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B R A N D

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CONTENTS

Intro 2Naish 3-11North 13-22RRD 23-30Cabrinha 31-38CORE 39-46CrazyFly 47-54Liquid Force 55-62Nobile 63-70Slingshot 71-76Airush 77-82Wainman 83-88Axis 89-94Best 95-100Blade 101-106BWS 107-112Epic kites 113-118F-ONE 119-124Gaastra 125-130Ocean Rodeo 131-136Ozone 137-143SU-2 144-148Zeeko 149-154Flysurfer 155-158Peter Lynn 159-162Mystic 163-168ION 169-174Ride Engine 175-178Neil Pryde 179-182ONeill 183-186

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WELCOME TO THEKITEMAG BRAND GUIDE 2016So, whats it all about?

Well, our aim with the brand guide was twofold. First we wanted to give you an insight into the history and some of the inner workings of the main brands who work pretty hard to produce the fine products that enable us to get on the water and pursue the sport we love. So at the start of each section you can find out a little bit about their background, where they get their R&D done, and what they are working on right now.

Then we wanted to give them the chance to showcase and to take us through some of their most prized products, as well as giving us a flavor of their overall line-ups. So the following pages of each brands section take a closer look at their current range of products.

Yes, in this modern age we may have that useful tool known as the internet, but nothing beats having everything in one place. So you can kind of think of this as a browser with 29 tabs open; it just feels nicer and doesnt hurt your eyes. So get stuck in, you can easily compare and contrast whats on offer, and then decide exactly what you want to spend next months pay packet on

And it is this kind of insanity that the kit within these pages permits Aaron Hadlow: inverted and fully

committed at this years King of the Air

Photo: Bianca Asher

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THE BRANDNaish began in Kailua on the Hawaiian island of Oahu in 1977 when Robbys father, Rick, began shaping windsurf gear in their garage. Naish pioneered the sport of kitesurfing with the first modern four-line, inflated strut kites in 1999 and has since developed many of the sports now standard features. More than three decades after winning his first World Title, Robbys passion for board sports is stronger than ever, living by the motto that every day on the water is a good day!

BRAND HQNaish is based on the North Shore of Maui, Hawaii and the vast majority of their R&D takes place on Maui itself. They also test around the globe and on Oahu where they can find the varied conditions that are critical to perfecting each seasons line of products. Being based on Maui gives Naish a twelve-month season and a pretty broad base of wind and water conditions to work with.

Most of the Naish international team riders head to Maui a couple of times a year and participate as a key element to ongoing development testing. Naish also sends equipment to team riders in different parts of the world for further testing in varied conditions. On top of all this, Naish has a host of local riders and kite schools that are the ultimate testing resource, as they spend just about every day on the water putting their gear through more abuse than most, which allows for good durability feedback. Naish believes that living and developing gear on Maui gains the key R&D team a competitive edge, boosting both their riding abilities and their design with more hands-on time with prototypes.

MAIN NEWS FOR 2016 Its been a busy season for Naish so far, and there are a lot more releases lined up and plenty of exciting plans beyond that. Right now the Park HD has been stealing a lot of headlines, and with new releases scheduled throughout the year it is going to continue to be exciting times from Naish.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NAISH KITES

Kites Best for SizesPivot Freeride / Wave 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14Alana Womens Freeride / Wave 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Park HD Freeride / Freestyle 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14Torch Pro Performance Freestyle 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14Draft High Performance Freeride / Big Air / Race 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 14, 17Ride All-Around Freeride 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14Trip Travel / Freeride / Wave / Foilboard 8, 10, 12Fly Lightwind Freeride 15Xeon Beginner / Trainer 1.3, 2

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PIVOTThe Pivot is ideal for a wide range of riders and styles. Its ability to turn on a tight axis without an aggressive pull makes this kite perfect for nailing jumps, charging the next big swell and everything in between. A huge confidence booster when learning new moves, the Pivots predictable power delivery, direct bar feel and intuitive steering puts riders in control at all times. The medium aspect ratio supports substantial low-end power, great upwind performance and that sought after sheet-in-and-go feel.

ALANAFitting a wide range of skill levels, the Alana provides smooth, adaptable performance for all-around wave and freeriding. Based on the popular Pivot and designed for women, this easy-handling kite excels in a variety of wind and wave conditions, while remaining responsive and dynamic. Predictable power development, direct bar feel and intuitive steering put riders in complete control and a medium aspect ratio supports substantial low-end power for easy jumping, great upwind performance and remarkable sheet-in-and-go.

PARK HDDesigned for aggressive freeride and freestyle riders, the all new Park HD is now in High Definition, thanks to its open arc and high aspect ratio of 4.6. It fuses high performance with easy handling for an incredibly forgiving ride in nearly every condition. The static bridle platform provides great acceleration through turns, crisp bar feel and ensures stability even in extreme conditions. Unhooked, the Park HD delivers a great pop and slack combination, which helps riders nail their next big trick. While hooked-in, riders will appreciate the instant power and lift generated when jumping.

TORCHDesigned by Naish for hardcore freestyle riders demanding a fast-flying C-kite, the Torch delivers precision performance for hooked and unhooked riding. Utilizing a reduced leading edge taper and rigid arc, the kite is engineered for increased performance in high winds, outstanding control and stability in all conditions. The solid feel of the Torch will instill kiters with confidence and trust, helping them push their riding to the next level.

BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NAISH KITES

RIDEThis two-strut, incredibly lightweight kite is great for everyday kiteboarders looking for ease and simplicity. Its open center section provides superior low-end performance and creates a luffing effect while maintaining smooth power delivery through turns. Reduced surface area in the wing tip, combined with sweep, allow the kite to rotate with minimal drag on the water, which results in very easy water relaunch. This, along with a slightly flattened arc, provides more lift for easy jumping and sheet-in-and-go feel. The latest update for the Ride features re-oriented struts and seams, allowing for improved efficiency and better airflow throughout the kite.

TRIPThe Trip is a cutting-edge, strutless kite that is ideal for intermediate-to-advanced riders who want a versatile kite that will work beyond expectations. Its simple, no-strut design delivers the wind range of a larger kite while retaining the fast, precision-turning of a smaller kite. The Trip provides incredible low-end, yet manageable power, while its immediate and direct bar feel allows for easy jumping, wave riding, foiling and cruising. In addition to that, the Trip packs up 30% smaller than a kite with struts, making it the perfect travel companion.

DRAFTThe Draft creates insane lift for boosting big airs and logging in unmatched hang time. Its advanced airfoil design helps it excel at hooked-in riding, upwind performance and speed. A reduced leading edge taper adds rigidity to the wing tip, which places the axis of rotation close to the center of the kite and results in sharp turning and a precise bar feel. This year, the reshaped wingtips heighten responsiveness and refined bridles provide faster turning, lighter bar pressure and, most importantly, even bigger airs.

FLYThe Fly is an exceptionally lightweight freeride kite designed to provide a smooth yet powerful ride in light-to-marginal wind conditions. The two-strut design provides easy handling in low winds and exceptional low-end power. A reduced leading edge taper adds rigidity to the wing tip. This places the axis of rotation even closer to the center of the kite, resulting in sharp turning and precise bar feel. Improving water relaunch, the Fly utilizes a swept-back wing tip and anti-stiction window. Riders can practice their latest moves and progress their riding no matter how light the wind may be, making the Fly an essential addition to any quiver.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NAISH TWIN TIPS

Twin tip Best for SizesMega High Performance Freeride 132, 136Monarch Pro Performance Freestyle 130, 132, 134, 136Dub Performance Freestyle / Freeride 132, 134, 136, 138, 140, 142Motion Performance Freeride 134, 138, 142Hero All-around Freeride 135, 140, 145Grom Kids Freeride / Freestyle 124Alana Womens Freeride / Freestyle 130, 134Orbit Lightwind Freestyle 152, 162

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MONARCHThe Monarch targets riders looking for a cutting-edge design with energized freestyle performance. It delivers very direct power for upwind drive and explosive freestyle pop on-demand. Gradually tapering rails produce outstanding grip, powerful flex and directional stability. Lightweight, double-layer basalt fiber yields incredible strength-to-weight ratio and uniquely responsive flex decreasing chances of distortion under the extreme loads of hard landings. Its 3D bottom shape provides increased tracking and great edging, while a reduced concave in the center section improves water entry and optimizes flex in between the riders feet.

DUBThe dub offers riders the best of all worlds: superior freestyle and freeride performance with the advantages of a wakestyle-inspired design. Ideal for aggressive wakestyle riders using footstraps, this board delivers insane drive, edging and pop. The new and improved rocker provides upwind performance and increased speed while maintaining a smooth ride even in large chop. Its tapered rails reduce weight in the tips, defining the edges for increased grip and solid directional stability. In addition, the 3D bottom shaping utilizes center razor channels for increased edging performance and a flat center with increased V in the tips for controlled sliding.

