On Feb 17, 2023
Hey Greg - I just have to say your kites and bar are amazing. So much better than the _. Its like i am driving a porsche and have instant control and constant acceleration/deceleration at my fingertips. I never feel like i “lose the kite” at any point like i did with my _. You really have done a fantastic job. Well done. Well f***ing done.
Hey Greg - I just have to say your kites and bar are amazing. So much better than the _. Its like i am driving a porsche and have instant control and constant acceleration/deceleration at my fingertips. I never feel like i “lose the kite” at any point like i did with my _. You really have done a fantastic job. Well done. Well f***ing done.
On July 3, 2023
Greetings Brm, I had the pleasure of riding my good friend's 8m. It was thr most enjoyable kiting experience I have had. I found the kite to be so very easy to manage and controllable in the turns and have very steady power delivery.
Greetings Brm, I had the pleasure of riding my good friend's 8m. It was thr most enjoyable kiting experience I have had. I found the kite to be so very easy to manage and controllable in the turns and have very steady power delivery.
On Jul 11, 2020
Hi Greg, I wanted to tell you how much fun I’m having kitefoiling on my Clouds - so stoked! This year I am really settling back into more regular riding and I am just smiling! I wanted to say I loved your recent video explaining some of the D to E bridling changes - I for one love the E bridles on my Ds, just so smooth through the power stroke, just the right amount of bar pressure for me and so fun to down loop now. Now having the E bridles and seeing your video, I see how I felt with the D bridle I got maybe a touch too much of a power surge for my taste at the engagement point in the bar throw (I did learn to use that point for feedback), and sometimes that was for me a bit of a handful in really gusty conditions. Now with the E bridle it is just buttery smooth - thank you for such wonderful kites and the option on the bridle upgrade!! And it’s great to have the tuning options - 4th knot for foiling and 2nd for surfboard for me are perfect. Loving the CCS too - very nice bar feel and very clean and clever release mechanisms. Please also extend my thanks to Kainani on her fantastic how-to videos on YouTube - her guide to learning footswitching on foil was gold for me in understanding how to try and approach this (still working on them myself but they are coming along). Can’t wait to get into tacking! Thanks for all you’ve done in developing these awesome kites and CCS!
Hi Greg, I wanted to tell you how much fun I’m having kitefoiling on my Clouds - so stoked! This year I am really settling back into more regular riding and I am just smiling! I wanted to say I loved your recent video explaining some of the D to E bridling changes - I for one love the E bridles on my Ds, just so smooth through the power stroke, just the right amount of bar pressure for me and so fun to down loop now. Now having the E bridles and seeing your video, I see how I felt with the D bridle I got maybe a touch too much of a power surge for my taste at the engagement point in the bar throw (I did learn to use that point for feedback), and sometimes that was for me a bit of a handful in really gusty conditions. Now with the E bridle it is just buttery smooth - thank you for such wonderful kites and the option on the bridle upgrade!! And it’s great to have the tuning options - 4th knot for foiling and 2nd for surfboard for me are perfect. Loving the CCS too - very nice bar feel and very clean and clever release mechanisms. Please also extend my thanks to Kainani on her fantastic how-to videos on YouTube - her guide to learning footswitching on foil was gold for me in understanding how to try and approach this (still working on them myself but they are coming along). Can’t wait to get into tacking! Thanks for all you’ve done in developing these awesome kites and CCS!
September 23, 2019
While I’m grateful for every rider that flies any Cloud, rather than an online survey this year I emailed only riders that I’ve sent D-series and E Clouds in the last 3 years. Feedback concise to this more recent performance will better guide work toward any changes that may better serve going forward.
While I’m grateful for every rider that flies any Cloud, rather than an online survey this year I emailed only riders that I’ve sent D-series and E Clouds in the last 3 years. Feedback concise to this more recent performance will better guide work toward any changes that may better serve going forward.
2019 CloudRider Survey:
Which bridle configuration are you currently flying?
(If you ride both, please answer based on the configuration you prefer)
34% D series bridle (D, D_0, D_1)
66% E (or any of above converted to E bridle)
Riders on the E bridle:
10% I regularly tune to a variety of the power delivery knots
36% I almost only ride on the 4thknot (max depower)
55% I only ride on the 4thknot
Suggesting to me 90% of us prioritize maximizing depower
Which closest describes how often you’ve ridden in the last year? (September 2018 to now)
9% Less than 25 sessions/year (once every other week)
30% 25 - 75 sessions/year (once a week)
36% 75 - 150 sessions/year (twice a week)
20% 150 - 250 sessions/year (+/- 50%)
4% Over 250 sessions/year (nearly every day)
Which closest describes your riding?
_ I only (or almost only) ride planning hulls
_ I hydrofoil 25% of my sessions, 75% on planning hulls
10% I hydrofoil 50% of my sessions, 50% on planning hulls
17% I hydrofoil 75% of my sessions, 25% on planning hulls
72% I only (or almost only) ride hydrofoils
What is your top interest(s) in hydrofoiling? (pick your top 1, or pick 2 split 50/50)
12% Expansion of my light wind kiting
48% General freeride fun
24% Freestyle progression
15% Surfing
_ Airstyle (boosting)
_ Racing
Which closest describes your riding?
1% I fly Clouds 25% of my sessions, 75% on other kites
6% I fly Clouds 50% of my sessions, 50% on other kites
10% I fly Clouds 75% of my sessions, 25% on other kites
83% I only (or almost only) fly Clouds
What other kites do you fly and why?
(no judgment, just wondering where Clouds fit into your riding + where other kites better serve, thanks)
Majority were for twintip powered boosting
How many years have you been flying Clouds?
17% 2019 is my first year
49% 2-3 years
20% 4-5 years
13% 6-7 years
Your wind range:
Individual ranges in light green. My range in blue.
Which bridle configuration are you currently flying?
(If you ride both, please answer based on the configuration you prefer)
34% D series bridle (D, D_0, D_1)
66% E (or any of above converted to E bridle)
Riders on the E bridle:
10% I regularly tune to a variety of the power delivery knots
36% I almost only ride on the 4thknot (max depower)
55% I only ride on the 4thknot
Suggesting to me 90% of us prioritize maximizing depower
Which closest describes how often you’ve ridden in the last year? (September 2018 to now)
9% Less than 25 sessions/year (once every other week)
30% 25 - 75 sessions/year (once a week)
36% 75 - 150 sessions/year (twice a week)
20% 150 - 250 sessions/year (+/- 50%)
4% Over 250 sessions/year (nearly every day)
Which closest describes your riding?
_ I only (or almost only) ride planning hulls
_ I hydrofoil 25% of my sessions, 75% on planning hulls
10% I hydrofoil 50% of my sessions, 50% on planning hulls
17% I hydrofoil 75% of my sessions, 25% on planning hulls
72% I only (or almost only) ride hydrofoils
What is your top interest(s) in hydrofoiling? (pick your top 1, or pick 2 split 50/50)
12% Expansion of my light wind kiting
48% General freeride fun
24% Freestyle progression
15% Surfing
_ Airstyle (boosting)
_ Racing
Which closest describes your riding?
1% I fly Clouds 25% of my sessions, 75% on other kites
6% I fly Clouds 50% of my sessions, 50% on other kites
10% I fly Clouds 75% of my sessions, 25% on other kites
83% I only (or almost only) fly Clouds
What other kites do you fly and why?
(no judgment, just wondering where Clouds fit into your riding + where other kites better serve, thanks)
Majority were for twintip powered boosting
How many years have you been flying Clouds?
17% 2019 is my first year
49% 2-3 years
20% 4-5 years
13% 6-7 years
Your wind range:
Individual ranges in light green. My range in blue.
How would you describe: The Cloud’s performance? (as a fit for your personal riding interests)
_ Below average
_ Average
4% Above average
96% Excellent
Performance changes you’d like to see?
How would you describe: The Cloud’s quiver pricing? (value in comparison to other kites)
2% Below average
35% Average
37% Above average
27% Excellent
Comments for price changes you’d like to see? (assuming overall price reduction isn’t possible)
How would you describe: My follow-up / service?
