Slingshot Rev 2009 Kite Review By S2AS

Slingshot Rev 2009 Kite Review By S2AS

The S2AS team have just got back from Lake Garda in Italy after having 3 amazing days testing the new Slingshot Rev 2009 kite.
The Slingshot Rev 2009 has some very important changes. Before I arrived at the test I was unsure as to what Slingshot could do to improve on the Slingshot 2008 Rev. I soon found out that they had made many changes.
New Features on the Slingshot Rev 09 are...

1,Surf Proof Seams – Surf Proof seams makes the kite stronger and more durable. When the kite is dropped in the surf or the shore dump it will withstand the punishment. Not that we had any problems with the 2008 Slingshot Rev!

2, The Graphics - Graphics are no big deal I know, but people like to know what the new kite will look like so some pictures have been put up here for you guys to see. There is a real nice touch on the wing tips of the kite and a Slingshot spikeball screen print. Personally I think it looks so cool but the overall Graphics i do not like and i feel that this is the place Slingshot Kiteboarding have let them selfs down but make your own mind up.

3, Bar Pressure Adjustment Tabs – You can adjust the rear line pigtails (3 options) so that you can ADD bar pressure. If you’re coming from a C shape kite you will know all about bar pressure and how important it is to be able to feel where the kite is in the sky without having to look at it all the time. The bar pressure adjustment tabs will also help beginners as they will be able to feel where the kite is when in the air. Unlike some brands where the bar is super light and you have to keep an eye on the kite at all times. There is more to this feature, however this will be mentioned later within the review.

4,The Control Bar – The Slingshot Rev 09 has a new bar, with a softer grip and the diameter of the hole has been increased. This will reduce chicken rope wear considerably. The softer grip will stop forearm fatigue caused by long sessions on the water. The new bar features will give you a better grip for when you are carrying out unhooked tricks. Nice new colours too!

That’s it for the new features, now for the review:

The bag and the kite both look the same as they did for 2008. Is this a good or a bad thing? I couldn’t decide as the Slingshot Rev 08 was so good and I felt it didn’t need any alterations. Well after flying the 2009 Rev I changed my mind straight away!!!
Oh forgot to say - Lake Garda has no beaches so we had to launch from a boat. That’s all cool though, I have done this loads of times before, however not with a new kite that I have never used - this could have been bad!! Also a 13m kite was being used in 11knots!
When I pumped up the kite for the first time I thought nice new graphics!! I then connected the lines, let the kite drift off down wind, waited for the line tension and pulled on the left line - up she went just like the 2008 Slingshot Rev - Still super easy to re-launch – sweet!! I jumped out of the boat and the wind felt light. I sent the kite and “wow” the pull is unreal – I was instantly on the plane! Two sines and I parked the kite at 45 degrees - just park and ride!! It felt so sweet, so smooth and precise and the bar felt light. My first impressions of the difference between the 2008 and 2009 Rev was that the low end was better. Last years Rev did not get me going as early! Other than that and the feel of the actual bar [softer grip] the kite felt the same.
I did a couple of runs with no jumping just to get a feel of the kite. After about 30 minutes the wind dropped off! This was not good but ‘not a problem’ as I still had another day left!! The locals told me that it would be 15-18 knots - perfect!
The next day I went out on the 13m again - it was about 15knots!! I planed with ease and did a couple of unhooked tricks - no drama’s at all, the kite felt smooth and powerful. I then decided to make some changes to the kite to test the features that have been introduced for 2009. I started with the bar pressure adjusters. I moved the pigtail on the back lines in one as I was told that this would give me more bar pressure. I then went back out immediately and it felt like I was flying a different kite. If I had not changed the settings myself I would have sworn that it was not the same kite.
It felt similar to a C-kite. Many people have problems going from c-kites to hybrid kites and back again. It can be done but it takes practice for you to feel comfortable with the kite and to get the light feel on the bar. So now I have the de-power of a Slingshot Rev 08 and the safety of a rev 08 but the feel of a C-kite.
I took the kite down again and moved the setting on the back lines to the furthest setting away from the wingtip. I was told that this would provide more bar pressure, and it did!! The bar pressure increased for a more c-shape kite feel, however it was not too dramatic. On the Slingshot Rev 2008 I felt that the kite unhooked well when it was de-powered slightly. When I was riding the Rev 2009 on the same setting, i unhooked and the kite just sat there in the window in fact I was so happy I rode the width of the lake unhooked. I did not get pulled off my edge or feel the gusts in my shoulders, it was just ultra smooth like the fuel. The wind then picked up to 18 knots and I was still riding comfortably.
I felt so comfortable that I went for an F16 and “wow” did the kite loop. Hell yeah - I came down hard but I went high, lots of time in the air, very big pull and lots of power though the loop. I was so happy that at 18knots I could get such height and power out of the kite. The settings that I had altered had changed the turning of the kite, it turned slower but with a wide arc, very wide for ANY hybrid kite.
It was then time to try the 11m as I know companies make a good kite then let themselves down on other sizes...

One word: SAME!!!!

The low end wind range was so good, like the 13m. As there wasn’t enough wind I was unable to test the full potential of the kite. At 20 knots on the 11m I still had not pulled in any de-power, so the full wind range of this kite is yet to be seen [by myself]!!
The only thing that I did on the 11m kite that I did not do on the 13m was test the CSS (CENTER SAFTEY SYSTEM). Slingshot did not and have not pushed or informed people of how good it really is! Let me – it is the best safety system on the market!! I can assure you that this system is simple, easy and effortless to reset ON THE WATER!
The industry leading safety system of 2008 continues to excel on the 2009 Slingshot Rev. 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.
If you have a Slingshot Rev 2008 and you are looking for that bit more, or you are unhooking more, I would say that the upgrade to the Slingshot 2009 Rev is well worth it!!!! The surf proof seams are another beneficial factor of the kite as you can crash the kite hard and there’s no need to worry!!
If you don’t have a Rev, but you want a kite that is easy to re-launch from the water, is strong, feels like a C-shape kite or hybrid and would like the best safety system you can get - you know what I will say... “GET A SLINGSHOT REV 09!”
I have a 13m and 11m here in the UK so if you want to try the new Slingshot Rev 09 give me a call on 01202 738448 and I will be happy to give you the kite to demo for the day. If you simply want more information just give myself or your local Slingshot dealer a call.