MOTIONThe Motion is for riders looking for a high level of versatility in one do-it-all design. This board offers everything from freeride and freestyle performance to twin tip wave riding functionality. Its surface area, full rocker, new beveled razor channel rails and responsive flex provide balanced power, superior edging, soft landings and a smooth ride in chop. The added fin beam in the tip section adds rigidity to the fin mounting area, thus increasing the edging ability of the board. Its solid pop and directional stability should help riders of all abilities take their riding to the next level.

HERODelivering reliable, all-around performance, the Hero is designed to take riders to the next level and is the ideal user-friendly freeride board. The outline, rocker and flex have all been engineered to provide a forgiving ride and on-demand control. Its single-concave bottom shape is most pronounced in the midsection for incredible tracking, while its outline blends moderately parallel rails with a progressive curve at the tips for easier edging control.

Surfboard Best for SizesGlobal Performance Wave 52, 58, 510, 60Alana Womens Wave 56Skater Versatile Wave / Freeride 410, 52, 56Custom LE Performance Strapless Wave 57, 510, 60Mutant Small Wave / Lightwind 55Alaia Lightwind Freeride 59

BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NAISH SURFBOARDS

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GLOBALThe Global is designed for riders who demand total confidence for powerful strapped or strapless riding in any surf conditions. With more rail volume in the front for increased lift, the Global is responsive and forgiving in bottom turns due to thinned-out rails in the tail section, allowing the rider to efficiently power up for a snap off the lip, while still holding high speed down the line. It has a slightly narrower tail and straighter outline in the tail section yielding more power, grip and stability than its predecessor. Utilizing the thruster design, it delivers the best combination of speed, control and drive regardless of wave size and wind conditions.

SKATERThis modern shape is ideal for beginner-to-advanced kiters ready to take their directional or strapless riding to new levels, in any surf conditions, with the option of riding strapped if desired. The durable honeycomb construction provides outstanding impact resistance in unison with the full deck pad. A pulled-in outline in the tail section and wider angled channel produce a tight turning radius and more snap packing the maneuverability of a larger surfboard into a convenient, travel-friendly shape.

MUTANTNew and easy-to-ride, the Mutant is ideal for strapless or strapped riding in small waves, flat water and light wind conditions. The compact outline, with its wide nose and tail, provides early planing and unparalleled light wind performance. Thinned-out rails and relatively low rocker contribute to fast upwind speeds, while controlled driving off the front foot and a loose and playful feel off the back foot make wave riding a breeze. ALAIATrue to its roots, the Alaia takes it right back to when surfing began in Hawaii. It is shaped out of a solid dual-wood core with a surf design that has been refined for a seamless transition into todays kiteboarding. Then, capped in fiberglass, its both strong and durable. It has amazing up wind performance and is super fun and playful. Its performance shines brightest in light to marginal winds.

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THE BRANDNorth Kiteboarding was founded in 2000 and is part of Boards & More (which has a history back to the very first days of windsurfing). It now has a team of over 80 staff who work on developing, realizing and distributing products for customers who love their sports as much as B&M do.

North Kiteboarding was conceived in the US by Ken Winner and Jaime Herraiz, two outstanding characters in the development of the sport. Once the current boss and CEO of B&M, Till Eberle, joined the club, the brand took off and hasnt looked back. Till Eberle is the engine and entrepreneur of North Kiteboarding. He started the company and has turned it into a world-leading brand. He is hands-on with the development process and, being an engineer, product development and ensuring that products are of the highest quality are his main aims. North Kiteboarding is True Kiteboarding and wants to offer the best-functioning and best-looking products in any niche of kiteboarding.

BRAND HQThe B&M offices are based in the south of Munich and comprises a core bunch of passionate kiteboarders alongside the business professionals. This core makes the work carried out by people all over the world possible. Kite development for the Rebel, Neo, Juice and Dyno takes places on Maui with Ken Winner (and Sky Solbach helping with testing), then Ralf Grsel works on the Vegas, Dice and Evo. Then the kites and boards are tested by our team riders all over the world from Munich to Hawaii, South Africa to Italy and Mauritius to France. Overall B&M is a truly global operation.

MAIN NEWS FOR 2016 For 2016 North have surfboards in three different constructions the new Light Team Construction (Pro Surf, Pro CSC, Pro Kontact); the Classic Construction (Wam, Woohoo, Whip CSC, Nugget CSC) and the Tough Technology construction (Nugget TT, Quest TT), which is a really durable construction now in its third generation. With twintips, the main developments are four new and different constructions. The Premium Performance Construction (Team Series, Team Series Hadlow), the Textreme Carbon Construction (Select, Spike Textreme), the Premium Construction (Jaime) and the Biax Fiber Construction (Gambler, X-Ride, Soleil, Spike, Gonzales). With the kites, the oldest kite in the range, the Rebel has had a resurrection. The unique feel of the fifth line in combination with five struts and the unbelievable sheet and go acceleration are refined to the max by Ken Winner. The Dice has a higher delta angle on the tip, which results in a better low end performance, and the biggest news is the arrival of a new one-strut kite

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Kite Best for SizesRebel All-round performance freeride 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16Vegas Top end wakestyle and freestyle performance 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14.5Dice Versatile performance freeride 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14Neo Wave riding devotees 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Dyno Racing and lightwind 7, 7, 10, 13, 15, 18Juice Accessible lightwind fun 15, 18

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NORTH KITES

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REBELThe 2016 Rebel is the ultimate kite for huge jumps and massive hangtime. There have been quite a few changes across the range this year to ensure it still delivers the maximum performance across all the sizes. The smaller sizes in the range now feature a lower aspect ratio, which makes them smoother in gusty winds whilst also improving the turning speed of the kite. The middle sizes in the range offer the perfect blend between turning speed, handling and jumping ability. The profile and aspect ratio of these kites has been tweaked to offer amazing performance. The 12m to 14m kites now have a higher aspect ratio, which offers higher jumps, longer hangtime and better power delivery with a smooth bar feel. The big 16m Rebel shares a similar shape and profile with the 14m, but the bigger 16 has more of an emphasis on low end power and jumping ability, replacing the Rebel 18.

DICENow in its third generation, the Dice has redefined versatility and performance. No matter what your style this kite has you covered its perfect for wakestyle and freestyle allowing you to pull the latest moves and tricks with ease. With a fast progressive turn and dynamic handling it is also amazing in the waves offering excellent drift down the line. For 2016 the leading edge has been swept back further to offer superior low end power. A lot of work has been put into the struts this year, they are now thinner, making the kite faster and improving its jumping capabilities. The bridle has been optimized to make the structural profile even stiffer. Additionally, the struts have been further reinforced to offer better durability and there is a new Anti-Snag design on the leading edge tips to ensure the lines and bridle wont get tangled in the event of a crash. Lastly, the Dice has been fitted with our improved Lazy Pump system for better airflow that will ensure you are the first person on the water.

NEO The Neos the definition of a high performance wave kite. Thanks to the design concept behind the Neo and the power it delivers, riders are able to use at least 1-2sqm less in comparison to other kites. This advantageous aspect further enhances its already rapid turning abilities, effortless float down the line, and responsiveness to handling. Taking wipeouts into consideration, weve made the Neo incredibly easy to relaunch so you can get up and away before the next wave hits. The new Anti-Snag leading edge tips will keep the kite tanglefree no matter how bad the crash. For 2016 Ken Winner has been tweaking the geometry of the Neo to achieve even more depower, whilst still maintaining the famous low end power delivery. This provides an intuitive feel to the hands, leaving you to concentrate on the wave rather than where the kite is.

VEGASThe Vegas is the ultimate freestyle weapon used by Norths Pro Team with much success on the world stage. However, it is a great kite for ambitious riders too, boosting huge airs and providing great rider feedback. With its insane hangtime, its no wonder Aaron Hadlow used the Vegas to become the King of The Air as well as take his assault on the World Tour. For 2016, the profiles have been optimized to offer a more consistent pop, in addition the tension in the canopy of the kite has been improved, which leads to a higher structural stiffness and smoother ride. The new 3D-shaped canopy panels offer a cleaner airflow, whilst the new strut reinforcements increase the durability of the kite so it can handle the beatings dished out by the Pro Team. The Anti-Snag is a new design for the leading edge tips, reducing the risk of lines tangling and the 2016 Vegas also benefits from Norths improved Lazy Pump inflation system for even better airflow.

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NORTH MONOThe Mono is a lightwind specialist. It has an outstanding low end range, with the 5 and 7m models working particularity well with surfboards and lighter breezes. Use the power of the kite to catch the wave, then crank the depower and shred the wave with zero pull. Its light weight allows the kite to drift and hang in the air as you ride down the line. The Mono has a comfortable and forgiving feeling via the bar softer than the Neo but still progressive. The turning speed is quick, and the kite is also great for freeriding offering easy jumping and excellent hangtime. Relaunch is excellent and with the reduced weight it is of course the perfect travel companion.

