CORE XRX | The Big Air Benchmark | The Megapod

Summary

Kitesurf365: CORE XRX | The Big Air Benchmark | The Megapod

Date: May 21, 2026
Host: Adrian Kerr
Co-Host: Colin Colin Carroll

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Episode Overview

This week’s Megapod dives deep into the launch of CORE’s new XRX kite, examining what makes it a milestone for the brand and the Big Air discipline. With the hosts' trademark irreverence and in-depth knowledge, the episode features hands-on impressions, historical context, technical updates, notable rider interviews, and lively banter. There’s also an update on the Fantasy app, team picks for upcoming events, and insights from key names in the scene.

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Segment Breakdown

1. Opening Banter & Podcast Agenda

Timestamps: 00:00–01:37

• Theme: This is the XR (XRX) episode. The hosts promise a focus on the new kite, a Fantasy app update, discussion of their fantasy teams, and a (reluctant) update on the animated cartoon project.
• Memorable moment:
  • Colin’s cartoon woes:

    “The cartoon had us beat on Thursday last week, like, completely. We were just like, in tears, writhing around on the floor in pain ... it gets up and just knocks me square in the nose.” (01:05 – Colin)

  • Adrian to listeners worried about too much cartoon talk:

    “We’re not going to be cartooning you guys to death.” (00:51 – Adrian)

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2. Fantasy App Update & Mega Team Talk

Timestamps: 01:37–06:08

• The new Mykonos packs are available in the kite Fantasy app, with loyalty rewards for regular logins.
• Colin and Adrian share their fantasy team picks, heavily favoring CORE brand riders for this episode.
• New mechanics include fatigue/training for riders, daily check-in streaks, and new rare card thresholds.
• Notable discussion:
  • “Every 14 days of checking in, you get a free pack. And if you do 30 days, you get a free training token, which can instantly upgrade one of your weaker riders.” (04:14 – Adrian)
• Quick switch to the main event — the new Core XRX.

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3. The Journey of the XR Kite: History and Pedigree

Timestamps: 06:08–09:00

• Discussion on the unusual model jump XR8 → XRX (skipping 9), and the XR as one of kiteboarding’s longest-running models.
• Comparison to other legendary kites like Cabrinha Switchblade and North Rebel.
• Colin on the XR’s reputation:
  • “This thing’s got pedigree coming out of his ass. The XR though has produced many, many a woo world record. It is the liftiest thing ... just wants to go.” (07:09 – Colin)

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4. Rider Perspectives: Mike McDonald & Core Brand Director

Timestamps: 07:41–13:26

Mike McDonald’s Take

• XR was once considered an “old man’s kite” but proved itself in Big Air.
• Key features: massive boost, hangtime, confidence on landings, and soft landings with small sizes (notably the 7m).
• Notable quote:
  • “If they'd been riding XRs ... they'd be doing the biggest jumps of their lives with the most hang time, with the softest landings and just having the most fun in their sessions.” (09:55 – Mike McDonald)
  • “At the very least everybody in the world should own a 7 meter XR.” (11:36 – Mike McDonald)

Philip Shinigal – Core Brand Director

• XR is foundational to Core’s identity; traces origins to the Riot kite.
• Unusual paradox: kite is both a world record breaker and a staple at schools.
• Notable quote:
  • “For many riders, the XR was the first kite and the kite that brought them into Core and kept them with Core too.” (12:50 – Philip Shinigal)
  • “It represents the performance, the progression, the quality and the trust that people have in our products.” (13:12 – Philip Shinigal)

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5. The XR Legacy & Impact on Big Air

Timestamps: 13:26–15:41

• Iconic shots and scores (like Yannick’s 9.94 at KOTA), and the kite’s crucial role in enabling progressive tricks.
• Adrian:
  • “It changed kiteboarding in the hands of those guys ... because you stay up in the air longer and it’s just floatier. So this gives you more time to come down softly and have controlled landing, which gives confidence.” (14:05)
• Personal anecdotes about how lifty previous XR generations were.