_ Below average
_ Average
11% Above average
89% Excellent
Comments for service changes you’d like to see?
How many Clouds have you adopted (new from BRM) this year (2019)?
41% Zero
17% 1-2
13% 3-4
29% 5+
How many new Clouds do you plan to adopt? (this helps me manage availability)
Rest of this year (2019):
87% Zero
12% 1-2
_ 3-4
1% 5+
Next year (2020):
42% Zero
37% 1-2
13% 3-4
7% 5+
Any other feedback for changes that would better serve your riding?
_ Below average
_ Average
4% Above average
96% Excellent
Performance changes you’d like to see?
How would you describe: The Cloud’s quiver pricing? (value in comparison to other kites)
2% Below average
35% Average
37% Above average
27% Excellent
Comments for price changes you’d like to see? (assuming overall price reduction isn’t possible)
How would you describe: My follow-up / service?
_ Below average
_ Average
11% Above average
89% Excellent
Comments for service changes you’d like to see?
How many Clouds have you adopted (new from BRM) this year (2019)?
41% Zero
17% 1-2
13% 3-4
29% 5+
How many new Clouds do you plan to adopt? (this helps me manage availability)
Rest of this year (2019):
87% Zero
12% 1-2
_ 3-4
1% 5+
Next year (2020):
42% Zero
37% 1-2
13% 3-4
7% 5+
Any other feedback for changes that would better serve your riding?
June 30
Aloha Greg,
well received the kite and installed the E bridles on my D.0 kites (6.2 & 8.0), and tested both the day they arrived :-)
Wow, I like the new extended wind range using the same kite (6.2) ! just this would already be for any brand a major leap forward and a very impressive update. But It also feels smoother, behave better in the gusts, and more lightweight on the bar.
I do not know what to say, Fantastic Work Greg! Lovin'it. Thanks 👍
June 17
i'm loving the new Cloud E's. i feel like they have an extra 25% on the low end of the range over the D0. i was having a blast yesterday on the 4.8m. the next smallest kite in the sky was almost twice as big.
June 16
Just wanted to send you a note to say how much I am loving my Clouds and bar. My riding has really progressed this spring in no small part thanks to how great they are to fly and the confidence they inspire in the rider. I also NEVER want to go back to a traditional bar/chicken loop setup. My previous bar feels like a lead weight nowadays! I've also been amusing the local community with my kite sizing choices - often trying to get out with the absolute smallest kite possible. Last week I rode the 8m in probably 6-10knots, while other foilers were on 12m inflatables up to 15m ram airs. I've also found that the 4.8m is perfect as soon as I see a twin tip rider on a 15m or smaller. Anyway, thanks again for making such great gear.
June 12
I just wanted to let you know that I am loving the Clouds. So fun to fly. After six sessions I am already doing things I could never have done without them and I know that I have only scratched the surface. Thanks for making such a great product!
Aloha Greg,
well received the kite and installed the E bridles on my D.0 kites (6.2 & 8.0), and tested both the day they arrived :-)
Wow, I like the new extended wind range using the same kite (6.2) ! just this would already be for any brand a major leap forward and a very impressive update. But It also feels smoother, behave better in the gusts, and more lightweight on the bar.
I do not know what to say, Fantastic Work Greg! Lovin'it. Thanks 👍
June 17
i'm loving the new Cloud E's. i feel like they have an extra 25% on the low end of the range over the D0. i was having a blast yesterday on the 4.8m. the next smallest kite in the sky was almost twice as big.
June 16
Just wanted to send you a note to say how much I am loving my Clouds and bar. My riding has really progressed this spring in no small part thanks to how great they are to fly and the confidence they inspire in the rider. I also NEVER want to go back to a traditional bar/chicken loop setup. My previous bar feels like a lead weight nowadays! I've also been amusing the local community with my kite sizing choices - often trying to get out with the absolute smallest kite possible. Last week I rode the 8m in probably 6-10knots, while other foilers were on 12m inflatables up to 15m ram airs. I've also found that the 4.8m is perfect as soon as I see a twin tip rider on a 15m or smaller. Anyway, thanks again for making such great gear.
June 12
I just wanted to let you know that I am loving the Clouds. So fun to fly. After six sessions I am already doing things I could never have done without them and I know that I have only scratched the surface. Thanks for making such a great product!
May 16, 2019
I have had a couple days riding the new E kite. And I love it! My impression is that the pull is much smoother at any position in the window. The bar pressure feels less as well. __ took out the converted 13.4 today and she was amazed. She particularly noticed the lower bar pressure. The high bar pressure on the big kite was always a problem for her. So you have done it again, maestro! I also love my new bar. Simple, light and versatile . Don't see how you could improve on it. Thanks for the great equipment.
May 7, 2019
....just had the E’s for 10 days and love them! Love the feel and the increased range. Am so appreciative of your work!...
May 7, 2019
First I want to tell you Cloud kites have really advanced my progression. I am riding 91 Moses with a 37” Mucho Macho from KS with my Clouds and they are awesome! The Clouds are so fun and responsive it’s impossible to go back to flying anything else. I only wish I had gotten them sooner. I have made tremendous progress and they are truly a joy to fly.
May 7, 2019
Just a quick note to say I love my new E's. Flew 4 of the 5. So much respect for the kite. Power on / Power Off. Light but powerful.
I have had a couple days riding the new E kite. And I love it! My impression is that the pull is much smoother at any position in the window. The bar pressure feels less as well. __ took out the converted 13.4 today and she was amazed. She particularly noticed the lower bar pressure. The high bar pressure on the big kite was always a problem for her. So you have done it again, maestro! I also love my new bar. Simple, light and versatile . Don't see how you could improve on it. Thanks for the great equipment.
May 7, 2019
....just had the E’s for 10 days and love them! Love the feel and the increased range. Am so appreciative of your work!...
May 7, 2019
First I want to tell you Cloud kites have really advanced my progression. I am riding 91 Moses with a 37” Mucho Macho from KS with my Clouds and they are awesome! The Clouds are so fun and responsive it’s impossible to go back to flying anything else. I only wish I had gotten them sooner. I have made tremendous progress and they are truly a joy to fly.
May 7, 2019
Just a quick note to say I love my new E's. Flew 4 of the 5. So much respect for the kite. Power on / Power Off. Light but powerful.
On May 5, 2019
I'm so stoked on the new E series! My kiting is progressing faster thanks to the new gear.
May 2, 2019
You’ve done it again. You made the bars lighter simpler and more versatile. Simple but elegant.
May 1, 2019
Your kites have contributed to my enjoyment and progression in kiting and foiling more than any other piece of gear. Your continued enthusiasm and work on improvement is only surpassed by your commitment to your customers. Providing the bridle update for a very reasonable cost is an amazing service that I cannot imagine any other company in the industry matching. Well done! I am committed to clouds now and in the future.
Apr 27, 2019
I rode the 8 m E on new bar and I think a more fun name might be D-wow! (Except that LF already used that name). Thank you!!
I'm so stoked on the new E series! My kiting is progressing faster thanks to the new gear.
May 2, 2019
You’ve done it again. You made the bars lighter simpler and more versatile. Simple but elegant.
May 1, 2019
Your kites have contributed to my enjoyment and progression in kiting and foiling more than any other piece of gear. Your continued enthusiasm and work on improvement is only surpassed by your commitment to your customers. Providing the bridle update for a very reasonable cost is an amazing service that I cannot imagine any other company in the industry matching. Well done! I am committed to clouds now and in the future.
Apr 27, 2019
I rode the 8 m E on new bar and I think a more fun name might be D-wow! (Except that LF already used that name). Thank you!!
Apr 26, 2019
I feel like every once in a while I have to write just to thank you for inventing/innovating the Clouds. I had another incredibly fun afternoon yesterday on a 4.8 in 16-22 mph while other foilers were struggling with 7s and 8s and the twin tip guys were on 12s. These kites have brought a lot of joy into my life, and I’m continually grateful.