NORTH EVOThe Evo is the all-round maestro from the North Kiteboarding range and is guaranteed to get the job done. North have done things different by sticking with 5 struts instead of 3. Their 5-strut design has been refined year after year and through that platform they have achieved a kite that offers up an exceptional wind range, great stability, superior depower and progressive sheet and go characteristics. If youre looking for one kite to do it all then look no further, the Evo will have you flying high like Tom Hebert, coming in hot at the line-up and slashing waves or simply freeriding. There are many kites out there that claim to do it all but the Evo truly delivers.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NORTH KITES AND TWIN TIPS

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JAIMEThe Jaime has been in the North Kiteboarding range for over 10 years now; its a fantastic freeride and freestyle machine that perfectly reflects the way Jaime Herraiz rides. Its the perfect board for riders who are looking for a great freestyle board without the unforgiving stiffness that some of the top end pro models have. For 2016 the Jaime has a new shape with a wider outline making the pop even better and the landings even easier. It has a slight slant towards freestyle this year and features a new Carbon Beam construction, which gives the board a lively and eager feeling on the water. The bottom features a Quattro-V bottom concept, this offers superior grip whilst helping to smooth out the landings too. The Jaime is fast, yet smooth, with enough pop to excite the most demanding of riders.

SELECTThe Select sets the standards for freeride performance, incorporating the most advanced construction techniques and technology with a fast, dynamic shape. It is the lightest, fastest and most responsive kiteboard in the North range and is perfect for freeride and freestyle riders looking for the ultimate machine to take their riding to the next level. At the same time the board is fast and responsive, it is also exceedingly easy and forgiving to ride, due to the slightly softer flex characteristics. The board is constructed using Textreme Carbon which is 30% lighter than a standard carbon weave. This material offers superior flex and durability characteristics, whilst making the board extremely direct and responsive on the water. The Select is the ultimate kiteboard, it is as simple as that

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Twin Tips Best for SizesGambler Wakestyle 136, 139, 142Team Series Wakestyle /Freestyle 135, 138, 141Team Series Hadlow Wakestyle / Freestyle 140Jaime Freestyle / Freeride 130, 133, 136, 139Select Freeride 132, 135, 138, 141XRide Freeride / Wave 132, 135, 138, 141Soleil Freeride 128, 132, 136Gonzales Freeride 130, 134, 138, 142, 151Spike Freeride / Lightwind 141, 153, 163Spike Textreme High performance Freeride / Lightwind 153

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NORTH TWIN TIPS

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GAMBLERThe Gambler is Norths park and wakestyle board, ridden by guys like Tom Court and Craig Cunningham as well as by Colleen Carroll. This is the go-to board for our riders looking to hit the park on the kite or cable. Tough, strong and packed with performance it delivers whatever the conditions. The board has a fair amount of rocker, as you would expect, it also has a stiff to medium flex pattern which not only offers amazing pop, but also just the right amount of flex for riding rails and sliders. For 2016 there is a new bottom shape and a step up double concave that offers amazing grip, enabling the Gambler to be ridden without fins. The Slick Base ensures the board will take as much abuse as you can give it in the park, it also allows you to tap and stall on just about any feature you can find. Then the Track system is positioned in one line, so boots can be ridden on both edges to increase the lifecycle of the board. If you want a board that excels at wakestyle, the Gambler holds all the cards...

TEAM SERIESThe Team Series is aimed at top-end freestyle riders and is the ultimate board for the competitive rider looking for the ultimate in pop! Used by riders like Reno Romeu and Stefan Spiessberger on the world tour, the Team Series wears has proven credentials at the hidhest level. The board is exceedingly stiff to offer amazing pop and there is also a strong torsional stiffness to ensure precision riding no matter what the water surface is doing. For 2016 there is a new wakestyle base which offers improved grip so you can ride without fins. In addition this base shape helps to break the surface tension making landings smooth and easy even when you are coming in hot from a super powered trick. The Team Series also features a Step Double Concave with Trailerfin construction to provide massive grip and pop. If you want to beat the competition, you need the competitive advantage, and Team Series can provide that.

X-RIDEThe X-Ride is one of the most popular boards on the market and is the choice board of riders all over the world. It is designed to be ridden about 3cm longer than your standard board. The increase in the rocker line helps to make the X-Ride extremely smooth over choppy water. The outline shape is also a little narrower in the tips, which allows the board to carve amazingly well. Lots of riders have the X-Ride as their twin tip wave board as the rail-to-rail turns are easily executed with great control. The rail shape and increased length gives you unsurpassed grip and upwind performance. For 2016 there is a new 2 Channel mono concave bottom shape, which improves the ride even more. The softer flex makes the ride really forgiving but the board will still pop allowing you to boost airs and have some soft landings. The X-Ride has been designed to be the ultimate all-round kite board, as happy in the waves as it is flying through the air.

GONZALESThe Gonzales is one of the easiest to ride kiteboards around. In the smaller sizes it is smooth and forgiving, and the larger sizes are perfect for beginners and larger riders. When you are first learning this sport you need a board that will help you to progress and make that progression as fast as possible. The Gonzales does just that while still retaining great performance so you wont grow out of it quickly. The Gonzales combines a soft flex pattern with a forgiving outline, which creates its unique feel on the water. The wider profile provides a stable platform whilst helping to get the board up on the plane early. There are five sizes in the range so there is a board to suit everyone, no matter what your level of riding is. Kitesurfing shouldnt be hard, and you shouldnt be hard on yourself, get a Gonzales and make it easy.

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Surfboard Best for SizesPro CSC All-rounder 53, 55, 57Pro Surf All-rounder 58, 511, 62Pro Kontact Bigger waves 510, 61 Whip CSC All-rounder 52, 54, 56WAM All-rounder 57, 510, 61WOOHOO All-rounder 58Nugget CSC Light wind and small waves 52Nugget TT Light wind and small waves 52Quest TT All-rounder 510

WHIP The Whip CSC is the perfect all round surfboard in the Compact Surf Concept range. It is easy to ride and forgiving and the rail design combines with the modern outline to cut through chop effortlessly. On the wave it is great for carving smooth turns but it will also allow you to ride it aggressively with a more top to bottom style. The compact shape allows you to really throw the board around on the wave while maintaining total control. For 2016 the Whip CSC features a new double concave bottom profile in the nose area, this helps to stop the board from digging in when dropping down steep wave faces. The double concave deck shape gives a perfect connection from the rider to the board and also adds even more control over the board. Sky Solbach has also refined the way the boards are scaled in size, so the smaller boards are now even better suited to smaller riders. If you want a surfboard that can handle it all, from small euro chop to overhead barrels the Whip CSC is the obvious choice.

WAMFor 2016 the WAM features a brand new shape. The new board combines a wide squash tail with a broader more high performance nose shape. This effectively increases the overall rail line while increasing the surface area of the board. The benefits of this new shape are numerous; the new WAM is more stable, far better upwind and gets planing in lighter winds much faster too. The WAM is a great all-rounder that is suited to a wide range of conditions. The board offers superior balance and control over a more traditional shape, making it great for learning to ride in the waves. The superior balance and control will also allow the more advanced riders to get the maximum performance from the board. The WAM is great for radical snaps and has a fantastic ability to surf both vertically in the pocket and with smoother carving arcs on larger waves. If you want an all-round surfboard, in a traditional style with a modern twist that can handle a wide variety of conditions, the new WAM has got it going on.

PRO CSCThe Pro CSC is a radical change of direction for the Pro Series. The 2016 design has been refined even further to keep the board at the very cutting edge of the sport. It excels in small to medium sized waves, offering predictable grip and stability while still enabling you to explode off the lip and link fast snappy turns on the wave. Yet although the Pro CSC is at the very top of Norths range it is still very easy to ride whilst also being forgiving, making it suitable for a wide range of riders. The deep double concave in the nose helps to separate the water and prevent the front of the board from burying on big steep waves. The top deck features a scooped double concave area under foot. This lowers the center of gravity on the board as well as increasing the contact area of the foot, both of these attributes hugely increase grip and control. The lightweight construction and compact shape also make the Pro CSC perfect for airs and freestyle tricks. If you want the ultimate surfboard to progress your level in the waves and in the air the Pro CSC is it.

NUGGET TTThis is the the third season the Nugget has been offered in the North Kiteboarding Tough Technology construction. Tough Technology is a moulded technology that utilizes a super tough top sheet similar to that used in North Kiteboarding Twin Tip to create an incredibly durable skin that is highly resistant to dings and scratches. In short, the Tough Technology Nugget offers the same Nugget shape in an ultra-durable construction! So it is a great light wind wave board, which allows you to have fun in waves even if conditions are not amazing. Its easy to do your first steps strapless and even on flat water it will put a smile on your face due to the planing performance and the upwind strength. Rough conditions tough technology!