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6. Core XR X – What’s New? (Rider: Hendrik van der Eems)

Timestamps: 15:41–18:49

• Key technical enhancements:
  • New leading edge material “ExoTex 3” – stiffer, stronger, lighter.
  • Improved geometry and power seam for added strength and better control.
  • Reduced bar pressure, faster handling, better hangtime, bigger sweet spot.
  • New connection system between leading edge and struts.
  • New bar: Sensor 4S — stronger lines, better trim, easier maintenance.
• Hendrik’s verdict:
  • “The kite really gives you the opportunity and the time to try some new things ... just super easy boosting, really accessible.” (17:56)
  • On bar: “I think we get quite an upgrade in the bar feedback and also in its reliability.” (18:40)

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7. Hosts’ Impressions & Material Innovations

Timestamps: 18:49–22:35

• Bar pressure improvements recognized; construction quality “on point.”
• XR line is Core’s racehorse/flagship, central to brand identity.
• Hosts appreciate longer (2-3 year) product cycles for genuine R&D rather than superficial updates.
• Comparisons between Dacron and new composite materials (e.g. Aluula), with admiration for how Dacron kites have progressed using borrowed tech from ultralight lines.
• On durability: “These materials are bomb proof ... I’m way more confident to do it with a Dacron kite ... They've been making those kites for 20 years.” (22:14 – Colin)

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8. Rider Interview: Shahar Sabri Talks XRX and Comp Prep

Timestamps: 23:11–29:56

• Shahar discusses his Lords of Tram experience, adjusting competition mindset, and focus for Mykonos.
• Assessment of the XRX:
  • Feels similar to the XR Pro 2 but lighter, more lift, much less bar pressure.
  • Transitioning from Aluula to Dacron feels natural — the kite feels almost as good as the top-end, more expensive Aluula options.
  • “It’s like an airplane ... the longest I fly, the better the feeling.” (29:56 – Shahar Sabri)
• On handling big sizes:
  • “When most are on nine or something, I’m on a 15 ... it’s different because I’m used to handle the power.” (28:55 – Shahar Sabri)
• For comps:
  • He’ll stay with XR Pro 2, except for larger sizes where the XRX is his new favorite.
• His recommendation:
  • “It fits to everyone in my opinion, but definitely for the people that like easy kite, that lift a lot ... for heavyweight, it’s going to be for you ... what’s making the best feeling for me is the feeling of flying.” (29:56 – Shahar Sabri)

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9. Closing Discussion: Woo Handle & Legacy of the XR

Timestamps: 30:32–32:30

• Joking about the new Woo board handle and how rider attitudes have changed.
• The XR’s role in smashing Woo height records, both for elite and everyday kiters.
• “The kite you pick up ... is the XR.” (31:20 – Adrian)
• “I remember bumping into a Joshua Emanuel in a car park in South Africa ... I can’t believe you went three times higher than I did.” (32:13 – Colin)

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Notable Quotes

• On the XR legacy:
  • “This thing’s got pedigree coming out of his ass. The XR though has produced many, many a woo world record.” (07:09 – Colin)
• On the new materials:
  • “The biggest improvement lies in the new Leading Edge material Extratex 3 ... more stability and control ... more accessible boosting.” (15:43 – Hendrik van der Eems)
• On accessibility:
  • “Easy access, confidence and control on one side, but also huge lift, massive hang time and real performance when you want to push your limits.” (12:30 – Philip Shinigal)
• Shahar Sabri on the XRX:
  • “It’s super good, like less bar pressure than the older versions ... and also lift more ... it’s like an airplane ... amazing, I love it.” (26:52 – Shahar Sabri)

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Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Timestamps: 30:29–End

• The hosts encourage listeners to test the new XRX at local shops — especially if you want to jump high or are looking for a confidence-inspiring kite.
• The XRX is praised for bridging the gap between performance and accessibility, with build quality and longevity as standout features.

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Summary for Non-Listeners

This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in kite technology, especially Big Air. Anchored in lively banter and expert insights, it contextualizes the XRX’s place in kiteboarding history, discusses the realities of kite design cycles, and captures hands-on impressions from both top riders and the design team. If you’re sizing up your next kite (or are interested in kitesurfing’s Big Air evolution), this Megapod delivers all the reasons the new XRX is a benchmark.

Transcript

[A]

In this episode, we talk all about the xrx, which has just come out. You can go to a shop and try it. We'll also give you the update on the fantasy app. I talk through my team of all stars who are going to win. Adrian asks me about the cartoon, and I try to not burst into tears. And it's featuring a load of cores. All stars enjoy.

[B]

Catastrophic equipment failure.

[C]

Had a couple of strings and it was extremely dangerous.