An awesome kite!!!!!

I hope this is a good read for you all.More pics will be added to our website within the next 48hrs.
Angelo
S2AS Team
http://www.s2as.com/

Naish Cult 2008 Kite Review by S2AS

If you go down to the beach and look at the kites been flown the chances are the one that will catch your eye will be the new Naish Cult sigma series. All of the new Naish Sigma Kites look radically different with their angular design and tight canopy. It is with no doubt that Naish Kiteboarding have done their homework everything stated in their design brief about both Geo tech and Sigma outline makes engineering sense but the question is will it all work.

Having been kindly given a Naish Cult by James from Naish UK to demo, it is with eager anticipation that the Naish Cult kite was taken out and inspected. On pumping up the Naish Cult has Naish’s octopus inflation system, the build quality of the kite also looks very good with plenty of scuff guards and bumpers. You also notice that the kite features a lot of Naish’s “aramid reinforcements” these are used to help keep the kite in the designed shape and strengthen the corners.

The Naish bar and lines are nice and simple. The lines work off a direct 1:1 system with de-power below the bar. The safety system is also obvious and can be released and reloaded simply and quickly. The bar feels nice in the hands and is comfortable to use. The simplicity of the bar makes it clutter free and is super easy to use. The only downside was the lack of the stopper ball, this makes spinning the bar tricky and we found that shorter riders like myself struggled to reach the bar when fully de-powered. (This stopper ball does however come in the bag) You just have to put it on yourself no real hardship it’s just that when you buy this kite you will be super stoked and rushing to get out on the water and the last thing you will be thinking about is fitting the Naish stopper ball!

On the water the first thing you noticed is that the there is a light bar pressure, their is still positive feedback but if you are not use to it, it will take a bit of time to get dialled in. The effect of the geo-tech and sigma series features is apparent in the flight of the kite. Firstly it is super stable and has a lovely solid feel to the kite. Even when we attempted to make the kite over fly and fall out of the sky it would not and instead just sat there rock solid. In loops or aggressive turns there was minimal if any flutter. In the air the Naish Cult demonstrate a consistent power delivery through the up stroke, down stroke and turns. This gave the kite an ultra smooth feeling and coupled with the impressive low end grunt was astounding in light winds.

The Naish cult 2008 demonstrated an impressive arsenal for most disciplines. As an unhooked kite it is very grunty with a lot to pop against, un-hooked it still demonstrates a continual pull. The airs on the kite are impressive being both big and boosty. Probably the forte was in wave riding, the kites continual even pull through the turns as well as the power stroke, it is quick and responsive and the re-launch is quick and easy making it an ideal weapon.

The smooth power delivery, responsiveness and easy re-launch of the Naish Cult make it an ideal kite for beginner’s / intermediates and wave riders. It provides massive scope with its unhooking potential and would be immediately be down as a kite accessible to anyone. The advantages of Naish’s technology are best seen through the continual power delivery and smooth turns and you have to think that Naish are on to a winner with this kite. After testing the cult we were very surprised that these aren’t more common on the beaches. Maybe this is due to a wait and see approach due to the big changes from the norm of kite design. In our opinion these kites will only gain in popularity and following as once tried they will win many over.

Naish Kitesurfing kites

Naish Alliance Kite 2008

Naish Code Kite 2008

Naish Helix Kite 2008

Naish Torch Kite 2008

Naish Kiteboards

Naish Haze Kiteboard 2008

Naish Sol Kiteboard 2008

Naish Thorn Kiteboard 2008

Naish Board Bags

Naish Golf Bag Without Wheels

Naish Golf Bag With Wheels

James Ward

S2AS Team

Surface 2 Air Sports

Slingshot Enters the UK with Wakeboards & Bindings!

Slingshot Kiteboarding has been with us here in the UK for some 18 years now at the top of the Kiteboarding game with Slingshot Kites and Slingshot Kiteboards, Slingshot has been hard at work building and testing a new SLINGSHOT WAKEBOARD RANGE for 2020 With the following new

WakeBoards:

Slingshot Bishop Wakeboard

Slingshot Native Crossover Wakeboard

Slingshot Solo Crossover Wakeboard

Slingshot Volt Cable Wakeboard

Slingshot Coalition Wakeboard

Slingshot Water Gunn Wakeboard

Slingshot Windsor Wakeboard

Slingshot Terrain Wakeboard

Slingshot Valley Wakeboard

Slingshot Super Grom Wakeboard

And they have not stopped there Slingshot have also made a Range of Wakeboard Bindings all closed-toe check out the Slingshot Wakeboard Bindings Below:

Slingshot Wakeboard Bindings:

Slingshot Space Mob Bindings

Slingshot Rad Wakeboard Bindings

Slingshot KTV Wakeboard Bindings

Slingshot Jewel Wakeboard Bindings

This is completely New Technology from Slingshot and no other wakeboard company do anything like it! with the flex (FRT) in the Slingshot Wakeboards, it makes everything easier like Giving you a smoother ride over both flat water and chop, softer Landings and a huge amount of pop of the wake!

What are you waiting for get over to Surface2Air Sports and get your new Slingshot Wakeboard set up today!

Thanks for reading

S2AS Team

Slingshot Turbo 3 T3 Kite Review by S2AS Team

Slingshot Turbo 3 T3 Kite Review by S2AS Team

Slingshot Turbo 3 Review by the S2AS TeamAfter the success of the Slingshot Turbo 2 last year it was with great anticipation we awaited the arrival of the Slingshot Turbo 3’s Last year’s Turbo 2 was a leap forward in bow technology with slingshot creating a super stable, easy re-launch and user friendly kite. It was immediately recognised an ideal kite for those looking for a free ride kite or their first kite to learn on.