BRAND GUIDE 2016 // NORTH SURFBOARDS

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THE BRANDRRD Roberto Ricci Designs was born in 1989 between Maui Island (Hawaii) and Tuscany (Italy). In the very beginning, the brand was registered as RRD Roberto Ricci Designs in both Italy and Hawaii as proof of the direct connection between the Hawaiian surfing traditions and Italian creativity and the design typical of Roberto Ricci and his team. The core business at that stage was strictly technical oriented. Roberto was a professional windsurfer and was designing and building custom boards only for professional windsurfers looking for the best boards to win contests in both the wave and racing disciplines. Everything was devoted to the pursuit of performance.

Then, in 1993, there was a turning point. From Robertos passion and know-how began a new project and a new brand based in Grosseto (Italy). 1994 saw the first RRD windsurfing production boards coming out on the market, it was the YEAR 0 collection. At the same time Montecristo srl was founded, a new company in charge of producing and distributing RRD Clothing and focused on a new concept of lifestyle called perf-romance, a marriage between pure sportive performance and romance, passion and feelings. Year-after-year the brand has kept growing and now, after 21 years, RRD develops and produces a full range of kites, kiteboards, windsurfing boards, sails and rig components, SUP boards and surfboards as well as wetsuits, clothing, bags and other accessories! At its heart is Robertos technical skill and ability in managing a very experienced team that is non-stop busy with research and development with the sole aim of building the very best gear. It is this that has led RRD to become one of watersports market leaders.

BRAND HQRRD HQ is in Grosseto, Toscane, Italy. But Roberto Ricci moves to his house in Scarborough, Cape Town from December until March every year, together with his team riders, to do testing, R&D, photo and video shoots. Those are the spots where most of the work is done, but RRD are working year round on their R&D, and makes sure that all the gear gets tested globally in different conditions by their team riders, shapers and designers.

WHATS NEW Non-stop research and development: RRD has lots of new things in the pipeline! There is a lot of development at the moment in the kiteboarding department. RRD doesnt work with a standard new yearly product line, they bring out new products as soon as a model has been improved upon, or they have come up with a totally new products

The most recent development is the Global Bar V7 which was recently released and is one bar for all their kites simple, functional, safe and durable. And with RRDs exclusive rigid thread lines. Then there is the all new Fifty/Fifty split board for the easy travelling. Then RRD are generally trying to expand their range of different boards, both in twin tips as in surfboards, and there is also a hydrofoil on the horizon. So it is fair to say that it is busy times for Roberto and the rest of the team at RRD!

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // RRD KITES

Kite Best for SizesEmotion MK1 Travelling / Simplicity 6, 8, 10, 12, 17Vision MK4 Freeride / Beginner 5, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15Passion MK8 Freeride / Beginner 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17Obsession MK8 All-round / Big Air 5, 6, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15Obsession Pro MK2 Pure freestyle 5, 6, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15Addiction MK5 Lightwind / Race 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19Religion MK6 Wave 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.5, 12

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VISION MK4Introduced five years ago as an entry level all-round kite, the Vision has received tremendously positive feedback. If is a really versatile, easy to use, fun, responsive and predictable kite that will allow you to freestyle, waveride or go fast on a freeride board both upwind and downwind. It is a true all terrain machine. This year RRD have improved the finer details on the kite and have introduced all the various new features as on the other kites in the range, such as the B.U.S.T system, double reinforcement tape around the leading edge closure to further extend lifetime of the kite and a segmented trailing edge reinforcement to prevent fabric wearout. So if all you need is a simple life and only want to use only one kite for everything then the Vision is the kite for you.

RELIGION MK6The Religion is a kite synonymous with waveriding. A bullet proof construction, mixing the body construction between 40% heavy duty Dacron fabrics and 60% lightweight canopy, creates superior crash resistance and a huge lifetime. The new MK6 design also allows a bigger range of use with an improved high and low end. There is also more power, better lift during jumps and an enormous, progressive de-power that will stop the kites power exactly when you need it. It is a throttle in your hands, gearing up your rides when you need power and completely releasing it when you use the speed of the wave. A perfect kite both in onshore and offshore conditions and tested thoroughly all over the world.

PASSION MK8The Passion V8 is fantastic kite for all-round freestyle and big air with its pure and easy to handle power and amazing stability. It is also stable enough to practice your freestyle surf moves The MK8 has been re-designed with improved durability and the number of struts has been reduced from 5 to 3 This has made the kite significantly lighter and has improved the low-end considerably. So the new Passion has improved performance and stability, but still maintains that distinctive Passion feeling that has made it such a popular kite in the RRD range.

OBSESSION MK8RRDs iconic big air kite has been completely re-designed this year. After long consideration on how to achieve an even lighter, faster, more powerful yet easy to de-powered and stable kite, their design team has come up with a very simple yet very refined design concept. Taking out 2 struts from the previous versions and making the Obsession a full 3 struts kite has been the base of this new concept. Then the foil profile has also been changed, achieving a new kite that floats better in the air and brings a more direct type of feeling on the bar. Thanks to a new profile and a tighter leech tension The Obsession MK8 now also achieves better hang time, more stability and a greater range of use.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // RRD TWIN TIPS

Twin Tip Best for SizesPoison LTD V3 Freestyle Pro 135, 136, 137, 138, 140Poison V3 Freestyle 135, 136, 137, 138, 140Juice V2 Wakestyle 135, 138, 143Bliss V3 Freeride / Freestyle 135, 136, 137, 138, 139Fifty-Fifty Freeride / Freestyle 138 x 40.5, 138 x 42Placebo V5 Freeride 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 142BS 45 V4 Lightwind 145BS 45 Pro V4 Lightwind 14510 Knots Lightwind 146

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POISON LTD V3The most popular freestyle board in RRDs twin tip range, the new outline is based on the one designed for the new wakestyle board program, the Juice V2. It features a totally straight line in the mid 45 centimeters of the board, creating a perfect area to push hard when trying to edge and go upwind as hard as you can. The tip area has also been narrowed down, increasing top speed and allowing a quicker direction change, therefore increasing the pop. Then the LTD technology brings the weight down by a staggering 20%...

BLISS V3The Bliss V3 has a completely new shape. Its well conceived as a freeride all-round board, able to perform at its best in all kinds of water and wind, granting a fantastic sensation of security while riding. It is not just for cruising though, the surprise appears once you really push this board freestyling. There is an good amount of pop due to the medium flex, which also creates a perfect recipe for easy landings. Deep bottom channels also increase grip and stability of riding, allowing the Bliss to go fast and really track upwind before you load up and boost some serious air

PLACEBO V5Developed specifically for freeriding, since its first introduction the Placebo represents accessibility, thanks to its generous width and length and also the well-tuned flex and response dynamics. The Placebo V5s biaxal fibers layup and profile design creates the perfect mix of comfort and fun with a sporty feel on the water. It slices through chop and turns smoothly under your feet allowing precise turns with firm grip and bite.

FIFTY FIFTY This kiteboarding format is getting more and more popular for those who travel often by plane, or for those who want to have a short bike trip to the beach in total comfort. The shape is specifically designed along the middle split of the board that is naturally stiffer than a conventional board. Then slightly wider tips and a very thin rail profile create a great combo for pure freestyle sessions or exhilarating freeriding in both light and strong winds. The split system is extremely simple and the board can be assembled by screwing in the carry handle as this works as the connecting part.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // RRD SURFBOARDS

Surfboards Best For SizesAssopigliatutto K V2 Lightwind / Freestyle 58Chiatta K V2 Small to mid-size waves 58Huevo K Small surf / Freesyle 55, 57Barracuda K Strapped in powered 58, 510, 60Salerosa K V2 All-round 58, 510, 60Maquina K All-round 56, 57, 59, 511, 61K Pro Performance surf 55, 57, 58, 510, 511POP Ltd Progressive freestyle / Small waves 52, 54POP Progressive freestyle / Small waves 52, 54C.O.T.A.N All-round 52, 54, 56, 58Mini Maxi K Lightwind / Small waves 52Balena K All-round 55, 57, 59

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POP LTDThe POP Ltd is a remarkable board employing all of the very latest technologies to create an incredibly light and durable board. This is the perfect stick to use when conditions are not quite ideal world and you want to ride strapless and practice those new freestyle tricks on flat water or small surf. Its a pleasure to ride the POP with light winds when you need some meat under your feet to get going. Landing jumps on this board is easy with the soft rails and wide outline, and the POP Ltd makes any conditions fun and still allows you to ride in small surf with speed and with great potential for above the lip maneuvers.

