Since September 2008 there has been a huge fall in the value of Sterling on the international markets. While the Dollar and Euro remain strong the British pound’s value has plummeted on the international markets, to the point at which £100 of equipment bought into the country is now costing £145. Most importers hedge currency, buying currency ahead of time to minimise the volatility fluctuations and this helps keep the importers in business with steady trading conditions, ironing out the bumps and keeping retail prices constant. Most importers will only be able to hedge (or book currency) up to 12 months in advance, and now that they have used this all up since September they now have no choice but to pay the higher price.

There is also a significant rise in the raw cost of goods from the factories in China as workers now have union rights and are forcing more wages out of factory owners, as well as increased raw material and transport costs.

This is somewhat of a double whammy, and what it means for Surfstore and yourselves is that prices are starting to go up. We have some stock here that was bought before the price rises and this will remain at the set price, but steadily, as this stock is sold through, prices will start to rise. We have previously never seen mid season price changes, but for the first time in 15 years it is starting to happen. Pryde group UK will set new retail prices on the 1st of Febuary.. we have the new prices here, and we expect all major manufacturers to follow.

As a rule, all boards are bought in Euro’s and all sails and kites in US Dollar. Although the Pound fell marginally against the euro all last year (previous high was 1.45 – we saw some board price increases in October time) it has recently fallen badly, and we expect board prices to rise once stock sells through. The Sails are all starting to go up now, as you can see by the price difference from the UK£ to the Dollar graph, as importers have been buying at poor echange rates for a while now.

To put this in perspective, the worlds most popular kite board is the Nobile 555, who’s name is it’s price in euros. In summer 2008 during sterling’s peak, this board retailed for £399, which at an exchange rate of 1.45 actually equated to £383, so it was £17 cheaper in Europe. At today’s exchange rate the same board should now cost £533, £134 cheaper in the UK than buying one in Europe, as the euro is now almost at parity with the pound.

Have a look at the following costings; we have been tracking average europen prices;
These are current average prices for 10m kites in Europe at today’s exchange rate..;

Rebel £1411
Rev £1360
Evo £1302
Cult £1236
Havoc £1237
Bandit II £1265
Cabrinha SB £1189

These are a great deal higher than the UK… Many brands are trying to keep their prices down to sell through the stock they have already made, as opposed to selling them off at the end of the year, but when this is done these prices are coming to the UK.. we have no idea when…

If you are planning on buying a set of kit for 2009 then it will most certainly be cheaper to do it sooner rather than later…. as we don’t expect the exchange rates to sort themselves out any time soon… we have been waiting for 6 months and there is no sign of a reversal at all, infact the graphs are quite horrific.

We will be looking for as many ways around this as we can with offer and sales equipment, but it won’t last forever, and this is the current situation as it stands. It’s not only water sports that will see this, it’s all consumer goods traded in the Dollar and Euro, which is mostly everything… Its the USD and Euro that are the currencies used to buy the raw materials, hence to fix factory production cost fluctuations.

Enclosed are the graphs of the dollar and euro, plotted against the uk pound; you can see the pounds value falling away…

A bit of a big one this; Nobile’s new Delta oriented kite, the N62. Delta kites are getting very popular, and for the last year Mark has been working on his own Delta project, trying to incorporate as much of the higher end handling characteristics into the easy to use platform of the Delta kite. After a lot of work, here is the result, and it’s squarely aimed at being the best handling Delta kite on the market, as it’s been tested quantitatively against them all right through it’s development.

Here is a rough guide of Delta’s issues and the N62′s answers to sort them out;
- Deltas sitting back in the window makes for less vertical jumps and poorer upwind performance.
*Efficiency has been improved, so upwind and jumping is more like the traditional hybrids.

- Turning although fast is axial, or bowlike, so the kite will turn without developing power, so it’s of no use for freestyle, or any moves where power is needed through the turn (waveriding too!).
*Turning ability has been engineered with more forward speed, so while this is certainly no NHP it is possible to do unhooked moves on whist having the kite turn. The N62 is (as all delta kites are) low aspect, and with correct foiling only in need of three struts which makes for a far lighter, more precise and athletic kite.

