Kitesoul Magazine #26 International Edition

Competitions
Triple S Invitational | Air Games 2018
Trips
Skrova | Kenya | Egypt
Interviews
Nico Delmas | Shawn Richman
Product Focus
RRD: Religion MK9 & Varial | NAISH: Hover 112 | CORE: GTS5

O N E H I S T O R Y
WWW.F-ONE.WORLD
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Photo: frankiebees.com, Featured: Ewan Jaspan, 2019 Pivot Kite, 2019 Motion Twin Tip

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WINNER
2019
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FREERIDE/WAVE
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Editor
David Ingiosi
david.ingiosi@kitesoul.com
Wave Thecnique Editor
Mitu Monteiro
Freestyle Thecnique Editor
Alberto Rondina
Thecnical Expert
Renato Casati
Photo & Video
Maurizio Cinti
Design
Giuseppe Esposito
Translations italian-english
Daniela Meloni
OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2018
TWO-MONTHLY
Texts
David Ingiosi, Kari Schibenvaag,
Michelle "Sky" Hayward, Nicolas Delmas,
Shawn Richman, Dylan Van der Meij,
Alby Rondina, Andrea Ubertallo, Mario
Saragò/Photokitesurf, Naish, Cabrinha,
Core, RRD, F-One.
Photos
David Ingiosi, Thomas Burblies,
Bromwich, Robervania Bösch, A
Ydwer van der Heide, xel Reese,
Svetlana Romantsova, Mario Saragò/
Photokitesurf, Reemedia, RRD, F-One,
Cabrinha, Naish, Core.
Cover:
Photo: Naish Courtesy
Publisher and advertising
VISU Media
Via Cavour, 20
24030 Ambivere (BG)
Amministratore Unico
Federico Sugoni
fs@kitesoul.com
Registration Tribunale
di Bergamo n°10/2014
del 15/04/2014.
Periodicità bimestrale
Copyright Kitesoul Magazine
All content is copyright of Kitesoul
Magazine / Visu Media Srl.
FEDERICO SUGONI
Publisher
He’s a manager and a businessman.
He fell in love with kiteboarding
almost 10 years ago in
the wild and amazing North
Shore of Oahu (Hawaii). Aside
from kiteboarding there is
only one other important
thing in his life: his baby
daughter.
He’s responsible for the 2014
launching of KiteSoul Magazine.
DAVID INGIOSI
Editor in Chief
Professional journalist and
video maker with a solid
experience in sailing, sea
adventures, travels and water
sports, he has been reported
the “blue world” from the
inside for more than 15 years.
He fell in love with kitesurf
several years ago in Sardinia,
then travelled all over the
world as Iko instructor.
MAURIZIO CINTI
Film-maker
Movie buff and keen photographer.
He’s a skater, snowboarder
and wakeboarder,
but he actually burns with
passion for kiteboarding. He
started off with freestyle a
few years ago, but nowadays
he’s more into chasing big
and powerful waves. This is
what he loves the most.
GIUSEPPE ESPOSITO
Art director
Kiter since he was in the baby
pram, he is a rider for RRD
Italia and he have a Bachelor
in Comunciation Design at
Politecnico di Milano.
With this assignment, he
finally has been able to put
together his two passions:
kite and design.

KITESOUL MAGAZINE
Feel The Flow
MITU MONTEIRO
Technical Editor-Wave Riding
He comes from Sal. Official
F-one and Manera rider.
2008 KPWT World Champion
and three-time Vice World
Champion. He started to surf
and windsurf as a kid and but
he definitively fell in love with
kitesurf as soon as he discovered
it.
ALBERTO RONDINA
Technical Editor-Freestyle
He’s the best Italian rider of
the competitive kiting world.
Cabrinha, Neil Pryde and
GoPro official team rider
and four-time Italian Champion.
Alberto has won the
2001 edition of the European
Championship and third
place in the 2012 PKRA World
Championship.
RENATO “DR. KITE” CASATI
Technical Expert
RRD Wave team rider. Kiteboarder
since 2000, he has
been PKRA athlete and judge.
He’s a professional sportswriter
for several technical
magazines. He lives between
Como Lake and Sardinia, but
he spends every winter in the
waves of Cabo-Verde.
DANIELA MELONI
Professional translator
Daniela mainly lived abroad
where she graduated
in Law and worked. She
discovered her passion for
water actvities back in 2007
when she moved back to the
Sardinian west coast and met
her husband, the kitesurfer
Enrico Giordano. Professional
translator since 2009. She is
a SUP lover and an amateur
photographer and never
misses to photo or video
shoot a Kite or Sup wave
session!

SplitboardsIn
recent years the concept of assemblable boards, the so-called splitboards,
continues to be explored by shapers and design workshops world-
great trip
wide which by taking advantage of new materials and improved construction
techniques are now able to offer more and more versatile and good
companions
quality products.
Upsides: reduced bulkiness and light traveling
The drive to this research comes from the need to meet an increasingly widespread
practical kiters’ necessity: contain the bulkiness of the equipment.
Kitesurfing is a pretty essential sport nonetheless with a set of different kite
sizes, harness, pump, wetsuit, twintip or surf board, eventually it turns out
that one travels full loaded. Well, first of all the upside of a splitboard is that
you can travel light. For example, traveling by plane: we’ve all experienced
the extra charge applied by the majority of air companies on extra baggage.
These charges can come to hundreds of euros and in case of low-cost flights
can even exceed the ticket price. Not to mention the queues at the check-in
and endless discussions with the clerk on duty.
But the advantages of boards that can be dismantled are not only related
to air travels. The reduced bulkiness saves room in the car, especially if
you have a small economy car or a sports car, facilitates the stowage of the
equipment on a boat, allows to get to the beach by scooter or bicycle.

A niche market, close to craftsmanship
Splitboards are no longer rare on the beach and nowadays when about
to buy a new board a kiter who is a frequent traveller definitely considers
it. And what does he find? The current international market offers a good
choice of assemblable boards, although not unlimited. In fact, despite
the technological development, the splitboards’ industry remains a niche
sector where only few big brands decide to invest, the rest is for small
artisan factories. There are various reasons for this.
To start with, there’s been a general continuous downsizing of one-piece
boards that from long and narrow became shorter and wider over time.
Today a freeride board is between 130 and 136 cm long and 40-42 cm
wide. Also, the use of composite fibres such as carbon or Kevlar greatly
reduced the weight. In other words not every enthusiast feels the real
need to use a splitboard. The inevitable doubts about its performance
remain, as well as about its robustness, load and torsion resistance compared
to boards that were born one-piece not by chance and are now
offered let's say as a kit. Proof is that pro riders keep well far off from
splitboards, at least during competitions.
David Ingiosi
Reliable and versatile, but expensive
Another factor that hinders the market of assemblable boards is their
rather hefty cost, although justified by a slower, more complex work
compared to the traditional ones. Finally, many brands aren't interested
in this sector due to the objective difficulty of developing 100% reliable
technical solutions, particularly for the assembling systems. In other
words, is it worth risking the brand's name?
All valid arguments. Anyway, the splitboard's market keeps rolling and
those looking for a space-saving board can easily find the object of desire.

SUMMARY
PORTFOLIO
EVENTI
RECORD
18 30 36
Brandon Scheid claims
the Triple-S Invitational
2018
ROB DOUGLAS AT FULL
SPEED
TRIPS
EGYPT
KENYA
52
SKROVA, AN ISLAND OF
OPPORTUNITIES
58
Undiscovered spot: Seahorse
Bay, Egypt
62
A kiter seduced by the
love islands
BRAND
STORIES
MEDITATIONS
94
HERE IS THE NAISH'S
NEW COLLECTION 2019:
KITES E TWINTIPS
TUTORIAL
106
The second life of Bianca:
from passion for
kitesurfing to bikinis for
female riders
TEST
114
Is kiteboarding a dangerous
water sport?
EQUIPEMENT
132
HOW TO CHANGE THE
LEADING EDGE BLADDER
136
Inobo: the new interchangeable
and cool
board
140
HARNESS: HOW TO
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE

BIG AIR COMPETITIONS RACING
38 44 48
Carlos Mario and Mikaili
Sol claim inaugural Air
Games
The 2019 KiteSurf World
Tour schedule
Nocher Marks his Comeback
by Grabbing World
Series’ Opener
ADVENTURES
ITW
RIDER
72
Islands of strangers: a
cold water kiteboarding
experience
76
Portfolio Shawn Richman is back
in (the kiting) business
84
Portfolio NICOLAS DELMAS: NOW
IS MY TURN TO COACH
AND IS SUPER FUN
EXPERIENCS MARKET TUTORIAL
118 126 130
Thierry Schmitter: I am
paraplegic, I kitesurf and
I just don't care
Shopping on line: Kiteworldshop’s
backstage
BONAIRE TRANSITIONS
PRODUCT FOCUS
148
RRD: Religion MK9 &
Varial | NAISH: Hover 112 |
CORE: GTS5

18
PORTFOLIO
Pete Cabrinha
RIDER: PETE CABRINHA
PHOTO: CABRINHA COURTESY

20 PORTFOLIO
MITU MONTEIRO
RIDER: Mitu Monteiro
PHOTO: F-One Courtesy

22
PORTFOLIO
FRANCESCO CAPPUZZO
RIDER: FRANCESCO CAPPUZZO
PHOTO: ROMANTSOVA PHOTO

24 PORTFOLIO
TIM WALSH
RIDER: Tim Walsh
PHOTO: Frankie Bees

26
PORTFOLIO
STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
RIDER: STEVEN AKKERSDIJK
PHOTO: THOMAS BURBLIES

30
EVENTS
Brandon Scheid claims the Triple-S Invitational 2018

Brandon Scheid claims the
Brandon Scheid and Karolina Winkowska
have taken out the 2018 Triple-S Invitational,
at Cape Hatteras, in North Carolina.

32
EVENTS
Brandon Scheid claims the Triple-S Invitational 2018
It's been hailed as the most prestigious wake-style kiteboarding contest on
the planet and, this year, the Triple-S Invitational got underway in all wind
directions.
Once again, 34 riders put their skills to test and attacked the two kickers,
82-foot A-frame, 56-ft rooftop rail and 45-ft reverse rainbow on offer.
Athletes performed progressive maneuvers, huge aerial stunts, and creative
tricks in the features, and were not profoundly affected by the tricky
wind conditions that challenged the region during the event.
In the men's division, Scheid was finally able to raise the trophy and a $12,000
check, after attempting to claim the contest for six years. The kiteboarder
from Hood River was a deserving winner.

The female fleet proved that the performance gap between them and their
male counterpart is getting closer. Karolina Winkowska took to the skies
and smashed her opponents with a brilliant show.

34
EVENTS
Brandon Scheid claims the Triple-S Invitational 2018

"I can't believe this happened! Thank you to all my sponsors for believing in me, and
also a big shout out to Wind Voyager and Real Watersports for running the sickest
kiteboarding event of all time," said the Polish riders.
"Last but not least, a big thank you to all the girls ripping in the park during the entire
event. You guys killed it! I love you all!"
Men
1. Brandon Scheid
2. Ewan Jaspan
3. Noe Font
4. Sam Light
5. Alex Maes
Women
1. Karolina Winkowska
2. Julia Castro
3. Annelous Lammerts

36
RECORD
ROB DOUGLAS AT FULL SPEED
ROB DOUGLAS AT
The event sanctioned by the International
Kiteboarding Association (IKA)
returned to the Arabian Peninsula and
got underway in unrivaled wind conditions.
The American kiteboarder secured the
world title for the third time, in a competition
that gathered 13 male athletes
and two female kite riders in the
flat waters of the Sultanate of Oman.
The organization managed to run five
rounds of races. Douglas was the only
kiteboarder to hit a top speed of 50
knots, and also secured the fastest
port tack ever recorded in competition.
"I would like to dedicate this special
victory to four wonderful friends who
fought the great fight and passed
away this year - my grandmother Millie
Guzalak, my good friends Gerd Zuther,
Michael Petrikov and Rick Haller. Love
you forever," expressed Rob Douglas.
Rob, who was diagnosed with cancer
two years ago, was coached to victory
by three-time kitesurfing world champion
Nico Parlier.
"It started with a plan: get a great
coach, get a fast kite, train, travel to
Oman and win the 2018 IKA Kite Speed
World Championship. Mission complete!"
Mandi Browning ended up being the
fastest female kiteboarder with a top
speed of 35.028 knots.

AMERICAN RIDER ROB DOUGLAS HAS
TAKEN OUT THE 2018 KITE SPEED
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, AT MASIRAH
ISLAND, IN OMAN.
FULL SPEED
2018 KITE SPEED WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP | TOP 5
Men
1. Robert Douglas (USA) 50.252 knots
2. Alex Caizergues (FRA) 49.111 knots
3. David Williams (GBR) 45.761 knots
4. Robert Harding (USA) 46.484 knots
5. Enrico Giordano (ITA) 42.642 knots
Women
1. Mandi Browning (USA) 35.028 knots
2. Anna Weld (GBR) 25.737 knots

38
BIG AIR
Carlos Mario and Mikaili Sol claim inaugural Air Games
Carlos Mario
and Mikaili Sol
claim inaugural
Air Games
Photo: Ydwer van der Heide
The inaugural edition of the Air Games is over, and
the Brazilians have reasons to celebrate. At the end
of the season, Mario and Sol have raised the greenand-yellow
flag.
The cold German waters ended up deciding the
world champion in a winner-takes-it-all season
showdown.
If Carlos Mario won another final, he and Jesse
Richman would finish the tour on equal points,
but the Brazilian would win on count-backs having
won more times than the American.
If Jesse won - and he'd have to beat Carlos twice
as he won the single elimination - the Hawaiian
would have an overall points lead.
Despite all the efforts from Jesse, Mario's kite loop
with late back roll, 317, and triple backroll secured
him another world title.
"Before, I was training only for freestyle, but I knew
that I needed to do big airs and board-offs," explained
Carlos Mario.
"So, I started to learn them in Tarifa and continued
in the Dominican Republic. I had to train hard to be
able to do them and win. I worked a lot, and now I
have to thank God for this result."

