RIDER REVIEW - Neo D/Lab 2025

How does the new 2025 Neo D/LAB feel on the water compared to last year’s model, and what aspects of its performance stood out the most for you?

Patri: I would say it’s a significant step up from last year’s model. It turns faster and de-powers much more efficiently, which is exactly what you want for wave riding. One improvement I’m really stoked about is the bar pressure—it’s lighter but still gives you that direct feel of where the kite is. It drifts amazingly well, making it the best wave kite I’ve ever ridden.

Matchu: I agree, it’s much smoother this year, especially in gusty conditions. The kite now handles overpowered situations much better; it doesn’t pull you off the board. It’s also incredibly light and fast in the sky, which is amazing in light wind conditions. The drift while riding down the line on a wave is just phenomenal.

Sky mentioned the reduced diameter of the leading edge and the use of Aluula fabric. How did these, along with the redesigned outline and tips, impact your riding experience, especially in terms of steering responsiveness and overall control?

Patri: They make a noticeable difference. The kite feels very intuitive and direct, and the redesigned outline and tips improve its overall handling. The kite’s ability to absorb gusts has also improved, partly due to how well it de-powers now. It’s smoother and more controlled, especially when you need to place the kite precisely for wave riding.

Matchu: For me, the responsiveness and control have been elevated to another level. The kite is so predictable, even in variable conditions. It feels like an extension of your body—you can really focus on your riding without worrying about where the kite is. I feel connected, yet the sensation is incredibly smooth through the bar.

The kite’s ability to absorb gusts while maintaining responsive handling was highlighted as a key feature. How did you find this during your sessions, particularly in variable wind conditions, and how does it compare to previous models?

Patri: The Neo D/LAB’s gust absorption is a huge improvement. The previous model had incredible low-end power but wasn’t as effective at shutting off the power when needed. This new model handles gusts so well. It’s also incredibly stable, which is crucial for maintaining control during wave riding.

Matchu: I noticed the same thing. In gusty conditions, the kite is super smooth and doesn’t take you off the board. It’s predictable, which means you can really focus on your riding. The connection you feel through the bar is amazing, and it doesn’t interfere with your ability to handle the kite. This makes it easier to read the wave in front of you and adjust your riding accordingly.

Can you describe how the kite’s de-powering ability and quick turning capability affected your wave riding in different conditions, such as onshore versus offshore winds, and where this kite excels?

Patri: The increased de-power is amazing, especially in side-offshore conditions. You can really pull against the kite or hit the lip of a wave and then turn the kite off when you just want to ride the wave. In onshore conditions, the quick turning capability allows you to place the kite exactly where it needs to be. This range of power and the kite’s ability to drift means it’s easy to have it in position with the right amount of power at any time or in any conditions.

Matchu: I’ve found the quick turning and de-powering to be super beneficial, especially in onshore conditions. Having that extra responsiveness and the ability to fly the kite quickly across the wind window is a huge advantage. The kite excels in light winds, offshore conditions, and even when riding barrels—it just stays in position perfectly.

Who do you think will benefit the most from the 2025 Neo D/LAB based on its features and performance?

Patri: I think any rider is going to be stoked with the new Neo D/LAB. It’s a significant step up in performance—quicker turning, incredible stability, and unmatched de-power. It’s also a fun kite for free riding. I’ve tried a lot of models, and this version of the Neo D/LAB is my dream kite.

Matchu: I think anyone looking to take their wave riding to the next level will love the Neo D/LAB. It’s so smooth, predictable, and connected that it allows you to focus entirely on your riding. Whether you’re riding in light winds, gusty conditions, or even barreling waves, this kite does it better than anything else.