makes
it lightweight, increases flex and gives it a softer feel. The quad
configuration makes it easier to turn in and out of turns. Overall, it’s
built to have a lighter and more lively feel, combined with Slingshot’s
inherent bomber construction.
What style/level of rider will most enjoy this product?
Intermediate to advanced riders that like to surf or someone
looking to progress from a twin tip and take on new challenges
will love the SST. It’s a great first surfboard because of its overall
stability and volume.
What type of conditions is this product best suited for? The
SST works in all waves from mushy whitewash to big Teahupoo style
waves, but likes medium and bigger waves the best. It also works
great in lightly to full powered wind swell conditions.
What performance gains do you think the average consumer
will achieve if they get this product? The SST is an excellent
performing vehicle that specializes in surf. It’s basically all you need
on a surf trip. If there’s wind, ride it strapped or strapless, and if there
isn’t, try your hand at surfing with the SST by itself. As for your riding,
expect to feel very comfortable surfing, not just “riding” wind swell or
waves in no time.
What differentiates your product from your competitors? The
combination of true surf development, custom tuned to kiteboards for
surf, the use of proprietary WVS constr uction, backed by our legendary
construction and our commitment to excellent customer service, sets
the SST apart from the pack. We believe in what we make, and are
true to our culture and the end rider.
lessons ° camps ° gear
supervised riding ° travel
Rider: Sky Solbach | Photo: Andy Garno
@
80 thekiteboarder.com
thekiteboarder.com 81

instructional
By Paul Lang
82 thekiteboarder.com
Davey Blair experiences his own “pucker Factor” moment. photo Carol Bolstad
HoW To HAnDLe Four oF THe MoST
CoMMon KiTeMAreS
“wHat Do i Do now?” This is a question that every kiteboarder will eventually ask their self. If
you don’t know what to do when you get yourself into a situation, choosing to do the wrong thing or even
just a few seconds of indecisiveness can lead to an injury. As a kiter, you need to be mentally prepared
for how you will react in different situations before they actually happen. Always be ready to activate
your safety system and practice doing it so that you will know what to expect when you have to pull the
trigger. We have listed four of the most common kitemares, how you should react, and what you can do
to avoid the situation. With enough care and common sense, most potentially dangerous kiteboarding
situations can be avoided, but you should also always be prepared for when things go wrong.
Kite Falls in the Surf:
If your kite goes down in the surf, try as hard as you can to
relaunch the kite before the next wave. If your kite gets eaten
by a sizable wave, there is a good chance that there will be
some damage unless you know what to do.
8 Immediately after the kite hits the water, work as hard as you
can to get the kite back up in the air.
8 If the kite is still on the water when the next wave comes in,
you will have to consider letting the kite go. Only do this if there
are no people downwind of you and you are not close to a road!
If you are kiting at a crowded beach, you probably need to hold
onto the kite and hope for the best.
8 If it is safe to let the kite go, unhook your leash and separate
yourself from the bar. Swim into the beach as fast as you can –
you may be able to catch your kite before it even hits the sand.
8 If you cannot let your kite go, depower your kite onto one line by
either releasing your bar and grabbing the oh shit handle or
activating your safety system if it works on one line. Be sure to
swim clear of your lines, then in the direction the waves are
moving. It’s important that the kite flags out to just one line so
the kite has the least amount of tension possible, hopefully
enough to prevent any damage.
How to Avoid: The common sense solution to avoid this
problem would be to keep your kite flying. However, if you are
pushing your skills, you are bound to drop your kite in the surf.
Practice relaunching your kite until it is second nature. The faster
you can launch your kite when it goes down, the fewer problems
you will have kiting in the surf.
Line or Bridle Tangle:
If your bridle or lines get caught on part of your kite, you will not be
able to control it. Usually, the kite begins to loop, no matter what you
do with the bar.
8 If you have open water downwind of your kite, hang on for the ride. Usually,
the kite crashes into the water within a few loops. With the kite in the water,
you can usually get the line or bridle off the kite by pulling on the one line
that is caught. Even if you have room, be ready to activate your safety
system in an instant if things get out of hand.
8 If you don’t have safe room downwind, immediately activate your safety
system. This will depower your kite and cause it to crash into the water. At
this point, you can usually free the caught line by pulling on it.
8 Tangles can occur whenever a kite crashes but also when self launching
your kite. Always be ready to activate your safety system when self
launching if the kite becomes uncontrollable.
8 Always carry a safety hook knife so that you can cut away from your kite
in emergency situations. Be sure to check your blade often and rinse off
after every session.