[B]

And the trap, and it is gold for Ellie Aldridge and gold for Great Britain. Colin, how's the cartoon going?

[A]

Oh, thought I was coming on for a break from that. How is it going?

[B]

A lot of pressure. I can feel there's a lot of pressure building here. We're building this cartoon up. But, guys, we're not going to be talking about this cartoon every week. I see the. I see the cartoon backlash. Believe me, we're not going to be cartoon you guys to death.

[A]

Really? What people are saying. Boring, boring.

[B]

But I want to hear about the cartoon. Tough shit.

[A]

You do. Trust me, you do. The cartoon had us beat on Thursday last week, like, completely. We were just like, in tears, writhing around on the floor in pain. And then Friday comes around and I had the thing in a headlock took screaming for mercy. And then just when it's decided to quit and we have its number, it gets up and just knocks me square in the nose. It's completely untethered, Adrian. It's completely untethered. It's the best way. It just isn't giving us the control we need, though. It's creating scenes with characters that I haven't told it to. And it all looks different every single time. And it's all a bit so numerous times now because there's a shop just across the road from the studio that, like, sell. It's like a department store, a really shit one. And numerous times we've looked out the window. Should we just go and south park it? Should we just go and buy card and cut it up into figures and do a 2D little cartoon with big heads? We're like, that sounds actually really nice. It would be so much better, honestly. But that's the story. State of it.

[B]

When. When's the first one coming out?

[A]

Please, please, Adrian.

[B]

Too soon.

[A]

Too soon.

[B]

Okay, okay.

[A]

Please, please, please, please.

[B]

All right, let's talk about some positives then. Yesterday on Portrait, Rolly and I dropped an update for Fantasy. I'm going to put the link to that in the bio, but I want to give you a quick breakdown of some of the changes. Fantasy. The Mykonos packs are now available. So if you are building the team, you can get your packs from Mykonos. Remember, if you're a portrait member, you get an extra pack.

[A]

Oh, my word. I'm opening my Mykonos pack. Okay, Ready? Core is my brand. Very fitting for this episode. Very fitting indeed. And, guys, I'm not even making that up because it's the XR episode that actually happened. Baby shark. I've already got about 10 baby sharks.

[B]

Well, let me tell you about why it's okay to have a lot of good writers. Because you check in each day, each 24 hours, you're going to receive a free card, which is a randomly drawn card. It can be anything brand, an exclusive card, a high card, a rare card. And you can use those to train, use in your team. Or you can quick sell. There's a quick sell now that you can just flick.

[A]

What do you mean, train your rider?

[B]

I'm gonna get to a buddy, darling, and see the excitement.

[A]

Oh, my word. Okay, I've got Nathan Texio. I've got Imbar Learner. Sorry. My ADHD is really kicking in hard today, isn't it? I don't actually know if I have that. Sorry. Carry on, Carry on. That was rude.

[B]

The. The training is basically to repair your fatigue card. So once you've had a card in your team and it's done an event, it does drop down through fatigue, you can train them back up with some. With some training that also is streaks now. So Raleigh's got it. So you have to log in every single day into fantasy.fantasykite.com every seven days, you're going to get a free rare card. And a rare card is the purple, the round purple outline. Every 14 days of checking in, you get a free pack. And if you do 30 days, you get a free training token, which can instantly upgrade one of your weaker riders. I've probably done a terrible job explaining that. The video is in the bio. It's a free video. Raleigh breaks it down a lot better. But you can start putting your team together for Mykonos as of today. If you're a portrait member, you get extra pack. And that loyalty program is running and active. I've already started training Jamie. I'm training Jamie because I believe Jamie's going to take the world championship after that unfortunate crash he had in 2024, which sort of threw him off, I'm thinking Jamie's going to do it. So I'm investing heavily in training Jamie at the moment.

[A]

I picked Jamie Overbeak. I've picked Finn Flugel. I've picked Baby Shark. Okay. And then in the women's doyo, Mika.

[B]

I don't have a Francesca.

[A]

No, but usually I would go Francesca because, you know, God save the Queen,

[B]

but I think Mika's a good call.

[A]

Okay, we go Mika for now, but. And then Brand. We better go Core for this episode, haven't I? Otherwise we'll get a nasty email from someone. Right. Tap two on a rider to set X Factor. I'm going X Factor. Fin Flugs. Vinnie Boy flugs. Epic.

