The Haze range of kiteboards from Naish has for a long time been aimed squarely at the entry to intermediate level of kitesurfer. This year is no exception, with these kite boards offering a more forgiving flex pattern and outline than some of the other boards in their line up.However, the XL range in the Haze series is slightly different again. These kiteboards are designed to be light wind weapons and the dimensions of the 135 certainly reflect that. The board is a whopping 44.5 cm wide! The outline is very square and the width carries right through to the tips.
The board has a fairly flat rocker and is also pretty stiff in the mid section with a small amount of flex in the tips. These are not characteristics you would immediately associate with an entry-level board, but you have to remember these are precisely the sort of qualities you need in a light wind machine. Another cool thing about the Naish kite boards this year is that they all have very similar graphics. The red and white is very distinctive across the range and will appeal to most riders. From a distance anyone will think you’re riding an altogether more high performance and expensive model too!
On the Water
We tested the NaishHaze XL in a variety of conditions to see how it performed, not just as a light wind beast, but also well out of its box in stronger conditions. In lighter airs, as you would expect, the board is pretty good. Those dimensions alone will testify to the fact it should get going super early. And it does. In the slightest puff with a decent sized kite the board has enough surface area to get riding. Heavier riders out there will find it could be the answer to those marginal conditions they have been struggling with.
It also carries its speed through the lulls too. The stiff mid section combines with the flat rocker line to help keep the board moving when the wind drops that little bit. In short, a great board in the light airs.
Throw bit of wind into the mix and the Naish Haze XL reveals some impressive performance characteristics. It is very fast in a straight line and also has excellent pop. If you have enough bulk this board will be much more than a light wind machine, it can easily handle big winds and only really becomes uncomfortable when it starts to become small kite weather.
Pros
An excellent light wind machine, bigger riders will love the Haze XL as it offers an awful lot of versatility with some impressive performance.
Cons
The Haze XL 135 does what it is described to do, sure if you are super lightweight it will be a handful when the wind gets up, but then you shouldn’t be on this board. It is a light wind machine for all and if you have a bit of bulk then it will be much more than that.
Overall
Excellent build quality and a good broad out line and shape combine to make this a great board for when the wind isn’t blowing. If you’re a heavier rider it also packs some serious performance too.
For more information visit www.s2as.com or www.naishkites.com