When we received these kites we where to intrigued to find out what and how Slingshot had attempted to improve their thoroughbred workhorse. On first inspection of the kite you can see it is still built with Slingshot’s legendary build quality. The kite itself looks fairly similar with maybe a tweak up in the aspect ratio. The bridle again came with the floating pulley connecting the front and back bridle. The bridle itself seems more compact and neater than last years. To be honest the major differences are the fact that with a small adjustment at the bar and on the bridle the T3 or Turbo3 can be transformed from a 2:1 free ride user friendly kite to a 1:1 more aggressive kite capable of impressive wake style characteristics.

Like the kite the bar has a couple of differences. The first as already mentioned is the ability to change it from a 2:1 system to a 1:1 system, which is a quick and easy job. The second is incorporation of the same highly successful safety system as used on the Slingshot Rev Kite. No longer does your leash have to be stretched out, forever wrapping your lines to reach the re-ride. Now the re-ride line is neatly extended to finish just above the chicken loop. Not only is this system notably neater and more user friendly but also highly efficient, as well as giving the rider a high probability of immediate re-launch even on release.

The improvement however is more noticeable in flight. Having had these kites since mid may we have been able to test them in a variety of conditions and styles (free ride, wake style and in the school).

Firstly in the 2:1 system the kite feels faster and more responsive than last year. This may be down to a slight increase in aspect ratio or to do with the tweaking of the bridle. The main way you can notice this is in the turns. The Slingshot T3 in comparison to the T2 seems to turn tighter, quicker and easier than last years making it feel extremely sprightly. This increase in turning speed makes the kite feel a lot more fun and makes it boost massive whilst still providing awesome float. The re-launch and de-power are still both excellent, pull the outside line and he kite re-launches in seconds, let go of the bar and you still have the huge de-power.

Secondly in the 1:1 system the kite does feel slower than in the 2:1. However it really shows off its versatility and potential when you start trying to unhook against it. With the low end power and stability of the T3 there always seems like there is plenty to pop against and it gives consistent steady pull.

Slingshot have succeeded in making an extremely versatile kite this year that is going to offer many more options than previously seen. It doesn’t seem to matter whether you are a complete beginner, free rider or wake style monkey, the T3 can offer everyone something. Whilst it will never be as pure a freestyle kite as the likes of the fuel or as fast as the rev, it is a massively impressive. This year slingshot is onto a winner with a kite that almost everyone will enjoy and be able to get something out of. As a first kite it has the advantage of offering huge progression and scope for anyone coming into the sport whilst still offering all those features that people look for in a bow kite.

Review by James ward

Surface 2 Air sports Team

What is Kitesurfing?

Kite surfing or kiteboarding as some call it is the fastest growing water sport in the world, with Large C-shaped kites flying along coastlines all over the world including the UK.

The most extreme of water sports, kite surfing fuses three other extreme sports: windsurfing, wakeboarding and power kite flying. It is tougher, faster and a lot more exhilarating than any other water activity I have ever done that’s for sure.

There is a lot of disputes about where & when kite surfing was invented, with some kite surfers claiming it was France and others saying it was Hawaii. I believe it was France however the Hawaiians took to the sport a lot faster with the perfect wind conditions they get but, no matter where kite surfing came from, there’s certainly no arguing that Kite surfing has taken off in a big way in the UK alone in last eight years.

The concept of kitesurfing is relatively simple: kite surfers use a small Twin tip board (very much like a Wakeboard) with straps and are powered along the water by a large power kite the size depending on the wind strength. The Kitesurf kite is attached via 25m-long Dyneema lines to a Control bar, which the rider uses to steer & depower or Power the kite. This type of Water sport allows you to cruise across the water at vast speed, jump as high as a 3 story house in what feels & looks like slow motion, as well as perform triple loops or spins, only once you’ve got good control of the Kite, speed and power! Kite surfing is a sport for extreme thrill-seekers who love water, waves, speed and a whole lot of power in their hands.

It truly is a sport that you can learn at a BKSA kitesurf school and within two weeks look good at. Unlike some other water sports like Windsurfing, Kite surfing has a very fast learning curve.

For more info on Kite surfing or kitesurfing lessons

Surface2Air sports
Thanks for reading
S2AS Team

Flexifoil Kites have a new Colour Range at S2AS

S2AS and Flexifoil would like you to be aware that we now have received small stocks of the latest colour scheme HULK, For all new Flexifoil Kites.

With the release of the New Hulk colour scheme, S2AS will be having a 10% discount on all Flexifoil land kites. (the discount code will be at the bottom of this blog)

Please find below the links to the Flexifoil Kites on the Surface2Air website.
S2AS would like to add that this is only the first delivery and numbers will be limited.
The Sting and Rage range are perfect for learning Kitesurfing


Flexifoil Buzz
Flexifoil Big Buzz
Flexifoil Sting 1.2 on Handles
Flexifoil Sting 1.2 L&B on Control Bar
Flexifoil Sting 1.7 on Handles
Flexifoil Sting 2.4 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Sting 3.3 on Handles
Flexifoil Sting 3.3 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Rage 1.8 on Handles
Flexifoil Rage 1.8 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Rage 2.5 on Handles
Flexifoil Rage 2.5 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Rage 3.5 on Handles
Flexifoil Rage 3.5 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Rage 4.7 on Handles
Flexifoil Rage 4.7 on Control Bar
Flexifoil Rage 6.0 on Handles
Flexifoil Rage 6.0 on Control Bar

S2AS Discount Code is "Blogflexi" this will give you 10% off the RRP on all Flexifoil 2008 power Kites