[B]

How many points did you get off the last event? I. I don't. I think I'm in for position. Rs in ninth.

[A]

How.

[B]

He's a jammy bastard. I'm sure he's in the Matrix.

[A]

Okay. Colin and the Shipmunks is my team. It's absolutely stacked, stacked to the gills. Okay. I'm going to be checking that every day for the next 30 days. By the sounds, if you want a

[B]

free training token, you do 30 consecutive days. 14 days gives you a free pack. Every seven days you get a rare card and that is the new loyalty program. Notifications is back. Not going to be the same, but definitely go and check out the video on portrait. Probably butcher this, but go and check that out. But we are here to talk Core XR.

[A]

Boom.

[B]

You're going to say Core XR X or you're going to say Core XR 10. Are you feeling Roman or British?

[A]

Oh, very British. Hatred.

[B]

I think it's the xrx. I think they've gone for the Roman Euro for something classy since they didn't do a 9.

[A]

So, yeah, kind of mad going from the 8 to the 10. But they skipped a year as well.

[B]

I think three years between. It's three years between the 8 and the 10. I've got actually all the release dates here. The XR1 was really 2010. The XR2 was released in 2012. The XR3 was released in 2014. The XR4 2016, the XR5, 2018, the XR6, 2020. The XR7, 2022, XR8, 2023. Then they had the Pro in 23 as well. Then the Pro2, 25 and boom. No.9, straight to the 10 or the X. 2026. I think this might be the second longest running kite model ever. I. I think Rebel, I think Switchblade.

[A]

Oh, I think Switchblade. But it's in that category of legendary kites. And this thing's got pedigree coming out of his ass. The XR though has produced many, many a woo world record. It is the liftiest thing, is the liftiest thing you will ever fly. Trust me, it's, it's like no other. That thing just wants to go. And unfortunately it keeps going when you, when you're like, okay, that's enough. It will keep going.

[B]

Let's hear from Mike McDonald and Philip Shinigal, who is the brand director for core kiteboarding on the xr and how important this range has been for them over the years.

[D]

Yo, Adrian. So let me tell you what I think about the xr. When I got into big air kiting, kites like the XR were viewed as like an old man's kite. Everybody wanted to be on something like an open sea or even a full sea kite. And the truth is that the XR has been an incredible kite. I bought some XR2s from a dude at the beach. I've got a 7 and a 9 XR2 and I've got an 8 meter XR3. And even those models of the XR are incredible. And I think there were so many years where people were led astray by marketing and they would buy these sea kites and open seas and, and they thought they had the best equipment for them. But the truth is that if they'd been riding xrs in that time instead, they would be doing the biggest jumps of their lives with the most hang time, with the softest landings and just having the most fun in their sessions. So to me, we were all sleeping on the XR for a long time. And I'm a huge fan of Bo Delta kites. I think they have their place. I don't think they're the answer for everything. If I want to be having a loop session in like 20 to 25 knots, then I'm not taking an XR. You know, I'm taking my Pace Pro and, and that's, that's the kite. But if I want to be going out when it's 35 knots, 40 knots, I am absolutely in love with my 7 and my 8 meter XRS. Whether it's an XR Pro 2 or even an XR4, then I love those kites. To me, everything from the XR4 upwards is incredible because that's when they introduced the stiffer leading edge material. I can't remember the exact model of that Dacron that they use the name of it, but XR4 onwards is absolutely fantastic. Core releases new updates every few years. I think it's Maybe been about three years since they've released a new update. So the XRX is, is here just in time. I've been, I've been getting a little bit impatient to be honest. I've been wanting a newer release. I'm glad it's here now. If you upgrade from the XR4 to the XR5 or the 5 to the 6 or 6 to the 7, the upgrades aren't necessarily that big. But if you, if you're currently on like an XR7 and you go to the XR X, that's when I think you're going to feel a significant improvement in performance. So yeah, I think you know anybody out there who's looking to get a kite that just can make them feel like a total superhero where they're just shooting the bar and flying higher than ever before and having the softest landings. I think the XR is an amazing kite for them. And any guys out there who have an xr, especially the, some of the older models, I definitely think it's a good time to upgrade. I'm honestly in love with the kite. I think it's amazing. And hats off to Kor for getting another model out to us. Oh, Brew, one thing I've got To mention, the 7 meter XR is probably the best 7 meter in the game. What's unique about these small kites is they help you jump super high. But there aren't many 7 meters that put you down softly. And we're talking now about like if you're on a 7 meter, it's probably at least 35 knots depending on who you are you're doing. Maybe you're jumping like 50 meters high, 20 meters high. Like I remember taking my 7 meter GTS5 out in Balnario and just getting absolutely smoked. Every landing was like a roll of the dice. I didn't know if I was gonna land safely or if I was gonna heli loop myself into some, some windswell, into some chop and just get absolutely destroyed. And when I take my 7 meter XR out, it's just, I have absolute total confidence in the kite that it's going to put me down softly. Obviously that confidence comes with skill, but even if you're skilled, if you're on a, if you're on the wrong height, yeah man, a 7 meter with the wrong shape is just going to punish you. So I think at the very least everybody in the world should own a 7 meter XR. I am absolutely in love with that size. Have a good one Brew for core