Apr 25, 2019
I’ve ridden most of the Clouds I think by now, from the C, C.5 and now d0 line before the E. The E has positive characteristics from all generations, specifically that little bit of extra power I the design you mentioned: a 6m powered just enough more to be able to do powered loops - for starts, downloop pull me away from sinking during transition, anything. Then the ‘cons’ seem to have piled up into an easier relaunching rollover maneuvers :)! I can’t remember if it was the 6 or 4.8, but I dropped it on it’s back during a lull, and casually swam towards it to loosen lines and let it reset. Not once, but twice did it happen, and the kite recovered perfectly, intuitively, each time. I think I’m Maui overrunning the kite losing power, then the kicker..wanting to loop the kite for a little extra power to pull me forward and up on foil enough to get going again. It’s power that I became familiar with in surf kites and riding, but had to get used to missing once adopting the d0s. Not so bad worthwhile tradeoff I figure. Now the kite verges on perfect. And I haven’t even gotten the smaller sizes!
Apr 24, 2019
Woo hoo! I’ve had 3sessions on my 6.2 and 1 on my 4.8. The light bar pressure takes some getting used to. I tended to over sheet at first. I’m getting more used to them and when they’re in the sweet spot WOW! Thanks for all you do!
Apr 25, 2019
After 4 sessions the light bar pressure is becoming the new norm. I’m loving the pull! I’m on a 4.8 and everyone else are on 12’s and 9’s. Thanks again for all you do!
Apr 24, 2019
Awesome, Greg! Love the Es so far. Kudos on keeping it legit.
On Mar 4, 2019
I’m sure you have heard it hundreds of times but I just wanted to drop a quick note to say how great my first ride with my 6.2 was. Only flew it with a surfboard today so I could really focus on the kite. Awesome! So so pumped I finally pulled the trigger on your creations. Can’t wait to fly the rest of the family and start rockin the hydrofoil with finesse.
I feel like every once in a while I have to write just to thank you for inventing/innovating the Clouds. I had another incredibly fun afternoon yesterday on a 4.8 in 16-22 mph while other foilers were struggling with 7s and 8s and the twin tip guys were on 12s. These kites have brought a lot of joy into my life, and I’m continually grateful.
Apr 25, 2019
I’ve ridden most of the Clouds I think by now, from the C, C.5 and now d0 line before the E. The E has positive characteristics from all generations, specifically that little bit of extra power I the design you mentioned: a 6m powered just enough more to be able to do powered loops - for starts, downloop pull me away from sinking during transition, anything. Then the ‘cons’ seem to have piled up into an easier relaunching rollover maneuvers :)! I can’t remember if it was the 6 or 4.8, but I dropped it on it’s back during a lull, and casually swam towards it to loosen lines and let it reset. Not once, but twice did it happen, and the kite recovered perfectly, intuitively, each time. I think I’m Maui overrunning the kite losing power, then the kicker..wanting to loop the kite for a little extra power to pull me forward and up on foil enough to get going again. It’s power that I became familiar with in surf kites and riding, but had to get used to missing once adopting the d0s. Not so bad worthwhile tradeoff I figure. Now the kite verges on perfect. And I haven’t even gotten the smaller sizes!
Apr 24, 2019
Woo hoo! I’ve had 3sessions on my 6.2 and 1 on my 4.8. The light bar pressure takes some getting used to. I tended to over sheet at first. I’m getting more used to them and when they’re in the sweet spot WOW! Thanks for all you do!
Apr 25, 2019
After 4 sessions the light bar pressure is becoming the new norm. I’m loving the pull! I’m on a 4.8 and everyone else are on 12’s and 9’s. Thanks again for all you do!
Apr 24, 2019
Awesome, Greg! Love the Es so far. Kudos on keeping it legit.
On Mar 4, 2019
I’m sure you have heard it hundreds of times but I just wanted to drop a quick note to say how great my first ride with my 6.2 was. Only flew it with a surfboard today so I could really focus on the kite. Awesome! So so pumped I finally pulled the trigger on your creations. Can’t wait to fly the rest of the family and start rockin the hydrofoil with finesse.
October 3, 2018
Aloha CloudRiders,
Wow!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for the awesome participation! I really, really appreciate your feedback via the survey!
In review of the response totals below please keep in mind: This does not rigidly define “who we are” as a CloudRiding community. My best estimation is that around 20% of currently active CloudRiders turned out to vote via participation in this survey making it for me important to consider within the context of the total feedback I continually receive.
Understandably, a rider that adopted a single Cloud for light wind riding 6 years ago has different experiences than someone riding a full quiver from this year so I’m thankful I chose not to use automated survey software. Reviewing every response suggests trends based on rider groups as well as the importance of every rider’s individual perspective which sometimes differed in substantial ways to that suggested by the survey stats in total.
However, beyond the constrains of this presentation format, its still super interesting to me in so many ways so I’m stoked to be able to share with you the replies to the 2018 CloudRider Survey:
Which closest describes how often you’ve ridden in the last year? (end September 2017 to now)
7% Less than 25 sessions/year (once every other week)
35% 25 - 75 sessions/year (once a week)
38% 75 - 150 sessions/year (twice a week)
17% 150 - 250 sessions/year (+/- 50%)
4% Over 250 sessions/year (nearly every day)
Which closest describes your riding?
3% I only (or almost only) ride planning hulls
6% I hydrofoil 25% of my sessions, 75% on planning hulls
8% I hydrofoil 50% of my sessions, 50% on planning hulls
30% I hydrofoil 75% of my sessions, 25% on planning hulls
53% I only (or almost only) ride hydrofoils
What is your top interest in hydrofoiling?
(Likely more than one applies, please pick only your top one)
17% Expansion of my light wind kiting
45% General freeride fun
22% Freestyle progression
16% Surfing
1% Airstyle (boosting)
0% Racing
Which closest describes your riding?
6% I fly Clouds 25% of my sessions, 75% on other kites
9% I fly Clouds 50% of my sessions, 50% on other kites
15% I fly Clouds 75% of my sessions, 25% on other kites
70% I only (or almost only) fly Clouds
What other kites do you fly and why? (only if you’re open to share / no judgment / just wondering where Clouds fit into your riding + where other kites better serve / thanks)
Greg: Of the minority of sessions on other kites the majority of replies were that other kites are being used for other riding styles, especially boosting on twintips
How many years have you been flying Clouds?
26% 2018 is my first year
23% 2 years
24% 3 years
11% 4 years
11% 5 years
5% 6 years
(Update to last year’s adoption history)
How many Clouds have you adopted (new from BRM) this year (2018)?
39% Zero
15% 1-2
19% 3-4
26% 5+
How many new Clouds do you plan to adopt? (This helps me manage availability.)
Rest of this year (2018):
78% Zero
21% 1-2
1% 3-4
1% 5+
Next year (2019):
35% Zero
47% 1-2
13% 3-4
6% 5+
Greg: 82% intend to adopt 2 or less Clouds next year = not a ton of support going forward. So if you’re stoked on your Cloud please encourage a friend to support next year. Thanks.
How would you describe: The Cloud’s performance? (as a fit for your personal riding interests)
C.5 and earlier model Clouds:
0% Below average
13% Average
43% Above average
43% Excellent
Cloud model D, D_0 &/or D_1:
0% Below average
0% Average
9% Above average
91% Excellent
Greg: How the current gear is performing for you is the most important point to me. I’m suuuuuuper stoked that the performance is excellent for the great majority of you!!!!
Performance changes you’d like to see? (specific to model D, D_0 &/or D_1)
Greg: Thank you for your feedback! I’m really happy that improvements have been in the works in the majority of areas you requested. I’ll continue to work + will be excited to share gear updates as they’re ready!
How would you describe: The Cloud’s quiver pricing? (value in comparison to other kites)
6% Below average
39% Average
31% Above average
24% Excellent
Greg: Despite not raising prices last year’s feedback of a 10 out of 10 trended down this year
Comments for price changes you’d like to see? (assuming overall price reduction isn’t possible)
Greg: Thank you for all the supportive responses. Special thanks to the rider that wrote, “Clouds are priceless”
How would you describe: My follow-up / service?
0% Below average
2% Average
6% Above average
93% Excellent
Comments for service changes you’d like to see?