Thanks for Reading
S2AS Team

North Evo 9m 2008 Kite Test

North Evo 9m Test

At a Glance
The North Evo is a totally new kite in the line up this year and it is using a design not previously seen in the North Kiteboarding range. The delta shape is perhaps something we will see more of over the coming years from other brands especially with two of the major brands now using it. The North Evo can be ridden as a simple 4line affair or you can set it up on the North 5th Element Bar for added safety and a slightly more direct feel. The North Evo kite lacks one pump and is aimed at the more entrylevel market as opposed to the top end users out there. All the struts have oneway valves though so it isn’t too much of a hardship to rig up. Funny how we are so used to one pump now it seems a real effort when it isn’t present on a kite! The 4line bar is similar to the 5th Element bar with the same twoway cleat that allows heaps of personal trimming to suit your needs and the improved Iron Heart safety. The bridling on the kite is fairly simple with two V Bridles on the leading edge of the kite and a direct connection to the rear lines. We should also mention the chord depth of the kite, as it is quite low aspect. The chord depth simply is the length of the middle strut a shorter length makes for a high aspect kite and a longer one a low aspect kite. The North Evo kite is easily the lowest aspect 9m we have seen for a while. This should make the kite super stable in the air and also help reduce the chance of the kite stalling and flying backwards when over sheeted.In The AirAgain on this kite ensure you set up the adjustable cleat to make sure the bar is set up not only to your riding style but also your body size and shape. With so much adjustment it is easy to set it up perfectly for the way you ride, it is also easy to set it up incorrectly though so a few minutes spent on the beach during your first session will reward you with hours of fun on the water. Probably the first thing you will notice about the North Evo is the lowend grunt the kite has, with its deep chord depth comes heaps of low end power. The 9m really felt really powerful but it is worth noting that the pivot angle is good, as with all delta shapes, and the kite has a good amount of depower. Definitely the bottom end is more impressive than the top end though. In terms of handling the one word that kept coming up again and again was easy. This is a really simple easy kite to fly, super forgiving and just effortless in terms of getting upwind, jumping, and steering. Plenty of feedback for the rider too on the bar and you can easily feel where the kite is in the window at all times. One thing that is really worth a mention is the jumping, we were expecting this to be fairly basic in the air, but it is actually bordering on insane! Huge boost off the water and immense hangtime once you are up there will leave you with the biggest grin on your face. It is real plug and play enjoyment too. Unlike some kites that take a while to get dialled into the North Evo will be sending your skywards on your first attempt and make timing those landings easy!

For:
Amazingly easy to use, fantastic relaunch ability, huge air and a great lowend

Against:
Is one pump too much to ask? We know it adds to the price but surely it is worth the little bit extra in manufacturing costs…

In Short:
An amazing kite in a surprising package, we really weren’t expecting so much performance with such ease of use. One of the best allround kites we have flown. If you want an entry level kite that you won’t grow out of then look no further.

For more info go to our website www.S2AS.com or call us on 01202 738448 or 01303 854065

North Rhino 2008 Kite Test

North Rhino 2008 9m

At a Glance

The North Rhino is one of the longest running kites in the history of kitesurfing. First appearing way back in 2001 the North Rhino Kite was, for a very long time, the flagship kite in the North Kiteboarding range. Much loved for its low-end grunt and renowned for its big air capabilities lots of riders had at least one size in their quiver! Last year though saw a big change for North kiteboarding and for the first time the North Rhino underwent a complete facelift. Instead of tweaking the usual design year on year the Rhino was sent back to the drawing board and a totally new North Rhino 07 was rolled out. Met with some surprise by the regular North Rhino fans the new 07 Rhino was a flat hybrid style kite utilising a 5th line rather than a bridle. For 2008 it has changed yet again with a flat delta shape that looks very different from last years kite. North Kiteboarding have used far less struts in the construction and interestingly there is no middle strut! Instead two struts straddle the centre section of the kite. The bar has also been tweaked a fair bit with a redesigned Iron Heart release, said to work much better in sandy conditions and also release under less load. Plus an innovative stopper ball system that works really well. We must also mention the new bridle set up, with 7 connection points on the kite the bridle at first does look pretty confusing. But once you get your head around all the lines then rigging up will become a breeze. The North Rhino Kite also comes standard with one pump.

In The Air

First up when you launch the Rhino 08 you will notice the distinctive delta shape the kite has, it looks totally different to last years model against the back drop of the sky. One thing you will want to familiarise yourself before you head out though is the new depower cleat which allows you total control and trim over the length of the depower and the distance that the rider can set the depower cleat from the bar. By adjusting this to your own arm length and personal riding style you can totally trim the kite in a manner that best suits you. Not for the novice out there but then this kite isn’t designed with the novice in mind. The tech heads will love the amount of choice this affords the rider in terms of set up. Once set how you want to ride the kite is impressive in its performance to say the least, a good low end grunt comes coupled with literally huge top end range, the delta shape really allowing the kite to pivot off its front axis and dump power. We were also surprised at the stability of the kite, especially in gusty and windy conditions. Last year the North Rhino relied on an obscene amount of struts to keep its shape. This year the kite is just as stable and North Kiteboarding have utilised different canopy materials and layout to achieve this. Even without the middle strut the kite is rock solid in the air. The North Rhino is also very very quick through the window, with a positive amount of pressure on the bar and a great amount of feedback for the rider you feel in total control in all conditions. Upwind is very impressive and the North Race team are using this kite to devastating effect on the current race tour. Lastly the North Rhino Kite has always been loved for its huge air and jumping capabilities. Will it disappoint this year? The answer is quite simply no, the Rhino has regained some of its glory days from the past, not the most impressive in terms of float, but if you are looking at sheer rocket factor off the water the North Rhino will not let you down, quite literally.

For:

Super stable shape, fantastic build quality, huge air and great upwind ability

Against:Not a kite for the freestyle rider, feels much more comfortable hooked in and kiteloops aren’t as impressive as the more freestyle orientated kites in the line up.

In Short:

A great kite from North and one that many riders will enjoy, if you used to love the North Rhino’s of old because they boosted huge and had loads of power then perhaps now is the time to revisit the range. It definitely has its original qualities back!