[C]

The XR is much more than just another kite model. It is one of the products that shaped the brand from the very beginning. And we call it the XR10 today because it evolved from the very first Core card, the riot, back in 2007. The successor was already the first XR, the riot XR. So this line is deeply connected to course history and DNA, of course. And the very special thing about the XR is almost a paradox. It is a world record breaker, world champion companion, and one of the most trek kite models on Vue. But at the same time, it's also used in schools for people's very first contact with kiteboarding. So that balance is what makes it so special. You know, easy access, confidence and control on one side, but also huge lift, massive hang time and real performance when you want to push your limits. For many riders, the XR was the first kite and the kite that brought them into Core and kept them with Core too. There's a huge fan base for this product. So for us, the XR is definitely part of the core story and it represents the performance, the progression, the quality and the trust that people have in our products. On the water.

[B]

Yeah, I mean, I can think of some amazing iconic shots from Heel. I mean, the, the 9.94 at Kota, the XR Pro release when they, when those guys.

[A]

The 9.94 course, that's, that's.

[B]

Yannick was the highest score in Kota till Liam broke the. The XR Pro release in 23, when they had that crazy wind and they went to Denmark and destroyed the world record. I think Josh said I didn't have his woo on. On the, on the board for about 10 years and broke that. Yeah, it's been a crazy, crazy development. Personally for me, I think the Yannick and Mike McDonald years really blew that kite up more.

[A]

It changed kiteboarding in the hands of those guys. There was three of them. It was Janik Chagajetski, Mike McDonald, and then a third called Otto Mead, who lives in the same town as me and now makes cheese. Professionally. This is before Janek went for his infamous six weeks at, the speed spot in Dakla and all of a sudden became twice as good as anyone else and got kiteboarding to the point where you could think about doing rotations with board offs and with loops that hadn't been done before, not in the way that Yannick did it. And the XR really enabled all of that because you stay up in the air longer and it's just floatier. So this gives you more time to Come down softly and have controlled landing, which gives confidence. So then you go for more stuff. And that's like the key with it. The first XR I ever flew was the XR5. And I remember flying it in New Zealand and Core were kind enough to send me one to try and it was so lifty. That was the. The main thing. And Marc Jacobs, who hadn't won King of the Air yet, wanted to try it. And I remember putting him on it and I remember him being like, woof, this thing is doing something different.

[B]

Lets hear from core team rider Hendrik van der Eems as he updates us on all the changes to the new Core xrx.

[E]

