I'm a sold intermediate kiter, 6'4 225 lbs. Like many of you, I have work and family obligations that prohibit running to the beach every time the wind is on. Accordingly, when I can kite I want to have great sessions, and I want to get on the water no matter how light the wind is (not easy at my weight).
I've been intrigued by the new strutless Maui Boardriding Cloud kites. I have read and viewed everything online about them, most of which has been overwhelmingly positive. However, I wanted to try them before buying.
Two local kiters here in Jupiter were kind enough to loan me a 17M and 13M Cloud kite today. Conditions were light winds ranging from 10 – 15 mph at most. The fact that I could get up on my twintip was amazing, and the fact that I had a great day on the water that otherwise would have been a bust is priceless.
Some characteristics of the Cloud kites:
-Light and Stable in the air
-Smooth Seamless Power
-Quick Turning (Yes, even the 17M)
-Light Bar pressure, much less fatiguing
-Extremely Efficient
I got going on my regular twintip board in winds far lighter than I have with any other kite. You can kite in lighter winds and/or ride smaller kites
I watched an advanced rider shredding on a surfboard with the 13M Cloud in 10-14 mph wind, carving turns I like a maniac.
Some people have commented on the occasional “luffing” the kite exhibits. This is true, and it is analogous to a sail. When a sail is luffing, it needs to be sheeted to return to the optimal aerodynamic shape. A quick sheet adjustment tightens up the kite and you know you are back to optimum aerodynamic performance. Also, this kite needs some power for steering, if the kite is fully depowered your steering is limited.
If you need kites, I strongly encourage you to consider the Cloud. The fact that it's much cheaper than other kites is just a bonus.
I have no vested interest in this or any other kite brands or products.