RIDER REVIEW - DICE SLS 2024

WELCOME, RENO. COULD YOU SHARE WITH US YOUR IMPRESSIONS OF THE NEW DICE SLS? WHAT NOTABLE CHANGES STAND OUT COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS MODEL, AND HOW HAVE THEY INFLUENCED THE KITE'S PERFORMANCE?

In comparing the Dice SLS 2024 to the previous year, the kite is noticeably more mellow and easier to control. It offers a smoother experience during kite loops and gives you more confidence for aggressive maneuvers. Previously, the pull was considerably strong, but now, with a mellower feel, you can delve deeper into the technicalities of your tricks. It's an exceptional kite for freestyle, and its drifting capability makes it my favourite choice for wave riding.

In my view, the Dice SLS stands out as one of the most versatile kites in the range. Whether you're into jumping, loops, freestyle, new-school tricks, or wave riding, this kite covers it all.

For those like me who travel to diverse locations with varying conditions and enjoy different disciplines, the Dice SLS is the ideal choice. If I'm in a place with strong winds for kite loops or in a location suitable for flatwater freestyle with steady winds, I can perform handle passes and new-school tricks. Moreover, if there are waves, I can enjoy wave riding. The Dice's versatility allows me to seamlessly switch between disciplines, making it my go-to kite for all these conditions.

For kiteboarders who are considering trying out the Dice SLS, what kind of riders or skill levels would benefit most from this kite? Are there characteristics that make it suitable for specific riders?

I highly recommend trying out the Dice SLS, especially for individuals who appreciate a supportive, sporty, and sensitive kite feel. The Dice SLS has a bit of a 'hardcore' reputation, offering more bar pressure. This sensitivity is excellent for technical riders who want to feel the kite's pull accurately and push the limits in kiteboarding, especially in loops and freestyle maneuvers.

Do you often adjust the settings on the trailing edge of the Dice SLS? If so, could you explain the circumstances that prompt these adjustments and the reasons behind them?

I adjust the trailing edge of the kite based on its size and the specific tricks I want to perform. For kite loops or wave riding, I set it to the slow setting, creating a nice, wide arc for the loops. I use the medium setting for freestyle on larger kites, striking a balance between speed and control. When wave riding, I switch to the soft setting, allowing me to move the kite quickly and enhancing my control while surfing the waves.

ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL SETUP TIPS OR PREFERRED LINE LENGTHS THAT YOU FIND PARTICULARLY EFFECTIVE FOR OPTIMIZING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE DICE SLS?

I use the Dice SLS primarily with 22-meter lines; this gives excellent responsiveness and support. However, using a 24-meter line mellows out the kite, making it suitable for riders who want more hang time and easier handling, especially beginners. For advanced riders seeking extreme kiteboarding experiences, the 20-meter line offers the perfect balance of power and control.

Considering the emergence of kites like the Evo D/LAB and Rebel SLS in the big air territory where the Dice SLS was initially dominant, what factors do you think are driving kiteboarders to choose these alternatives? Could you shed light on the specific features or capabilities of each of the models and how the Dice SLS fits into the range?

CONSIDERING THE EMERGENCE OF KITES LIKE THE EVO D/LAB AND REBEL SLS IN THE BIG AIR TERRITORY WHERE THE DICE SLS WAS INITIALLY DOMINANT, WHAT FACTORS DO YOU THINK ARE DRIVING KITEBOARDERS TO CHOOSE THESE ALTERNATIVES? COULD YOU SHED LIGHT ON THE SPECIFIC FEATURES OR CAPABILITIES OF EACH OF THE MODELS AND HOW THE DICE SLS FITS INTO THE RANGE?

Comparing the Dice SLS with the Evo, the Rebel SLS, and the Neo, each kite serves a distinct purpose. The Dice excels in pushing the limits of your moves, especially for extreme kite loops and aggressive maneuvers. The Rebel SLS is designed for riders seeking height and hang time in jumps, allowing for intricate spins and tricks. The Evo offers a good balance between versatility and technicality, suitable for many riders. Lastly, the Neo is an excellent choice for wave riders, providing precise control and responsiveness in the waves.

The Evo D/LAB is an incredibly technical kite recommended for advanced riders. It allows for precise control during loops and offers extended hang time, especially in strong winds. However, it requires a high level of skill to harness its full potential.

The Dice SLS is my top pick due to its extreme capabilities, making it perfect for riders who want to push their limits in kiteboarding. The Rebel SLS is also a fantastic choice, offering exceptional height and ease of use. Riders looking for a versatile option can consider the Evo, while wave enthusiasts will appreciate the Neo's responsiveness. The Evo D/LAB is reserved for highly skilled riders seeking unparalleled technicality in their kiteboarding experience.