Yo, Adrian. Henrik van der Ames here, team rider for Core and kitemana. Let me walk you through some of the latest updates that we have on the xrx. So the biggest improvement lies in the new Leading Edge material Extratex 3. The new material is stronger and stiffer, creating better torsional response and therefore more stability and control of the kite. And it also allows for a reduced leading edge diameter and a lighter kite, causing a faster kite and improved hang time and second lift, making the boosting more accessible. And what I really like as well is that with the new geometry, the XRX has reduced bar pressure compared to the previous XR editions, which is really nice. Another thing that's new is we have a new power seam, meaning that the central closing seam on the leading edge gets an additional line of stitching, so that is even stronger. And we also have a new. And we also have a new connection system between the leading edge and the struts with a bigger tube and a valve so we get better airflow. And we no longer use tire ups for that connection, but have a better. We no longer use tire ups for that connection and now have a better connection with elastic fixations. So that's all that's new on the kite. So what that translates to is that it still holds the XR DNA that it's known for, has more precise feedback, it's faster and it's more stable in stronger winds. For me, this is the perfect twin tip kite, giving accessible boosting for all levels and basically in all conditions. So even if you, you miss the wave or you miss your takeoff, then the kite is still going to bring you up nicely and put you down softly because the sweet spot of the kite is just really big, thanks to the police. And then on the other side, like if you're in super overpowered conditions, I wrote the kite. I think someone said that There was a gust of 54 knots in France, and I was the only one out on the nine. And then the pulley really helps to open up the kite and dump the wind. So even when you're super overpowered, you can just put the kite low and then the pulley really helps it, making a super safe kite. And I think that's. That's the main thing of the kite. Just super easy boosting, really accessible. And because of that, the kite really gives you the opportunity and the time to try some new things. So I think that's everything about the kite. We also have a new bar launching. It's called the Sensor 4S. So the new Sensor 4S has Leros lines, which are 10% stronger and stiffer, allowing for less stretch and more precise steering, which is ideal for most riders. And of course, we also have the sensor 4S Pro, which has even more performance. Next to that, the bar has a new flex trim system for the back lines, which allows for easy trimming on the beach, even when the lines are attached. And by adjusting the amount of loopings around the system, you can trim your steering lines because, of course, these will always shrink over time. So the bar also has new color coding, improved durability, and easier service parts. And all together with all these new features, I think we get quite an upgrade in the bar feedback and also in its reliability. And a nice thing to have that I still really like about this bar is that everyone can use it because of the adjustable VSplit. So you can simply pick whatever kite or brand that you want to ride, adjust the V split accordingly, and you can, yeah, you can still use the bar. So I think that's really nice, a really nice feature to have as well.

[B]

For me, one of the things that stands out is the lighter bar pressure, because that was something that, you know, you know, you and I had spoken about before like that. It was. It was just a lot heavier bar pressure than I was used to. They've definitely probably listened to consumers over the years and lightened that up, which is super cool. But if you look at the videos that are coming out, man, this, the construction of it looks on point. I mean, it looks so well made. I mean, in a. In a time of getting lighter and cutting corners, mate, this is getting lighter, but doing it in the right way. And that's. And I'm being completely honest, when you look at the videos, it just looks really well built.

[A]

It's also made in the Aqua Dynamics factory, which is the one that features in how to Get Paid and yeah, that's the best construction those kites really, really.

[B]

Last you've heard earlier, Philip Shinigal, the boss, talking about how proud they are of this kite in their line and this being the DNA of, of the core brand, you know and whether you're a beginner or an expert, it's, it's something that you can use and I like that. And you know after going to core dealer meetings you can see how proud they are of that kite. It's like a, it's like their flagship kite, you know, like that's the kite they're the, they're most proud of.

[A]

You know, it's their racehorse.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, it's, it's the kite that everything's based on. Right? Every, every, every little bit is based

[A]

on, on the success the stables named after it.

[B]

What's your thoughts on the two year cycle? I kind of, I always preferred two year cycles. I always thought of one year. Yeah, one year. I just feel like they're, they're pulling down consumers pants. We've changed the colors and put 10% on the price. What? And you pull your pants down and smack you on the bum. And where these guys are have done a two year cycle in this case. It's been three years since the, the XR8 came out.

[A]

I really respect that. Gives them more time to actually do R and D. And yeah, you feel like you've got the latest thing for, for, for longer too. Guys listening to this do go and try it. That's our only, only ask of you. If you're near, somewhere near a shop that stocks call, go in and say can I please try the new xr? Because it is different to any other kite and it's pretty undeniably likable. Especially if you want to jump high. Like if you're not going over 10 meters it's, it's, it's like cheating. It's like cheating.

[B]

Big wingspan puts you down nice and easy. And I want to say something else, Colin. In a time of high end equipment and Alula and Brainchild and all this stuff, I actually really like the way brands have put effort into Dacron. You know when we rode other kites that have Alula big brothers, we've found that those Dacron kites are unbelievable performance. It's almost like they've benefited from the technology of the, of the Alula. It's almost like an F1 car. It's almost like Ferrari having an F1 car. Right. They put all this technology in and that best stuff filters down into Ferraris, into consumer cars. And it's almost like that with these high end models. And when I've flown Dacron kites, they have an Alula Big brother. I really feel like those. Those kites have got closer together. And you're going to hear Shahad talking about that in a little bit as well. How those kites are just about as good as the Alula now, but they come at a better price point. So if it is a price point thing, it's definitely the way to go. And for most of us out there, you don't need a Lula. You don't.

