In Focus: Naish 2017 Product Overview: The Kites and Control Systems
Features / Thu 18th Aug, 2016 @ 6:00 pm
Another day of stoke for kiters across the globe, check out the new additions to the 2017 Naish product line up. For the 2017 season we see the all new Quad-Tex 4x reinforced ripstop introduced, a redesigned Pivot, the all new Slash, the Torch with ESP, Torque control systems, redesigned twin tips, Apex 2 bindings, redesigned directional boards and the all new Hover foil / foil board range. We’re pretty excited to get our hands on the new gear! For now we will leave you with the low down on the slick new gear from Naish… Firstly check out the 2017 collection overview movie…
Technology: Quad-Tex
A collaboration between Teijin and Naish, Quad-Tex is the strongest, most responsive kite canopy material on the market. Taking a “strength-first” approach, Quad-Tex is constructed with a matrix of 4x-reinforced ripstop, which is balanced to the optimal strength-to-weight ratio for heavy-duty rip protection. Quad-Tex consistently outperforms leading canopy materials, testing over 30% stronger with the least elongation and stretch. The result is a more rigid, responsive kite that you can count on, day in and day out.
2017 Kites
Pivot
Freeride / Wave
Predictable power development, direct bar feel, intuitive steering and plenty of “sheet-in-and-go” are just a few characteristics that make the Pivot one of the most sought-after kites on the market. Adapting to a wide variety of wind and wave conditions, this kite features a medium aspect ratio for substantial low-end power, easy jumping and great upwind performance. Dynamic and responsive, it pivots quickly and easily on a small axis of rotation—with minimal power increase through turns—for super-smooth carving through waves and enhanced control going into and out of kiteloops.
Now constructed with Quad-Tex—the most advanced kite canopy material in existence—the Pivot is livelier and more responsive than ever. The stronger, stiffer fabric transfers energy more directly putting riders in complete control.
Easy-handling, well-rounded and incredibly versatile, it’s clear to see how the Pivot has become the all-around choice for everyone, everywhere.
Slash
Pure Wave / Strapless
Developed with elite riders on the crest of the most legendary waves in the world—and tested to perform in even the most sloppy, onshore conditions—the Slash offers a smooth, yet responsive experience that adapts easily to a diversity of surf and trick riding.
Born from the DNA of the renowned Pivot, the Slash features a lower aspect ratio and higher, wider wingtips for a compact overall outline which makes it easy to turn quickly and change direction. The swept wing tip delivers unmatched drifting ability, light bar pressure and quick relaunch. Perfectly balanced, the bridles and geometry are tuned to produce an incredibly stable shape and intuitive performance.
Constructed with Quad-Tex—a revolutionary new 4x-reinforced ripstop that is 30% stronger and stiffer than any other kite canopy material on the market—the Slash is, easily, one of the strongest kites around. Intuitive, durable, dynamic. . . the Slash puts you in control to rip the most out of your session.
Torch w/ ESP
Pro Performance / Freestyle
From design and testing to incremental perfecting, the Torch is a product of years of collaboration with the top kiters in the world in the most demanding of conditions. Flown year after year on the world tour—consistently dominating the King of the Air—this kite has pushed the boundaries of what was ever conceived possible. Offering smooth power delivery, with depower similar to that of a bridled kite, the Torch delivers precision response for hooked and unhooked riding.
Now available to a broader skillset, less experienced kiters can still ride like Jesse Richman, or Kevin Langeree with the Torch’s new ESP setting, which allows riders to adjust the depower for more forgiving controls with all the performance.
Taking this sought-after C-kite to the next level, the addition of the Quad-Tex canopy makes this commanding kite practically indestructible. Already engineered for solid control and handling in strong winds, the addition of Quad-Tex’s 4x-reinforced ripstop and perfectly balanced weave matrix—testing 30% stronger and stiffer than any other around—heightens the stability and responsiveness of the Torch design. The pinnacle of freestyle performance just became stronger and more accessible; time to experience the pure precision of the Torch.
Torque Control Systems
The AFNOR* certified Torque Control Systems offer a function-rich design with the all-new Torque Loop—the most advanced trim line system to date with a ball bearing swivel that keeps lines tangle-free. Extremely easy to release and reload, the patented Naish push-away quick release mechanism makes for consistently smooth operation regardless of line tension—keeping you secure while freeing you up to focus on what you love.
Torque ATB
The Torque ATB is a 4-line control system with an above-the-bar Clamcleat trim that is easily adjustable in height. Ideal for a wide variety of freeride, freestyle and wave riding, this bar is equipped with the most advanced trim loop mechanism to date. Engineered for consistent, hassle-free operation, the quick release features a linear release force, for easy release and reload, regardless of the tension on the line.
Torque BTB
Featuring the most advanced quick release trim loop mechanism to date, this function rich design offers extremely easy release and reload and a below-the-bar swivel for effortless untangling of lines. Whether freeride, freestyle or wave riding, the Torque BTB keeps you secure for a seamless riding experience.
Torque 5-Line
The Torque 5-line Control System features above-the-bar trim adjustment for pro-performance functionality while riding freestyle. Equipped with most advanced trim loop mechanism to date, the Torque Loop with swivel and convenient quick release provides near effortless release and reload keeping riders comfortable and secure.
Torque Compact BTB
Designed specifically for smaller riders, the Torque Compact BTB Control System puts things in proportion with a reduced bar throw and width. With perhaps the most advanced below-the-bar trim loop mechanism to date, this 4-line bar features a below-the-bar swivel for effortless untangling of lines, extremely easy release and reload and forgiving steering to keep you comfortable and secure whether freeride, freestyle or wave riding.
2017 Boards
Check Out The 2017 Naish Board Line Up
By Robin and Sukie
With years of kite sport experience combined, you can be sure you’ll be receiving the highest quality of knowledge on the best equipment the industry has to offer.