Carlos Mario and Mikaili Sol have been
crowned 2018 GKA Kiteboarding World
Tour champions, in Fehmarn, Germany.

40
BIG AIR
Carlos Mario and Mikaili Sol claim inaugural Air Games
On the women's side, and on the last day of competition,
Mikaili Sol knew she only needed to win
a single heat to take the world title. And that was
precisely what the 13-year-old did.

"In this final, I was really stressed. In the beginning,
I wasn't making it, but then I switched on, and
I made it. I feel amazing. I feel super stoked
for winning it, and I can't wait for next year,"
expressed Sol.

42
BIG AIR
Carlos Mario and Mikaili Sol claim inaugural Air Games
2018 GKA Kiteboarding World Tour Air Games |
Top 4 Men
1. Carlos Mario (BRA) 6,234
2. Jesse Richman (USA) 6,234
3. Maxime Chabloz (SWI) 5,871
Women
1. Mikaili Sol (BRA) 6,300
2. Hannah Whiteley (UK) 6,201
3. Pippa van Iersel (NED) 6,102

44
COMPETITIONS
The 2019 KiteSurf World Tour schedule
THE 2019 KITESURF
WORLD TOUR
SCHEDULE
GKA WORLD TOUR: WAVE KITESURFING AND BIG
AIR KITEBOARDING RETURN FOR 2019 SEASON.
THE GLOBAL KITESPORTS ASSOCIATION
(GKA) RELEASED THE OFFICIAL COMPETITIVE
SCHEDULE FOR THE 2019 SEASON.
The 2019 Kite-Surf World Tour (wave kitesurfing) and the Air Games (big air kiteboarding) calendars
feature new event locations.
The tour kicks off at Sal's Ponta Preta in February, and it will travel to improbable spots like Malmö and
Maui. Germany is still not in the official lineup for 2019.
The GKA also announced that it has a new executive board. Jorgen Vogt leads the fleet, which also features
Till Eberle, Robby Naish, Max Blom, and Klaus Warkentin.
GKA runs two World Sailing-sanctioned world tours, while Kiteboarding Riders United (KRU) is responsible
for the freestyle kiteboarding division.

2019 GKA SEA
PROVIS
46
COMPETITIONS
The 2019 KiteSurf World Tour schedule

SON
IONAL SCHEDULE
PONTA PRETA, CAPE VERDE | 23 FEBRUARY - 3 MARCH | KSWT
DAKHLA, MOROCCO | 7-14 JUNE | KSWT & AIR GAMES
TARIFA, SPAIN | 26–30 JUNE | KSWT & AIR GAMES
SOTAVENTO, SPAIN | 19–24 JULY | KSWT & AIR GAMES
MALMÖ, SWEDEN | 2-11 AUGUST | TBC
MAUI, HAWAII | 29 OCTOBER - 7 NOVEMBER | KSWT
LE MORNE, MAURITIUS | 5-15 SEPTEMBER | KSWT
TORQUAY, AUSTRALIA | 11-15 DECEMBER | KSWT

48
RACING
Nocher Marks his Comeback by Grabbing World Series’ Opener
N O C H E R
Marks his Comeback by Grabbing
World Series’ Opener
Multiple world title holder, Monaco’s Maxime
Nocher, signaled his comeback to form by
clinching the opening round of the International
Kiteboarding Association (IKA) KiteFoil World
Series in Weifang Binhai, eastern China.
Nocher’s performance over the regatta’s
five scintillating days of competition
and a remarkable 22 races was
characterised by steady progress that
saw him only top the leaderboard on
the penultimate day, matched by a
cautious error-free final day in which
he sealed victory.
“Compared with the last year I’ve been
very steady,” said Nocher. “I’ve been
training hard and you can see it in my
results. At the start of the year I was
10th, then 5th at the Europeans, 3rd at
the Worlds and 1st here. So, I’m quite
happy about that. I’m not the fastest,
but I am the most consistent and
that’s good.”
Reigning IKA Formula Kite World
Champion, France’s Nico Parlier,
pushed Nocher all the way. He moved
steadily up the order as the regatta
progressed, taking three wins from
three in the final day's 8kts to 11kts
breezes that blew over the smooth Yellow
Sea track that gave him the second
spot on the podium.
Parlier appeared to struggle for consistency
at the start of the tour stop
due to a lack of training and unfamiliarity
with new kites and foils that
racers may use in the “open”, unregulated
IKA KiteFoil events. But increasingly-quick
and consistent by the
close, he narrowed the gap to Nocher.
“I’m happy, it was a good last day,”
said Parlier. “I’m pleased, too, with
the way I went towards the end of
the regatta. I feel good and I’m happy
that I’m going well even in the lighter
winds we had on the last day.”
Britain’s Connor Bainbridge paid the
price for the growing pace and consistency
of both Nocher and Parlier.
Bainbridge had a lock on the leaderboard’s
top spot for the opening three
days and looked unassailable, racking
up win after win.
But over the final two days of the competition
Bainbridge began to falter,
surrendering his second spot to Parlier
when he posted two low-placed
finishes on the final day. Still, the Briton
took heart from his dominant early
showing and the third podium, his
highest-place finish of the year.
“I’m a little bit disappointed with my
performance on the last day,” said
Bainbridge. “I got a little bit unlucky in
the first race and got in a tangle at the
windward mark. After that my head
wasn’t in the race. But I’m stoked with
my overall performance even though
today was a difficult day because I let
the pressure get on top of me.”
The trio, among 32 athletes from 16
countries, got to share in the €60,000

50
RACING
Nocher Marks his Comeback by Grabbing World Series’ Opener
prize purse, the richest in kiteboarding,
and take a step closer to the IKA
KiteFoil World title awarded at the end
of the scheduled four-stop tour to the
best overall racer.
Most of the athletes will travel south
to Fujian province’s windy Pingtan island
for the second of back-to-back
KiteFoil World Series stop in China
next week, where another $40,000 of
prize money will be on offer.
In the women’s group, which raced
together with the men, the US’s triple
Formula Kite World Champion, Daniela
Moroz, still just 17, bested her rival,
Russia’s Elena Kalinina, and took 16th
spot overall in one of the highest-level
kitefoil fleets ever assembled.
“I’m pretty happy,” said Moroz. “I was
trying to do some new and different
things; taking many more risks to see
if they worked better for me. I’m certainly
more comfortable in the light
winds than I was two years ago.”
Perhaps one of the biggest disappointments
was for Britain’s Guy Bridge.
After a faltering start, the teenager
looked untouchable at the mid-point
and briefly held the top ranking, only
to see his campaign come unstuck
with some bad luck that put him down
to fourth overall, just ahead of older
sibling, Olly Bridge.
“I feel a little disappointed, but I knew
that after the first few days when I
started so badly it was going to be difficult
with the three discards already
gone," said Guy Bridge. “I had a bit of
bad luck too, with the helicopter and
everything. But fourth is not bad.”

WITHOUT
A DIAMOND
—THERE’S NO
HAPPILY EVER
AFTER
Alan Van Gysen Rider: Nick Jacobsen Contact: Pryde Group GmbH Bergstraße 7, 82024 Taufkirchen, Germany Tel: +49 89 6650490
WITHOUT YAMAMOTO LIMESTONE
NEOPRENE THERE’S NO HAPPILY
EVER AFTER EITHER
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material that is the industry standard for premium neoprene and superior watersport
performance.
No sad faces here though... because ALL our wetsuits use Yamamoto so you can
always experience the Happily Ever After with any of our wetsuits.
[1]
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water impermeable compared to 70% for standard
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and provides more wind chill protection.
Yamamoto neoprene has a unique cell structure and has
a 23% higher closed cell ratio for added buoyancy and
flexibility [1]. The cells are evenly spaced and filled with
nitrogen gas that increases heat retention [2].

52
TRIPS
SKROVA, AN ISLAND OF OPPORTUNITIES
SKROVA
AN ISLAND OF OPPORTUNITIES
In Vestfjorden in Lofoten, approximately 8 km away from Svolvær, you find a small and beautiful
island called Skrova. The island’s area is actually less than 4 square kilometres, and
only 190 people live here. It is a fishing and whaling village. Skrova has been on my bucket-list
for a long time. It is only an hour and a half away from where I have my mini house at
Flakstad, but for some reason I have never found the time to go.
Truls and I checked it out on Google maps and decided it was time to finally go there. It
looked like the island had several good kite spots with many small white, sandy beaches on
the outside. I really wanted to try out these spots, so we were excited about travelling there.
We packed my old camper van and drove from Flakstad to Svolvær to do both some hiking
in the region and see to Skrova. I brought my car because it’s my house when I travel, but
you don’t really need a car if you want to visit Skrova. You can catch a boat from Svolvær and
sleep in a tent, rent a room or a fisherman’s cabin (also known as a “Rorbu”).
I wanted to start with some hikes in the Svolvær area before catching the boat. More specifically,
I really wanted to do some of the most famous hikes in this region – Svolværgeita and
Djevelporten. When hiking to Svolværgeita you have to climb the last part, so getting a local
guide for this hike is recommended, but Djevelporten is close by and easy to get to. The view
from Djevelporten is amazing and you can actually see Skrova from there. I sat on the top
looking out over Skrova together with Truls and thinking that it was time to take the boat
out there. If you are traveling in Norway, more specifically in Lofoten, don’t miss out on these
two hikes and take some time to go out to Skrova. This island is definitely worth visiting. It
is beautiful and has a lot to offer.

54
VIAGGI
SKROVA, un’isola di opportunità

HOW TO GET THERE
Depending on season, the number of boat departures changes. We travelled in September
when the boat has departures per day. The boat trip was really short, only 30 minutes or so.
It was a beautiful boat trip, and I really enjoyed sitting there watching the island coming
closer and closer.
I was going to meet some friends at Skrova, but they were still back at the mainland when
I arrived at Skrova, so I was just killing time by driving around to see the island. It took only
10 minutes to drive around the whole island! However, I did not see any beaches and was
wondering how to get out to them?! I stopped by a mountain, Skrovafjellet, that is 281 meter
above sea level. It’s the highest mountain on the island, so I climbed it to get a good view
over the island. When I reached the top, I could see the beaches and the crystal-clear water.
I knew then that this was a paradise for kiters.
The only problem was – how do I get there?
I went back down to meet up with my friends who had finally arrived with the boat. I told
them what I was thinking about the island. They told me that it would be easy – with a boat,
and lucky for me, they got one.

56
TRIPS
SKROVA, AN ISLAND OF OPPORTUNITIES
We went out with a boat that night to have a look around, and I have to say, this island is
good for so many activities. Diving, fishing, small hikes, kayak, SUP and kiting, just to tell
you some. The next morning it was windy, and I knew I could kite. I was excited to get out and
placed my kiting gear in the boat. It was hard to decide what beach to stop at, so we started
at the top and kited from beach to beach with the boat following behind. It was cool to cross
around between the islands and getting to a new beach with just short distance. The water
was crystal clear, and I found spots with super flat water. What a day it was! This was a lot
better than expected.
I REALLY WANTED TO DO SOME OF
THE MOST FAMOUS HIKES IN THIS
REGION

After experiencing Skrova, I knew that I wanted to go back there, so I started planning a kite
camp there with my friends. And it happened! We arranged the “Sea Skrova festival” in August
2018, gave kiting lessons and had a kite gathering.
I couldn’t wait to get back to these beaches and this island. I took my tent, so I could sleep
out on some of the smaller islands outside Skrova. The good thing is that the sun is shining
almost 24/7 this time of year, so it is possible to go for a SUP trip or have kite lessons in the
middle of the night if the weather is good. I love Skrova and I hope to be back there soon.
Hope to see you there again guys!

