Eleveight RS v7 kitesurf kite review
Loulou's Eleveight RS v7 8m/9m and 12m Review:
- Rider experience: expert level.
- Rider build: 1.75m / 87kg.
- Riding for Old School freestyle, Big Air, and strapless Surf Kite.
The Eleveight RS: Out of the Bag
First, let's talk price. The Eleveight allround kite, with its 3-strut delta shape, consistently offers incredible value. It's typically €200 cheaper than comparable kites. While each kite size saw a €100 increase this year, that's still minimal compared to the competition.
As we've come to expect from Eleveight, the finish is always top-notch. You get the X4 quadruple ripstop canopy, which is the strongest available. This sets a benchmark for the kite's durability and its resale value on the second-hand market. The bag remains unchanged this year, still as sturdy and waterproof as ever. It is also practical.
When it comes to colors, you can pick from four different options this year. I think the white looks fantastic on the water. And while the blue might not grab you on the spec sheet, it's absolutely stunning on the sand and in the air!
Eleveight RS: Inflation
The finish is flawless. The bayonet inflation valve is simple and practical, well-protected in neoprene to prevent damage when folding the kite. The bridles are the same as the V6, with no pulleys since last year for even more direct steering.
You'll also notice a new panel layout that maximizes the kite's rigidity. By slightly modifying the profile, Eleveight aimed to improve the V7's low-end performance. (The V6 already excelled in this area).
On the rear lines, you still have the option to connect for light wind or strong wind. I personally always set it to light wind, and if needed, I'll adjust the trim. The front bridles still offer three positions that significantly change the kite's behavior, from Wave mode to freestyle mode. The kite comes set to the allround mode, which works perfectly for my old school riding. For surf kite, I switch to Wave mode.
Eleveight RS: On the Water
So far, I've tested the 8m in very strong and gusty winds (35/40 kt), the 9m in medium winds (22/25 kt), and the 12m in typical summer winds of 18/20 kt.
While riding, I didn't notice huge differences compared to the V6. In very strong 8m winds, the kite felt a bit more physical than last year (or maybe I'm just getting older!). The 9m, within its operating range, was very playful and super fast; it just wants to jump and loop. The power delivery is perfect, and you always know where the kite is thanks to the excellent bar feel. This 9m, though not its advertised program, seems to have a lot of qualities for big air, just like previous versions.
As for the 12m, I'm always amazed! It's exactly like last year: every time we go out with the 12m, we expect a sluggish session with a truck, and every time we come back with a huge smile. This 12m is just as impressive year after year. For jumps, it feels like a 14m: it takes off and glides, which gives you plenty of time for all your old school tricks. The kite turns quite fast in down loops. When steering the kite, it feels more like piloting an 11m², exactly like last year.
This is another excellent version of the RS. After extensive testing, I've been hooked on this kite since version 3. This V7 has won me over again; I'm always looking for an all-around kite! For big air, this new version promises to be fantastic, with performance that will certainly be close to an XS. For beginners, this kite is still perfect right out of the course, and for Surf Kite, it performs exceptionally well.
We're going for another round this year, and the family quiver will once again be the RS. Don't hesitate to come see me on the beach to test it out and chat!
Key Features
| Section | Key takeaway |
|---|---|
| The Eleveight RS: Out of the Box | First, let's talk price. The Eleveight allround kite, with its 3-strut delta shape, consistently offers incredible value compared to... |
| Eleveight RS: Inflation | The finish is flawless. |
| Eleveight RS: On the Water | So far, I've tested the 8m in very strong and gusty winds (35/40 kt), the 9m in medium winds (22/25 kt), and the 12m in typical summer winds of 18/20 kt. |
| In Summary | Another excellent version of the RS. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you know about the Eleveight RS right out of the box?
First, let's talk price. The Eleveight allround kite, with its 3-strut delta shape, consistently offers incredible value. It's typically €200 cheaper than comparable kites. While each kite size saw a €100 increase this year, that's still minimal compared to the competition. As we've come to expect from Eleveight, the product is always exceptionally well-finished.
Eleveight RS inflation: what to remember
The finish is flawless. The bayonet inflation valve is simple and practical. Crucially, it's well-protected in neoprene to prevent damage to the kite when folding.
Eleveight RS in action: what to remember
So far, I've put the 8m through its paces in seriously strong and gusty winds (35-40 knots). I also rode the 9m in medium conditions (22-25 knots) and the 12m in typical summer breezes (18-20 knots). On the water, I haven't felt any major differences compared to the V6.
What to remember
This RS is another excellent version. After countless tests, I've been hooked on this kite since version 3.
Got a question about the gear mentioned here?
The GlissEvolution team rides what they sell. They are available to answer your questions in person at the Pornichet store or by phone.
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