How to Avoid: When self launching, double check that your lines are
not caught on the kite and are not in a position where they could easily catch.
This can also happen if you crash your kite with the lines slack, so check your
lines while the kite is still on the water and try to deal with any caught lines
before you relaunch your kite.
Dealing with a Kite Tangle:
As more people start kiteboarding, our spots are going to become
more crowded. No matter how careful everyone is, more people
on the water will lead to more kite tangles. If you do tangle with
another kiter, stay calm and try to figure your way out of it.
8 As soon as you become tangled with another rider, you should unhook
your leash and be prepared to completely release your kite.
8 If both kites are still flying, bring both kites low to the water and keep
them flying. You may be able to fly the kites out of the tangle if you
communicate with the other rider.
8 If either kite is uncontrollable, both kites need to be released. The danger
is when one rider releases their kite and the other one doesn’t. If you
release your kite and the bar gets stuck in the other rider’s lines, the other
rider is now attached to two uncontrollable kites. If you think you need to
release, try and coordinate simultaneously with the other rider or signal to
the other rider your intentions, so they are prepared.
How to Avoid: This kitemare is easy to avoid if you simply stay
alert about your surroundings. Look the other way before you jibe or pull a
move, and be mindful about staying a safe distance away from other riders,
especially beginners.
Sudden Wind Changes:
As we all know, the wind is never completely reliable.
On any given day during any given session, the wind can
dramatically change directions, quickly build in strength,
or completely vanish. Weather changes can happen very
quickly, but you can usually see signs that the wind is about
to change.
8 At the first sign of a weather change, go back to the beach and
land your kite. These signs include dark clouds approaching,
wind that becomes very gusty and/or shifty, a sudden
temperature change (for example, a gust that feels much
warmer or colder than normal), or a fast approaching wind line.
8 If you are caught out in stronger wind, the general rule is to
depower your kite and head back to the beach. If there are
kiters on the beach, get their attention by waving and yelling.
Tap the top of your head to let them know you want to land
your kite. This way, you will have someone ready to catch your
kite as soon as your kite is over land. Ride towards the beach
slowly and with your kite low until your kite is caught.
8 If there is no one to catch your kite, ride to within a line length
of the beach and activate your safety system. Your kite will
depower and land in the water, and you can swim the rest
of the way in. You want to avoid being on land while flying an
overpowered kite.
8 If you are caught out when the wind is dying, get off your board
and hold it while you body drag back to the beach. Get as close
to land as you can before the wind totally shuts down. If there
is no longer enough wind to keep your kite flying, there is
nothing else to do but to self rescue and swim in with your gear.
How to Avoid: Get a local weather forecast before you ride
so you know if abnormal weather is expected. Always be alert for
weather changes and immediately head back to the beach if you
notice any of the signs mentioned above.
thekiteboarder.com 83

local homies
Norman McGuire cruising in paradise. Exuma,
Bahamas. Photo Eric Merchand/Aerosport.ca
84 thekiteboarder.com
WINNING PHOTO
Submit your photos of ‘local
homies’ riding at your home
spot and you could win a
killer t-shirt from Transcend
Kiteboarding! Email
ryan@thekiteboarder.com
LOCAL homies
Local Homies is all about everyday, local riders sharing the stoke at their home kiting spots.
Jesus Ponce shows off his unhooked skills in Villa
Corona, Mexico. Photo Carlos Altamira
Jeff Howard high fives a Wildcat hottie in Portland,
Texas. Photo kiteboarding.com
Chuck Heberle ripping a mystery wave in Baja. Photo Luke Bilger
Ryan Reichlyn throws a mean fishing pole kite loop. Photo Anthony Spencer
Jerome Latapie self shooting with the camrig from the kite. Photo Jerome Latapie
Up and comer Alex Klitmoller shows off a flat three in Klitmoller, Denmark.
Photo Lars Marius Walbye
James Ropner entertains the freighter crew in Australia. Photo Homie Bust
Will Caldwell busts a handlepass 3 off a kicker in Carmel, California.
Photo courtesy of Will Caldwell
Jason Formo charges Jetty Island. Photo Jim Stringfellow
Matt McFarland goes big at Seaside Reef in Cardiff, CA. Photo courtesy Matt McFarland
thekiteboarder.com 85

workbench
Dial in Your
Control Bar
By Paul Lang | Photos Ryan Riccitelli
your Control Bar is your ConneCtion
to your Kite. it’s how you control its steering
and power, and it’s what transfers the power
of the kite to you. your bar is a relatively
small piece of equipment, but it can ruin
your session if it does not work right.
it is also often your most used piece
of gear, as many riders use the
same bar for multiple kites. spend
some time making sure your bar
is in tip top shape and consider
upgrading parts that you are not
happy with. you spend hours at
a time holding onto that skinny
piece of carbon, so read our
suggestions below to help you get
your bar dialed in.