58
EGYPT
Undiscovered spot: Seahorse Bay, Egypt
Undiscovered spot
Seahorse Bay,
Egypt
For many people, the word Egypt conjures
up images in their mind of the
pyramids, the Nile river and the history
of ancient pharaohs. But venture just
a little further South of Cairo and you
will find a kitesurfers paradise. Blue
water, white sandy beaches and most
importantly wind! If it weren’t for the
odd camel walking by, you would think
you are in the Caribbean.
When choosing a particular kitesurfing
destination in Egypt, most riders
will flock to El Gouna, Hurghada, Soma
Bay or other similar popular spots. The
wind and sun are guaranteed, and the
holiday feel is tangible. There are plenty
of places to go and see and there
are lots of activities for those who do
not kitesurf. So why go anywhere else?
What not a lot of riders know about
is a small bay between El Gouna and
Hurghada, known as Seahorse Bay.
Having been to El Gouna before, I was
open to trying a new spot - and now
I much prefer it to anywhere else in
the world! Just like El Gouna, the wind
blows consistently and smoothly over
the blue, butter flat water. But unlike El
Gouna, the water is quiet and uncrowded.
There are also no sea urchins or obstructions
in the water like some of the
other popular spots. There is still lots
to do if you don’t kitesurf and you can
stay just a few steps from the water.
When it comes to the conditions
you really can’t get any better than
Seahorse Bay. We went during July/
August which is the hottest time of
the year, so the air temperature was
around 40 degrees Celsius and the
water about 30 degrees. Since it is so
hot, be sure to pack lots of sunscreen,
a hat and a long rash vest or even a
very thin wetsuit. We also found it
very helpful to wear flip flops on the
beach while setting up since the sand
is extremely hot. It is really safe there,
so we often just left our flip flops and
pump on the beach while we were out
on the water. It is also crucial to bring
your GoPro and camera, since you will
want to be taking photos of this beautiful
spot all day long! I also found
it helpful to wear my Wetsleeve. It is
a wearable hydration sleeve which
you wear on your arm – so you can
drink water while you kitesurf. It really
helped me to stay hydrated and
not to get sunstroke. It is very easy
to use and doesn’t get in the way of
your riding, even if you are practicing
technical tricks. The wind was an average
of 15 knots, usually strongest
in the morning and afternoon, and
Michelle "Sky" Hayward

60
EGYPT
Undiscovered spot: Seahorse Bay, Egypt
sometimes slacking off slightly at
lunchtime. We had a few days where it
was closer to 10 knots and a few days
where it reached 25 knots. The great
thing about the wind there is that it
stays quite consistent during the day
and never suddenly picks up or dies
down. We often had two sessions a day
and if weren’t so tired we could easily
have had more. I was delighted that
the wind had enough power behind it.
When traveling to other warm places
like Zanzibar, the warm wind is so light
and has no power behind it making it
difficult to enjoy yourself on the water
or learn anything new. But
in Egypt when the forecast
says it is going to be 15
knots, it really is 15 knots
and it feels like it too! Out
of the 3 weeks we were
there, we only had about 4
no-wind days. Which was
a great opportunity to go
and explore the surroundings
and relax. The flat
water and sandy bottom
make it ideal for all riders,
from beginners to freestylers.
The wind is cross-onshore,
making it very safe
for all levels. It is much
less crowded than the
other spots around Egypt
so even though there were
a few beginners in the water,
they never got in our
way. You will feel like you
have the entire Red Sea all
to yourself. In hindsight
I would have preferred to
go end of August/early
September since the temperature
is slightly cooler and the wind
is said to be stronger and blow more
regularly then.
The best place to stay is a small hotel
called Sweet Home. It is surrounded
by big resorts which I would not suggest
staying at if you are a kitesurfer;
since there is no place to store your
gear and you have to walk a long way
from your hotel room to the beach. And
the beaches at those resorts are also
not ideal for setting up your kite since
there are beach chairs on the beach
and boats in the water that would get
in your way. That’s why Sweet Home is
ideal. It is situated right along the water’s
edge and boasts a private beach
to set up your kite. We have travelled
all around the world in search of amazing
kite spots and this is the closest
we have ever stayed to a kitesurfing
spot. You can sit on your private deck
and watch the kitesurfers and then
walk just 50 steps to the launch spot.
Afterwards you can enjoy a beer from
the mini-bar and watch the last few
kiters from your deck ride out the sunset,
unless you decide to join them for
yet another session. For me, it’s the

little things that count when choosing
a place to stay. Things like the
incredible family-style hospitality we
experienced from the hotel staff and
the amazing service we received in all
aspects of our stay. They even know
how to land and launch your kite if
you are traveling alone and there is
an outdoor shower to wash off your
gear. And of course, Wi-Fi and air-conditioning
which are always a must. I
would suggest going for the fully inclusive
option, so you can kite all day
without worrying where you are going
to go eat. They also serve a large variety
with plenty of food, so you will have
more than enough energy to go kitesurfing
all day long.
On days that there is no wind or for
those who do not kitesurf there is
still lots to do around the hotel and
outside surroundings. Things like
snorkelling, shopping, camel riding
and quad biking are all very popular.
You can also get a taxi, uber or bus
to downtown El Gouna and go to the
many restaurants and shops there.
Hurghada is also popular for their
waterfront, markets and historical
sights. If you want to go for a longer day
trip you could go and visit Luxor, which
prides itself in having many temples
and historical tours; just be sure to
check the temperature before you go to
Luxor or anywhere inland since it can
get unbearably hot once you are too far
away from the sea breeze.
With just a short flight from Europe, I
can highly recommend Egypt, particularly
Seahorse Bay. You may fly to Cairo
first, or straight to Hurghada, where
the hotel will fetch you and drive you
to the spot. I am already planning my
next trip back and am sad to say I don’t
think I will ever find a spot I love as
much as this!
Undiscovered spot
Seahorse Bay, Egypt

62
KENYA
A kiter seduced by the love islands
KENYA
Text & Pictures David Ingiosi

A kiter seduced by the love islands
A kitesurfing instructor working in Watamu, Kenya, is exploring the coast to reach a picturesque
bay dotted with islands that form a lagoon of incredible colors and "out of time" atmosphere. Surfing
in this African spot overlooking the Indian Ocean has a magical flavor and gives great emotions.

64
KENYA
A kiter seduced by the love islands
Having the good fortune of riding in a dream spot is dangerous
for a kiter’s life. The Indian Ocean which offers a
thousand shades of green, white sand like talcum powder,
water that marks a temperature of 28 degrees and the wind
blowing at 20 knots every day kidnap you and you do not
want to leave. The risk is to take root on that beach, remain
planted there without any intention to move to not give up
on these fantastic conditions. But moving, exploring new
beaches and promote the discipline of kitesurfing along
the Kenyan coast is one of the tasks I have been assigned.
Discovering new beaches along the coast
The school that I manage is called Watamu Kiteboarding
and is located inside the Garoda Resort, an elegant African-style
lodge overlooking the beach of Watamu Marine
Park: the spot according
to a list compiled in
2016 by CNN is among
the 25 most beautiful
in the world. The kite
center is located in a
corner of paradise, but
we just opened the season
and we must make
ourselves known, beat
the territory to hunt for
other beaches where to
take our students and
recruit new ones.
The chance to get out of this "garden of Eden" just comes
from one of my students. His name is Michele and is here in
Kenya as a responsible of the tour operator Bravo at another
Watamu resort, the Seven Islands. The village has younger
customers and is located in one of the most evocative
locations of this coast: the Love Islands Beach. Michele
asked me to participate in the briefing that welcomes
guests, present my school and propose kite demonstration
lessons. So, one morning I decided to go.
In this piece of Africa, animals rule
I prepare the equipment, a kite of 12 meters, harness, a
board for my session on the water and a trainer kite with
two cables to do the lessons. As a guard of the school I
leave Tom, a local boy who works with me as an assistant,
and I walk towards the main gate of the Garoda. Along the
way I pass through the "technical" area of the resort that
includes the back of the kitchen, space for garbage treatment,
the gas storage and laundry.
Right there I see some guards with the classic khaki uniform
and a stick. I hear voices and I find that one of them
has just captured a small cobra that skirted the shadow of
the wall. Now he keeps him hanging from a stick to show
it to everyone. I take a look too: it is black and shiny. It is
not the first snake I see around, indeed we are in Africa,
a step away from the bush and nature won’t stop in front
of a few tourists drinking cocktails. A few meters after to
point out that here animals rule, monkeys are sitting on
the branches of trees and when I pass by they jump on the
wall to get closer and see if I have anything for them. They
stare with those little shiny eyes, attentive, then when they
realize that I got nothing
for them, they I look at
each other, as if to take
heart, or they pretend to
look the other way.
When I arrive at the Garoda
gate, the guard on
duty smiles at me and
comes towards me: "
Good morning Mr. David.
Are you ok?" She is
a woman who knows me
well because often lends
beach service. For safety reasons, whoever comes out of
the resort must say who it is, where it goes and the time of
come back. If you are in the car this is searched, including
the trunk. Hakuna Matata for me, that is no problem, so I
left the gate and said goodbye.
Moving on with a Bajaji, the helmet is optional
To reach the Seven Islands which is located about 6 km
north of Watamu, I cannot walk. The choice is between classic
taxis, useful for long distances, the tuk-tuk, sort of Ape
Car vibrating around on dirt roads as if it were always about
to split and Bajaji. This is a bike that takes the name by the
Indian factory of the produce, the Bajaji Auto Ltd.: here in
Kenya they sell only one model, the CT 100, for ease of maintenance
and finding spare parts. The Bajaji are everywhere,
driven mostly by guys who work for taxi companies. Those
who are lucky enough, buy a used one for 600-800 euro and

66
KENYA
A kiter seduced by the love islands
bring in their own. In fact, it is the cheapest way to move
on, traveling in two, also three, all strictly no helmet. From
Garoda to the villages of Watamu and Timboni the rate is
a euro each way. Those who live here like me usually have
their own network of trusted Bajaji you can call at anytime.
This morning I go for Kalimba, a Rasta guy who lives on the
bike h24 chewing sprigs Marunghi, a local stimulant plant.
Before setting I tell him to pull over for a moment at the
market in front of the Garoda. I must give a ball to Luky, a
10 years old boy son of the owner of a kiosk that sells fruit,
flour and cigarettes. A few days earlier I walked in front of
it and saw his group of buddies that were running through
the trees. They are kids who have nothing and spend their
days under the sun playing in the dust and the rubbish
piled up near the barracks. I arranged to run a race and to
the winner, who turned out to be Luky, I promised a ball. I
bought a red fire colored, faux leather stitched one for a few
euros. When I give it to him, Luky smiles happily surrounded
by other children and they all start running after the ball
throwing kicks in the middle of fields.
Among markets, villages and land for sale
Kalimba restarts the bike and we move on. Here in Kenya
you drive on the left, a legacy of the ancient British rule. The
cars, however, are few, some pick-ups from work, the mammoth
jeep safari with 8 seats and buses carrying staff of
the resort. Common people mostly go for the grinding km
walk all day, some use bicycles on which to pile up mountains
of stuff. From the main road branch of sandy paths
leading to the tribal villages of Ghiriama into the bush or to
some land owned by Italians, British or Germans who came
to live in this area. Today with the crisis, many of them go
away and often you see signs reading "for sale".
To the majestic resort entrances, such as Medina, the Hemingways,
the Ocean Sports, along the way alternating clusters
of shacks that sell junk, safari agencies or small rotisseries
where you eat cooked chicken on the grill. Kalimba
drives silent wrapped in his duvet vest and slows down
carefully to avoid the speed bumps traffic and small herds
of goats that sometimes leave the shadow of the trees and
cut off the road suddenly. Meanwhile, the wind in the distance
begins to sweep the fronds of the palm trees and

creeps through the branches of the baobabs arranged radially.
Also, today will be a good day of kiting.
Dusty roads, tourist pizzerias and voluntary schools
We overcome the crossroad to Timboni with its large outdoor
market and reach the village of Watamu. I ask Kalimba
to stop in front of the Equity Bank because I need to withdraw
from an ATM and he took the opportunity to get gasoline.
Kenya currency uses shilling (KES) that according to
the current exchange rate is equivalent to about 90-euro
cents, but in practice anywhere one shilling equals one
euro. The cost of living is quite low, but at least if you go to
tourist facilities managed by Italians, restaurants, pizzerias,
ice-cream shops, the prices are very similar to our big
cities: a pizza € 8, an ice cream € 6... The interest rates of
banks on current accounts are quite high, some even reach
11 percent. Certain Europeans here live this way: some money
in the bank and at sea all day.
The Seven Islands are waiting for me, I get back in the saddle
with all the equipment and Kalimba drives fast. A group
of children in uniform, shirt and short pants, pulls alongside
us with a smile, they are students of primary schools
who return home after class. One of these schools I know
it well: it's called Happy House and is been running for 16
years by an English lady, Sue Hayward, with the help of
volunteers; it welcomes especially orphans and disadvantaged,
but also those included in the adoption process by
European families.
Young Maasai guarding the resort
We finally arrive at the resort, greeting Kalimba and the
warden makes me escorted to the front desk by a Masai.
He's a very tall boy wearing traditional red blanket Shuka
cross on his shoulders and kept tight by a leather belt; it
has the lobes of the ears elongated and carries a quantity
of beads necklaces and metal bracelets; he wears sandals
with upturned tip made from old car tires. "I do not change
them for 16 years," he says proudly. The Masai here are recruited
to oversee the property and the beach and prevent
access to outsiders.