Remember Get Kitesurfing Lessons Before you go out Kitesurfing

For more info please visit Our Website http://www.s2as.com/ or call us on 01202 738448 or 01303 854065

Liquid Force Havoc 2008 Kite

S2AS Review the 2008 Liquid Force Havoc 10m

At a Glance
Liquid Force have been around for a very long time, their board making skills have never been in question with over 20 years manufacturing wakeboards you would expect them to have that dialled, which they do. The Liquid Force kites in the past have sometimes been overlooked by some but have always had certain characteristics; low-end power and a solid wakestyle pull through the air. Last year the Liquid Force Havoc was their flagship kite and it won quite a few fans in its first incarnation. This year Liquid Force have tweaked the design quite a bit and adjusted a few things on the kite in an effort to improve it even further. They have increased the flat section in the profile and increased the chord depth to give the kite up to 25% more power and have introduced a slightly more compact bridle system, which incorporates a static pulley on the wing tip of the kit. The wingtips have also changed to incorporate a diamond shape, which gives the direct feel and strength of a square tip whilst offering the high depower of curved tips. All of this combines to give the Liquid Force Havoc 2008 kite increased depower and improved turning speed over last years model. One thing we should mention is just how pimp these kites are getting, heaps of neat little features are present as is a one pump inflation system and some very smart graphics that help make the kite look stunning. The bar set up is super simple too with everything looking very neat and where it should be. They even have a nifty plug system so you can neatly tuck away any excess depower rope!

The Liquid Force Havoc 2008 In the Air
As soon as you launch the Liquid force Havoc you will notice the small bar in your hands. Easily the smallest bar we have seen on a 10m kite for a while and with perhaps good reason. Liquid Force like the wakestyle of kiting and so want a kite that sits and pulls and having a small bar obviously reduces the chance of rider input mid move and throwing the kite off. So you would think that with such a small bar the kite might be slow and sluggish. Well that is where you would be wrong, the bridle set up and static pulley combine to make the kite surprisingly fast. The advantage of this is that if you want to ride wakestyle and keep the kite pulling like a cable then you can easily, but as soon as you want to throw it about, on the waves or just for boosting big air then some input from the rider will have the kite quickly moving about the window with some impressive precision. There is a slight lag in the directness of the response due to the pulleys but this is really negligible. In the air the jumping is impressive but while it may not rip you off the water as fast as others it has some insane hangtime. Once you are up in the air you will be there for noticeably longer than on most kites on the market today. It really is quite incredible. The Liquid Force Havoc has heaps of low-end grunt and power too. At the low end of its wind range the pull is still smooth and consistent. At the top end the kite is pretty stable as well, a good rider will be able to get out in an awful lot of wind conditions with this 10m, possibly if they have a few boards a one kite quiver even.

For
Mega hangtime, low-end power, consistent pull and excellent for freestyle and waves. The S2AS Team also liked the fact it flew right out of the bag.

Against
Not as many trim options as some would like, this is a kite with pure simplicity in mind in terms of set up.

In Short
Possibly one of the best kites Liquid Force have ever produced, definitely one to rival the big boys out there. If you want some hardcore wake style pedigree that won’t disappoint in terms of performance, look no further.

For more information visit our website at http://www.s2as.com/ or call us on 01202 738448

Liquid Force Kiteboarding 2008 is on fire!!

Greetings Kiteboarders Worldwide!! 2008 is shaping up to be the best year ever for Liquid Force!! The response to our new product line has had our manufacturing, shipping and sales teams working around the clock worldwide to build and deliver the kiteboarding products you are looking for and lusting after! Just wanted to take a quick moment and fill you in on some of the latest happenings over here at Liquid Force Kiteboarding...

Liquid Force Snow

While people have been riding on the snow with Liquid Force kites for years, it is the 2008 Line that really brings Liquid Force into snow as a legit player! 'Super easy to use', 'incredibly durable' and 'amazing performance' are things we've Surface2Air have been hearing this winter as people have gotten out and gotten stoked on the new 08 Liquid Force Havoc and Liquid Force Session Kites in the snow. Having a kite designer born and raised in Quebec surely helps.. and Liquid Force is proud to have engineer and ripper Julien Fillion heading up their design team, ensuring our products work well on water AND snow!

Liquid Force gets European Phenomenon Silvester Ruckdaeshel on the Liquid Force International Team! The Liquid Force Family is stoked to expand the International Team with new school ripper Silverster Ruckdaeshel! Born and raised in Germany, Silvester can be found these days in Germany, Spain, South Africa and the world as he travels around bringing stoke to any beach he rocks up to. Driven by a 'Ride 4 Freedom' mentality, Silvester shows up and throws down, blending the latest new school kite-loop handlepass tricks with classic style and wake tricks putting on a show that others stop to watch. Rocking the 2008 Liquid Force HiFI 5 Line - Hybrid Freestyle kites and new 2008 Liquid Force Recoil 136cm board with both bindings and straps, Silvester is one to watch.

Liquid Force Rawson Surfboards Now Available Worldwide!!

A moment many of us have all been waiting for!! The 2008 LF Project Rawson Surboards are now available and shipping worldwide!!! This has been such a great project for Liquid Force and we have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of these boards since riding the prototypes last fall. Bringing 40+ years of shaping experience, Pat Rawson joined the Liquid Force team with pro rider and kiteboarding legend Mauricio Abreu this past year to develop a line of production kite surfboards with a custom feel and performance unlike any in the industry. Feel what the top pro's have been riding for years by heading down to your local LF dealer and checking out the new boards!!

More info about all the above items at Surface2Air Sports www.S2AS.com

Slingshot Fuel 2008 Kite Test Surface2Air Sports

Surface2Air Sports test the new 2008 Slingshot Fuel Kite.