- The steering input and bar feedback is vague. Just like the original Bows the front lines are compromised (tow points too close together) and the resultant bar feel is wishy – washy; you can’t really tell what the kite is doing unless you are looking at it!
*Steering input is far more direct with modifications to bridling and kite shape so that the front lines have much more feel. As a result the kite feels far more reactive.

- Some of the best selling Deltas are prone to backstalling; ie, when you sheet them in hard at the back of the window they slow, stall and can even fly backwards.
*The N62 profile has been specifically engineered NOT to backstall. All Nobile kites since their launch have been very resistant to backstalll, and this technology has been further enhanced in the N62.

Kites are due to arrive here on Tuesday, and here is the entirity of the Nobile press release for the N62;

The N62 delivers the latest generation of design into the Nobile kite range. A kite that makes EASE the focal point in its performance – its innovative, D2 (Delta Evolution) shape and reduced aspect ratio offer super stability, as well as delivering easy power control, direct handling, instant re-launch and simple rigging. An ideal kite for riders who value ease and simplicity in their kiting and those who ride in demanding conditions where control is paramount.

The D2 shape of the N62 features reduced sweep through the wing tips compared to a traditional delta, ensuring phenomenal low-end performance, massive wind range and pivotal turning, without the indirect, imprecise handling of a traditional delta. This kite delivers “park and ride” ease. Point it where you want to go and concentrate on your riding. Excellent “sink back” characteristics, (the ability of the kite to drop back into the window, instead of luffing and falling out of the sky, should you get yourself too far under the kite) ensure the N62 is forgiving of rider error. However, in the event the kite does get wet, the auto re-launch will have it back up in the air with the minimum of rider technique or effort. We’ve adapted a reduced strut configuration, uncomplicated bridle and SMART pump II to make rigging simplistic. A single point attachment for the front lines and a two-knot option for the rear line attachments allow the riders to tune the bar to their preferred position. The N62 benefits from the usual, excellent performance, build quality and safety characteristics of the innovative Nobile control bar and the revolutionary Fulcrum Quick Release.

With ease at the forefront of its design the N62 will give riders maximum safety and confidence as they take their riding to another level. Whatever your style, ability or riding conditions the N62 introduces a new era of versatility and all terrain performance.

available sizes: 5m, 7m, 9m, 11m and13m

* SMART Pump 2 Inflation System
The SMART (Single-point, Multiple-valve, Air-distribution with Removable Tubes) pump inflation system has been extensively modified for 2009. The uniquely designed valves and removable tubes connecting the kite’s individual bladders, are now even more user-friendly for inflation and deflation and for removability in the event of bladder punctures or kite damage that needs repair.

* D2 (Delta Evolution) Shape
The reduced strut, D2 shape of the N62 give it the lowest aspect ratio in the Nobile Kite range. Riders are rewarded with impressive stability, pivotal turning and progressive power control. The front to back sweep in the wind tips of the N62 stops short of traditional deltas, avoiding the loss of direct feeling that is so often associated with them.

* Reduced Bridle Simplicity
The Natural Arc stability of the N62 is maintained by a simple 3 point SLE bridle. Multiple rear line attachments allow the user to tune the turning speed of the kite without having to resort to complicated bridle adjustments.

* 3 strut Layout
The low aspect ratio of the N62 allows us to achieve incredible stability whilst incorporating only 3 inflatable struts. Higher aspect ratio kites require more struts to control the large expanses of unsupported canopy however, fewer struts means a lighter kite with increased agility and faster inflation/deflation

*Short De-power Throw
The 2009 Nobile 4 line control bar and N62 work together to ensure power control is progressive and predictable within a short de-power throw. Moving from maximum power to full de-power is achieved with a range of movement that is within easy, comfortable reach of the average rider.

* Outstanding safety
Safety was one of the paramount features we considered when the N62 concept was developed. Releasing the kite on the leash results in 100% de-power yet still allows the rider to recover the bar and re-launch the kite (re-ride safety). The kite is engineered to have additional depower above the level you need for normal riding, thus you have the ability to totally depower in an emergency.

* Park and Ride Handling
The N62´s superb stability and excellent handling qualities means it has never been easier to just go ride. Point the kite where you want to go and the progressive power control will take care of the rest without the need for aggressive sigma patterns. Ride towards the kite, intentionally or unintentionally, and the N62 will drift back in the window with you, without luffing or falling from the sky.

