DESCRIPTION
Cabrinha 2019 Drifter Kite Review
What Cabrinha Says (scroll down for our take)
Surf/Freestyle Surf: Specifically designed for kitesurfing in waves and strapless surf freestyle, the Drifter has the ability to engage and disengage its power on command.
While catching a wave you want all the power you need but while surfing, you often want the kite to completely disappear while you surf on your own power. Its in this moment of pure surfing where you want a kite that ‘drifts’ down the line with you in a stable and predictable way. We dubbed this phenomenon Drift Stability and it is the crucial ingredient in a performance surf kite. This is why the Drifter has no equal.
What We Say
Bottom Line: To us the 2019 Cabrinha Drifter smacks of cheating in the waves. It embodies the slack line drift performance so essential for wave riding, and stays stable and aloft when chasing it downwind. For onshore, side on, or even offshore wave conditions, the 2019 Drifter continues to set the bar, and continues to be a Big Winds’ staff favorite.
What We Liked: The Drifter recently made huge leaps in low-end power, faster turning speeds, and a larger useable wind range. The latter has been helped by Cabrinha’s TrimLite strap, which when pulled to shed power, doesn’t compromise the kite’s reactive feel. Here in the Gorge, we’ve found the Drifter’s onshore bridal setting best for downwind swell slashing. But for conditions where upwind prowess is critical, we recommend the offshore bridal setting. Note that – as with most wave kites – the Drifter’s performance extends beyond experienced wave riders. For the newbie kiter and foiler, the Drifter’s on demand depower, quick relaunch, and light pull in the harness are a great match.
What We Didn’t Like: The Drifter’s doesn’t offer the best upwind ability and hang time. For kites that prioritize those attributes, look to the Switchblade or Moto.
The 2019 Drifter Best Suits: Riders using a directional board in waves (or wind driven swell) and wanting to progress their freestyle routine; aggressive newcomers and foilers who want a versatile kite they won’t soon outgrow.
Availability: 4-13 meter Drifters are in stock now. For exclusive package pricing deals, call 888 509 4210 or contact us.
Control System Recommendation: 44 cm Fixed Trimlite with Quickloop for 4-7 meter Drifters; 52 cm Fixed Trimlite with Quickloop for 8-13 meter sizes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
3-strut, Moderate aspect ratio hybrid design, Surf/drift wing tip design, 2 bridle setting options
- Pure Profile Panels
- High Tenacity Dacron for enhanced arc stability
- Refined profiles, arc and outline for superior power delivery
- Light bar pressure with direct and responsive steering
- Great “pop” for strapless freestyle tricks
- Best slack line drift on the market
- Excellent for surf freestyle
SPECS