Greg: Great majority of responses were unbelievably supportive. Thank you!!! Main request was to extend this internationally which unfortunately in the past yielded lower total stoke.
Any other (anonymous) feedback for me? (other than anonymous, please email me directly any time)
Greg: Here again so many unbelievably supportive responses. I can’t thank you enough!!!!
My great thanks again to everyone that participated! I am stoked to have heard from every one of you + thank you for your support.
Thank you!
Greg
Aloha CloudRiders,
Wow!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for the awesome participation! I really, really appreciate your feedback via the survey!
In review of the response totals below please keep in mind: This does not rigidly define “who we are” as a CloudRiding community. My best estimation is that around 20% of currently active CloudRiders turned out to vote via participation in this survey making it for me important to consider within the context of the total feedback I continually receive.
Understandably, a rider that adopted a single Cloud for light wind riding 6 years ago has different experiences than someone riding a full quiver from this year so I’m thankful I chose not to use automated survey software. Reviewing every response suggests trends based on rider groups as well as the importance of every rider’s individual perspective which sometimes differed in substantial ways to that suggested by the survey stats in total.
However, beyond the constrains of this presentation format, its still super interesting to me in so many ways so I’m stoked to be able to share with you the replies to the 2018 CloudRider Survey:
Which closest describes how often you’ve ridden in the last year? (end September 2017 to now)
7% Less than 25 sessions/year (once every other week)
35% 25 - 75 sessions/year (once a week)
38% 75 - 150 sessions/year (twice a week)
17% 150 - 250 sessions/year (+/- 50%)
4% Over 250 sessions/year (nearly every day)
Which closest describes your riding?
3% I only (or almost only) ride planning hulls
6% I hydrofoil 25% of my sessions, 75% on planning hulls
8% I hydrofoil 50% of my sessions, 50% on planning hulls
30% I hydrofoil 75% of my sessions, 25% on planning hulls
53% I only (or almost only) ride hydrofoils
What is your top interest in hydrofoiling?
(Likely more than one applies, please pick only your top one)
17% Expansion of my light wind kiting
45% General freeride fun
22% Freestyle progression
16% Surfing
1% Airstyle (boosting)
0% Racing
Which closest describes your riding?
6% I fly Clouds 25% of my sessions, 75% on other kites
9% I fly Clouds 50% of my sessions, 50% on other kites
15% I fly Clouds 75% of my sessions, 25% on other kites
70% I only (or almost only) fly Clouds
What other kites do you fly and why? (only if you’re open to share / no judgment / just wondering where Clouds fit into your riding + where other kites better serve / thanks)
Greg: Of the minority of sessions on other kites the majority of replies were that other kites are being used for other riding styles, especially boosting on twintips
How many years have you been flying Clouds?
26% 2018 is my first year
23% 2 years
24% 3 years
11% 4 years
11% 5 years
5% 6 years
(Update to last year’s adoption history)
How many Clouds have you adopted (new from BRM) this year (2018)?
39% Zero
15% 1-2
19% 3-4
26% 5+
How many new Clouds do you plan to adopt? (This helps me manage availability.)
Rest of this year (2018):
78% Zero
21% 1-2
1% 3-4
1% 5+
Next year (2019):
35% Zero
47% 1-2
13% 3-4
6% 5+
Greg: 82% intend to adopt 2 or less Clouds next year = not a ton of support going forward. So if you’re stoked on your Cloud please encourage a friend to support next year. Thanks.
How would you describe: The Cloud’s performance? (as a fit for your personal riding interests)
C.5 and earlier model Clouds:
0% Below average
13% Average
43% Above average
43% Excellent
Cloud model D, D_0 &/or D_1:
0% Below average
0% Average
9% Above average
91% Excellent
Greg: How the current gear is performing for you is the most important point to me. I’m suuuuuuper stoked that the performance is excellent for the great majority of you!!!!
Performance changes you’d like to see? (specific to model D, D_0 &/or D_1)
Greg: Thank you for your feedback! I’m really happy that improvements have been in the works in the majority of areas you requested. I’ll continue to work + will be excited to share gear updates as they’re ready!
How would you describe: The Cloud’s quiver pricing? (value in comparison to other kites)
6% Below average
39% Average
31% Above average
24% Excellent
Greg: Despite not raising prices last year’s feedback of a 10 out of 10 trended down this year
Comments for price changes you’d like to see? (assuming overall price reduction isn’t possible)
Greg: Thank you for all the supportive responses. Special thanks to the rider that wrote, “Clouds are priceless”
How would you describe: My follow-up / service?
0% Below average
2% Average
6% Above average
93% Excellent
Comments for service changes you’d like to see?
Greg: Great majority of responses were unbelievably supportive. Thank you!!! Main request was to extend this internationally which unfortunately in the past yielded lower total stoke.
Any other (anonymous) feedback for me? (other than anonymous, please email me directly any time)
Greg: Here again so many unbelievably supportive responses. I can’t thank you enough!!!!
My great thanks again to everyone that participated! I am stoked to have heard from every one of you + thank you for your support.
Thank you!
Greg
Oct 2
Aloha Greg! I can't even express my gratitude for you and your creation!!!! The Cloud is EVERYTHING I've ever dreamed a kite could be…. AMAZING! Biggest grin on my face every session! I am soooo honoured to be part of the family…. You've changed my life…. Peace, Love, and Joy to you and your family!!!
Aloha Greg! I can't even express my gratitude for you and your creation!!!! The Cloud is EVERYTHING I've ever dreamed a kite could be…. AMAZING! Biggest grin on my face every session! I am soooo honoured to be part of the family…. You've changed my life…. Peace, Love, and Joy to you and your family!!!
August 8, 2018
Hey Greg. It’s been awhile since I’ve wanted to write you a little note but somehow havent been able to find the time. Let me start with a big thank you. Ive been kiting for as long as i can remember and somehow, you’ve managed to bring back that feeling of cramps in my jaw because of a HUGE smile on my face. So so happy!!! Everything from the simplicity, cleanliness, attention to detail and understanding of what matters that is pervasive throughout your designs is truly refreshing. My first ride with the cloud was like a revelation. I thought there is finally someone who gets what’s fun in kiting. Small, efficient lightweight designs allow the rider to get the most out of what’s important, in french: “faire des ronds dans l’eau”... Loosely translated as not taking anything too seriously and having a blast on the water. I think overall, I’ve doubled the time i spend in the water with your gear from what i did previously (probably 5 hours yesterday). Over a few more rides, I thought how crazy it is that every kitedesigner and kitebrand out there has not changed what they are doing and basically copied everything from BRM. Ive always thought that the kite industry as a whole hasn’t evolved as fast as I expected given the amount of talent involved, but I’m thrilled to share that I think you’ve broken with the establishement and so much for the better. Then, I also got my wife hooked as well as got my kids out on it. So basically in a few weeks, we’ve tested it out on a twin tip (not much), a surfboard, and foils and the cloud has behaved so beautifully in every situation. Im still learning and tweaking the setup for the foil but that’s my favorite by far. Finally, and this is coming from a guy who used to be a complete workaholic, I love the philosophy you seem to bring to your business approach. Growth or willingness to please your clients can sometimes get in the way of enjoying the ride and you seem to have struck and maintained the right balance. There’s no purpose to this email apart from congratulating you for having developed products I love, and i hope you keep doing what you doing.
