finnkc wrote:Had a great first season. Took a lesson in the Caribbean and bought some gear when I returned home to the great lakes and started improving on my basics.
So now that I am looking to spring to get back on the water. I need some more gear, looking for recommendations and even stuff to stay away from.
Skill: beginner (10 sessions on the water)
Weight: 180-190lbs
Already own a 12m Envy and a light to moderate wind TT (145x41 little rocker and no concave). I was thinking 17m for the summer, a 9m for the windy days, and a good TT for chop.
Envy is good, but I am open to other kite shapes and brands for sure. Tried a Naish Bolt 10.5 and it was fast fast fast in comparison to the envy and I felt like it had almost the same low end with a much better high end. Also had my hands on a Blade Fat Lady for a bit and I really liked the way it was just dive, park, and cruise.
Looking for something easy to fly, has good low end power, and a high end that can tolerate gusts.
I am not too worried about boosting huge air and stuff like that at this point, just want to get out on the water with the right gear. Been looking at Kahoona / TS / Park / Ride / Xbow / Switchblade / Lithium / NRG / Envy. I have no idea what to put money on tho.
Also a good TT that eats chop?
Well if you liked the feel of the bolt, the Park will be faster, ut same type bar feel. Almost same range, a tad less grunty, but overall a bit better than the bolt...a tad more aggressive, but still stable.
If you like the "park the kite" and ride type, the Naish Ride kite is actually made for that exact thing. You can probably still pick up bolts for a good price..
The 9 Bolt is super good.
For the bigger size the Naish Fly will be great...very fast and agile for its size. Again similar bar feel to the bolt. There are a ton of good kites out there, but make sure you find what fits your riding style.
Same for TT, tons of good ones. I would look at something with a bit of rocker, and not too stiff in the beginning. Especially since you are not too worried about jumping huge. Stiffer boards are a little less easy to ride, but give better quicker feedback.