Unveiling the 2025 Neo D/LAB Kite

Sky, the Neo D/LAB has undergone significant changes for 2025. Can you outline the main design goals for this model and how it's evolved from last year?

Sky Solbach: Absolutely. The 2025 Neo D/LAB is a completely new kite when compared to its predecessor. We've spent two years learning and refining this kite from the ground up, leading to substantial improvements. The goal was to enhance its wave-riding capabilities, making it perfect for every style of wave riding. It’s my favorite kite by far because it performs magically across all riding styles.

What are some of the specific changes from the 2023 model?

Sky: One of the most noticeable changes is the reduced diameter of the leading edge. We experimented with various materials and dimensions until we settled on a significantly smaller leading edge, especially towards the tips. This kite is constructed using Aluula fabric, which allows us to increase the inflation pressure to 10 psi across all sizes. This adjustment decreases drag and improves the kite's efficiency and responsiveness.

Additionally, you'll find that the outline of the kite has been redesigned, featuring squarer, more powerful tips which contribute to its remarkable steering reactivity and control. The thinner leading edge enables the kite to initiate turns without drag, maintaining quick responsiveness and allowing it to fly to the edge of the window more swiftly, enhancing its de-powering ability.

How does the kite's performance on waves improve with these modifications?

Sky: The Aluula material's lightweight properties allow the kite to drift excellently, fitting in more turns on a wave without needing to maintain tension in the lines. This is a significant advantage in onshore winds where more active kite maneuvering is required. The lighter kite means you can make multiple turns without pre-tensioning the lines, allowing for a smoother and more continuous ride. Additionally, the quicker turning capability enhances the kite's overall performance, irrespective of your riding style.

And regarding handling gusts and overall kite feedback?

Sky: It excels in absorbing gusts while maintaining direct and responsive handling. It’s akin to having a high-quality carbon surfboard: responsive and giving quick feedback, yet forgiving and smooth. It's truly the best of both worlds.

Can you discuss the recommended bar and line setups for this model?

Sky: For the 7, 8, and 9-meter kites, we recommend a shorter bar with 22-meter lines. For larger sizes like 10, 11, and 12 meters, a longer bar with 24-meter lines is advisable. However, these are just guidelines, and many riders, including Patri and myself, adjust these setups based on personal preference and riding style.

What sizes are available for the Neo D/LAB this year, and are there any other features we should highlight?

Sky: The Neo D/LAB is available in sizes from seven to twelve meters. A key feature of this model is the adaptive tip, which allows riders to adjust the bar feedback settings. This feature, combined with the kite's redesigned leading edge and wingtips, provides unmatched top-end performance, allowing the kite to de-power instantly when needed.

We're really proud of what we've achieved with this kite, and I'm excited for everyone to experience its performance on the water.