Ok so we have been waiting for this kite for so long most of the Surface2Air Sports team ride the Slingshot Fuel 2007 model and everyone was fighting to get out on this first! here is what the Surface2Air Team thought of the 2008 Slingshot Fuel




Slingshot Fuel 9m

At a Glance
The 2008 Slingshot Fuel is a kite with more pedigree packed into it than a tin of chum! Over 5 years of development have gone into this kite and over the years it has won some faithful followers. It is an out and out freestyle kite and is still a C shape with a fifth line system. Last year was one of the most popular editions of the Fuel and this year you will be pleased to know they haven’t changed too much on the kite. It still has the deep profile that gives it all its power, the bar with the long depower throw that gave the kite such impressive range has hardly changed either. The panel layout has changed slightly with some extra panels around the struts, which also look a little slimmed down. The stitching and build quality has been beefed up even more and the leading edge has 6-inch overlaps where the segments are. We are guessing the bag will be similar to last year; this kite was so fresh though it just arrived in a cardboard box!

In the Air
When brands spend a long time developing the one kite they tend to get it pretty spot on. The Slingshot 08 Fuel is a super rigid and super stable airframe that turns with such precision it is impressive. Even just small movements on the bar create a direct and solid movement in the kite. Kite loops are as ever smooth and stable yet still giving the rider one of the best tugs around. The responsive steering makes the jumps huge and once you have the timing dialled in the Fuel will be putting a big smile on your face. Upwind the kite penetrates the window and is eager to haul the rider back to where they started. Perhaps the most impressive thing was the kites’ stability in strong gusty winds. Even when seriously overpowered the Fuel feels solid invokes confidence in the rider. Perhaps our only grumble would be the chicken loop is pretty busy with the depower cleat, the 5th Line cleat and the solid state quick release all fighting for limited space. This is fine when you are just cruising but as soon as you unhook there is a lot going on right next to your hands!

For
Impressive stability, great upwind, huge top end range, good jumps and an impressive heritage.

Against
Just the busy chicken loop really; fine for cruisers but can bash the hands when riding with the kite set up for unhooking.

OverallAnother great edition to the Fuel family from Slingshot kites!

Other Items that Slingshot Kiteboarding offer:

Slingshot Kitesurf kites:

Slingshot Turbo 2
Slingshot Rev
Slingshot Fuel

Slingshot Kiteboards:

Slingshot Fuse
Slingshot sx
Slingshot Misfit
Slingshot SRT
Slingshot SST
Slingshot Glide

Surface2Air Sports Team

Surface2Air Sports Test the new 2008 F-ONE BANDIT delta kite

Surface2Air Sports have been out on the water testing more 2008 kitesurf kites



F-One Bandit 11m

At a Glance
The F-One Bandit is like no other kite F-One have made before, it is yet another new concept for the 2008 season which aims to deliver better performance and safety features. There is a lot going on with the Fone Bandit, billed as a Delta shape and not a Bow or SLE it still retains a fairly curved arc as opposed to the flatter shape of the Naish Helix. F-One spent an extensive amount of time working on the new shape and found the Delta plan form gave the best stability when the kite was fully depowered. It also means more of the canopy is in use as the wingtips are smaller so you can get more power from a smaller kite. By putting the front line connections further up the leading edge you also bring the tipping point closer to the front of the canopy, which will eliminate inversion and turbulent air when depowered. The Fone Bandit utilises a new bridle called the EVO, which has to be the simplest we have seen yet. Just two simple V bridles connect the kite to the front lines. A pulley at the bottom of the V allows movement and improved depower. A really clever feature is the safety system; a small 15 foot line runs through the bar and connects to the front line, which is single most of the way up until it splits to join the bridle. When the safety on chicken loop is activated this pulls both the front lines and totally depowers the kite till it lands on its back on the water. You can then easily pull on a rear line to get the kite to relaunch as you would with a bow style kite.

The Bar
In the past I have to admit I haven’t been a massive fan of F-one bars, I have always felt they have a bit too much going on and lines and bits everywhere. This year though they have really stepped up their game simplicity is the word here, with the mini safety system and simple decent sized chicken loop there isn’t too much going on when you are riding. There is a clam cleat-depower system that works well and the usual back line trimming options seen on previous F-One kite bars. In the hands the bar feels very comfortable and easy on the hands.

In the Air
This kite definitely looks different once in the sky, the Fone Delta shape is quite noticeable, even more so if you are standing on the beach looking at it! It also feels very powerful, the 11m was pulling us about with ease while others were on 14 and 16m kites. But perhaps the best thing is the very short throw on the bar that switches the power on and off. It really is just a short movement and the kite is depowered. So while the 11m has plenty of guts you can easily trim the depower strap to handle even the harshest of conditions. This new shape really does give the Fone Bandit phenomenal range. The other characteristic you will notice is just how easy the kite is to fly and how predictable is. We test new kites all the time and some take a little while to get used to, the Bandit however just feels right in your hands straight away. Getting some serious air is easy and the kite delivers a lot of float in the jumps. It also rides really well unhooked, a testimony to this is that the entire F-One team will be using this kite at their freestyle competitions from now on! What F-One have done is create a kite that really is good in a lot of different scenarios. If you want to cruise and get big air its great, if you want to unhook and ride freestyle its fantastic too. It also turns really fast and is very responsive which should make it a great kite for the waves. Sadly we were in the Med when we tested it so there wasn’t much rough stuff to play with! Bar pressure is good the bar gives the rider enough feedback to know where the kite is at all times without being so heavy it gets tiring on the arms. The relaunch is really great too and with the kite being so easy to fly it wouldn’t be a bad choice for someone who has had a few lessons and is looking to take the sport up seriously.

Surface2Air Sports say:

For
Easy to fly, perfect for freeride, freestyle and waves. Good jumping and fun kite loops. Will suit confident beginners right through to expert riders.

Against
The EVO bridle whilst simple is long; you’ll need to pack it away with a bit of care to ensure it hasn’t knotted itself in time for your next session!

Overall
A great kite with so many applications; it will be sure to put a smile on your face whatever you decide to use it for!