[A]

Yeah. Also, these materials are bomb proof. Like, I would have no qualms. I know we shouldn't leave beaches. Beaches. No, we shouldn't leave kites flapping on the beach all day. But you. I'm way more confident to do it with a Dakron kite. Cuz guess what? They've been making those kites for 20 years.

[B]

Guys, I think it was the right. Wasn't it? Wasn't the X. Wasn't it the core riot, the original one.

[A]

Core Riot. Really cool.

[B]

I think so, yeah. I have to probably embarrass myself there. I'll have to go back and check that one out.

[A]

Yeah, if you. If it's probably the.

[B]

Yeah, if it goes silent, mate. You don't know how often that happens. Every week. Colin. I edit. By the time this podcast comes out, you and I just sound like Barack Obama talking. In reality, it's stutting and burping and. And stumbling and. What's that? What's this?

[A]

A rating to the nation narrating or A rating irritating.

[B]

Irritating. Yeah, okay, that too. I thought you were being positive. Anyway, let's finish this episode hearing from core team rider Shahar Sabri. We talk about what he likes about the XRX and what it's like to fly. We also talk about his preparation for Mykonos and what kite will he ride at the upcoming GKA event. Shah. How are you doing, brother?

[F]

I'm really good. Yeah. Finally back in training. Yeah. Focus. Looks absolutely nice.

[B]

How are you feeling after the Lords of Tram? I mean, it was a pretty tough round three for you. I mean, going up against Finn and Jamie, how did you sort of process that and start planning towards Mykonos?

[F]

That's actually a good question. To be honest. I was planning to come this competition way more prepared, but, yeah, I haven't had the time to train. I haven't had the wind to train that much. And I was in a different I was in the shooting score and I experienced something different than training that was really nice and I, I learned a lot there and what. Because I was not that prepared. Also I came with a little bit less pressure that allows me to say like, okay, I don't mind like, because the competitions before I feel like always I have been preparing tons and get. Get nervous and not performing that good. Not maybe nervous, I don't know. Just no experience. I feel like. And then I put on myself zero pressure on the comp and I'm happy the way I handle it. Like the tricks of fall was not that good or I was not good enough to win. But I'm happy the way I act is something that I really happy that happened. But yeah, Jamie and Finn were the next level. You know, Finn is absolutely like, I really love his style and his writing and he's super good. Like I really look like every video he posts is really amazing. And Jamie was just on another level that day and pretty cool. I think it's nice to see him back like two years ago when he had no. Yeah, no brand that kind of. When he had that EVA D lab and he had no fear and he was just on it. It's nice to see with him that it's like this back. I mean, it's sad for me because it's gonna be harder come harder fight, but in the same time I'm happy, you know.

[B]

Are you guys going to go to Mykonos a bit early and get some training and get used to that spot?

[F]

No, I haven't been there yet, but I was, I was thinking about it like I almost flew there but then. Yeah, I, I hope. Yeah, for the first question. Yeah, I hope I can make. Get some time and go there before. I hope the forecast will be good, but yeah, you never know how it's going to be the forecast. Also I wanted to fly there like two, three weeks ago and I talked to Lorenzo Leo to see if they want to come, but they say, yeah, the forecast there under. If it's under, then a week of wind is not that good. So I decided to stay home, have some more chill day, train in the gym, be with friends and yeah, last year of school. So it was nice.

[B]

I've got you on to talk about the XRX. It's the latest kite, the 10th kite coming up on the XR range. How does it feel to you?