Hey Greg. It’s been awhile since I’ve wanted to write you a little note but somehow havent been able to find the time. Let me start with a big thank you. Ive been kiting for as long as i can remember and somehow, you’ve managed to bring back that feeling of cramps in my jaw because of a HUGE smile on my face. So so happy!!! Everything from the simplicity, cleanliness, attention to detail and understanding of what matters that is pervasive throughout your designs is truly refreshing. My first ride with the cloud was like a revelation. I thought there is finally someone who gets what’s fun in kiting. Small, efficient lightweight designs allow the rider to get the most out of what’s important, in french: “faire des ronds dans l’eau”... Loosely translated as not taking anything too seriously and having a blast on the water. I think overall, I’ve doubled the time i spend in the water with your gear from what i did previously (probably 5 hours yesterday). Over a few more rides, I thought how crazy it is that every kitedesigner and kitebrand out there has not changed what they are doing and basically copied everything from BRM. Ive always thought that the kite industry as a whole hasn’t evolved as fast as I expected given the amount of talent involved, but I’m thrilled to share that I think you’ve broken with the establishement and so much for the better. Then, I also got my wife hooked as well as got my kids out on it. So basically in a few weeks, we’ve tested it out on a twin tip (not much), a surfboard, and foils and the cloud has behaved so beautifully in every situation. Im still learning and tweaking the setup for the foil but that’s my favorite by far. Finally, and this is coming from a guy who used to be a complete workaholic, I love the philosophy you seem to bring to your business approach. Growth or willingness to please your clients can sometimes get in the way of enjoying the ride and you seem to have struck and maintained the right balance. There’s no purpose to this email apart from congratulating you for having developed products I love, and i hope you keep doing what you doing.
Dec 16, 2017
I switched kites with a friend to compare the D1 vs current D (I use D and D_0 names interchangeably) while hydrofoiling on day one. Early on we could make no conclusions yet...and we really put them through the paces. That speaks highly of the D1...that any differences must be subtle`. Wind was straight onshore, 12 to 17mph averages with lulls to 8 and gusts to 18. I had expected the D_1 to perform differently somehow, I just had no idea in which ways it might be different. And to be honest, weird conditions and constantly changing conditions and 30 minutes between sessions really don't make for a great side by side comparisons. On the other hand: I have flown the 8D maybe more than any Cloud. No prior kiting for a week. I just had my muscle memory. So without expecting anything or overanalyzing...I just flew the 8m D_1 and felt immediately totally at home with it. So, maybe they really are 95 or 98 or 99% the same...(it kind of depends on the parameters you choose to compare, doesn't it?). But the differences between the D-0 and D_1 must be small relative to their differences with other Cloud models and tiny when compared to other kites.
Day two comparisons were in waves on a small surfboard in 20 to 25mph winds. Again, these kites are really close. No jumping, so I cannot comment on that. To me, both have good upwind ability, I cannot say that either wins out. The D-1 is doing what the D is supposed to do. These kites are really close. But I think I am starting to perceive very small differences.
Day three comparison testing was done with a surfboard again in lower winds. Now I have a little more of a sense that I can detect differences. My conclusions are: For surf the D_1 is the second best surf kite in the world related to fast turning, turning with very little power input required, tremendous drift, massive depower, and and an uncanny ability to smooth out punchy wind. The D_1 is so close to the D_0. But the D_0 is just slightly better in these qualities, so it is the best. After Clouds, other kites are a distant third.
For foiling: The same as above for the same reasons.
Also regarding waves (surfboard or hydrofoil): I prefer the D-0. Overall, all Clouds are great for surf because regardless of relaunch techniques, the best kite for relaunch is the kite that goes into the water less often. Flying any Cloud means a major reduction in dropping your kite in the water. But when a kite does goes into the surf I prefer strutless. Strutted kites can suffer the brunt of the force of the breaking wave which can damage the kite and damage me by pulling me so hard. The strutless Clouds mostly "depower" when hit by surf. The wall of water moves over, under and around as the strutless canopy allows.
I tried relaunch several times (I had to intentionally put it down). The D_1 launches way more easily than any strutted kite I have owned. But the D_0 launches for me even more easily. Though for some who haven't or won't master the techniques of D relaunch, perhaps for them the D_1 relaunch will be easier. To each his own.
That single strut is beautifully constructed. As with everything on the D, it is just simply what is needed and nothing more. The strut is discrete and seems to be just enough to suit its intended purpose and to not be any bigger than needed and then adds nothing more. It is very cleanly connected. The bladder, from leading edge to strut is continuous. I like that there are are no flanges, tubes, or clamps (internal or external) to leak or weigh down the kite. (Not only was it difficult to determine what differences the strut makes in flight characteristics, sometimes when looking at the kite in flight it was hard to see the strut.
Performance on the ground: The D1 sits less likely to take off on beach if not weighted down. (though I would still weight it down if moderately windy...it is a Cloud). Carried upside down to beach, it is pushed higher by wind so a little easier to carry than the D. The D_1 is better as a rain umbrella while sitting under it on the grass near the beach in a squall.
I imagine many kiters have preconceived notions about strutless kites and single strut kites. But assuming much similarity between Clouds and other strutless kites is like assuming that for convertible cars. But a Porsche Cabriolet and a Chryser LeBaron convertible do not have much in common. Likewise, I would recommend not assuming that adding this single strut to the Cloud D will make it have much in common with any other single strut kite or that it would even have the same effect as adding a single strut would to another strutless kite. Clouds are different.
I do have a built-in bias in favor of the D simply because that is what I have been flying. Clouds are so very responsive and precise so that I don’t even like to switch between flying a D Cloud and any prior model Cloud. But switching between the D_1 and D_0 is a breeze. In fact, what very small differences I thought I detected might largely be eliminated by piloting adjustments. Turn the bar slightly more (not sheet in more) and the D_1 seems to turn as fast. While the D_1 probably can beat any other kite in drift, I think the D_0 still has the edge in drift. And so far, I couldn't find a specific flying characteristic in which the D_1 excels over the D (Perhaps someone else will). But overall I was surprised to find that they are so very close. If someone replaced my Clouds with non-Cloud kites I would be very unhappy. If someone replaced my D Clouds with earlier Cloud models, I would be ok with it, but slighted less stoked with many sessions. But if my D’s were replaced with D_1's, I admit that I would still ride very happily. If someone for whatever reason wants the single strut, I would now encourage them to go ahead, knowing that they are going to get a true Cloud D experience.
I switched kites with a friend to compare the D1 vs current D (I use D and D_0 names interchangeably) while hydrofoiling on day one. Early on we could make no conclusions yet...and we really put them through the paces. That speaks highly of the D1...that any differences must be subtle`. Wind was straight onshore, 12 to 17mph averages with lulls to 8 and gusts to 18. I had expected the D_1 to perform differently somehow, I just had no idea in which ways it might be different. And to be honest, weird conditions and constantly changing conditions and 30 minutes between sessions really don't make for a great side by side comparisons. On the other hand: I have flown the 8D maybe more than any Cloud. No prior kiting for a week. I just had my muscle memory. So without expecting anything or overanalyzing...I just flew the 8m D_1 and felt immediately totally at home with it. So, maybe they really are 95 or 98 or 99% the same...(it kind of depends on the parameters you choose to compare, doesn't it?). But the differences between the D-0 and D_1 must be small relative to their differences with other Cloud models and tiny when compared to other kites.
Day two comparisons were in waves on a small surfboard in 20 to 25mph winds. Again, these kites are really close. No jumping, so I cannot comment on that. To me, both have good upwind ability, I cannot say that either wins out. The D-1 is doing what the D is supposed to do. These kites are really close. But I think I am starting to perceive very small differences.
Day three comparison testing was done with a surfboard again in lower winds. Now I have a little more of a sense that I can detect differences. My conclusions are: For surf the D_1 is the second best surf kite in the world related to fast turning, turning with very little power input required, tremendous drift, massive depower, and and an uncanny ability to smooth out punchy wind. The D_1 is so close to the D_0. But the D_0 is just slightly better in these qualities, so it is the best. After Clouds, other kites are a distant third.
For foiling: The same as above for the same reasons.
Also regarding waves (surfboard or hydrofoil): I prefer the D-0. Overall, all Clouds are great for surf because regardless of relaunch techniques, the best kite for relaunch is the kite that goes into the water less often. Flying any Cloud means a major reduction in dropping your kite in the water. But when a kite does goes into the surf I prefer strutless. Strutted kites can suffer the brunt of the force of the breaking wave which can damage the kite and damage me by pulling me so hard. The strutless Clouds mostly "depower" when hit by surf. The wall of water moves over, under and around as the strutless canopy allows.
I tried relaunch several times (I had to intentionally put it down). The D_1 launches way more easily than any strutted kite I have owned. But the D_0 launches for me even more easily. Though for some who haven't or won't master the techniques of D relaunch, perhaps for them the D_1 relaunch will be easier. To each his own.