68
KENYA
A kiter seduced by the love islands

Michele greets me with a smile and offers me an iced pineapple
juice. It’s perfect under this equatorial sun pounding,
even though it is February. The guests have already arrived
and gather for the briefing at the bar in front of the pool:
they are still pale skin, a bit tired from the long journey but
excited by the new experience. I tell them about the school,
the class, I explain the equipment and invite them to get to
the beach to try to steer the kite.
Seven islands in the heart-shaped lagoon
We pass a dense tropical garden with palm trees and fragrant
bougainvillea and by a wooden ladder gain access to
the beach: finally here they are, the famous Love Islands.
The view on the large bay is something that takes your
breath away. At this time there is low tide that shows, as an
open casket, a huge expanse of coral reef with bright colors,
emerald green, turquoise and intense blue. White sandy
tongue ​alternate with small natural pools of calm water,
clear and warm. In the background, at 500 meters from the
waterline, there are seven small islands of different sizes
that emerge from the sea like giant mushrooms, forming
a sheltered lagoon. They are rocky ridges covered with lush
vegetation that can be reached on foot by taking advantage
of low water that reveals countless starfish, crabs, shells
and tropical fish. They are called "Islands of Love" because
during low tide the lagoon surrounding takes the form of a
giant heart. The scenario is an absolute beauty, reminds of
some beaches of Thailand or even better of Polynesia.
Lessons and kite surfing on the reef waves
I prepare the equipment for the lessons and the guests of
the Seven Islands alternate to run the trainer, a small foil
kite two cables. The wind is fresh, and the kite is very fast
and responsive. The excitement of playing with the kite is
strong, it is a bit like being a kid again, and time flies by between
explanations, chatter and laughter under the curious
gaze of beach boys, local guys who live on the beach trying
to make a living selling a bit of everything. Some of them
ask me to try and I agree identifying with them in their desire
to have fun without thinking about shillings.
It is coming at high tide and I decide to go into the water for
a session. The typical wind of the winter season is the Kusi
monsoon and also in this bay north of Watamu it comes
from the North-North East, side on starboard tack. With the
islands in front it seems to surf in a natural amphitheater
of wonderful colors. As soon as you pass the islands the
wind becomes stronger. I enjoy it for a while with the waves
that form on the reef, then I return to the lagoon dodging
the traditional wooden Dhow of the local fishermen willing
to buoy. I admire the coastline from the water that after the
Seven Islands on the right continues with the Temple Point
Beach and then with that of Sun Palm Beach Hotel and
Marijani, all rather chic facilities, surrounded by greenery
and relaxed. The time for a few photos and I go back to the
beach in ecstasy.
Chill out in the magical oasis of PapaRemo
I take the trainer and hold it in the air touring among the
sunbeds and umbrellas on the hunt for potential aspiring
kiters. Meeting Erika, a girl from Livorno, I ask her to try to
pilot the kite. She replies: "It's no use, I can’t swim." "Ah, just
like the Kenyans," I reply, explaining that here the locals
fear the ocean and no one teaches children to swim. Even
fishermen often barely hold afloat. As we talk she tells me
that she left her job in sales in Italy and after a holiday, few
months ago she decided to move here in Watamu. Now she
runs a lodge renting it to tourists.

70
KENYA
A kiter seduced by the love islands

We decide to eat something and go to PapaRemo. This
charming beach bar overlooking the Islands of Love is very
popular both for the fairytale setting and for the timeless
atmosphere that you breathe. Also, its history, as well as
the name, are quite original: "Dad" Remo is a gentleman
who came to this place many years ago when it was still
wild and savage and camped here for over a month with a
tent. He fell in love with this stretch of the coast of Africa so
much that he decided to move here and open a bar with his
wife and two sons, Robert and Laura, who now carry on his
dream with the same passion.
After having enjoyed a carpaccio of fresh tropical fruit salad
and seafood under the shade of the palms I leave Erika. It
is time to return to Garoda and once placed the equipment I
go to greet Michele. While I call Kalimba I get his answering
machine with an African background music, I give a last
look at this magical bay that fills your heart with peace and
beauty.
Dear Remo, you were so right ...

72
ADVENTURES
Islands of strangers: a cold water kiteboarding experience
- ISLANDS OF STRANGERS -
A COLD WATER KITEBOARDING EXPERIENCE

How can a cold water kiteboarding
session turn out an unforgettable
experience? Lewis and Harris is the
largest island in Scotland. Located in
the Outer Hebrides, it is also the third
largest island of the British Isles, after
Great Britain and Ireland.
TEXT & PICTURES: MANERA COURTESY

74
ADVENTURES
Islands of strangers: a cold water kiteboarding experience
With a population of around 20,000 residents, Lewis and
Harris is a quiet, yet fascinating region surrounded by mighty
Atlantic swells, high winds, and shifting weather patterns.
Liam Whaley, Paul Serin, Set Teixeira, Pauline Valesa, Camille
Delannoy, Mallory de la Villemarque, and Maxime Chabloz
are all members of the Manera team.
And they traveled to the Outer Hebrides in search of the
endless coastal spots and inland bodies of water Lewis and
Harris has to offer, all year round.
Together, they explored the "Islands of the Strangers" - the
name given by the Scottish Gaels to the Outer Hebrides - and
found plenty of rewards and reasons to return.
The raw beauty of Lewis and Harris is an ode to Mother
Nature. And all seven riders made sure they appreciated the
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Shawn
I S B A
76
ITW
Shawn Richman is back in (the kiting) business
Text and photo: RRD Courtesy

Richman
C K I N ( T H E K I T I N G ) B U S I N E S S

78
ITW
Shawn Richman is back in (the kiting) business
Where did you grow up?
I was lucky enough to grow up in Maui, Hawaii.
Tell us more about your background in kitesurfing?
Good question! Where to begin? I got involved back in the
early days of kiting. My brother Jesse and myself started
trying to figure out how not to die while being strapped to
kites around 2001 to 2002. It took almost a year of being
picked up from school by our amazing dad and every day
heading to the beach to get dragged around by these absolute
bullies of kites to finally stay upwind. We were on 2 line
1.5m, 2.5m, 3.5m and then we had this 4.5 four line. I swear
those kites kicked the daylight out of me more than any
other kite since!
Once upwind we progressed quite quickly as we were completely
addicted and spent as much time as we could on
the water. Almost every day! I remember spending a summer
out of school and I only spent 3 days not hooked into
my kite over 4 months, and that was only because I had
such a bad harness rash.
Before both Jesse and I knew it, we were sponsored, heading
off to contests, traveling solo, winning events, loosing
events with the desire to win the next one. My family were
all taken on this wild ride with us, we were so young.
Everything continued from there! Kitesurfing was my childhood,
my teenage life, as well as most of my early 20’s.
I loved it, and also hated it! As fun as it was, I also found it
very difficult. I loved meeting new people, seeing new places
and giving happiness to those that enjoyed my style
of riding. I found the politics hard to deal with, the dance
monkey dance photo shoots of the same riding spot over
and over just on a newly painted board and a mock up kite.
All trying to get the same shot as 6 months ago but with the
“New and Improved” gear. I found myself not enjoying riding
anymore, not putting the gear in the car, and not being
motivated to kite. It felt like a chore and at the ripe old age
of 26 ha-ha I burnt out my stoke for the sport.
It’s been a few years since I put down the kite competitively.
I went from riding 300+ days a year to just twice a year.
I needed to experience something different, see what else
life had to offer. I ended up joining my wife in her wildlife
conservation efforts in East Africa. I was waiting for the
day that I had that urge to kite again with no expectations.
And…. It finally came. In the strangest place. Anna, my wife
was filming a tribe in the desert, we were so far from anything
kite related, and I just got that…. feeling! The next
week we drove our land rover ocean bound and haven’t
looked back. The amazing thing is I have a clean slate to
begin my relationship with Kitesurfing again. I am treading
with caution, making sure this time that it’s all about the
love for the sport. I want to ride with good people and for
a good brand. I want to be proud to fly their flag! Also, and
most importantly - I kite when I feel the stoke, and that is
what it’s all about… and with that mindset I’ve wanted to
ride everyday since I got back to the ocean.
Why RRD?
Sponsorship is like being in a partnership, a relationship,
and a family. When I was thinking about who I wanted to
talk to about getting back in the sport I thought back on
all the connections that I had made in my career, one person
stood out that I’ve always had the upmost respect for.
That was Roberto. He was more stoked than anyone on the
beach, so genuine and passionate about all the gear that

Nationality
Hawaiian definitely not American
Date of birth
11-04-1989
Residence
Lamu, Kenya
Discipline
Big Air, Freeride
Favorite Manouvers
Inverted tweaked Front roll, Hand Drag.

80
ITW
Shawn Richman is back in (the kiting) business
he makes but more importantly how it helps the rider have
more fun! He is someone who will take the extra time, put
that extra effort in, make the more expensive decision if the
result will better the experience for the rider.
That is so important to me. I sent him an email after not
speaking to him in years and he responded within hours
being the same stoked Roberto that I remembered.
What I did not expect was who he then put me in touch with!
None other than, Alex Vliege!! This is a guy I first met years
ago at one of my first international contests. A guy that I
also respect for his passion and dedication to the sport,
so fitting that he is now International Marketing and Team
Manager for RRD. I knew that I had made the right decision,
this is the kind of family that will make all the difference as
I enter this new chapter of kiting.
What is your favorite gear?
I am absolutely loving my PASSION 7m kite, BLISS 136 board,
loving my RRD H FLIGHT FOIL- by far the best foil I have ridden
and appreciating the little things on my GLOBAL BAR. I
love how tightly put together the gear feels and how much
attention to detail there is. I picked up my gear and within
5 minutes, I felt like I was as comfortable with my gear as I
would on a 6-month-old quiver.
Which is your favorite spot?

Kizingoni beach on Lamu Island in Kenya. I can’t get enough
of this spot, so much so I have decided to set up a shop
here!! I am currently building a unique kite and yoga retreat
and advanced training centre. The wind is so consistent;
the tides are always changing giving a whole new beach
each and every day. Warm water, good food and island
vibes. Can’t beat it! To wake up in my luxury yet rustic beach
cabana and have my kite pumped on the beach as my view
from bed… I am stoked!
What are your goals for 2018?
To have fun and share the stoke it can bring. But most of all
to begin my journey as a kite educator and pay it forward.
We are still building the retreat, but our accommodation
is up and pumping. Any and all are welcome. If you want to
watch our progress on the kite zone you can follow me on
insta@shawnrichman.
www.lamukiteandyoga.com
www.thecabanaslamu.com

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DYNEEMA UNI-DIRECTIONAL
FIBERS

ONE BAR FOR ALL KITES
No need to ‘change any game’ with the release of our 8th version of the RRD Global Bar.
Because of the great history of performance, we have kept our new version simple, reliable,
and packed with the same great features of the previous versions. But with the V8,
we now take another step forward with new components and redesigned parts.
RIDERS: ABEL LAGO -KITE: RELIGION MK8 - PHOTO: SVETLANA ROMANTSOVA
“OUR LINES DON’T STRETCH”
-NEVER LOSE YOUR TRIM-
INDUSTRY STANDARD BRAIDED LINES
CAN STRETCH UP TO 25.0 cm
RRD RIGID THREAD LINES
CAN STRETCH UP TO 2.5 cm
MAXIMUM STRETCH ON A 25 m LINE
www.robertoriccidesigns.com

84
RIDER
NICOLAS DELMAS: NOW IS MY TURN TO COACH AND IS SUPER FUN
NICOLAS DELMAS
NOW IS MY TURN TO COACH AND IS SUPER FUN
Nicolas Delmas, an ex-Next Generation rider, now he is
coaching the F-One's Next Generation kids.
TEXT AND PHOTO: F-ONE COURTESY

86
RIDER
NICOLAS DELMAS: NOW IS MY TURN TO COACH AND IS SUPER FUN
I started kiting at the age of 12 on the Étang de Thau‘s spot called "Tocs". These are sandbanks
stretching from Sète to Marseillan: it is there that everything began. My father introduced
me to kitesurfing. Since I started, he was very available: every time it was windy, he came to
get me out of school to go training. When there was no wind, we would go wakeboarding to
refine my glide. I appreciate the chance to share this passion with my parents, without them,
I would not be here today.
I must have been 14, I went kiting to Gruissan because the tramontana blows more often
there than at my home spot. I remember that day there were many people, including Raphael
SALLES. I was kiting all day, I landed the 4 tricks that I knew at the time. At the end of the
session, Raphael goes up to my father and offers that I join the F-ONE Family... Seven years
later, I'm still part of the Team! The Next Generation period at F-ONE was a dream for me: to be
able to travel to the most beautiful spots in the world; surrounded by young riders of different
nationalities who shared the same passion for kiting; supervised by Etienne LHOTE. And
at the end, a beautiful movie directed by Olivier SAUTET. I was lucky to live this experience

NICO-
LAS
DEL-
MAS
between the age of 15 and 18 years old: it was just incredible. These years remain my fondest
memories!
Competing is one of the reasons for my passion for the sport, it allows me to have goals to be
achieved in order to go as far as possible and exceed my limits. I started to run in the Junior
competitions: the French Championship, the Cup of Europe and the World Championship. In
2015, I won the title of European Champion and the title of Champion of France. In the Senior
category, I finished 5th in my first competition in Egypt (2016). For 2 years, I joined the world
circuit and I am currently in 5th place in overall ranking of the GKA Air Games Tour.

88
RIDER
NICOLAS DELMAS: NOW IS MY TURN TO COACH AND IS SUPER FUN

Kiting was not always easy for me because I injured my knee very young, in 2014 (rupture of
the ACL). I was 16, I made the decision not to have surgery at that time because my growth
cartilage had not matured, so I kited for 2 years without ACL, protected by splints and muscle
reinforcements large enough to allow me to kite at a high level. I then made the decision to
have the surgery in July 2016 therefore to sacrifice 7 months of kiting.
It was very difficult mentally as well as physically, but it made me grow up enormously. I
came out stronger and more motivated than ever!

90
RIDER
NICOLAS DELMAS: NOW IS MY TURN TO COACH AND IS SUPER FUN
I realized my first coaching in Greece with Oscar PERRINEAU and Osaia REDING COMMAILLE
back in June. These are two groms from the actual Team F-ONE Next Generation with a huge
potential. During these weeks of training, I enjoyed sharing my passion for kiteboarding, my
experience and my vision of training. Living these moments with them enriched me personally.
Sharing my kite experience is just fabulous!