MAQUINA V2The Maquina is the classic thruster. It is the board you want to be riding when you want to have a totally reliable shape that will never let you down. Designed to be ridden hard and to be used in all conditions, the shape is classic surf and it has many years of surfboard evolution that it has been able to draw on. Construction is with a PU Core with a lightweight stringer covered with Silmar polyester resin for layup and Reichold resin for finishing, with E and S X-cel glass bottom and deck layup. So this is top end construction for top-end surfing.

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CELSIUS PRO This top-of-the-range wetsuit offer extreme flexibility where pattern design is combined with the best available neoprene in the market. Fully constructed with Superstretch limestone neoprene, the Celsius Pro is the wetsuit made with the least number of panels in RRDs collection. Less panels mean more flexibility. Then the Pro and is pure fabric taped on the inside only on the seam joint areas which allows even more flex.

SHIFTThe Shift is designed for full-power riding. It features a flatter lower back section, a pre-shaped internal plate reinforced with fiberglass battens, spreader downhaul, kite hook and a knife. For maximum flexibility and molding to the contours of your body, the inner is EVA and neoprene. This is a harness that is incredibly comfortable and you can have complete 100% confidence in

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

BRAND HQCabrinhas heart and soul is on Maui, Hawaii, which has been credited as the birthplace of kiteboarding. With Pete at the helm, the R&D, engineering, graphics and marketing facility is located just a few minutes from Kite Beach which is perfectly situated for testing and for lunch break sessions for the passionate crew of kitesurfers they employ. The commercial and accounting department is in Hong Kong and their own state of the art production facilities are located in China. With this set up, paired with the vast sales and distribution network (including other subsidiary retail locations all over the world), its fair to say Cabrinha has an incredibly broad circle of passionate people working to ensure you have the most fun you can each time you get out on the water.

WHATS NEW For 2016 Cabrinha gave the Switchblade kite which sits at the heart of their line a complete overhaul. A combination of an entirely new platform, new profiles and refined bridling, give the Switchblade a huge boost in performance. By re-distributing the canopy area they were able to increase the overall efficiency of the design and make the kite more agile and stable. Then the new FX kite is designed to bridge the gap between competition freestyle and performance freeride. The aerodynamic profiles are not quite as lean as a full-on competition freestyle kite, but not as full, knuckled and draft forward as you find in a freeride kite. Its a blend between a traditional C shape and a hybrid freeride kite. It delivers predictable power but flies fast enough through the window and will slack off when you throw unhooked tricks. There is an all new Chaos kite and control system which are purpose built for competition, with an aggressive high aspect C shape tuned to fly through turns rather than pivoting through the wing tips. Then finally there is the Double Agent foil board which is a fun new product for Cabrinha that doubles as a surf skate. The user friendly board is perfect for anyone who wants to get up on the foil quickly and its more likely to ride away from a wing breach or nose dive than the super high performance race foils. When configured with the foil system it will have you flying in well under 10 knots

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CABRINHA KITES

SWITCHBLADEThe legendary Switchblade is now in its 11th year of evolution and it delivers the spot on performance its fans have come to expect. Undergoing a full redesign this year, Pat Goodman met the challenge to increase performance without compromising the legendary SB feel. The answer came in a combination of an entirely new platform, new profiles and refined bridling, giving the Switchblade a huge boost in performance. By re-distributing the canopy area they increased the overall efficiency of the design to make the kite more efficient, agile and stable. The refined profiles give it a boost in performance, being noticeably faster flying further enhancing upwind performance. The lighter bar pressure combined with the faster profiles is noticeably more fun to fly and helpful for those starting to do un-hooked maneuvers. Then the A and B setting give the Switchblade a completely different feeling in flight. You really get the best of both worlds with two kites in one. The A setting has a noticeably lighter bar pressure and a dynamic, lively feel. This setting will be the favorite for most riders with intermediate skill levels and above. For a more direct, powerful traditional Switchblade feel, the B setting is for you.

DRIFTERThe Drifter has always excelled at delivering flawless slack line drift. This is what allows the kite to stay aloft and drift with no power while you actually surf the wave. New for 2016 is an additional bridle setting for offshore surf conditions that opens up the wingtips and allows the kite to fly forward in the window when sheeted out. The onshore setting provides a more traditional maximum drift down the line behavior. The Drifter has the ability to get you up and going with a short depower travel and allows you to drop in, accelerate, then dump the power completely to snap or carve turns. Its design allows it to be there when you need it and get out of the way when you dont. This has put the Drifter kite at the top of its class by delivering a perfect blend of the best elements of surfing and kitesurfing, making it the choice of four-time World Wave Champion Keahi De Aboitiz

FXThe FX kite is designed to bridge the gap between competition freestyle and performance freeride. With a wider wind range and more versatility than a traditional C shape, the FX is a fun kite to fly. Its perfectly suited to perform at the highest level of competition, but also forgiving enough to make learning technical moves much less difficult. It has the ability to take your freestyle riding to a higher level but comes with the excellent drive and pull that you typically see in a freeride driven design. It is designed to fly through turns rather than pivoting, so it produces power all the way through a kiteloop. It gets through a kiteloop really quick and is able to fly uphill and recover before you get close to the water. Many hours went into working on the bridle to make it short, compact and pulley-less which gives it a very direct feel, but keeps the light bar feel. The depower travel on the FX kite is quite short, but, its linear so it doesnt have any real hard spots. Its forgiving and has a comfortable sweet spot and has more drive than a super aggressive freestyle kite.

RADARThe Radar was designed to be the best relaunching and easiest kite to use on the market. Over the years its evolved into a very versatile and lively freeride / crossover kite. The high sweep and low aspect ratio make it light and maneuverable, while remaining well-balanced with a big sweet spot on the sheeting. A simple bridle and thinned profiles keep the power in check, while providing all the park and ride power youll need. For 2016, Cabrinha improved the low end, increased the stability and broadened the overall wind range. Its better for jumping and unhooking and is geared slightly more towards maneuverability with a light feel. Because it has less power in the turns, it also works nicely in small surf. It turns fast, but keeps the power in check, is light at the bar, super responsive, and relaunches just by turning the control bar. For a weekend warrior looking for a maneuverable light kite, the Radar is the perfect choice.

Kite Best for SizesRadar Versatile freeride 3.5, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14Switchblade Performance freeride 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14FX Freestyle / Performance freeride 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14Chaos Advanced freestyle/wakestyle 7, 9, 11, 13Drifter Waves 4.5, 5.5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13Contra Lightwind 13, 15, 17Velocity Freeride / Race 7, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CABRINHA TWIN TIPS

Twin Tip Best for SizesXCaliber Competition Freestyle 132, 135, 138, 141Ace Freestyle 133, 135, 137, 139Custom Progressive wakestyle 133, 136, 139, 142CBL Wakestyle / Park 136, 139, 142XO Womens freestyle 127, 130, 133, 136Tronic Freestyle / Big Air 137, 141, 145Spectrum Freeride 136, 140, 144, 148Stylus Lightwind 145, 155, 165Atom Younger riders 127

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

SPECTRUMThe Spectrum has been re-engineered from the ground up with an all new design for 2016. As the name suggests, it really is designed to cover the whole spectrum of kiteboarding. It has an extremely wide range of use, in an extremely wide range of conditions. A new, thinner rail gives it clean water release for better upwind ability. The much lighter weight design has a single to double concave bottom shape, which promotes water flow and upwind performance. The outline makes it excellent in choppy water and maintains enough surface area for great freestyle pop. Its fast rocker line gives you the sharp and responsive feel. Standing out in any crowd, this smooth and responsive board delivers excellent freeride/ freestyle characteristics.

TRONICThe Tronic is a unique, all-around performance, freeride twin tip that loves to carve through waves or throw big air. Its narrower tips deliver power control for carving with ample width between your feet to help with early planing. The quad concave to deep V tip bottom shape puts the control where you need, between your feet. Its tips flex naturally to hold power to boost and grip the water so it wont skip out through turns and carves. It has been fine tuned to be forgiving in choppy conditions for a smooth ride while still being able to deliver amazing rail-to-rail carves. The Parabolic Rails provide a stiffer center section while delivering a responsive tip and tail flex. The volcanic basalt fiber construction keeps the weight to a minimum while retaining high durability and the performance rocker line helps initiate G-force for turns when banking off waves or redirecting in the flats and smooths your ride.