86 thekiteboarder.com
Get a Grip:
If your bar is well used, it might be time to update the grip, especially if it is
starting to peel off. You can pick up hockey grip tape at any sports supply
store and use it to give your bar a brand new look and feel. Clean and dry
your bar first, and then wrap the hockey tape around your bar in a spiral
pattern. Use a sharp razor blade to trim excess away from the ends of the bar
and chicken loop hole. If you want to be really fancy, you may be able to find
different colors for the different sides of your bar.
Lube it up:
To help keep the parts of your bar and safety system working well,
you want to keep them clean and lubed. Every few sessions, wash
your bar with fresh water and let it completely dry. Spray WD-40 on
every piece of metal on your bar. Take your safety system apart and
spray every part with WD-40 before putting it back together. Not only
will this keep everything working they way it should, but the WD-40
will also help prevent corrosion on the metal parts of your bar.
prevent
excess Wear
If your lines don’t have them already, make a set of
spectra pigtails to attach your lines to your kite. The
ends of your lines are where most wear occurs, so
you can easily double the life of your lines with only
a few dollars worth of spectra line.
thekiteboarder.com 87

workbench
chanGe Your
chicken Loop:
Chicken loop lines wear out over time, so check yours often to see if it needs
to be replaced. If you see any broken strands in the line, it’s time to change.
Every brand of bar is a little different. With some bars, you may need to
contact your local dealer for a replacement part, while the chicken loop on
other brands can be changed with spectra line you can buy at any sailing
supply store. If you see wear on your chicken loop, change it before your next
session. It will be a lot less hassle than having it break on you.
shorten
the throW:
If you don’t have especially long arms, then you probably have to bend over
at the waist when you depower your kite while riding. This causes you to
have bad posture when you ride. To correct this, you can adjust your bar
so that it is closer to your body. On some bars this is easy to do, while on
others this is difficult to impossible. Some manufacturers sell replacement
harness loops that are physically smaller than the original, while some
harness loops can be trimmed to be shorter. If it is not possible to shorten
your harness loop, you can simply bring the bar closer to your body with kite
trim by shortening your front lines. This will bring the bar closer to your body
for the same amount of power and allow you to ride without bending over.
add a
spinninG sWiveL:
Some bars come with a swivel on the front lines and some do not. Some
of the ones that do come with a swivel don’t work well enough to un-spin
your front lines after a move. Buy a high quality small Harken or Ronstan
block with a swivel and you’ll never have to worry about unspinning your
front lines again.
88 thekiteboarder.com
turn Your biG bar
into a smaLL bar:
Most long bars can be easily cut down if you find yourself wanting a smaller
one. The first step is to remove the ends, which are usually held on with a
3/16 inch rivet. Drill off the head of the rivet with a 3/16 bit and pull the ends
off. Carefully measure an equal distance from the middle of the bar to each
side so your chicken loop will still be in the middle. Mark and then tape all
the way around the bar where you plan to make your cut. Cut the bar with a
sharp hacksaw, using a miter box so your cut stays square. Squeeze some
silicon into the ends of the bar to seal it and install the ends. Drill new rivet
holes and install rivets. Enjoy your smaller, lighter bar.
shorten some Lines:
You can shorten your lines to any length you want or repair broken lines with a sleeving kit from a
kite shop (a kite shop, not a kiteboarding shop). Cut all four (or five) of your lines to the same length
and follow the directions for installing the sleeve with the included tool.
keep it
cLean:
Storing your bar covered in
sand will cause more wear than
actually using it. After every few
sessions, wash your bar and lines
with fresh water and let them
completely dry. At the end of every
session, wind up your lines and
dunk the bar in the water to get
the sand off. Pull off any bits of
seaweed unless you like your car
to smell like rotten lettuce.
tune Your
Lines:
Making sure your lines are tuned properly is
the most important thing you can do to get
the most out of your kite. Attach all four (or
five) lines to a solid object like a tree or car,
and pull the bar tight with your trim strap
completely powered so that all lines are the
same length. Do not hook into the chicken
loop when doing this. One line being off
by only half an inch can cause a dramatic
decrease in performance. Adjust the knots
on your leader lines until all lines are even.