H
N
2
T
94
BRAND
Naish 2019

ERE IS THE
AISH'S
NEW
COLLECTION
019 KITE AND
WINTIPS

96
BRAND
Naish 2019
KEY FEATURES
PIVOT
FREERIDE/WAVE
SIZES: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Winner of 2018 Red Bull’s King of the Air, the Pivot is direct,
versatile and efficient, maintaining its stand out performer
status in the Naish kite line. Perfect for both novice
and professional kiters alike, the Pivot provides plenty of
sheet-in-and-go, predictable power, direct bar pressure,
easy jumping and control in the air. The superior choice
for versatile performance, the Pivot maintains a large wind
range, proving dynamic and responsive in everything from
waves to flat water.
It has earned an impressive reputation for its intuitive
steering and tight, quick axis of rotation and the 2019 Pivot
continues to push its capabilities even further. With
the Quad-Tex material, we have managed to remove heavy
Dacron panels along the struts reducing weight while retaining
canopy rigidity. The leading edge seam has also
been “beefed-up” with a new thread that has tested off the
charts in overall strength. The new Pivot also comes with
Bladder Lock, which eliminates the risk of bladder movement
in the leading edge and struts to ensure they stay in
place when inflating, deflating, crashing or packing.
While the Pivot has received various tweaks and improvements
that enhance the performance characteristics, it
continues to stay true to its loyal following and remain as
one of the most sought-after kites worldwide.
- Quad-Tex Ripstop Fabric = Stiffest, strongest canopy material
on the market.
- Shark Teeth Trailing Edge = Reduces weight while minimizing
& dispersing canopy flutter.
- Precision turns on a small axis with minimal power increase
in a turn.
- ABS Bridle = Consistent forward drive + maximum depower
+ no back-stalling.
- “Sheet-in-and-go” feel + easy jumping.
- Quick water relaunch.
- Natural drifting effect.
- Constant leading edge taper.
- High-flow valve.
- Octopus Inflation System = Lightest, easiest single-point
inflation system delivering uniform pressure in the struts
and leading edge.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO

KEY FEATURES
SLASH
PURE WAVE/STRAPLESS
SIZES: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
- Quad-Tex Ripstop Fabric = Stiffest, strongest canopy material
on the market.
- Shark Teeth Trailing Edge = Reduces weight while minimizing
& dispersing canopy flutter.
- Precision turns on a small axis with minimum power increase
in the turn.
- ABS Bridle = Consistent forward drive + maximum depower
+ no back-stalling.
- Unmatched drifting ability.
- Ultra-reinforced wingtip construction.
- Quick water relaunch.
- Constant leading edge taper.
- High-flow valve.
- Octopus Inflation System = Lightest, easiest single-point
inflation system delivering uniform pressure in the struts
and leading edge.
The ideal choice to stoke out dedicated wavekiters, the
2019 Slash delivers unmatched drift, a wide wind range and
quicker reaction time.
The leading edge bladder has been further tapered through
the wingtip, creating an even smaller diameter for improved
turning speed and response. Providing incredible
low-end power and the best down-the-line drift in the Naish
line, the bar pressure has also been slightly decreased to
help fight fatigue and keep kiters on the water even longer.
Made to take a beating in heavy surf, the Quad-Tex canopy
remains the strongest material in the industry, while the
leading edge seam features a new thread that tested off
the charts in strength. Thanks to the strength that Quad-
Tex provides, Dacron strut panels can be removed without
a loss of canopy rigidity, allowing for further weight reduction.
Bladder Lock has also been added to ensure there is
no movement in the leading edge bladder or struts when
inflating, deflating, crashing or packing.
The Slash has established itself as Naish’s premier wave
kite, providing incredible down-the-line drift and stable
flight, perfect for park-and-ride style kitesurfing.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO

98
BRAND
Naish 2019
KEY FEATURES
TORCH CON ESP
PRO PERFORMANCE FREESTYLE
- Quad-Tex Ripstop Fabric = Stiffest, strongest canopy material
on the market.
- Shark Teeth Trailing Edge = Reduces weight while minimizing
& dispersing canopy flutter.
- ESP = Greater angle of attack control for more instant depower.
- Precision response for hooked & unhooked riding.
- Direct bar feel.
- Solid power through turns.
- Superior unhooked control.
- High-flow valve.
- Small leading diameter.
- Octopus Inflation System = Lightest, easiest single-point
inflation system delivering uniform pressure in the struts
and leading edge.
SIZES: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
The longest running kite in the Naish line, the Torch with
ESP has kept freestyle and big-air specialists stoked for
over a decade.
With input from Red Bull King of the Air Champions and top
freestyle kiters, the Torch continues to be refined and tuned
to deliver smoother power and precise handling for predictable
flying. For 2019 the focus has been on improving
its low-end power. Each size has been overhauled, receiving
adjustments to the leading edge diameter and profile
along with adjustments to the 5th line to ensure that there
is maximum power delivery in marginal conditions. Also receiving
updates are the removal of the Dacron solid frame
panels as the strength of Quad-Tex has proven this feature
no longer necessary. The removal of these panels reduces
the weight while retaining the rigidity of the canopy. Also
enhancing the strength is a new thread material used on
the leading edge, which tested off the charts in strength
testing. With this you can have confidence your kite will
hold strong, beating after beating. Bladder Lock is another
new feature, securing the bladder in place and preventing
slippage. The ESP setting allows kiters to tune the flying angle
for better control and easier depower.
Year after year, the Torch with ESP continues to set the bar
as the pinnacle of freestyle performance and the 2019 model
further reinforces that legacy.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO

MONARCH 132X41
PRO PERFORMANCE FREESTYLE
Pro Performance Freestyle
The Monarch has built a loyal following of freestyle kiters
all over the world thanks to its state-of-the-art, no-compromise
freestyle design. Delivering direct power for upwind
drive and explosive pop on demand, this is the board Kevin
Langeree chooses to ride when pushing the limits of big air
kiteboarding.
Defined edges powerfully engineered stiff flex and deep
channels provide outstanding grip—even when at speed in
choppy water. A lightweight basalt fiber construction gives
the Monarch an incredible strength-to-weight ratio and
responsive flex. Its radiated Carbon V delivers insane pop
when loading for freestyle maneuvers or huge jumps.
The performance proven 3D bottom shape is composed of
beveled channel rails and steep quad tips for increased
tracking and phenomenal edging. The reduced concave in
the center section improves water entry and optimized flex
between the rider’s feet.
Highly engineered and sleek in design, this board is ready to
perform to the rigorous demands of every bold kiteboarder.
KEY FEATURES
- Wakestyle Rocker = Chop-eating & forgiving with aggressive
pop + soft landings
- Low Flex = Powerful & responsive handling
- FTC 2.0 (Flex Torsion Control) = Optimized stiffness in both
the axial & torsional axis + superior control
- Sintered Base = Extreme durability + slider proof
- Centered Binding Inserts = Even wear + increased longevity

100
BRAND
Naish 2019
STOMP 135X42
PERFORMANCE FREESTYLE/WAKESTYLE
The Stomp offers riders the best of all worlds: superior freestyle
and freeride performance with the advantages of a
wakestyle-inspired design. With input from 2017 Triple-S
Champion, Ewan Jaspan, the Stomp has been shaped to
hold up to the most demanding maneuvers. Ideal for aggressive
wakestyle riders using footstraps or boots, this
board delivers insane drive, edging and pop.
The medium-to-high rocker answers the crucial needs of
any freestyler. It delivers solid upwind performance and increased
speed; grants superior pop, while remaining forgiving
in flat landings; and maintains a smooth ride—even
in choppy water. Its tapered rails reduce weight in the tips,
defining the edges for increased grip and solid directional
stability. Centered inserts allow riders to switch stance setup
so both edges can be ridden on their heelside, extending
the lifetime of the board for riders who spend time in
the park. 3D bottom shaping gives confidence to freestyle
maneuvers with deep center channels and trapezoidal skid
plates provide
KEY FEATURES
- Wakestyle Rocker = Chop-eating & forgiving with aggressive
pop + soft landings
- Low Flex = Powerful & responsive handling
- FTC 2.0 (Flex Torsion Control) = Optimized stiffness in both
the axial & torsional axis + superior control
- Sintered Base = Extreme durability + slider proof
- Centered Binding Inserts = Even wear + increased longevity

DRIVE 134X41
HIGH PERFORMANCE FREERIDE
Drawing inspiration from the Naish Motion—a global favorite—the
Drive features a similar freeride shape in a high
performance-oriented design. Ideal for intermediate-to-advanced
riders who demand an extremely lightweight and
responsive board, the Drive delivers and offers superior
speed and upwind performance.
Its carbon glass fusion construction makes it the lightest
board in the Naish line and features heightened durability
alongside a crisp and responsive ride. The Drive’s rails
gradually taper, providing lightweight tips and defined
edges for outstanding grip and optimum flex.
Beveled tunnel edges enhance the smooth riding experience.
Its supreme pop wood core provides unmatched
reflex characteristics while its freeride rocker delivers aggressive
pop and a dynamic ride through both chop and
flatwater conditions.
KEY FEATURES
- Freeride Rocker = Chop-eating & forgiving rocker + back
foot directional stability.
- Low Flex = Powerful & responsive handling.
- Flex Torsion Control = Boosts rigidity in axial & torsional
axis + heightened control.
- Supreme Pop Wood Core = Unmatched reflex characteristics.
- 3K Carbon = Extremely lightweight + exceptional flex characteristics
+ high strength-to-weight ratio.

102
BRAND
Naish 2019
MOTION 134X41
PERFORMANCE FREERIDE
The Motion has built a global following over the years, providing
unrivaled versatility in one “do-it-all” design. This
board offers something for kiters of all stages and styles
from freeride and freestyle performance to twin tip waveriding
functionality.
Its full rocker and beveled razor channel rails handle even
the choppiest of waters smoothly. The pop wood core gives
the Motion responsive flex while providing balanced power
and superior edging while helping to absorb hard landings.
The added fin beam in the tip section adds rigidity to the
fin mounting area, increasing edging ability and hold when
traveling upwind.
KEY FEATURES
- Flex Torsion Control = Boosts rigidity in axial & torsional
axis + heightened control.
- Medium Flex = Dynamic, all-around handling.
- Freeride Rocker = Chop-eating & forgiving rocker + back
foot directional stability.
- 4° Angle Fin Platform = Superior grip + upwind performance.

HERO 130X41.5
ALL-AROUND FREERIDE
The Hero is designed to take riders from their first reaches
and beyond in this user-friendly freeride board. Not easily
outgrown—nor is it only for beginners—the high flex Hero
provides a forgiving ride and on-demand control that even
the most experienced kiters love.
The slightly wider outline gives plenty of planing surface
while maintaining easy edging control thanks to its parallel
rails and progressive curve. The flat rocker eats through
chop and makes edging upwind simple and easy. Strategically
placed impact reinforcement zones help diffuse impact
throughout the board, providing maximum durability
as skills grow with time. Whether just learning, growing, or
cruising, the Hero is the easy, all-around board designed to
keep the experience fun.
KEY FEATURES
- High Flex = Riding fluido, confortevole.
- Torsion Laminate = Precisione nel flex in aree strategiche
per un controllo superiore.
- Freeride Rocker = Grandi prestazioni anche con chop e
stabilità direzionale.
- Tapered Rails = Tips leggeri + grande grip.

104
BRAND
Naish 2019
ALANA 132X38
WOMEN’S FREERIDE/FREESTYLE
The Alana is designed specifically for women who demand
all-around freeride, freestyle and TT waveriding performance
in a single board. The outline, flex and dimensions
are all specifically designed to respond to lighter degrees of
rider input and lower loads.
The medium rocker is the perfect blend of responsive feel
and forgiving ride while the supreme wood core delivers a
soft, natural flex without sacrificing strength or weight. 3D
bottom shaping ensures this versatile board can meet and
exceed performance demands, as the Alana is shaped for
excellent edging, chop piercing precision and superior grip.
KEY FEATURES
- Medium Flex = Dynamic, all-around handling.
- Freeride Rocker = Chop-eating & forgiving rocker + back
foot directional stability.
- FTC 2.0 (Flex Torsion Control) = Optimized stiffness in both
the axial & torsional axis + superior control.
- 10° Angle Fin Platform = Superior grip + upwind performance.

ORBIT 152X45
LIGHTWIND FREERIDE
The Orbit is designed to get kiters out on the water and riding
with ease when the wind is light.
Featuring a large surface area and flat rocker, the Orbit
planes quickly and easily. The double concave bottom and
responsive flex gives it a smooth and forgiving ride. Its
asymmetric design maximizes efficiency in marginal conditions
for strong upwind performance while maintaining
a fun, playful ride.
KEY FEATURES
- Medium Flex = Dynamic, all-around handling.
- Light Wind Rocker = Low drag early planing
+ balanced riding.
- Framework Deck = Lightweight + adds rigidity.
- FTC 2.0 (Flex Torsion Control) = Optimized stiffness in both
the axial & torsional axis + superior control.