ACEThe Ace is Cabrinhas most versatile board to date with its avant-garde design aimed at high level, freestyle performance. Its fast rocker provides razor sharp responsiveness and stability for landings. A quad concave to quad V bottom shape, and an advanced, lightweight freestyle composition make the Ace the ultimate freeride/freestyle performance board. It has a low spin weight, great edge hold, amazing pop, and makes smooth landings ultra-predictable. The Ace is the perfect go to board for high performance, all-around freestyle riding.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CABRINHA SURF/FOIL BOARDS

Surf/Foil boards Best For SizesPhenom All-round surf 55, 58, 511Proto High performance surf 57, 510Secret Weapon Freestyle / Lightwind 52, 56, 510Double Agent Fun skate style / Foil 52

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PROTOThe Proto is our advanced surfboard model. The shape lends itself to stronger winds and side shore surf conditions. The Proto is capable of surfing larger waves than the Phenom or Secret Weapon, and the thruster set up is ideal for down the line, side shore surfing. Its narrower outline and straighter rail shape is perfect for pushing turns at higher speeds, yet the generous use of rocker makes the board loose and snappy off the top.

PHENOMThe Phenom takes a step towards the performance end of the surf chain while keeping its easy to ride characteristics. The Phenom is our widest board with the highest volume. The combination of width and volume makes this board extremely versatile in the surf as well as the flat water freestyle arena. The Phenom is developed with Cabrinhas multi-Kitesurf World Champion, Keahi De Aboitiz. It has a five fin box configuration that allows the rider to choose the right set up for the conditions

SECRET WEAPONThe Secret Weapon is a modern spin on a retro-surf design. The rounded nose and wide tail make this board extremely friendly to ride in real world conditions. It is fast and lively on waves of any size. The aggressive swallow tail and quad fin configuration gives this board its edge and attitude. The Secret Weapon is excellent at making the most out of sub-par wind and surf conditions. Even when the surf is flat, the Secret Weapon becomes the ideal board to throw down your freestyle game.

DOUBLE AGENTOne board. Two faces. The double agent is Cabrinhas fun performance hydrofoil board that converts into a surf skate directional. When mounted with one of their foil systems youll be up and soaring in well under 8 knots. The aluminum mast and fuselage, compression molded deck, and fiberglass wings offer the most solid and durable ride available. The low aspect front wing design allows for slower planing speed which helps get you up on the foil plane early. When configured with the four surf fins it doubles as a fun bump and jump style directional board.

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THE BRANDSearch Fehmarn and you will find the home of CORE. A global, full line, manufacturer of kiteboard equipment. And builders of advanced, German engineered, gear for the coolest sport on the planet.

CORE is all about engineering and quality. We pride ourselves on safe and efficient engineering solutions. Solutions that incorporate materials from leading European suppliers even if it costs more. It is this unrelenting drive for perfection and investment in high quality materials that has made CORE a global powerhouse.

BRAND HQFehmarn, a sunny and often windy island in the Baltic Sea, is home to COREs Headquarters. It also happens to be an island perfectly suited for kiteboarding research and development. Picture dozens of kiteable beaches dotting this island for every possible wind direction. We use our location to our advantage, especially when it comes to development and testing.

Year-round, passionate, CORE product developers with decades of experience split their days between computer modeling and board meetings on the beach. Relentlessly testing and getting feedback from the CORE community. But this often isnt good enough and so we test our product around the world in as many different kiting conditions possible to bring you the best-engineered kite possible.

WHATS NEW Lots! But you will just have to trust us on this one. You may recall how busy CORE was in 2015 with the release of our new bestsellers; the XR4 and Fusion 2. The launch of our Specialized line of kites for hardcore C-kiters and wave addicts. The new pump that everyone made fun of at first until they actually tried it. And finally, with ExoTex, a new innovative Dacron we are using on all our leading edges. The market responded with two big thumbs up so we plan on doing it again in 2016. So, stay tuned.

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Kite Best for SizesXR4 Freeride, Big Air, Wave, Race 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.5XR4 LW Lightwind Freeride, Lightwind Freestyle 15, 17, 19GTS3 Freestyle, Wave, Freeride 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14GTS3 LW Lightwind Freeride, Lightwind Wave, Lightwind Freestyle 15, 17Section Wave, Surfstyle 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Section LW Lightwind Wave 12, 14Impact Freestyle, Wakestyle 7, 9, 11, 13

XR4

GTS3

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CORE KITES

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XR4The XR4 is COREs 4th generation of their bestselling, highly versatile XR power delta bow kite, and comes in white and black colorway with ExoTex-equipped struts for extra stability, the Intelligent Arc flight control system that modifies the airfoil on demand for a more controllable power/depower, a unique safety system and an intelligent trim system that allows the rider the option to adjust the back line tension, bar pressure and the kite turning speed. Delivering control and confidence in gusty conditions and power when its needed most, the XR4 is a great all-rounder, with cruising, racing, waveriding and Big Air in its arsenal and an ability to adapt to any riding level. Hangtime is key, and the XR4 truly delivers in this department, with powerful boosting capabilities. As with the XR4, the LW version uses the Exotex Dacron to improve airflow by reducing the leading edge and strut diameters while still providing more stability and a more agile flight.

GTS3The GTS3 is COREs bridled, three strut C-kite with a future-C shape for snappier turns and a consistent pull at the bar. The three struts give it more twist than five, translating as faster turns and less weight to aid slack line drift. Perfectly suited for unhooked freestyle, freeriding and waves, the GTS3 is essentially 3 kites in 1. It is as at home pulling kiteloops as it is carving amongst a decent swell, theres both power and predictability, making the GTS3 a kite that can be trusted in most conditions. Plenty of tech is stuffed into this C-kite, and the LW version also features a lower profile, rounder tips, thinner tubing and the use of COREs patented light weight material, CoreTex Light, making it a playful but precise option for lighter days, while retaining the GTS3s agile, freestyle character.

SECTIONThe Section is COREs pure wave kite, designed for wave fanatics. With three struts, a lightweight construction and ExoTex Dacron fabric for improved stability and feedback, the Section is a perfectly balanced and reliable partner in the surf. The three strut frame provides excellent balance between flexibility and weight, and uses the least Dacron of any CORE kite to increase the weight saving. The Surf Profile airfoil gives it a slightly lower aspect ratio to improve slackline drift, and the short bridle system improves the bar feedback, helping to anticipate your next move. Designed to remain stable and in the air in even the most challenging wave conditions without stalling, the Section can be ridden strapped or strapless with trust and speed. The Section LW takes all of the above and tweaks it for smaller waves and lightwind days. It features a slightly higher aspect ratio than the Section, Radical Reaction Tips and the three strut construction means you can expect controllable drift and precise turning ability from a very agile kite.

IMPACTThe Impact is COREs pure C-kite, a dedicated freestyle/wakestyle kite with a deep C-shape making it an extremely precise, controllable kite that works without compromise whether riding hooked or unhooked. Featuring slightly longer tips than the GTS3, the Impact keeps a more classic C-shape, giving it consistency and predictable pull through transitions, transferring confidence to the rider. The square wingtips give the lines further direct control, as does the five line setup with no bridles or pulleys. The Impact also features COREs custom trim system, adding to the ability to customize your flying style.

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Board Best for SizesFusion 2 Freeride, Freestyle, Wave 133, 135,137, 139, 141, 144Fusion 2 LW Lightwind Freeride, Lightwind Freestyle 147, 152Choice Freestyle, Freeride, Wakestyle 134, 137, 139, 142Bolt Freestyle, Wakestyle, Slider style 140Ripper 2 Wave, Surfstyle, Freeride 56, 58, 510, 60, 62

BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CORE BOARDS

FUSION 2The 2nd generation Fusion can be ridden in a wide variety of conditions and suits most riding styles. Be it choppy, glassy or out amongst the waves, the Fusion 2 takes the premium design elements of COREs previous freestyle/freeride boards and fuses them together to create an all-rounder board thats versatile and packed with the latest engineered tech, such as COREs signature Cartan carbon to increase pop and durability, a CNC milled wood core and a diamond 3D surface contour, directing the torsional forces toward the edges to reinforce the balance between flex and rigidity. The underside features a hydrodynamic contour, made up of a double concave, V-shaped hull and progressive channels which extend into the tips, optimizing the smoothness of the ride. The board comes with CORE Union Pro Pads and straps, giving the rider nine different stance options and three pad insert options to increase customization options. The Fusion 2 LW editions (147, 152) are agile and have thinner rails, V-keel, and the light carbon construction make this the ideal go-to board in marginal conditions.

CHOICEWhether in boots, straps, or simply freeriding, the Choice gives you exactly that optimum choice and control of your riding style. COREs Cartan proprietary 30 Biaxial carbon fiber weave optimizes the boards torsion and dynamic longitudinal flex, giving it more bang for the buck. Stainless steel V4A thread inserts are laminated into a reinforced base plate that sits deep in the core of the board, making the hold for the bindings/straps bombproof. The six channel tips are made up of two full length outer channels and four progressive inner channels that increase lateral support giving excellent grip and the option to ride with or without fins, and the forgiving rocker means that landings are smoother. This is a highly compliant board that will take pretty much any heavy maneuver you want to throw, and offer full control throughout.