That single strut is beautifully constructed. As with everything on the D, it is just simply what is needed and nothing more. The strut is discrete and seems to be just enough to suit its intended purpose and to not be any bigger than needed and then adds nothing more. It is very cleanly connected. The bladder, from leading edge to strut is continuous. I like that there are are no flanges, tubes, or clamps (internal or external) to leak or weigh down the kite. (Not only was it difficult to determine what differences the strut makes in flight characteristics, sometimes when looking at the kite in flight it was hard to see the strut.
Performance on the ground: The D1 sits less likely to take off on beach if not weighted down. (though I would still weight it down if moderately windy...it is a Cloud). Carried upside down to beach, it is pushed higher by wind so a little easier to carry than the D. The D_1 is better as a rain umbrella while sitting under it on the grass near the beach in a squall.
I imagine many kiters have preconceived notions about strutless kites and single strut kites. But assuming much similarity between Clouds and other strutless kites is like assuming that for convertible cars. But a Porsche Cabriolet and a Chryser LeBaron convertible do not have much in common. Likewise, I would recommend not assuming that adding this single strut to the Cloud D will make it have much in common with any other single strut kite or that it would even have the same effect as adding a single strut would to another strutless kite. Clouds are different.
I do have a built-in bias in favor of the D simply because that is what I have been flying. Clouds are so very responsive and precise so that I don’t even like to switch between flying a D Cloud and any prior model Cloud. But switching between the D_1 and D_0 is a breeze. In fact, what very small differences I thought I detected might largely be eliminated by piloting adjustments. Turn the bar slightly more (not sheet in more) and the D_1 seems to turn as fast. While the D_1 probably can beat any other kite in drift, I think the D_0 still has the edge in drift. And so far, I couldn't find a specific flying characteristic in which the D_1 excels over the D (Perhaps someone else will). But overall I was surprised to find that they are so very close. If someone replaced my Clouds with non-Cloud kites I would be very unhappy. If someone replaced my D Clouds with earlier Cloud models, I would be ok with it, but slighted less stoked with many sessions. But if my D’s were replaced with D_1's, I admit that I would still ride very happily. If someone for whatever reason wants the single strut, I would now encourage them to go ahead, knowing that they are going to get a true Cloud D experience.
Dec 13
I finally tried my 3 clouds - we’ve not had much wind this fall. The 3 sizes I got (10.4, 6.2 and 4.8) cover well my needs. I’ve switched several times from one to the other in a single session as wind either increased or decreased. I’m glad I followed your advice and got the 4.8m to go out in 20+mph winds - I can’t “play around” with the 6.2m when it gets that strong, which defeats the purpose of clouds in general, I think. The smoothness of these kites struck me first, as I flew them after a year and a half on the c5’s. I find your comparison of the c5 to a dirt bike, and of the D to a 4-stroke speed bike very appropriate. The silence, and of course the ability to turn when sheeted out are also great. I think tacks are easier for me on the Ds because they fly higher in the window when sheeted out. I also appreciate a lot their higher ends. They seem faster and handle gusts better than the 2 larger C5’s, while keeping great low ends. They are really great, and better than the C5’s, while retaining all the C5’s qualities. I’m glad you’ll keep these on production - can they be topped? Happy holidays. Something to add about the D’s, as compared to the C5’s, is how more useable the kite’s power output is along the sheeting range. The power seemed much more on/off with the C5’s. That makes the D’s also more interesting to handle, and give the feeling that the kite puts no limits on my riding.
I finally tried my 3 clouds - we’ve not had much wind this fall. The 3 sizes I got (10.4, 6.2 and 4.8) cover well my needs. I’ve switched several times from one to the other in a single session as wind either increased or decreased. I’m glad I followed your advice and got the 4.8m to go out in 20+mph winds - I can’t “play around” with the 6.2m when it gets that strong, which defeats the purpose of clouds in general, I think. The smoothness of these kites struck me first, as I flew them after a year and a half on the c5’s. I find your comparison of the c5 to a dirt bike, and of the D to a 4-stroke speed bike very appropriate. The silence, and of course the ability to turn when sheeted out are also great. I think tacks are easier for me on the Ds because they fly higher in the window when sheeted out. I also appreciate a lot their higher ends. They seem faster and handle gusts better than the 2 larger C5’s, while keeping great low ends. They are really great, and better than the C5’s, while retaining all the C5’s qualities. I’m glad you’ll keep these on production - can they be topped? Happy holidays. Something to add about the D’s, as compared to the C5’s, is how more useable the kite’s power output is along the sheeting range. The power seemed much more on/off with the C5’s. That makes the D’s also more interesting to handle, and give the feeling that the kite puts no limits on my riding.
November 2
Clouds arrived yesterday, and just now I was able to sneak in a foil session on the 8m over my lunch break. Wind was about 13 mph, I had plenty of power on the 8m and I was very impressed. I really like the reduced bar pressure, but the biggest upgrade for me was the turning characteristics in a foil jibe. My old c2s did not turn very well unless the bar was pulled in close to the harness, so in very light winds was pretty hard to orchestrate a nice swooping foil jibe, maintaining enough tension on the lines to get the kite to turn, and having to pretty carefully orchestrate the kite movement with the foil movement through the turn. What I discovered on the D was a huge delight. By the end of my session I found that I can turn the kite hard, and it will quickly pirouette around, then I can push the bar away and the kite will pause in the sky, I can do my swoopy foil turn, and as soon as I exit the turn, the kite is waiting right where I want it, sheet back in and ride off with power on the new tack. Amazing.
Reply from Greg: I’m so stoked you enjoyed the performance updates! Thanks so much! A bit of backstory on the performance characteristic you identified: The C2 was developed at a time when I was riding planning hulls. Their level of efficiency lend themselves to a prescribed amount of pull through the turn, obviously varying by a bunch of variables including personal preference. With the hydrofoil's very different glide through a turn I feel like it gives the rider the option to choose to “power” through a turn, or now also to be able to glide through the turn. So in later Clouds I’ve been working toward adjusting so the kite can be repositioned with or without power. I love it that you felt + enjoyed this! Thanks again!
Clouds arrived yesterday, and just now I was able to sneak in a foil session on the 8m over my lunch break. Wind was about 13 mph, I had plenty of power on the 8m and I was very impressed. I really like the reduced bar pressure, but the biggest upgrade for me was the turning characteristics in a foil jibe. My old c2s did not turn very well unless the bar was pulled in close to the harness, so in very light winds was pretty hard to orchestrate a nice swooping foil jibe, maintaining enough tension on the lines to get the kite to turn, and having to pretty carefully orchestrate the kite movement with the foil movement through the turn. What I discovered on the D was a huge delight. By the end of my session I found that I can turn the kite hard, and it will quickly pirouette around, then I can push the bar away and the kite will pause in the sky, I can do my swoopy foil turn, and as soon as I exit the turn, the kite is waiting right where I want it, sheet back in and ride off with power on the new tack. Amazing.
Reply from Greg: I’m so stoked you enjoyed the performance updates! Thanks so much! A bit of backstory on the performance characteristic you identified: The C2 was developed at a time when I was riding planning hulls. Their level of efficiency lend themselves to a prescribed amount of pull through the turn, obviously varying by a bunch of variables including personal preference. With the hydrofoil's very different glide through a turn I feel like it gives the rider the option to choose to “power” through a turn, or now also to be able to glide through the turn. So in later Clouds I’ve been working toward adjusting so the kite can be repositioned with or without power. I love it that you felt + enjoyed this! Thanks again!
August 31, 2017 Aloha CloudRiders, Thank you very much for all the super useful feedback in reply to last week’s survey!
To share some of the data about our CloudRider community:
Only 5% of replies were anonymous
80% of replies from the US
Mixture of multi-year CloudRiders + new adopters
Quivers were a mixture of new + previous model Clouds
35% included other kites in their quiver
40% replied # kite sessions per year as:
10% under 50 sessions/year
15% around 50 sessions/year
15% around 100 or more sessions/year
1 rider @ 275/year + 1 rider over 300/year!