You should check your lines at least a few
times a season, especially if your kite just
doesn’t feel right while flying.
thekiteboarder.com 89

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Board Sports
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Captain Kirk’s
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Delta Windsurf Company
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Offshore Surf Co
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OOTO Kite School
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Solutions
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Soul Performance
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Sky Kitesurfing School
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Wind over Water Kiteboarding
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Into the Wind
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Fuze Kiteboarding
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ConneCtiCut
Orbit Marine Sports
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Tri State Kites
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Ace Performer
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Bloodline Boardshop
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Kiteboarding Tampa Bay
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(954) 410-5419 FL
Island Style Wind & Watersports
(941) 954-1009 FL
Island Surf and Sail
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Kiteboarding Tampa Bay FL
(813) 389-3683
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Kite World
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Learn 2 Fly
(386) 986-9637 FL
Liquid Surf & Sail
(850) 664-5731 FL
KiteMare
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Miami Kiteboarding Inc.
(305) 345-9974 FL
Otherside Boardsports
(305) 853-9728 FL
The Kite Shop
(305) 3610168 FL
Sandy Point Progressive Sports
(386) 756-7564 FL
Sea & Sky Sports
(850) 598-3735 FL
Ski Rixen
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Tampa Bay Kiteboarding
(727) 798-2484 FL
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High Tide Surf Shop
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Action Sports Maui
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idaHo
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Air Support Kiteboarding
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H2AIR Productions
(302) 227-1105 MD
MiCHiGan
Broneah Kiteboarding
(231) 392-2212 MI
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Grand Bay Kite Co
(231) 929-0607 MI
Great Lakes Kiteboarding
(586) 822-6511 MI
MacInaw Kite Co.
(800) 622-4655
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(989) 362-9906 MI
Sharkless Kiteboarding
(269) 639-SURF MI
Uncle Doug’s Kiteboarding
(810) 985-3732 MI
Minnesota
Scuba Center Wind/Kite
(612) 925-4818 MN
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Get Air
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Underground Kitesports
(406) 546-2709 MT
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(910) 763-1730 NC
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92 thekiteboarder.com
Kitty Hawk Kiteboarding Centers
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Real Kiteboarding
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Extreme Windsurfing
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(609) 494-5553 NJ
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Kitesurf Vegas
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Windsports
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Curtis Sport Connection
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Island Riders NY
(631) 583-3019
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Myers
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oHio
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(605) 341-5445 SD
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(956) 299-WIND TX
Pro Kitesurf
(361) 883-1473 TX
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S. Padre Island Kiteboarding
(956) 245-8343 TX
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(956) 761-1434 TX
Warming Hut Ski & Board
(972) 234-6088 TX
XL Kites, Dallas
(817) 676-7842 TX
XLKites, Houston
(877) 955-4837 TX
XL Kites, Padre Island
(866) 957-2373 TX
Zero Gravity Kiteboarding
(361) 949-0266 TX
utaH
Cloud 9 Soaring Ctr
(801) 576-6460 UT
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Southeast Expeditions
(877) 943-8548 VA
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North by Northwest Surf Co.
(360) 452-5144 WA
Seattle Kiteboarding Center
(206) 779-3272 WA
Urban Surf
(206) 545-9463 WA
Wiley’s Water Ski Shop
(206) 762-1300 WA
Wind Flow
(877) 211-3524 WA
Evo
(206) 973-4470 WA
Bellingham Kiteboarding
(360) 441-7577 WA
wisConsin
Adventure Kiteboarding WI
(414) 760-1493
Coontail Watersports
(715) 385-0250 WI
Kite-Riders
(608) 273-1817 WI
Southport Rigging Company
(262) 652-5434 WI
The Board Shop
(262) 248-1703 WI
wyoMinG
Hoback Sports
(307) 733-5335 WY

Yardsale
tHe
top
CrasHes
IN FRONT OF THE
lens
got a great wipe out sHot?
email: ryan@tHeKiteBoarDer.Com
94 thekiteboarder.com
Nick Rodriquez takes a serious hit on the JWCF Slider during a wakeskating session.
Photo Bryan Elkus
EH Team Rider doing a board off raley. Photo Eric Hertsens
Jesus Ponce doing a one footer in Mexico.
Photo courtesy of Jesus Ponce
Kevin Langeree almost takes out Robby Naish. Photo Stephen Whitesell
Mauricio Abreu gets yarded in Peru. Photo Jason Wolcott
Ryan Reichlyn’s kiteloop gone bad at Sullivan’s Island, SC.
Photo catchsomeair.us
Todd Leam gets worked on a landing.
Photo Cheryle Battrum
thekiteboarder.com 95