106
STORIES
The second life of Bianca: from passion for kitesurfing to bikinis for female riders
David Ingiosi

The second life of Bianca
FROM PASSION FOR KITESURFING TO BIKINIS
FOR FEMALE RIDERS
Love for kitesurfing leads to travel, go around the world
but also change life. Bianca Forzano knows it too well, Roman
with Calabrian origins, who chose to give everything
up and move to Cabarete, in the Dominican Republic, to
reinvent her life. She dismissed her Engineering Degree,
an MBA and a job at PricewaterhouseCoopers, one of the
biggest consulting firms in the world. So now, she teaches
kitesurfing in Santo Domingo, but most of all she designs
and produces her own line of bikinis, highly appreciated
among the female pro riders and enthusiasts of this sport.
Here is her story.

108
STORIES
The second life of Bianca: from passion for kitesurfing to bikinis for female riders

Who is Bianca Forzano?
I feel like I've lived two lives. That’s because I made a radical life change. Ten
years ago, as an engineer with a career ahead, I moved to the Caribbean to pursue
a great a passion for the sea and water sports, especially kitesurfing. This
passion led me not only to quit my job, but also my loved ones and my life in
Italy. Therefore, I totally reinvented myself within the kitesurfing universe, that
means work-wise too. Besides being a kitesurfing instructor, I started producing
sporty and technical bikinis inspired by my personal experience, that's why
the brand is called Bianca Bikinis and it's dedicated to all water sports enthusiasts.
I design a beachwear and an activewear line, as they are both bikinis,
leggings and tops, in other words everything necessary for those who practice
surf, kitesurf or SUP and just want to be fashionable at the same time.
When you started this sport what type of female garments did you wear?
I felt the lack of female technical products especially designed for this type of
sport: wetsuits, lycras, shorts like female swimmer 90' style or the typical swimwear
useless for this sport as it unties, breaks, wears out easily and it's uncomfortable.
Female riders and surfers both in Italy and abroad actively live on the beach
and spend many hours in the water. What type of sportswear do they need?
I travel a lot all over the world to look for new spots, see competitions or take part
to events. Girls that live in that environment need suitable garments, strong,
technical but also versatile that can make them comfortable both in the water
and on the beach sunbathing or at a pool party. So, I designed garments capable
of meeting both functional and aesthetic needs.

110
STORIES
The second life of Bianca: from passion for kitesurfing to bikinis for female riders
When you decided to set up your brand, did you choose a personal or a market
approach?
I adopted a personal approach in terms of needs, tastes and inspiration, but I
manage my brand with a technical approach, making use of my previous professional
experience as an engineer and business consultant. A company has
many aspects: design, production, accounting, marketing and communication.
Nothing can be left to chance. I'm a rider, a designer, but above all I am an entrepreneur.
Bianca you live abroad but you are 100 percent Italian. As a clothing entrepreneur
what do you do to promote the "Made in Italy" in the world?
I've always wanted to keep my Italian identity through my personality and my
image. This approach is even more important for my products, I seek the Italian
quality of the product in terms of design, production and manufacture. I use only
Italian raw materials, as well as tailor shops and especially workforce from my
own country, it's a matter of work ethics and sustainability. This is what drives
me to use also recycled products from industrial materials such as lycras.

How do you get your values across: the Made in Italy, the quality of the product,
the philosophy of sustainable production?
I try to spread my values ​both in person and through the brand ambassadors,
girls who are surfers or kiters, in line with my philosophy. Sporty girls, travellers,
who love the sea and have an environmental consciousness.
How many collections do you currently have?
I have two main collections: the Surf Collection inspired by Hawaii, therefore
very colourful, with floral patterns, with very small bikinis, close to minimal, just
like female surfers like it: then the Kite Collection with more covering items,
long sleeve tops and leggings also because riders need to protect from sun rays.
Where is Bianca Bikinis more popular these days?
Currently in the Dominican Republic and throughout Europe where I sell on-line
and through local shops. I would like to be more popular in Italy too, so that
through my products I could popularize both kitesurfing and the other water
sports which don't have to be a men’s monopoly, like abroad where women enthusiasts
are so many.

112
STORIES
The second life of Bianca: from passion for kitesurfing to bikinis for female riders
Where can people buy your bikinis from?
On my website www.biancabikins.com and on my social networks Facebook and
Instagram. For those who want to try them on, on my website there’s a list of the
shops that sell them both in Italy and abroad.
WWW.BIANCABIKINS.COM
Bianca
Forzano

114
MEDITATION
Is kiteboarding a dangerous water sport?
Is kiteboarding a
dangerous water
sport?
IT IS ONE THE OLDEST ASSERTIONS EVER MADE ABOUT THE SPORT:
IF YOU RIDE A KITE, YOU CAN GET YOURSELF KILLED. BUT HOW
TRUE IS THAT? IS IT A PRECONCEIVED IDEA OR KITEBOARDING
WILL, SOONER OR LATER, INJURE YOU?
In 2012, Amit Inbar, an Israeli windsurfer
stated that "kiteboarding is ten
times more dangerous than windsurfing".
Both sports were fighting for a
spot in the Olympic program, and the
discussions between both sides of the
barricade were slightly heated up.
But, how accurate was Inbar's statement?
Were people putting their
lives at risk by riding a kite in medium-to-high
wind conditions? The
truth is that kite accidents are everywhere.
They're in the news, and scary
footage featuring horrendous tragedies
can be easily found in any popular
video-sharing website like YouTube
or Vimeo.
We all know the horrible truth. People
have been seriously injured or killed
while kiteboarding, and that is not
good for any sport.
They've been slammed against piers
and breakwaters, buildings and parking
lots, or thrown up in the air like
marionettes before free-falling from
impossible heights.
In the first decade of the new millennium,
kiteboarding developed a negative
reputation essentially through
terrible pictures and frightening videos
of incredible crashes and disastrous
line entanglements.
Sports specialists and detractors said
that kite lines are like knives in high
winds and that kites are bombs ready
to explode at any moment. Kiteboard-

ing was constantly attacked for being
a life-threatening sport that also
put other people's lives - mainly surfers,
windsurfers, bodyboarders, and
beachgoers - in jeopardy.
So, is kiteboarding really dangerous?
Are water sports enthusiasts signing
a death warrant when they try kitesurfing
for the first time? Or are safety
issues one of the myths that continue
to depict the sport?
And if you take into consideration that
the percentage of sports accidents
taking place in the water and on land
is identical, then it is fair to say that
kitesurfing is, as we know it today, a
reasonably safe sport.
The truth is that knowledge reduces
danger also in kiteboarding. Like with
any other physical activity, kiteboarding
will never be a risk-free sport. There
are many technical, environmental,
and personal variables involved in the
equation.

116
MEDITATION
Is kiteboarding a dangerous water sport?
Wind is a very serious power source
and is constantly shifting. But today,
safety is in the riders' hands. They're
the ones who make kiteboarding a
pleasant and secure sport, or a lethal
activity. And more than 90 percent of
the risks can be handled by getting to
know how the sport works, and what
should be done to mitigate accidents.
If you've decided to learn to ride a
kite, book a few lessons in a certified
school. And never go out by yourself
without understanding how your wing
flies in the wind window. If you're desperate
to start kiteboarding, get yourself
a kite and fly it in an open space
area, unhooked from the harness, and
in light wind conditions.
Get acquainted with the fundamental
rules of kiteboarding and the safety
sailing procedures, and respect everyone
in and out of the water.

"The truth is that
knowledge reduces
danger also in
kiteboarding. Like
with any other
physical activity,"

118
EXPERIENCES
Thierry Schmitter: I am paraplegic, I kitesurf and I just don't care
Thierry Schmitter
I AM PARAPLEGIC, I KITESURF AND I JUST DON'T
David Ingiosi

Sport and adventure have always run in Thierry
Schmitter's veins. French by birth but Dutch by
adoption, he spent his childhood by the sea, on the
beach of Scheveningen at Den Haag, where he still
lives at 47 years of age. However, as a boy, mountains
fascinated him more than wind and waves:
he dreamt of becoming a mountain guide. And
mountains, although giving him many emotions
and unforgettable days, also ripped off a piece of
his life. Actually, a piece of his body, his legs. In fact,
at twenty years old Thierry becomes paraplegic. In
1998, during a family holiday in Switzerland, while
climbing a frozen waterfall with his father he was
hit by an avalanche which made him fall off for over
70 meters.
He saved himself, but in that gorge in the Alps he
broke his back and lost the use of his legs. "In the
mountains there is always a challenge in front of
you - he says - and you must make the right choices
very quickly, you have to face constant risks and
learn how to handle them. You pay directly for the
consequences of your decisions with no discounts.
Of course, this means danger, but it also gives you
great rewards".
For my children the
wheelchair is just a toy
Despite this serious accident Thierry never gave
up. "I was never really discouraged or depressed
not even for a moment. I am like that, I always keep
on looking to the future and I like making plans. At
that time, sport was everything to me and I had lost
everything that was important to me. But I soon realized
that I had to put myself back together both
for myself and for my young family with two small
children”. That's when Thierry received great support
from his family and his children. "Children
don’t pay attention to my wheelchair. For them it's
just a toy, nothing more".
The joy of the bronze medal
at the London Paralympic
Games
Thierry put himself back into play with a new
fighting spirit and once he had finished his rehabilitation,
he found a new way to live his passion
for sports: sailing. He started sailing on a special
one-design for disabled people like him, the 2.4mR.
He slowly started to enjoy it and began to train seriously
to take part in competitions. His dedication
was rewarded with a beautiful bronze medal at the
London Paralympic Games in 2012. The previous
year he had been elected disabled athlete of the
year in the Netherlands. But Thierry doesn't particularly
value this title. "I am much prouder of my
second position at the World Championship where
I competed against the best sailors in the world".
He learns how to kitesurf in
Aruba
Despite his gratifications in the international sailing,
some years later Thierry Schmitter starts to
suffer the stress of that world and discovers kitesurfing
on a beach in Brittany. He wanted to learn
that sport as he thought it was perfect for sailing
seated and full of adrenaline, so he left for the Caribbean
island of Aruba, where in 10 days he learnt

120
EXPERIENCES
Thierry Schmitter: I am paraplegic, I kitesurf and I just don't care
how to pilot the kite and handle the board. "Kitesurfing
makes me feel totally independent and truly
in touch with nature and everything around me,"
explains Thierry. Since that beginners’ course, Thierry
Schmitter has been kitesurfing for many years
also in competitions and he's one of the pioneers of
the so-called "Sit Kite", that is kitesurf for disabled
people.
He moved back to Den Haag and works as examiner
at the European Patent Office of marine technology.
But as the wind picks up, he goes to the beach for
some amazing sessions. He uses F-One kites and a
standard hydrofoil board of the same French brand
that he modified with the help of the designer
Charles Bertrand, equipped it with reinforcements
and a special seat made of a carbon fibre monocoque
piece.
There's nothing I need, just
take me to the water
"I am a member of Jumpteam, an association which
counts 1.000 members. We have a club house on the
beach and even in winter, there is always someone

there that takes me with a cart on the beach to the
shore. It's important for me to do my sport without
much help and be able to handle almost everything
by myself. If you need an army of helpers, then fun’s
over. I just need someone that gets me in the water
and helps me launch and land the kite".
But cruising is not enough for Thierry. "Shallow
water bores me. I love riding waves and I use them
for jumping and surfing. I often go for long downwinds
of at least 20 km. With a great advantage: my
thighs never start burning” (he laughs).
Sit Kite is spreading
worldwide
As well as practice it, Thierry Schmitter travels
the world as Sit Kite ambassador and he
would love to see this sport more and more
accessible to those who have a handicap like
him. "I am old now, but the next sit kiters generation
will certainly throw kiteloops and handlepasses.
This year, I want to produce video
tutorials to inspire even more people with disabilities
to approach this sport".

122
EXPERIENCES
Thierry Schmitter: I am paraplegic, I kitesurf and I just don't care
For those who would like more information, go to Thierry's website
WWW.SITKITE.COM

"Shallow water bores me. I love
riding waves and I use them for
jumping and surfing"

PROUD PRODUCT OF PROLIMIT
THE FUTURE OF WETSUIT LININGS
THERMAL REBOUND lining is directly derived from survival blankets
for the protection against cold conditions. Extra protection layer between
the neoprene and zodiac lining to reflect body heat and to block wind chill.
HEAT • PROTECT • REFLECT
Stay warm with the light Aluminium coated lining THERMAL REBOUND

126
MARKET
Shopping on line: Kiteworldshop’s backstage
SHOPPING ON LINE:
KITEWORLDSHOP’S
BACKSTAGE
David Ingiosi

FEDERICO
SUGONI
The eCommerce universe has now infected also the kiters' community which
for years has been turning to virtual shops to buy any equipment, accessories
and technical clothing. One of the advantages of buying online is the
large range of products immediately available, secure payment methods and
fast deliveries. However, technical advice from the designated personnel is
still important to help customers make the best choice as well as the after-sale
assistance service. One of the eShops that is increasingly growing at
international level is Kiteworldshop. We've asked Federico Sugoni, passionate
rider, manager and owner to tell us all about this virtual shop that is creating
a model of efficiency and satisfaction among those riders who choose it.