For Product info on the new 2008 F-One Bandit Kite

Surface2Air Sports Team

Flexifoil Atom 08 kitesurf kite Test

Surface2Air Sports kite test on the new 2008 Flexifoil Atom 9mtr kite


Flexifoil Atom 08 9m

At a Glance

Last year the Atom was a new kite from Flexifoil that was aimed at the mass freeride market. A kite for riders that wanted simplicity matched with effectiveness. If you rode an Atom 07 then we are preaching to the converted as it was a great kite, easy to rig, easy to fly and also delivering some impressive performance to boot. This year the design thankfully hasn’t changed too much, the wingtips are the most noticeable difference, a more angled shape and fuller in the tips. Elsewhere the panel layout has been changed slightly but overall the kite is similar, a good thing too as lots of people loved the original. The bridle is one of the simplest on the market; truly a no fuss kite, riders who remember 4 line c kites will love the ease with which the Atom is rigged. The bar has changed slightly but not much, again simplicity is the key, the grip is softer than last year and a little easier on the hands.

In the Air

One of the most impressive things about the Flexifoil Atom is the direct and responsive handling characteristics. The kite uses a direct attachment from the back lines to the back of the kite, no pulleys at all. And the really simple bridle has just the one pulley on the front of the kite. This helps the Flexi Atom to be super responsive in the hands, the rider knows where it is at all times and can easily steer the kite with an almost instantaneous reaction at the kite end. The Flexifoil Atom isn’t the performance kite in Flexifoils range, billed more as an all round kite with something to offer everyone. But in the right hands the kite has heaps of performance hidden within, jumping is easy and the kite delivers impressive power when you send it back through the window. It really launches the rider of the water with an impressive yank. Float and glide are good too and all that control over the steering makes it easy to feel the kite throughout the jump and land with ease. Unhooked the kite is very stable too and whilst freestyle junkies out there still swear by C shapes they should maybe give the Flexifoil Atom a go, still one of the closest feelings to a true c shape kite that you can get. The kite last year appealed to lots of different riders, and this year it will do the same. For those of us who like to ride the waves will love the fast responsive turn rate, freestylers will enjoy the unhooked stability and everyone else will just enjoy a really simple design working at its best.

Surface2Air Sports Say:

For
Super simple hybrid design, exceedingly proficient in all disciplines of kitesurfing, awesome kiteloops and performance in the right hands.

Against
Even though it has a short bar throw, the depower strap can be a little tricky to reach with ease.

Overall
A great kite from Flexifoil and one to watch this season if you want excellent performance coupled with ease of use.

Other Kitesurf Kites from Flexifoil:
Flexifoil Ion 2 - from £540
Flexifoil Atom 08 - from £359

Kitesurf Boards from Flexifoil:
Flexifoil Alpha Kiteboard - £389
Flexifoil Delta Kiteboard - £429
Flexifoil Omega Kiteboard - £469


Other Land Kites from Flexifoil:
Flexifoil Buzz - £40
Flexifoil Big Buzz - £55
Flexifoil Proteam 8 - £99.95
Flexifoil Sting - from £75
Flexifoil rage - from £150
Flexifoil Blade 4 - from £240
Flexifoil Sabre - from £530

For more reviews go to Surface2Air Sports

Surface2Air sports Team

S2AS Cabrinha Crossbow 3 Test

Surface2Air Sports have been out testing again and boy do we have some great kites for 2008!

Cabrinha Xbow 3 12m

At A Glance:

For the last three years the Crossbow, or X Bow as it is now known has been leading the charge at the head of Cabrinha’s kite line up. At the end of 2005 when it was first released it was on of the most ground breaking kites of its time, starting the whole bow kite revolution. Then last year the X Bow 2 came out and improved in many areas where the Crossbow was lacking. Improving performance and adding features like the Sprint one pump system. The bar was also greatly improved and the overall response to the kite was very positive. This year the shape is very similar to last years excellent design. It looks totally different though with a new panel layout and a bold step away from the traditional colours that have long been associated with Cabrinha. The effect is a funkier more striking kite that really stands out from the crowd. Cabrinha have also done a good job on beefing up their kites for the 2008 season, the entire canopy has been flat seamed and taped before the stitching process and there are loads of heaver weighted materials in the high stress areas. The leading edge and struts have also been heavily reinforced for the coming season, creating a kite that should prove very durable.

In the Air:

The X Bow 3 comes standard with the top of the range 2N1 control bar, which is a 2:1 pulley bar, which offers unrivalled control over the power of the kite. It effectively doubles the sheeting range you have at your finger tips and eliminates the need for a long throw in order to fully depower the kite. When you are flying the X Bow you really do feel in control and the kite is very steady and stable in the window. The bar pressure is quite positive and you will certainly feel the heavier bar if you are not used to riding with a pulley system. The low end power that the 12m delivers is very impressive indeed, in the lightest of airs the X Bow will get you up and riding. The steering of the kite is progressive, the pulleys remove the direct feel you get with a standard bar, but once you have initiated the turn then the kite really starts to arc round with a solid pull. Un hooked the kite is very stable indeed, in fact it is almost like kiting behind a boat the kite is that solid in its power delivery and positioning. It will also excite you when you kite loop it, giving the rider a definite yank as the kite goes around. Lastly the re-launch on the X Bow 3 is just as good as it was last year, and back then it really was leading the pack. The 2:1 at the bar means you can really depower the kite as it flips up onto its wingtip which helps with a fast easy re-launch.

What Surface2Air Sports say:

For:
Improved durability, outright performance and control. Awesome wind range and exciting hangtime.

Against:
Not quite as responsive in the turn as some kites out there

In Short:
A well thought out design with lots of great improvements. In the air it is a very high performance kite that has great light wind ability.

Cabrinha Crossbow 3 Cabrinha Xbow 3

S2AS Team

Dakline Skate Trainers 60-70% off!!!