85% of us foil at least 50% of the time
40% of us foil more than 75% of the time
Most popular score on performance was 10
Only 2% performance marks below 8
Suggestions largely based on previous models / implemented on the D
Most popular score on pricing was 10
Suggestions to allow add-on orders at cumulative quiver discount is currently offered
Almost all scored my service at 10 + enough riders over 10 = average is off the chart !!!
I’m overwhelmed by the praise expressed for my service. I sometimes feel bad that I can’t do it all / don’t offer demos or phone consults. I do this so that in addition to my gear development obsession I have the time to give prompt, focused, personal replies to email requests + shipping. Thank you very, very much for appreciating it!
Thank you for all the great understanding and support of this small family business. I know it can’t be everything to everybody / heck, we don’t even make a pump / but I’m proud of the full focus on the performance of the gear we are committed to. It’s a great honor to have you flying Clouds. Thank you!
I received so many heart-felt messages in reply to the last question for general feedback. Thank you so much. Playing with wind over water has been at the center of my life for over 30 years. To have a platform to develop + evolve the gear I’m passionate about is more than I ever dreamed of. For the current model of Cloud to receive such outstanding performance feedback + for BRM’s first 5 years to have brought joy to so many other riders makes me the happiest person in the world.
To share some of the data about our CloudRider community:
Only 5% of replies were anonymous
80% of replies from the US
Mixture of multi-year CloudRiders + new adopters
Quivers were a mixture of new + previous model Clouds
35% included other kites in their quiver
40% replied # kite sessions per year as:
10% under 50 sessions/year
15% around 50 sessions/year
15% around 100 or more sessions/year
1 rider @ 275/year + 1 rider over 300/year!
85% of us foil at least 50% of the time
40% of us foil more than 75% of the time
Most popular score on performance was 10
Only 2% performance marks below 8
Suggestions largely based on previous models / implemented on the D
Most popular score on pricing was 10
Suggestions to allow add-on orders at cumulative quiver discount is currently offered
Almost all scored my service at 10 + enough riders over 10 = average is off the chart !!!
I’m overwhelmed by the praise expressed for my service. I sometimes feel bad that I can’t do it all / don’t offer demos or phone consults. I do this so that in addition to my gear development obsession I have the time to give prompt, focused, personal replies to email requests + shipping. Thank you very, very much for appreciating it!
Thank you for all the great understanding and support of this small family business. I know it can’t be everything to everybody / heck, we don’t even make a pump / but I’m proud of the full focus on the performance of the gear we are committed to. It’s a great honor to have you flying Clouds. Thank you!
I received so many heart-felt messages in reply to the last question for general feedback. Thank you so much. Playing with wind over water has been at the center of my life for over 30 years. To have a platform to develop + evolve the gear I’m passionate about is more than I ever dreamed of. For the current model of Cloud to receive such outstanding performance feedback + for BRM’s first 5 years to have brought joy to so many other riders makes me the happiest person in the world.
July 13
I've been foiling for a few days now with my cloud kites and I can't tell you how pleased I am with them! I have been kiting since the early days of kiting and I feel like your Clouds are what a kite should have felt like since the beginning!! So simple, so light and so responsive. So thank you for the great work and I hope to kite with you some day.
July 13
We’ve been flying the 13.4 and the 8 now. Your kites are amazing. They are more than I was looking for. Also my son , 17 years old and fully committed in freestyle, is for the first time foiling for the whole day because the kites permit to do all kind tricks. We are very happy to have them and very happy to know you, we are impressed. Thank you.
I've been foiling for a few days now with my cloud kites and I can't tell you how pleased I am with them! I have been kiting since the early days of kiting and I feel like your Clouds are what a kite should have felt like since the beginning!! So simple, so light and so responsive. So thank you for the great work and I hope to kite with you some day.
July 13
We’ve been flying the 13.4 and the 8 now. Your kites are amazing. They are more than I was looking for. Also my son , 17 years old and fully committed in freestyle, is for the first time foiling for the whole day because the kites permit to do all kind tricks. We are very happy to have them and very happy to know you, we are impressed. Thank you.
Jun 15
I had a two hour session yesterday on my 3.5 in 25 to 35 and the second session on the 4.8 in an average of 19 according to my wind gauge. My kite control on the 4.8 was so much more superior that I decided a 3.7 is a must. I can't believe what a difference there is on turning capability and control at different levels of sheeting. There is no way I would have believed there could be this much difference in a general discussion with someone that flew both kites. On the 3.5 is was making about 20% of my starboard tacks and on the 4.8 around 90%. Thanks Greg for your progressive R & D.
I had a two hour session yesterday on my 3.5 in 25 to 35 and the second session on the 4.8 in an average of 19 according to my wind gauge. My kite control on the 4.8 was so much more superior that I decided a 3.7 is a must. I can't believe what a difference there is on turning capability and control at different levels of sheeting. There is no way I would have believed there could be this much difference in a general discussion with someone that flew both kites. On the 3.5 is was making about 20% of my starboard tacks and on the 4.8 around 90%. Thanks Greg for your progressive R & D.
Jun 13
I don’t know what you did to that 8m kite, but it’s the best flying kite ever
Jun 9
thank you very much for the greatest service on the planet
Jun 6
Foiling on your kites is one of the greatest sensations on the planet, I swear!!
Jun 6
First session on the D 10.4.. 8 knots steady, working even with a short 110cm board. drift is out of this world.. I think I'm in love :O Cheers. Amazing kite..
Jun 5
I just got off the water with the 5M Cloud. WOW, what a kite. It is like it combined all of my favorite kites into one. I am a convert.
Jun 4
Normally 12-13kts would be the kinda wind that I would ride the previous C5 13.5 but I was completely stoked that when I got the 10.4 in the air; it felt great. It moves and loops pretty much as fast as the C5 8.5 and has close to the low end grunt of the C5 13.5 which is exactly what I was hoping for. Most manufacturers usually just change materials and graphics each year with their newest kite generations so I’m really impressed with the handling refinements you managed to develop with the newest generation of Clouds. Bravo Greg!
Jun 3
Just rode the 4.8 or the first time - fantastic - the money foil kite when it's not nuking - love having the full to no power in one quick sheet out movement.
I don’t know what you did to that 8m kite, but it’s the best flying kite ever
Jun 9
thank you very much for the greatest service on the planet
Jun 6
Foiling on your kites is one of the greatest sensations on the planet, I swear!!
Jun 6
First session on the D 10.4.. 8 knots steady, working even with a short 110cm board. drift is out of this world.. I think I'm in love :O Cheers. Amazing kite..
Jun 5
I just got off the water with the 5M Cloud. WOW, what a kite. It is like it combined all of my favorite kites into one. I am a convert.
Jun 4
Normally 12-13kts would be the kinda wind that I would ride the previous C5 13.5 but I was completely stoked that when I got the 10.4 in the air; it felt great. It moves and loops pretty much as fast as the C5 8.5 and has close to the low end grunt of the C5 13.5 which is exactly what I was hoping for. Most manufacturers usually just change materials and graphics each year with their newest kite generations so I’m really impressed with the handling refinements you managed to develop with the newest generation of Clouds. Bravo Greg!
Jun 3
Just rode the 4.8 or the first time - fantastic - the money foil kite when it's not nuking - love having the full to no power in one quick sheet out movement.
April 28
In the interest of spreading the word to others on the internet who might be considering tiny kites - maybe this would be good for them to read. I’m an engineer - so background info:
I come from a dingy sailing, waterskiing, wake boarding, and Air Chair (seated hydrofoiling) background
I am 220lbs and really hate not being able to kite due to lack of wind - to that end, I owned a C1 17M when they first came out - session saver for a big guy like me on both twin-tip and directional!