128
MARKET
Shopping on line: Kiteworldshop’s backstage
Federico, when did you start kitesurfing and how did you
get the idea of an e-shop?
I started kitesurfing back in 2006 in Hawaii and it was love
at first sight. Unfortunately, back then instead of joining
a course I relied on a good friend of mine to help me as a
beginner and this is why for me the beginning was quite
frustrating and difficult, especially considering that my
very first sessions were in a spot that I wouldn’t call fit for
beginners, Mokuleia, North Shore of Oahu. ECommerce was
born from my desire to combine my work to my passions
and thanks to my strong managerial experience in the German
group which controls Mediamarkt (Mediaworld) as
Sales Director and as head of eCommerce in Italy, once I
started my entrepreneurial career, I also started Kiteworldshop.
Why did you choose the name Kiteworldshop?
Because our ambition is to become the best eCommerce
website in the world dedicated to board sports. Today we are
already among the top 5-6 websites in the world in terms of
turnover, but we still have a long way to go to reach the top.
We currently have thousands of customers worldwide and
offer the majority of the brands in the market.
In your e-shop there is quite a lot of dedication to the
universe of kiteboarding but not just that, right?
That's right, we have the largest SUP selection in the market
and our catalogue continues to enlarge its offer with
wetsuits and accessories, but we also put dedication into
windsurfing as well as surfing and soon we’ll offer a wide
choice for wakeboarding enthusiasts.
Which brands do you work with at the moment?
We have built a relationship with those brands that supported
us since the beginning such as Cabrinha, Naish,
NP Surf, Prolimit and JP Australia but we continue to create
partnerships with the major brands in the market and
we aim at offering the widest selection ever in the web. To
date, our offer also includes Core, F-one, RRD, Duotone, Fanatic,
ION, STX, Jobe, Moses, Levitaz, Ronix, Flysurfer, Ocean
sunglasses, Aqua marina, Volcom and soon also Eleveight,
Slingshot, Ride engine, Mystic and Matuse as well as other

ands related to wakeboarding and surfing.
Today sports enthusiasts prefer online shopping compared
to the past. How do you meet their needs?
Making our customers happy is our only mission, that's
why we spend a lot of our time with them in live chats or
on the phone trying to find the products that best suit their
specific needs. Our wide offer gives us the opportunity to
widely extend our search of the right match customer/
product and this is highly appreciated, I believe that the
high level of our advice is one of our strengths.
Customer service is a strategic area of this business.
What is your experience about it?
As I said, we firmly believe that the success of a website is
necessarily related to a high-quality customer support service,
this why we pay our full attention and professionalism
in the management of our customers. Usually we reply in
much faster times compared to the average in the industry
and we strive for finding the solution that makes the
customer satisfied. This is why we are very happy to see
that our customers satisfaction mirrors in the reviews we
receive on Trustpilot where we have a score of excellence
that varies between 9.3 and 9.4.
You recently attended a convention on the state of the art
of e-shops as a positive model. How did it go?
I can tell you that talking about our project for over an hour
in front of the enthusiastic audience of the Prestashop Day
Milano, with an audience of over 2,000 people curious and
full of questions, was particularly exciting, confirmed the
happy moment we are experiencing and gave us the right
motivation to further accelerate our growth process.

130
TUTORIAL
BONAIRE TRANSITIONS
BONAIRE
TUTORIAL
TRANSITIONS
FLYSURFER KITEBOARDING RIDER DYLAN VAN DER MEIJ,
TAKES US WITH HIM FOR A SMALL HOW-TO TUTORIAL CLIP
ON TRANSITIONS, TEXT INSTRUCTIONS BELOW!

1.
BACKROLL HAND DRAG:
Come into the trick with proper speed
and your kite high. Kick up your board
while gaining some lift out of the kite
and put your front hand in the water.
Keep sending the kite to the other side
slowly, and keep the power in the kite
by sheeting in. It might take you a few
tries to get the right combination of
speed and power in the kite so you will
get the right height. Experiment with
sheeting the bar in and out!
2.
CARVE + BACKROLL:
Speed is key for this trick! Go into the
carve full speed and send your kite
to the other side as hard as possible
while maintaining your edge. When
your kite is on the other side, it's time
for the backroll. Try to keep line tension
throughout the carve and make
the same pop-movement like a normal
backroll.
3.
WRAP AROUND:
Jump like a normal transition and
grab the lower fin on the heelside edge
on the nose of the board. Kick up your
leg and circle around the board, once
you reach your arm, let go and quickly
finish the rotation with your leg.
Then grab the board again. Try to keep
your board in the same position while
letting go of your hand. Keep up the
board with your foot that is still in the
straps.
4.
BACKROLL HP:
Unhook with the kite high, send it
to the other side and get launched.
Rotate from the take-off and pass.
Sounds easy, it is not ;)
5.
BACKROLL OVER WATER:
Sheet out and send the kite over 12
o’clock. Keep edging throughout the
whole rotation and 180* your board
when you finished the rotation. Sheet
in again to gain speed and ride away.
6.
OFF AXIS:
Basically, two backrolls with the last
one inverted. Take off with your kite at
12 so you jump up straight instead of
forward. Start the first backroll from
the take-off. When you finished the
first rotation you have to force yourself
into the second, inverted one by
flipping your upper body. Don’t forget
what side of the bar to pull to make it
a transition and start pulling a little
bit once you started the second rotation,
this will make sure you will gain
some speed on the landing instead of
falling out of the sky.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO

132
TUTORIAL
HOW TO CHANGE THE LEADING EDGE BLADDER
HOW TO CHANGE THE
TUTORIAL
LEADING EDGE BLADDER
EVERYBODY HOPES NOT TO HAVE ANY ISSUES WITH THE KITE
BUT IT MIGHT HAPPEN THAT IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR SES-
SION YOU START TO SEE YOUR KITE ASSUMING A WEIRD
SHAPE AND YOU REALIZE THAT IS LEAKING AIR. SO, YOU
DON’T WANT TO WASTE YOUR TIME AND YOU WOULD LIKE TO
BE ABLE TO FIX YOUR KITE AND GO BACK IN THE WATER AS
SOON AS POSSIBLE!
TEXT and PICTURES: PROKITE ALBY RONDINA | Andrea

1.CHECK WHAT’S THE PROBLEM
2.PREPARE THE KITE TO REMOVE THE BLADDER
3.REMOVING THE BLADDER (ONLY ONE HALF)

134
TUTORIAL
HOW TO CHANGE THE LEADING EDGE BLADDER
4.REPAIRING THE BLADDER
5.INSERT THE REPAIRED BLADDER
6.LAST STEPS AND FINAL CHECK
Note: While today’s kites are much more durable than the ones built a few years ago, a damaged
bladder is still a fairly common problem. If your kite has a bladder that is damaged beyond repair,
you can easily buy a new bladder blank and self-stick valves to build your own replacement.

136
TEST
Inobo: the new interchangeable and cool board
Inobo: the new interchangeable and cool board
This new board is designed for any
kitesurfer for any style, from Freeride
beginners to more experienced Freestyle
riders that unhook or throw double
Handlepasses, to kiters that land
aggressive megaloops. It's called Inobo
and surprised us with its versatility
and performance.
Technology
The frame of the board consists of
2 main parts. The Skeleton, a lightweight
carbon frame produced in
France is the basis of the board. (the
whole board is manufactured in
France and only the pads are manufactured
elsewhere in Europe). And the
Deck which is the underside part and
it’s interchangeable to your liking or
needs.

You can choose among the following
5 decks:
- Wavio / Wave Freeride. It's a deck
with a very soft progressive flexibility,
suitable for Freeride and light riders.
- Stratos / Freeride Bigair. It's a deck
with a progressively stiffer flexibility
at the centre and softer on the nose
and tail, allowing to absorb vibrations
in choppy conditions and soften very
hard landings. It has a great pop and
is great for Freestyle hooked.
- Woodio / Freestyle. It's a stiffer deck
compared to the Stratos, but the material
offers an excellent riding comfort
and allows harder pops and greater
buoyancy.
- Evio / Freestyle. It is a pure Freestyle
board with explosive pop.
- Nevio. It's a deck for heavy riders,
light wind conditions and suitable for
kitesurfing schools.
For our test we tried the Stratos deck
size 138/41 cm.
The idea of this board is really the
technical state of the art. More than
once I happened to crawl my board
over the rocks and I had to throw it
away. This technology allows you to
bin only the deck and with only 100 euros
you have a new deck. The design is
spectacular: all this carbon together
with Lexan (a material also used for
the police riot shields) it's fantastic.
One sure doesn't go unnoticed on the
beach with a board like that. It attracts
everyone's attention.

138
TEST
Inobo: the new interchangeable and cool board
I am 1.90 cm tall and 95 kg of weight
and I was amazed by the buoyancy of
the board and its upwind capacity. The
frame allows a unidirectional flex that
nullifies the chop effect while cruising
offering a comfort never felt before
also thanks to its high-quality pads
made by SP BOARDING, very soft and
with an excellent grip.
In this version the pop is not too much.
For advanced Freestyle it's necessary
to go for the wood or carbon version,
but for a "light" Freestyle unhooked
use it's more than excellent.
At first the board feels fragile, but I
must confess that once I've had it, my
rider friends and I tested it real tough
in any condition and hard landings
from over 10 m and it behaved just fine
bearing and unloading all the power of
very aggressive megaloops.
It is very comfortable for Freeriding
and at first the feeling is unique as
never felt before with other boards. It
adapts well to light wind allowing you
to ride upwind pretty easily.
It was also tested by riders with knee
problems: a normal board cannot absorb
all the vibrations coming from
waves and chop. With this board it's
as if the chop does not exist.
Another upside is that anyone can
personally test the board over different
spots. As Ambassadors for Italy
we can make you test the board at the
Stagnone of Marsala. You just need to
get in touch beforehand on Instagram
or Facebook on our page Photokitesurf
and let us know which set up you
would like to try. Once tested, it's really
difficult to go back to a "normal"
board.

For more info check out
www.photokitesurf.com
and www.inobo.fr

140
EQUIPEMENT
HARNESS: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE
HARNESS
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE
Are you buying a new harness for your kiteboarding sessions?
Are you unsure about which size to choose? Check out our
handy kite harness size-chart.

The harness is one of the most overlooked
gear items in the sport of kitesurfing.
The truth is that it not only
keeps you connected to the kite, but it
can also save your life.
The most popular type of kite harness
is the waist harness. It is comfortable,
safe, easier to swim with, and provides
a freer riding experience comparing to
seat harnesses and boardshorts harness.
From a user's perspective, it's important
that the harness feels snug and
tight, adapting well to your body structure.
To find out which model suits you
best, all you need to do, it’s measure
the narrowest part of your waist above
your belly button.
The kite harness size-chart is merely
an indicative suggestion, not an absolute
definition. But it should help you
decide the best model for your body.
The main kite harness manufacturers
are Mystic, ION, RRD, Ride Engine,
Manera, Dakine, NP, and Ozone.
Remember to check whether your favorite
kite harness meets the four basic
criteria: comfort, safety, quality of
materials, and fitting.
The following charts will help you get
the right model for your specific body
measurements and represent the
official sizes recommended by the
brands.

142
EQUIPEMENT
HARNESS: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE
MYSTIC
ION
Men
Men
SIZE (US/EU)
WAIST (IN/CM)
XXS / 36-38 26''-29'' / 66-71
XS / 40-42 28''-30'' / 71-76
S / 44-46 30''-32'' / 76-81
M / 48-50 32''-34'' / 81-86
L / 50-52 34''-36 / 86-91
XL / 54-56 36''-38'' / 91-96
XXL / 56-58 37''-39'' / 96-101
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS 25''-29'' / 63,5-
73
S 28''-31'' / 71-78
M 30''-33'' / 76-
83,8
L 32''-35'' / 81-89
XL 34''-37'' / 86-94
Women
Women
SIZE (US/EU)
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS / 34-36 24''-26'' / 61-66
S / 36-38 26''-28'' / 66-71
M / 38-40 28''-30'' / 71-76
L / 40+ 30''-32'' / 76-81
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS 24''-27'' / 60-68
S 26''-29'' / 66-73
M 28''-31'' / 71-78
L 30''-33'' / 76-83

RRD
RIDE ENGINE
Men
Men/Women
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XXS / 36-38 26''-28'' / 66-71
XS / 40-42 28''-30'' / 71-76
S / 44-46 30''-32'' / 76-81
M / 48-50 32''-34'' / 81-86
L / 50-52 34''-36 / 86-91
XL / 54-56 36''-38'' / 91-96
XXL / 56-58 37''-39'' / 96-101
Women
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS 24''-26'' / 60-66
S 26''-30'' / 66-76
S 31''-33'' / 78-84
M 32''-34'' / 81-86
M 33''-36 / 84-91
L 35'-37'' / 89-94
XL 37''-39'' / 94-99
XL 39''-44'' / 99-
112
SIZE (US/EU)
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS / 36-38 26''-28'' / 66-71
S / 40-42 28''-30'' / 71-76
M / 44-46 30''-32'' / 76-81
L / 32-34 32''-34'' / 81-86

144
EQUIPEMENT
HARNESS: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE
MANERA
DAKINE
Men/Women
Men
SIZE
WAIST (CM)
XS 68-72
S 72-79
M 79-86
L 86-93
XL 93-100
XXL 100-108
SIZE
WAIST (CM)
XS 71-76
S 76-81
M 81-86
L 86-91
XL 91-96
XXL 96-101
Women
SIZE
WAIST (CM)
XS 66-71
S 71-76
M 76-81
L 81-86

