RIDER REVIEW - Neo SLS 2025

What were the key changes that you and Sky Solbach focused on with the new Neo SLS, and how does it compare to previous models?

We developed the SLS and D/LAB in unison, so any advancements made on one model were applied to the other. The materials handle differently, which means design changes need to be fine-tuned, but the Neo SLS incorporates many of the same improvements seen in the latest D/LAB.

The new Neo SLS feels significantly better. With the updated wingtip adjustments, it turns much more smoothly and is less grunty, making it less physical to handle. The kite now turns faster, which is especially noticeable in the larger sizes.

How does the Neo SLS handle when drifting down the line and managing power in different wave conditions?

The Neo SLS offers exceptional drift and smooth power delivery, which makes it ideal for wave riding in a variety of conditions. Its agility allows you to stay in the pocket of the wave while managing power effectively, whether you're in light or strong wind conditions.

The Neo SLS features a strut design that varies by kite size. How does this affect the kite’s agility and overall feel, particularly between the smaller and larger sizes?

For the smaller sizes, we focused on making the kite more direct, with better bar feedback and a forgiving feel. This prevents the kite from being overly fast and helps riders maintain a better sense of where their kite is in the wind window. With the larger sizes, which can often feel like they have a lot of grunt and pull, we tuned them to have a softer bar feel. This adjustment ensures that the feel across the range remains consistent, providing a similar feel and experience no matter which size you ride.

How does the Neo SLS compare to the Neo D/LAB and the Neo?

We've received excellent feedback from the team about the new Neo SLS. The Penta Tx material used in the Neo SLS is significantly lighter than the Dacron found on the Neo and also stiffer. This gives the kite more rigidity, allowing for a smaller leading edge, which helps it fly faster through the wind window and de-power quickly. The D/LAB, on the other hand, is our top-of-the-line model featuring ALUULA, which lets us go even smaller on the leading edge. This further enhances the kite's agility and de-power capabilities. ALUULA provides a unique blend of stiffness and forgiveness, resulting in a smoother ride in gusty conditions. For its price point, the Penta Tx material in the Neo SLS offers impressive performance and value.

Who do you think will benefit the most from riding the Neo SLS?

When it comes to price-to-performance, the Neo SLS is hard to beat. I think this kite will appeal to most wave riders out there. It delivers high performance and has some impressive flight qualities. If I were choosing a kite to buy, the SLS would likely be my pick. It offers a great balance between performance and value, making it accessible to a broad range of riders.