Surface2Air Sports have slashed the prices on all skate trainers in store for 20 days only!! The Brand DAKLINE is a massive skate trainer brand in the usa and also now in the uk,

We only have a few pairs left in stock but we do have good sizes from 6uk - 11uk so if your looking for a cheap xmas gift look no more! because at these prices you will be vary happy indeed.

The list below is all the DAKLINE trainers we have in stock and on sale.

Very Cheap and discounted skate trainers:

Dakline Villain Black/Green = Was £49.99 now £19.99

Dakline Villain Black/White = Was £49.99 now £19.99

Dakline Villain Black/Red = Was £49.99 now £19.99

Dakline Deuce Black/White = Was £59.99 now £19.99

Dakline Deuce Black/Green = Was £59.99 now £19.99

As far as a skate trainer goes this brand Dakline is up there with Vans / DC and others.

Surface2Air Sports team also wear Dakline Trainers

S2AS Team

Dakine Travel Luggage 2020 in S2AS stores now

DAKINE Luggage 2020  

For those of you who are planning on escaping the UK for somewhere warmer or windier or just getting ready for a winter trip, 

You need to get your hands on the impressive and stylish new Dakine Travel Luggage that we have in Surface2Air Sports and available now with FREE SHIPPING!

The DAKINE Ladies section is enormous and includes-

Dakine Toiletry Bags,

Dakine Backpacks

Dakine Duffle bags

And not to mention the new eye-catching DAKINE Split Roller Bags.

Dakine Backpacks

The guy's DAKINE luggage is also huge, With the new DAKINE Ashcroft graphic designs giving a sleek and tidy look to the robust and roomy Dakine Split Roller Bag 110L and the Dakine Split Roller Bag 85L.

As well as this comes, the ultimate in travel luggage Carry on's These are Legal size carry on bags that you can take on the aircraft with you so perfect for those short trips. These bags are ideal for the hardened traveller or the business traveller that does not have time to wait for the hold baggage to come off the aircraft.
Also, it will help save money as you do not have to pay for Carry on bags so each trip you will be saving money. The Dakine Carry on is one handy wheeled bag that will roll through all vigours of travel.

Dakine Carry on Case in action

We have all of these DAKINE bags in store right now, as well as many others that are on the website. So don't miss out!

Dakine History

Dakine's History:
'Dakine got its start on Maui's North Shore in 1979. Rob Kaplan was a surfer first, but he was also a tinkerer who loved building stuff. In 1980, Dakine introduced windsurfing's first adjustable foot strap, followed in 1982 by a waist harness and a whole bunch of travel bags, then the Sport's first seat harness in 1983, and then the now-ubiquitous thermo-moulded waist harness. These advances in equipment design helped Windsurfers sail faster, jump higher and ride in more intense conditions. They also established Dakine as one of the new Sport's most trusted brands. By 1986, windsurfing's center of gravity had shifted to Hood River, Oregon. While Dakine would keep a presence on Maui, its headquarters moved to the mainland. Hood River also sits on the base of Mount Hood, snowboarders and skiers from all over the world train here in the summer. Now, not only were we talking to some of the world's best surfers and windsurfers, but we also had world-class snowboarders and skiers coming in and out of the office too. It was one of those snowboarders that led us to the first Heli Pack. Forty-one years later, Dakine continues to make the most progressive equipment to take you from the water to the mountains and everywhere in between.'
The newest Sport has to be Kitesurfing, DAKINE Have really pushed the Sport to new levels since 2001 and produced some of the worlds best kitesurfing harnesses from the Seat harness to the new Dakine Wasit harnesses. As an accessories brand, Dakine is as good as it gets from Snowboarding to Kitesurfing Dakine will help get you on the Snow or water with a product that works when you need it to.


Surface2Air Sports

Slingshot Rev Takes the world by storm

Slingshot Rev Kitesurf Kite

So the word on the beach is that Slingshot Kite boarding are due to release a new kitesurf kite called the Slingshot Rev now this is true we now have 4 Slingshot Rev's here in the uk both our surface2Air Kent shop and Surface2Air Poole shop have a 9mtr Slingshot Rev and 11m Slingshot Rev each ready for Demo.
What is different about the new Slingshot Rev than other kites?
Well the new Slingshot Rev is for sure the best kite I have ever flown! I own Slingshot fuels at the moment and love them but the Slingshot fuels are now up for sale as I will be getting 9 & 13m Slingshot rev's, I tried everything when testing this kite.
I did my best to make it over fly and drop from the sky but with no joy I unhooked from the kite and ran under the Rev and the kite just rocked back above my head super stable!
Re-launch now this was so easy, you can drop the kite and every time the kite re-launches with ease by just pulling on one of the steering lines (just like a bow kite)
Slingshot have also put a new Safety system on the new Rev and this makes it possible to let the kite go on the re-ride safety system, now all other kites I have flown if you do this forget re-launching the kite your on a swim into the beach.
I was told by slingshot that I could re-launch the kite after I let the bar go and flag the kite out, I was not so sure but I had a go,
I unhooked the kite and let the bar go...off it went up the lines about 15mtrs and the kite laid out flat a dropped from the sky onto the water, now I was very unsure that this Slingshot rev was going to re-launch from the water.
I started to put the safety line in until I could reach the control bar hooked back in and then I heard the safety line whizzing back though the bar when it stopped the kite had put it's self back in the leading edge down position with no tangles in any of the 4 lines, I was amazed and I pulled on the steering line and off the kite went into the air, I could not believe it! so I went out and done it over 8 times to see if I could make the lines tangle but no joy it worked every time.
so I would say the Slingshot Rev kitesurf kite has the stability of the Slingshot Turbo 2 and the power of the Slingshot Fuel with build quality to boot, What more do we want?

These kites will be available to buy mid-end of August the first shipment will come via air and only 60 Slingshot Rev kites will be on this flight Surface2Air will have 36 of these kites so we should have good stock, however after your demo or as soon as you know you want one call us to pre-order

For more info on the Slingshot Rev Kitesurf Kite

call us on 01202 738448

Angelo

S2AS Team