NP
OZONE
Men
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS 28''-30'' / 71-78
S 30''-32'' / 76-83
M 32''-34'' / 81-88
L 34''-38''/ 86-96
XL 38''-40'' / 91-98
Women
Men/Women
SIZE
WAIST(IN/CM)
XXS 26.7''-28.7''/ 68-73
XS 28.3''-30.3'' / 72-77
S 29.5''-31.5'' / 75-80
M 31.1''-33.5'' / 79-85
L 33.1''-35.4'' / 84-90
XL 35.0''-37.8'' / 89-96
XXL 37.4''-40.1'' / 95-102
XXXL 39.4''-42.1'' / 100-107
SIZE
WAIST (IN/CM)
XS 23''-25'' / 56-63
S 25''-27'' / 63-70
M 27''-29'' / 70-76
L 28''-32'' / 76-82

S TAY
SALTY.
lucamarcis@hotmail.com
S T A Y
S A L T Y

- S T A Y S A L T Y -

148
PRODUCT FOCUS
Naish
Product focus
HOVER 112
www.NAISHKITES.com
Text and Photo: Naish Courtesy
Expert Foiling
Highly compact with minimal
volume, the Hover 112 takes
full advantage of minimalist
design. Intended for experienced-to-expert
foilers, this petite
board delivers superior control
in tight turns for a dynamic and
responsive riding experience.
When riding strapless, another
key advantage of its size is the
ability to sink the board and position
it on its edge for easier
take-offs. Its precise, CNC cut,
closed cell core is wrapped in
lightweight, high-tensile fiber-

SIZES:
LENGTH
112 cm
WIDTH
45.8 cm
THICKNESS
3.8 cm
KEY FEATURES
• Extreme Compact Design = Minimalist board
• Rounded Edges = More forgiving ride
• Double UD Deck Fiberglass Reinforcement = Increases stiffness & board feedback when launched
• Lightweight = Responsive feel & minimal weight
• Full 3D Double Density Deck Pad = Excellent comfort + cushioning + traction + flotation
• CNC Shape = Absolute precision shaping
• (2) 10” US Boxes = Convenient foil adjustment
Construction:
High Tensile Fiberglass
35 kg EPS Closed Cell Core
glass, which heightens durability
without weighing it down.
The dual track system allows
riders to instantly adjust where
the foil sits on the board, for a
more customized riding experience.
Once you master foiling,
“less is more. . ." and these boards
provide everything you
want, with nothing you don’t!
When pairing Naish Hover Foilboards
with your Naish Foil, use
the screws supplied with the
foil.

150
PRODUCT FOCUS
Core
Product focus
CORE GTS5 | GTS5 LW
www.corekites.com
Text and Photo: CORE KITE Courtesy
SIZES:
5.0 | 6.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 10.0 | 11.0 | 12.0 | 13.5 | LW 15.0 | LW 17.0
FREESTYLE | WAVE |
FREERIDE
The wait is over. After ten years
of iterative development, CO-
RE's Universal+ Series GTS5 is
here. It succeeds but does not
stray from the venerable GTS4
which proved unbeatable at
Holland's Megaloop Challenge.
The GTS4's signature Future-C
powered kiteloops, and unhooked
confidence is legendary.
Countless prototyping sessions
were made to carefully preserve
the GTS4's unique qualities
while improving its flight stability
especially when looping. Freestyle
Ninja. Megaloop Machine.
And more. The indomitable
GTS5 is built with precision steering;
a prodigious operating
range; and CORE's legendary
linear power.

Its fully adjustable handling lets
riders throw the tightest loops
(in waves) and the biggest Cape
Town style megaloops in total
control.
Explosiveness defined: Future-C
shape, three struts, and
ultra short bridles.
The GTS5 carries over its proven
ExoTex powered 3 Strut Frame,
Radical Reaction Tips, and
Short Bridles from the fantastic
GTS4. The GTS5 sports optimized
leading edge diameters and
tip geometry to improve flight
stability. CORE's new CIT Modes
customize the GTS5's handling
characteristics. In Wave mode,
riders can dial in compact turns
and more depower. Whereas in
Freestyle mode, the kite adds
more grunt and bigger turns.
As makers of the broadest lineup
of lightwind kites, CORE
naturally adds two GTS5 LW lightwind
editions in 15 and 17m
sizes. Mastering unhooked, and
wakestyle tricks in less than
perfect wind conditions is a
blast with CORE's lightwind machines.
CORE innovation at work.
The GTS5 continues to benefit
from CORE's relentless innovation.
The canopy's durability is
attributable to the triple ripstop
CoreTex fabric developed
in-house. And the kite's impro-

152
PRODUCT FOCUS
Core
ved aerodynamics is related to
its zero-stretch, high-pressure
ExoTex leading edge fabric.
Sensor Bar optimized.
The GTS5 performs at its best
with CORE’s ultralight Sensor
bar systems. They feature precise
kite control, unmatched safety,
and uncluttered simplicity.
The titanium reinforced, carbon
fiber Sensor 2S bar delivers unmatched
‘between-the-fingers’
single-handed comfort.
In stores now.
The GTS5 is available from 5m
to 13.5m in size while the GTS
LW edition is available as a 15m
or 17m. All sizes are available for
purchase at authorized CORE resellers.
Test one soon.
Innovazione CORE al lavoro.
Il GTS5 continua a beneficiare

154
PRODUCT FOCUS
Core
Key feature snapshot:
• 3 STRUT LIGHT FRAME: Super light yet amazingly rigid and durable.
• FUTURE-C SHAPE: True C-kite feel. For snappy turns with a controlled and consistent pull.
• RADICAL REACTION TIPS: C-style shaped wingtips for faster bar response.
• CIT MODES (NEW): Fully adjustable kite handling characteristics.
• EXOTEX® ULTRA RIGID DACRON: High pressure, zero stretch airframe.
• CORETEX® TRIPLE RIPSTOP CANOPY: Extreme durability and UV protection.
• ULTRASHORT BRIDLE SYSTEM: Improved kite feedback.
• INSTANT RELAUNCH: Reliable waterstarts under challenging conditions.
• SPEED VALVE 2: Quick, reduced effort inflation.
• SENSOR BAR READY: Pair with a Sensor 2 or 2S bar for maximum kite feedback and control.
• 6 YEAR PARTS GUARANTEE: Six-year parts availability guarantee.
See more on the GTS5 and GTS5 LW at:
corekites.com/us

156
PRODUCT FOCUS
RRD
Product focus
THE VARIAL 5'1"
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
Text & Photos: RRD Courtesy
Our dedicated, pure freestyle
strapless kitesurf shape. The
brand new RRD Varial was born
out of a necessity for a board
that is suited for those dedicated
to the strapless freestyle discipline.
RRD is no stranger to the
C.O.T.A.N. (cut off nose and tail)
shape. And now with the Varial,
will have one of the most badass
boards on the market. You
can expect this board to be extremely
light and thin, the thinnest
in our range, with a very
low profile. This razor-sharp
design enhances handling, control,
and sets the foundation for
the highest level strapless freestyle
riding.
Going huge on a strapless board?
The channels running down
the deck allow for that hands
on approach to adding stylish

Features:
• Extremely lightweight and thin so it grips the water, sticks to the feet, and is easy to grab on the
water or in the air.
• Deep bottom channels running from tip to tail to increase air- and water flow for tracking and control
at high speeds.
• Thin rails from nose to tail
• Super thin profile throughout
• Deep concave throughout the entire board with a flat, kicked tail, released by a progressive rocker
• Strictly thruster fin setup for sliding control and better for riding in reverse.
• Insertless = no inserts on this dedicated strapless freestyle board.
grabs. Turn it over to realize that
the bottom shape of this board
is in a league of its own. The
steep, deep, bottom channels
running from tip to tail increase
air and water flow underneath
the Varial which not only improves
the tracking capacity for
an impressive amount of speed
and control, but also increases
its upwind ability, which is crucial
during competitions!
These aggressive channels also
disperse the water when landing,
while also driving the board
forward, making stomping
those tricks much easier and
more consistently. The Varial’s
construction provides an essential
balance of strength and
weight. The top level strapless
riders need a board that is light
enough to glue to the feet and
also have the strength to withstand
some hard and fast landings.
Because this board is for the dedicated
strapless rider, we dedicated
it as a strapless board. No
inserts will be found on the deck
of the Varial. You may ride with
only the rear pad and wax the
deck for the pure strapless feel
or with both the tail pad and the
deck pad, the choice is yours,
the board comes with the deck
pad unglued. We also decided
on the Thruster set up to improve
sliding and control when landing
or riding in reverse.
If riding strapless is your passion,
then you will ‘flip’ once you
get on board the new RRD Varial!

158
PRODUCT FOCUS
RRD
Product focus
RELIGION MK9
www.robertoriccidesigns.com
Text & Photos: RRD Courtesy
‘Read waves, not slogans’
The first thing that comes to
mind when this kite is mentioned
is SURF.
As the first kite manufacturer
to make a kitesurf specific kite,
RRD knows a thing or two about
wave kites. There are not many
kites out there that can drift like
the new Religion MK9, allowing
you to ride the wave instead of
being pulled by your kite. The
new Religion MK9 is the epitome
of the perfect kitesurfing
kite.
The MK9 has undergone only
minute changes compared to
our most successful wave kite,
the Religion MK8. The large sizes,
9m up to 12m, remain virtually
the same while the smaller
sizes, 8m down to 4m, have
a revised leading edge and

again the addition of a pulley.
These changes on the smaller
sizes allow the kite to self-regulate
in stronger conditions, which
makes you hold on comfortable
in stronger winds. Next to
that it increases the wind range
and provides more hang time
for those who still like to send it!
If speed is what you need, the
MK9 is our fastest version yet!
This significant boost in speed
and performance position this
kite into a more specific and focused
wave catching machine.
Unlike most fast turning surf kites
on the market, the Religion
MK9 still maintains that signature
pull and power which helps
to get in a few extra turns down
the line.
With a new deep and long leading
edge in the small sizes,
the Religion MK9 now has more
range and control in strong, gusty
winds, more depower, and
has also increased the kite’s
upwind ability. The new shape
not only improves the speed
and reaction time but also
allows you to kill the harness
pressure when bottom turning
and lining up for a big vertical
turn on the wave or for more
control during your strapless
freestyle manoeuvres.
An additional, notable feature
added to the new MK9, per the
request of our top performers
in the strapless freestyle kitesurfing
discipline, is the front
line trim settings that can be
found on the bridle. We have
added a wave setting and a freestyle
wave setting. The freestyle
wave setting pulls less on
the harness, has a more direct
bar feeling, de-powers the kite
more when needed and forces
the kite to fly more towards the
edge of the window which creates
more lift! The wave setting
is more suited towards purely
riding in the surf with less bar
pressure and a kite that sits deeper
in the wind window, maximizing
the drift for when riding
down the line.
We build our kites to be stronger
than the rest! The graphics of
the Religion have allowed us to
create a web of Dacron reinforcements
on the canopy that give
the whole structure of the kite
unmatched rigidity. Our wave
proof construction is made up
of 60% heavy duty Dacron fabrics
and 40% of a lightweight
double ripstop D2 Technoforce
canopy for the sizes up to 8m.
The bigger sizes (>8m) have the
opposite; 40% heavy duty Dacron
& 60% lightweight D2. This
unique mix is used only in the
Religion kites, thus with the right
weight-strength ratio it creates
superior crash resistance
and extends the lifespan of the
kite.
To sum it up, the new Religion

160 PRODUCT FOCUS
MK9 allows for a wider range of
RRD
use both on the high and low
end of the kite. Faster, better
lift during jumps, outstanding
drifting characteristics, easy
relaunch and an enormous progressive
de-power that will stop
the kites’ power, or power ups,
exactly when you need it.
Since its first introduction, this
kite has transformed together
with the evolution of riding waves
with a kite.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
• Front-line trim setting with two options; wave / freestyle-wave
• Quick Air Flow Valve, with special moulded protection cap and reduced dimensions.
• Bridle anti-tangle device
• Wide tips for extra maneuverability
• 4m, 5m, 6m, 7m & 8m have a pulley on the bridle, to handle the strong gusty conditions and improve
the stability.
• 8m, 9m, 10,5m & 12m have a higher aspect ratio to improve the speed, power and reaction time.

THE RELIGION IS THE STRONGEST KITE ON THE MARKET BECAUSE OF A:
• Bullet proof construction that creates a strong structural frame with a mix of 195 grams. Polyant
Dacron and light weight D2 Techno Force Double Ripstop.
• Internal and external extra reinforcements on every leading edge panel to ensure long lasting stitching
and a rigid connection.
• Exclusive Strut/Leading edge reinforcement D2 Techno Force Double Ripstop panel sewn at 45
degrees on the larger sizes. This spreads the impact loads over a wider area.
• Radial Canopy reinforcements around the trailing edge of the kite, are positioned in a way that intersects
the Techno Force Double Ripstop. This not only increases strength and durability on sensitive
areas but also compliments the torsion placed on the kite, thus improving the overall flying characteristics.
• All struts are reinforced with Kevlar stitched to the ends which reduce abrasion and the new design
also prevents sand from getting into the kite. The middle strut includes Kevlar and an additional layer
of Dacron because it suffers the most on impacts.
• Our Bridle attachment points are reinforced with a soft PU external protection and an internal double
adhesive Dacron patch, to increase durability.
• Our ‘External Scuff Protectors’ are additional reinforcements on all scuff points strengthened with
EVA reinforcements to extend the life and durability of the kite. This EVA is then encased in Insignia
secured by a double stitch that adds to the durability of high stress points.

NEXT ISSUE DECEMBER-JENUARY OUT ON THE 2 TH OF DECEMBER 2018