BOLTThe Bolt is a board built for riders who GO HARD, be it rails, sliders, kickers or heavy chop. Created with wakestyle in mind, it features COREs new PTEX Pro Fix Grindbase, a high-modulus polyethylene that is inspired by snowboards and gives superior sliding abilities over rails and water features. The deck features two-layers of Cartan carbon, adding extra strength to support any added stress from the fixed bindings, meaning this board is happy to take a beating. The Pro Rocker an extra 2cm across the board helps with landings while the flat base is perfectly suited for rails, with the delicate mono concave removing any chop-friction, and the six progressive channels meaning you can ride without fins. Boot inserts are solid, with the reinforced base plate set deep in the board, and extra lamination on key areas for increased strength and durability, and still providing three different boot stance options.

RIPPER 2If youre after a shortboard thats forgiving in all surf conditions, COREs Ripper 2 is a great option. It features a closed cell PU Active Foam Core for increased water resistance and dynamic flex, a carbon fiber-enforced deck kick pad, double stringer and multi-layered glass construction using a high-tech fiberglass and resin top coat that has allowed the board a more precisely tuned shape thats reminiscent of classic shortboard design but with additional strength. With the perfect balance of width and concave, the Ripper 2 can be ridden strapped or strapless, defying chop between rides, while the moderate tail rocker and slightly increased volume in both the nose and tail give the board increased speed which it holds through the lulls. The rails are soft in the middle and sharp at the tail for powerful cutbacks and heavy turns, and theyve given it a blunt nose: safer, smarter.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CORE BARS

SENSOR 2/2+COREs Sensor 2 bar series features a clean, simple design in favor of maximum functionality with minimum fuss. The light 230g unibody bar has a rigid, direct, anticipatory feel with deep contoured EVA grips for comfortable hold on long sessions. The bar has an internal grade 5 titanium alloy truss reinforcement. The SSF (Supported Single Frontline) safety system is exclusive to CORE when the 2-way Rotor quick release is activated, the kite will release all its power, and gently drift with the leading edge facing down and nose to the wind until the front tube touches the water. The kite will stay in a drift launch position (nose to wind) until you are ready to relaunch. Untwisting after kiteloops is simple with the Auto Untwist system front line twists occur below the Sensor 2 bar, and when the bar is pulled in, a below-the-bar swivel unravels the lines. The safety leash is short at 50cm long, with an ergonomic fit, and the loop/stick set is designed to move out of the way when hooking and unhooking, and prevents unintended unhooking too. The Sensor 2+ replaces the standard 24m lines with COREs Vario lines: 18m long with an additional with 2 and 4m extension, giving it extra room for experimentation.

SENSOR PROCOREs Sensor Pro bar has been in development for three years, and is the only titanium trussed, carbon fiber unibody bar on the market. The bar itself comes in at a featherweight 200g of 100% carbon fiber, with an aircraft quality, grade 5 titanium trussed core, making it a stiffer bar than the Sensor 2. The Sensor Pro also features COREs exclusive Tectanium Lines, designed by Liros, who are the market leaders in specialized aeronautical and sail cordage. Their innovative emulsion (protective coating) process means that the Tectanium lines will resist abrasion, dirt and UV radiation better than ever. They give virtually no stretch, and are 400% more resistant to elongation and feature 50% greater breaking strength. The lines are also 10% thinner and therefore more aerodynamic. These lines come in the same sizes as the Sensor 2+ bar, with base 18m lines and two extensions of 2 and 4m, so that you can fly your Sensor Pro bar with 18, 20, 22, or 24m Tectanium line lengths.

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THE BRANDCrazyFly was founded by Jozef Bukovcak who started making windsurf boards back in 1989. The CrazyFly brand was born ten years after Jozef made his first surfboard. CrazyFly Kiteboarding was officially founded in 2001 and since that moment, CrazyFly has only focused on Kiteboarding.

Jozef, the founder and owner, built CrazyFly from zero to a global brand supplying over one hundred countries. CrazyFly products are a true reflection of Jozefs rich experience in design and manufacturing, attention to detail and a lifetime passion for watersports. He always strives for perfection and pushes his team to bring out the best products for kiteboarding.

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

BRAND HQIn August 2013 CrazyFly moved its production and offices to a new, custom built facility in Nemsova, Slovakia. It is where all of their products are developed and where all CrazyFly twin tips, control bars and accessories are built with passion, consideration for the environment, and to the highest possible quality.

Jozef Bukovcak is also the head designer of all CrazyFly products, and along with his R&D team, continuously work on prototypes which are initially tested by three main test riders: Kihwan Kwon, Tommy Gaunt, and Petr Pechi Pechacek. These riders are on the water every day in some of the best kiteboarding locations including BVIs, Aruba, Philippines, Australia, Egypt etc. Then selected prototypes are tested by the CrazyFly team riders all over the world.

WHATS NEW Starting with kites, the Sculp and Tango have new shapes and Double Ripstop canopy. The flat-Delta Sculp kite offers better hangtime and more power while sticking to its core all-around nature. Changes to the open C-shape of the Tango moved it towards performance freeride and wave which is where the kite really excels. The board range has several changes and three twin tip boards (the Raptor, Addict and Shox Green) have completely new shapes and construction. CtazyFly have also added a brand new pad and strap system called the Hexa Binding, which offers luxurious comfort and unlimited adjustments. In the surfboard line they have introduced the Strike, a brand new model with a cut off nose shape, and PU core construction. On the softgoods side, CrazyFly have brought out a new range of clothing, board bags, and travel bags. All are designed and developed with the needs of kiteboarders in mind and produced from the finest high tech materials.

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BRAND GUIDE 2016 // CRAZYFLY KITES AND BAR

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Kite Best for SizesSculp Freeride / Freestyle 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14Tango Performance Freeride / Wave 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 14Cruze Light wind 15, 17, 19

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SCULPThe Sculp is a versatile all-around performer, suitable for a wide range of riders and styles. The canopy is now made from Double Ripstop for improved rigidity and long lasting durability. The transitions between heavy duty Dacron base and the canopy are in round shapes, rather than sharp angles and straight lines, to spread tension more evenly. Weight has been reduced by 10% even though the kite is stronger. It delivers consistency in all riding disciplines and offers incredible wind range. With a re-designed shape the Sculp delivers more hangtime and power for 2016, while sticking to its true all-rounder core values. The Flat-Delta shapes makes it incredibly smooth, stable and predictable in the air, with progressive power delivery. Precise turning and easy control make it an extremely user friendly kite to fly, but push it harder and the Sculp will deliver. Clear-cut kiteloops and floaty boosts make it ideal for riders progressing into freestyle, and riders learning new tricks will also appreciate Sculps easy relaunch. The Sculp: One world, One kite.

TANGOThe Tango was completely re-worked for 2016. The canopy is now made from Double Ripstop for improved rigidity and long lasting durability. The transitions between heavy duty Dacron base and the canopy are in round shapes, rather than sharp angles and straight lines, to spread tension more evenly. The Tango also has a brand new shape and has moved towards high performance freeride and wave riding. The Tango is a unique kite with a revolutionary feature invented by CrazyFly: the Nifty Bridle System. This feature allows the rider to easily switch between two riding modes: performance freeride or wave. Changes are easily and quickly made directly on the bridle and influence the flight characteristics of the kite. In the air the Tango feels completely different on each setting. On the wave setup, the kite has very smooth turning and flight characteristics, and wont backstall when you ride the wave out in front. It is very easy to control with soft turns and feels very light in the air, flying with you down the waves to be there with power when youre ready. On the performance freeride setting the Tango turns on and becomes very dynamic and loves boosting and floaty jumps with amazing hang time. It turns quickly with predictable power and moves exactly where the rider wants it to go. Powered kite loops are perfectly executed and the Tango provides amazing upwind abilities on this setting. The 2016 Tango: Anything you want

CRUZEThe 2016 Cruze is a dedicated lightwind kite coming only in 15, 17 and 19m sizes. With a Flat-Delta shape, deep profile, and high aspect ratio, the Cruze generates a lot of power even in marginal wind conditions. Despite its larger size, the Cruze maintains the agility of a smaller kite thanks to its shape. The squared wingtips ensure stability as well as quick and precise turning for a kite of this size. To maximize performance in the lightest sea breezes, weight has been stripped down wherever possible without sacrificing the rigidity of the kite. Simple bridle and rock solid construction result in a very user friendly light bar feel. The lightweight and rigid construction of the kite also make water relaunch incredibly easy, even in light wind conditions. Regardless of its light wind nature, the Cruze works great for heavier riders looking for a powerful freeride kite and boosting sessions and delivers consistent power with ultimate upwind capabilities for the best light wind experience. The 2016 Cruze: Light wind special.