[F]

As you know, I haven't been an XTAR elite for like three years. We have been developing it for quite a lot, like working on it. And also there was a new material, the exo text 3. I really like the feeling, you know, like coming from the Eksa Pro 2. I was after Costa riding it for the first time. Like the final version, just after Costa when it was super windy and I was riding every day and I was moving from the EXA Pro 2, which is my favorite kite personally. And there was not much different, you know, it was super good, like. Like a Lula kite almost basically super good, you know, like less bar pressure than the older versions, which I really like. Sometimes it's hard with the. With the old XTR as well. Like a lot of bar pressure and now it's a little bit less than the tractor and also lift more than the old one, you know, at least it's like an airplane, you know, it's like airplane like xr. It's super nice. You know. Some people was asking me today and yesterday if it's like they thought it's a new kite because xrx and they don't say xr10 and they ask if it's between the XR and the pace. And I say, well, it's xr, but actually it does. It is kind of between them because it's less bar pressure, but still like so much hang time and lift. You know, before when I was a kid, like I couldn't also pass a lot of time. But I grew up riding this and I remember grew up on Yannick videos and everything. I remember that looping the nine was catchy, you know. And now I loop the nine easily, you know, it's a really nice feeling to see. And also I'm so excited that this kite is back because it's my favorite thing. Like this is what I grew up on.

[B]

I remember you guys testing this in Dolphin beach and actually was probably like 25, 30 knots and you were out on a 12 meter. I mean everyone was like on riding nines, you went out on a 12, which is crazy.

[F]

I have this question quite a bit also from home and with when most of the like the local people and the my home people and who I always been growing up with, like they grew me up and everything. They asked me how do you usually when they are on nine or something? I'm on a 15. So it's also they ask me always like how can you handle it? And in the end it's a different. It's different because I'm used to handle the power. But back to your question. If it's easier to handle. Yeah, definitely. Definitely less bar Pressure easier. Amazing. I love it. I. I really love it. I was really surprised moving from the Alula to the dark run again.

[B]

Will you ride the XRX in competition or are you still going to stay on the Pro 2?

[F]

I'm gonna stay with the XR Pro 2, but I think for the 12 meter and the bigger size, I'm gonna definitely go for the. For the flower.

[B]

Who would you recommend this kite for?

[F]

Well, first of all, I think it fits to everyone in my opinion, but definitely for the people that like easy kite, that lift a lot, you know, it's really easy to take off and get that lift in your jump. If you are heavyweight, it's going to be also more for you, I think, than the. Than the pace. What's making the best feeling for me is the feeling of flying. And the longest I fly, the better the feeling, you know.

[A]

All right, let's wrap this puppy up then, shall we? The Outro.

[B]

Have you seen the new Wuhandle?

[A]

I can't believe that brands haven't thought to do this. I can't believe that Woo have had to be the ones to do it.

[B]

If Jason had that handle in Japan, he would have broken the. The Japanese record by 12 centimeters, not just the simple six he beat it by. Yeah, I think we're so cool. I mean, you and I are from the times when we. Having a handle on your board was almost a sin. And I've never had a handle. I think I'm gonna put a handle on. I think I might get a Woo handle. Why not? Oh, I'm gonna upgrade. You're gonna laugh at me.

[A]

I think handles are for doors and they should stay on there.

[B]

Go check out the new Woo handle. It looks pretty sick. I'm gonna try. I'm gonna try to get my hands on one.

[A]

And now this is the XR episode. You can't be promoting the WOO handle

[B]

if you want to break a Woo record. The kite you turn pick up is the. Is the xr.

[A]

Yeah, I know. Seriously.

[B]

It is.

[A]

Seriously.

[B]

I think that's probably how between Mike McDonald and Martin Hager and Josh. I wish I'd actually gone back and. And looked how many times that I

[A]

broke a woo PR on a XR.

[B]

Did you?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

What was that in 2016?

[A]

It's approximately half. It was approximately half the height of the folk you've just mentioned.

[B]

I don't even know if it was half. Let's be honest.

[A]

No, actually, it might have been a third at that point. It may well have been a third. And I remember being like. Actually, I remember bumping into a Joshua Emanuel in a car park in South Africa and being like, josh, I'm about to beat your record, mate. I'm gonna beat it, mate. And then afterwards, he was like, how'd it go? And I was like, I can't believe you went three times higher than I did.

[B]

Actually, you know, you would have heard Hendrik at the start. And Hendrik actually broke her PR on. On the new kite. And the video footage from that. Oh, my God. When I look at that photo, I think, I don't want to be up that high. And he's waving to the people.

[A]

Yeah, but you're used to kites that are a bit twitchier, a bit more nervous, whereas the XR is so stable and so floaty. You do feel like, oh, no, it's got me every time. So, yeah, I think you'd be surprised. Right, jolly good, that's enough. Thank you, as always. See you in the next one. Go. Try next hour. Goodbye.