*Auto re-launch
Re-launch has never been easier. Whether it is learner error or through pushing your limits, the kite will probably end up in the water at some point. However, the incredible auto re-launch on the N62 will ensure that it isn’t there longer than necessary. Upon hitting the water the N62 reassuringly drifts to the closest edge of the window ready for re-launch with the very minimum of rider input or fuss.

*Fully featured Kite bag
The 2009 Nobile bag is designed to keep your kite in perfect condition when not in use as well as be a functional pack for each session. Dedicated external attachment points hold the bar and pump securely whilst in transit and both internal and external pockets provide plenty of extra storage space. A ¾ circumference zippered opening allows for quick and easy entry to the bag and base venting allows any water to drain out and air to circulate whilst your kite is in storage.

Airush’s new Vapor is about to land in Surfstore. For those of you who have had little experience of teh Vapor kites, it has been a sensation to the company, building one of the industries best handlin kites, with exceptional range and non aggressive but very capable flying characteristics.

For the 3rd incarnation Airush have taken thge gloves off. As part of a reviewed range to come in the next 6 months the Vapor has been raised to be as high performance as they can go with a mainstream hybrid and some of the test repors have been very impressive. Here are some of the snippits;

“A brilliant, modern freestyle kite that’s well-built, quick and direct, but the major thing to mention is the kites’ stability. It’s just so well behaved. The low end grunt is fantastic and matched at the other end by it’s top end capacity. Being able to comfortably use a 10 metre, between 15 and 30 knots is a great quality, making it a natural choice for many.”

Go to: http://www.airush.com/pdf/kwmag_airush_vapor3.pdf for the full test

Here is the entirity of the Kitesurf test to be published in a few days;

Size: 10m
Bar length: 45cm

About the Vapor III
Airush say that their 5th line equipped flatter canopy Vapor III is the most direct handling kite they have produced yet. It spans the void between their full on C kite, the Generator, and their Flow all-rounder. The VIII promises to offer the direct, dynamic feel and performance of a potent C kite and the rollover relaunch and depower that riders have come to expect from high-depower bridled kites.

Setting up the Vapor III
Airush’s trigger activated quick release (more on that in a mo) is back in on the VIII bar’s chicken loop and the clam cleat trimmer resides there also. You can leash up for unhooked riding, to the 5th line or to the rear line. Other than that, the 5 line cleat bar is a very simple and uncluttered piece of kit. The one pump was very welcome since the waves were cranking and the rigging options are simple and restricted to the front lines.

The Vapor III on the water
We had initially wondered if the quick release trigger could be falsely activated when scrabbling to hook back in after unhooking, but in practise it’s just not an issue. The trigger releases pretty effortlessly when the chicken loop is held taught, but when the CL is grabbed, it moves up against the trigger and prevents unwanted release. Reassembly is quick even with numb fingers.
Into the waves and we straight away felt the Vapor III to be a powerful kite when stood back to back against other high depower kites. It is not over sensitive to trim and thus keeps driving hard and so it was winning the upwind tack against the other kites at our wave spot time and again. It is said to lack a little a little less grunt than its predecessor, the VII, but that feels to be a relative term and the VIII was delivering constant, useable power that could be spilled off at the bar.
Tucking into the waves, we discovered the incredibly tight but powerful turning radius of the VIII. The kite turns very tightly, but delivers great power as it does – it’s far removed from the slippy slidey type turn you may have grown to loathe. For proof of this tight powered turning, check the Board Test intro page shot – look at the tight arcing track in the wave face afforded by it. We unhooked and went down the line on a bunch of waves and the VIII felt largely the same as when it was hooked in. This we appreciated and it allowed us to surf freely without the kite feeling like it wanted to overpower the situation. The overall stability of the kite in the surf zone is reassuring; it encouraged us to take more chances freefalling into waves and chancing last gasp downwind floaters.
We also sessioned the VIII on flatter water in good winds, and then right at the very hilt (past at times) of its upper wind range. Thanks to the supportive 5th line and two point front line connections, the canopy was noticeably impervious to the jelly-fishing that was affecting other kites on the water at the time. Boosting with the 10m was an electric experience and is sure to encourage anyone who thinks they’ve hit the boost button too many times to think again. Sure you may get more hangtime from a bow for example, but it’s that catapult to the ether you’ll be after – not the glide.