SICK BARThe 2016 CrazyFly Sick Bar is a state of the art control system blending together safety, comfort, durability and simplicity. With safety being the top priority, the Sick bar has a single front line flag out. It ensures 100% depower of the kite in all situations when the safety is triggered. The Sick Click push away quick release conforms to the French safety norm AFNOR NF S52-503. It can be easily triggered with low force in all conditions. Re-loading the Sick Click system is fast and easy, even in difficult conditions. The CrazyFly Sick Bar can be used in two safety modes: standard and suicide. The standard safety mode provides 100% safety in all situations. For 2016 CrazyFly have also introduced a brand new premium leather grip for unmatched comfort and durability. The swivel is integrated under the bar, where it is easy and comfortable to reach for untwisting the front lines after a rotational trick or a kite loop. Making things simple and clean, they have covered the safety line and the center line in a PU tube. The PU tube prevents all wear and tear of the central line and allows for smooth sheeting and handling of the kite. The depower trim cleat is strategically placed above the bar, where it is easy to reach for making adjustments on the go. The bar itself has a full carbon construction, making it one of the strongest and lightest bars on the market. The Sick Bar is the first and only bar made 100% in Europe in the CrazyFly factory, and is made from European materials and components only. The Sick Bar is topped with high quality pre-stretched Liros Dyneema flying lines made in Germany. The 2016 CrazyFly Sick Bar: Simple and Clean.

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Twin Tips Best for SizesRaptor LTD Freeride, Freestyle 132, 136, 140Raptor Freeride, Freestyle 132, 135, 137, 140Elite High-end Freeride 136Addict Freestyle / Wakestyle crossover 136, 139, 142Bulldozer Freestyle / Wakestyle crossover 135, 140, 143Shox Green Freeride Eco-board 132, 136, 140Girls Female-specific Freeride 132, 135Allround Versatile Freeride 135, 138, 145Cruiser Double Tandem Freeride 154Cruiser Light wind Freeride 145Cruiser LW Ultimate Light wind Freeride 154, 160Skim Light wind Funboard 135

RAPTOR LTDThe Raptor Limited is CrazyFlys high performance freeride/freestyle board designed for intermediate to expert riders. It is a full, carbon-fiber constructed board with a CNC shaped wood core, that is both light and strong, and helps deliver pop, durability and a smooth, soft ride even in testing conditions. The Gullwing Double Concave Channels add extra control for hard turns and easy transitions. It also offers enhanced grip for upwind riding, extra power for loaded jumps and aids stability in trickier landings. The Raptor Limited works with CrazyFlys Hexa Bindings which are comfortable without losing board sensitivity. The new insert position makes the Raptor Limited compatible with wake bindings also.

RAPTORThis is the tenth year for the Raptor, and CrazyFly have marked the anniversary with a full rebuild. The New X Carbon construction combined with the multi axial fiberglass layup makes the Raptor more stiff and responsive in off-axis directions, whilst giving extra pop and not feeling too rigid and adding to the comfort level. There is a new multi-channel bottom shape and V-tips, adding extra grip without compromising speed and aiding upwind riding and power loading for jumps. In addition, their new Step Cap deck technology means the board has thinner rails, which also helps edging ability and upwind riding. The new Light Up sidewalls have been strengthened and made lighter. Deck graphics are bright and attractive, and this board works with Hexa Bindings as well as being compatible with wake bindings. For intermediate to advanced riders.

ADDICTThe new CrazyFly Addict jumps in where the Pro Tour and the Nuke bowed out, a freestyle/wakestyle crossover board aimed at the advanced to expert rider. Construction is solid, with both bulletproof Kevlar and X Carbon layers providing extra strength and durability. Optimized flex adds to the solid pop, and the larger rocker makes landings forgiving. The Addicts flat deck works best with wake bindings, but is also compatible with the new Hexa Bindings. The Light Up sidewalls are lighter and stronger. The four Right Angle Channels at the tips increases traction for load and pop trickery, and offers the option of finless riding at cable parks or on the open water, while the new Edge Control Track on the bottom of the board enhances grip, upwind riding and tracking ability. The board comes equipped with 3cm Razor fins for increased grip if required.

BULLDOZERThe Bulldozer is a Kevlar/Multiaxial glass construction freetyle/wakestyle crossover board for the intermediate to expert rider. Its solid: the Uni-directional Kevlar runs the length of the board, providing added strength and pop. This is backed up by the Spread Tow Carbon reinforcement in the center of the board which can be seen through the transparent finish on the deck. The board is also built with Multiaxial fiber glass, giving additional pop without being too rigid. Underneath, the Bulldozer has a Quattro concave shape, providing extra grip with enhanced edging, added comfort and forgiving landings. Toward the tips, the concave evolves into a Hexa concave for added stability and extra load and boost. The Bulldozer is equipped with 3cm Razor fins.

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Surfboard Best for SizesClassic Classic surf 510, 60Strapless New School Freestyle 58, 60Strike Strapless Freestyle 54ATV Surf All-rounder 510, 60

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ATVThe All Terrain Vehicle from CrazyFly was designed and developed by Tommy Gaunt, no stranger to solid wave-shredding. As the name suggests, it is highly versatile amongst both large and small waves, having been developed in a wide range of conditions. This sandwich construction board uses a variety of layers to increase strength, including an EPS core, a 5oz fiberglass layer, another 6oz high tensile E-Glass layer, a bamboo veneer and fiberglass under-heel reinforcements. The ATV has a medium rocker, that gets you up and planing early while enhancing speed. On the water and the ATV retains grip and stability, and has plenty of down the line drive. The ATV has five Futures fin boxes, and the rider can choose between Thruster and Quad set ups.

CLASSICCrazyFlys High Performance surfboard, the Classic, has a new shape for 2016, giving it increased volume and better rider control due to re-worked rails and tail. The Classic reaches high speed efficiently, and is smooth and stable between the waves, adding to rider confidence. Ideally suited to down the line surf in side shore conditions. The sandwich construction and high tensile fiber glass, with under-heel fiber glass reinforcements make the Classic a highly durable board that can be thrown around with full confidence.

STRAPLESSThe CrazyFly Strapless 2016 was designed with input from freestyle strapless rider, Petr Pechi Pechacek. It is the lightest board in the CrazyFly range, with a degree less fiber glass in the hull, but remaining durable and strong with the high tensile coating and bamboo veneer under heel reinforcements. It is designed specifically for newschool, strapless riding in small surf with light wind conditions. It has a small amount of flex, and also has the most volume of any board in the CrazyFly range, and with its slight rocker, wide outline and thruster set up, this board gets up and riding easily and efficiently, no matter the conditions, although its best adapted to smaller waves. Being the lightest board in the range, it is also ideally suited for strapless airs.

STRIKEThe Strike is CrazyFlys strapless freestyle trick board, and it sits best in medium to small surf with light winds. The snub-nosed shape allows for high velocity top and bottom turns. Despite the cut nose, standard volume is retained and centered under the foot positions for increased rider control on the board. This, combined with a straighter outline and Thruster/Quad setup, means the Strike rides well through choppy conditions, and is stable and fast when heading upwind. Pop is solid, and the Strike is ideal for strapless air trickery

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THE BRANDFounded in 1995, Liquid Force quickly became the leader in wakeboard products and apparel. Soon after, in 1999, Liquid Force entered into kiteboarding and set a benchmark in design and product progression. Starting off with revolutionary twin tip board designs by Jimmy Redmon, LF twin tips became the go to board for progression. Soon after LF launched kites in the 2 line days and rapidly progressed to industry standard and 5 line designs. Liquid Force is dedicated to relentless innovation, progressive design, maximum functionality and unparalleled quality.Liquid Force is headed by visionaries Tony Finn and Jimmy Redmon. Their passion in wakeboarding flows directly into the kiteboarding products and marketing. On a day-to-day basis Global Brand Manager, Gary Siskar, and kite designer Julien Fillion lead the charge in building superior and top performing products for kiteboarders of all levels.

At LF relentless innovation, quality and performance are the focus which runs deep in their DNA. They strive daily to bring products to kiteboarders that make kiteboarding more fun and safer, and offer all cost options: from high end to affordability. Their design team and skilled R&D group consist of riders of all levels, and their processes ensure that LF is at the cutting edge of product development and lets them offer one of the broadest offerings of kiteboarding products. Whether youre a first time rider, World Tour specialist, surf charger or foil lover: Liquid Force has what you need.

BRAND HQLF kiteboarding is a truly global brand. They have offices in California, Denmark, Canada and Hood River. Main testing locations are in Hood River, OR, Mancora, Peru, and Maui, HI. LF ride and test worldwide, from the beaches of Maui, to the long point breaks of Peru, to time in the Cape Hatteras Slicks to the river chop of the Gorge in Oregon they put all their products through their paces.

WHATS NEW This year has seen Liquid force consolidate some of their best known products. The Envy has had some tweaks and iconic products such as the HiFi and the Echo have been tuned up. All of the boards have had a visit from the graphics department and are looking insane and LF continue t