I'm going to be testing some new kites this weekend- will be buying a new quiver sometime this season. I'll have access to RRD, Ozone, Cabrinha, Ocean Rodeo, and Epic's lineups.
Have been flying a quiver of 2007 Cabrinha Omegas (7m, 9m, 12m)for the last 6 years in the 1:1 configuration (like a switchblade 2). They have been great, solid kites to progress on for my wife and I (120 lbs and 150 lbs), and we are now jumping and starting to learn backloops etc (veteran intermediate riders). We'll be keeping the current cab quiver and want to get something substantially different and unique. At some point we'll be venturing into the waves, but will be primarily freeriding in the flats.
Obviously I won't be able to try out every kite in all of those lineups, but I'd like to get a taste of some of the most unique kinds of kites that have been developed in the last 6 years. What stand-out models from each of those brands would you all recommend to experience the full gamut of the different styles of kites available these days? Last time I was paying attention there were deltas and hybrids, etc, but it doesn't seem like anyone is really differentiating kites in that manner anymore, so I'm just trying to get my bearings of where to start.
Appreciate any insight or suggestions!