Concluding the Vapor III
We particularly enjoyed the unhooked behaviour of the VIII. Although the kite relies on its front lines to keep things tidy it rides well with tension in the back lines and unhooking requires no real adaptation. The power came on quick and the bar felt light in our hand once we’d released our edge. Collecting the bar and relaunch after botched attempts is very favourable, and together with the lively performance and all round stability, it’s a kite that makes trying new stuff fun. What stood out for us particularly was the power the VIII generated through turns; it really puts the swing back in your session as it livens up everything from powered surfing to kiteloops via redirecting after a sent jump. A big performer that will appeal to all but the meekest of riders.

KS Opinion
Pros: Simple bar is good; tight, powered turning; very stable running downwind; bar feels nice and light for unhooking.

Cons: Some riders may be used to even greater depower at the bar, and lighter bar pressure than the VIII can offer.

Ideal for:
A kite for riders who like a powerful, engaging kite in the sky rather than a passive wing to tug them around. This is a very nice wave riding machine that delivers power when you need it. Twin tip riders will love the weightless ‘dead space’ that comes after the big pop.

It been a week of clearing the decks at Surfstore…. we’ve been having a good look at our kitebar stocks and the good news is that there are some bargains to be had! We have found quite a few used bars, from C kite bars to hybrids, in varying conditions, and we’ve set prices from £15 upwards. The most expensive of the bars are coming in at £99 and they are nearly new, so when you consider that the new linesets are now retailing at £120+ from most companies they are excellent value. Details of the used kitebars can be found here

We also have some new hybrid bars at a special clearance price. These are converted C kite bars, setup with a hybrid geometry, both 4 line and 5 line to get you up and riding if you need a cheap bar this counld be a low cost answer. The bars are set to have a 70cm throw (depower range) in both 5 and 4 line versions with full safety system releases. Full details to be found here.

With The new kite prices only a few months away it’s a good time to start thinking about next year. While the latest releases will be the latest technology they will also be more expensive due to the currency exchange. With that in mind we have managed to aquire some kite from Nobile that make an attractive alternative, and could well end up being around half the price of the new models.

I use these kites myself and their high wind performance is stunning.. they fly as well on full depower as they do on full power which makes high wind riding a lot of fun and very smooth. They are solid and composed in the gustiest environments being tested in Teberife and Tarifa to give a kite that excels in the gusty European conditions.

To read more, and for prices please follow these links for the Nobile 555 4 line and this link for the 666 NHP 5 line

It’s happening in a lot of industries, as the UK sterling falls to an absolute low on the world markets. The Dollar is now worth an unbeliveable 1.37 this morning compared to the 2.02 high of last summer. The end result is that prices are set to rise. Cabrinha issued a new pricelist this morning and Naish tell me that a 12m torch will be around the £1250 region for 2009.

With this in mind it would be wise to invest in a quiver now with the stock that was bought last summer. Some of these kites are on offer, like the Vapor II and the Nobile kites. This means that unlike years previous, current or last years models are now half the retail price of their new alternatives.

The Vapor II is a much loved kite, one of the industries favourites from the last 2 years. With the press release of the Vapor III, the Vapor II is now 15% off, and the new price of the vapor III may well hit £1250. With this in mind it’s making the offer kites look very cheap at £765. It’s a cracking kite, precise, easy, versatile and well built, that will last you years…

The concept of the Vapor II is that of “a kite that maintains the steering characteristic of a high performance C-Kite with a new level of extended wind range and static depower traditionally only found in bridled kites. Excellent for all level of riding from dedicated wave riding to dedicated freestyle.” For 2008 the unhooked freestyle potential has been increased with increased stability in smaller sizes and increased speed in the large. An additional 8.5 size was introduced also.

Airush have always been good with backup and service over the years, but in the last two we have really seen a great increase in their level of build quality. The new Vapor II is their second generation design and the quality of fitting, reinforcement and material strength is the best we have seen so far.

Airush elaborate:
“The best performance kites need to remain as light as possible while still surviving the abuse of radical kiteboarders. For 2008 we have focused on increased durability through improved load transfer from the wingtips, additional seam reinforcing in all high-load canopy areas, and redesigned strut connections to the canopy and LE. All these major improvements are combined with attention to the smallest details, compliments of our extensive network of schools and test programs.”