I have been kiting since 2010 and owned kites and twin tips from every major manufacturer on the market
A few years ago I settled into liking big boosty airs; thus mostly using a booted, finless wake style twin-tip and one of the market’s most powerful 5 strut bow kite line; I’ve been through 2 generations of the same board and 3 generations of the same powerful kite
That is, until I tried riding with the Cloud D. I have just sold all of my ‘big air’ gear, kites, boards, bars in favor of switching over to the ‘go kart’ that is Cloud D. The analogy is that I’ve been riding on a heavy V8 and have switched to the smallest, lightest, most agile kite I’ve ever ridden. To continue, when ripping a V8 around a track, one has to be careful to not overdrive the car - there is more power than I or the suspension can handle - you have to ease into and out of turns - take care mashing on the accelerator or brake and avoid jerking the wheel least you end up in the wall or upside down. Contrast this with a go-kart where you might do doughnuts just for fun - mashing the accelerator/brake and spinning the wheel around suicide style - fun! This is all possible because the power level is low enough it’s easier to control and there’s less consequence/danger associated with a mis-calculation
My first flight with a Cloud D - having not yet made the V8/goKart analogy - what I was thinking was ‘fun’, ‘quick’, and ‘safe’ - the very last of those being the most surprising to me. I never realized how ‘careful’ I was with my kite movement before finding that I could fly a Cloud D anywhere in the window and still have excellent control/no fear of getting launched/yarded by my kite. The fact that I can ‘play’ with my kite now really seems to open up trying more aggressive board movement.
The inverse drawback is, of course, that the Cloud D probably isn’t a great fit for getting big boosty overpowered air. It takes a few more ‘swoops’ to get up and planing - however, once planing, I’m no longer worried about an accidental kiteloop for fear of getting yanked - riding down the line I can be incredibly aggressive with my kite flying and not worry about putting myself into the wall - as it were. I can turn the power on and off as needed for what I’m doing with the board (and the range of power I can control is greater because of the CCS) versus my more powerful strutted kite that, by design, can’t de-trim (de-power) as much either on the canopy or via the bar.
All of that to say, I was very apprehensive about ordering a 4.8M kite (I typically rode 11M when others were on 9M - typically I was the largest on the water); a number of exchanges with Greg had me trying out a 3.7M just to see - and after that first session, I came off the water and ordered a 2.8M. I am frankly a little amazed that I’ve turned such a 180 to likely now be the smallest kite on the water. If you find yourself wondering if the switch to smaller kites - I’d be more than happy to loan you mine to try it out; I suspect you’ll convert just as I have! Go Kart on!
In the interest of spreading the word to others on the internet who might be considering tiny kites - maybe this would be good for them to read. I’m an engineer - so background info:
I come from a dingy sailing, waterskiing, wake boarding, and Air Chair (seated hydrofoiling) background
I am 220lbs and really hate not being able to kite due to lack of wind - to that end, I owned a C1 17M when they first came out - session saver for a big guy like me on both twin-tip and directional!
I have been kiting since 2010 and owned kites and twin tips from every major manufacturer on the market
A few years ago I settled into liking big boosty airs; thus mostly using a booted, finless wake style twin-tip and one of the market’s most powerful 5 strut bow kite line; I’ve been through 2 generations of the same board and 3 generations of the same powerful kite
That is, until I tried riding with the Cloud D. I have just sold all of my ‘big air’ gear, kites, boards, bars in favor of switching over to the ‘go kart’ that is Cloud D. The analogy is that I’ve been riding on a heavy V8 and have switched to the smallest, lightest, most agile kite I’ve ever ridden. To continue, when ripping a V8 around a track, one has to be careful to not overdrive the car - there is more power than I or the suspension can handle - you have to ease into and out of turns - take care mashing on the accelerator or brake and avoid jerking the wheel least you end up in the wall or upside down. Contrast this with a go-kart where you might do doughnuts just for fun - mashing the accelerator/brake and spinning the wheel around suicide style - fun! This is all possible because the power level is low enough it’s easier to control and there’s less consequence/danger associated with a mis-calculation
My first flight with a Cloud D - having not yet made the V8/goKart analogy - what I was thinking was ‘fun’, ‘quick’, and ‘safe’ - the very last of those being the most surprising to me. I never realized how ‘careful’ I was with my kite movement before finding that I could fly a Cloud D anywhere in the window and still have excellent control/no fear of getting launched/yarded by my kite. The fact that I can ‘play’ with my kite now really seems to open up trying more aggressive board movement.
The inverse drawback is, of course, that the Cloud D probably isn’t a great fit for getting big boosty overpowered air. It takes a few more ‘swoops’ to get up and planing - however, once planing, I’m no longer worried about an accidental kiteloop for fear of getting yanked - riding down the line I can be incredibly aggressive with my kite flying and not worry about putting myself into the wall - as it were. I can turn the power on and off as needed for what I’m doing with the board (and the range of power I can control is greater because of the CCS) versus my more powerful strutted kite that, by design, can’t de-trim (de-power) as much either on the canopy or via the bar.
All of that to say, I was very apprehensive about ordering a 4.8M kite (I typically rode 11M when others were on 9M - typically I was the largest on the water); a number of exchanges with Greg had me trying out a 3.7M just to see - and after that first session, I came off the water and ordered a 2.8M. I am frankly a little amazed that I’ve turned such a 180 to likely now be the smallest kite on the water. If you find yourself wondering if the switch to smaller kites - I’d be more than happy to loan you mine to try it out; I suspect you’ll convert just as I have! Go Kart on!
April 3
Greg, I had the foil session of my life today, got out early, the wind was steady (reasonably) I was on the 4.8. I foiled for thirty minutes without falling, staying up on the foil almost the entire time, I downlooped the kite on every turn, I actually looked like I knew what I was doing, all of a sudden, I'm foiling toeside and going upwind very well, The kites had a lot to do with that, they depower so well, turn so quickly, it was easy, I wish you could have been there not to see me, but to see the difference your kites can make, my riding level went up 3 notches, at least, Thank you Greg,
Greg, I had the foil session of my life today, got out early, the wind was steady (reasonably) I was on the 4.8. I foiled for thirty minutes without falling, staying up on the foil almost the entire time, I downlooped the kite on every turn, I actually looked like I knew what I was doing, all of a sudden, I'm foiling toeside and going upwind very well, The kites had a lot to do with that, they depower so well, turn so quickly, it was easy, I wish you could have been there not to see me, but to see the difference your kites can make, my riding level went up 3 notches, at least, Thank you Greg,
March 10
I agree with your thought about small kites. Two days ago, I was riding my C2 4m in 15/20 knots. I had a lot of fun playing with the Cloud anywhere in the window. The other kiters were on hydrofoil/9m, surf/9m, TT/10m. For me, riding a small Cloud in theses conditions was much more fun and safe. I'm looking forward to ride the Cloud D 2.8. I think that riding full power is a bad habit we've fallen into with the first kites and boards design 20 years ago. It's amazing that kite industry continues in that way.
I agree with your thought about small kites. Two days ago, I was riding my C2 4m in 15/20 knots. I had a lot of fun playing with the Cloud anywhere in the window. The other kiters were on hydrofoil/9m, surf/9m, TT/10m. For me, riding a small Cloud in theses conditions was much more fun and safe. I'm looking forward to ride the Cloud D 2.8. I think that riding full power is a bad habit we've fallen into with the first kites and boards design 20 years ago. It's amazing that kite industry continues in that way.
Feb 23, 2017
Just wanted to say how much I appreciated being able to test fly three of your newest kites. Needless to say, I will need to revise my previous order to include the 2.8! Flying the 2.8 was one of the best kite foiling experiences I've ever had and this after being pretty tired and cold from an earlier long session on the older 3.5. Based on the wind data from two on-line sources and my own experience, I judged the wind to be in a range between 22 to 33 mph. I did not consider these conditions to be uncomfortably windy and my 3.5 initially seemed well matched to the conditions. I admit that I didn't think the 2.8 would be enough kite but I wanted to see how difficult it would be to fly. Instead the kite exceeded all my expectations. Launching was a breeze (pardon the pun). I was up instantly up with none of the rapid flying movements through the power zone I expected to need to get me up and moving. One short stroke was sufficient to get me up and I was moving instantly. What surprised me the most was the ease of handling. I didn't need to move the 2.8 around as much to maintain speed as with the 3.5 and when I did need a little kick during a lull small moves gave me plenty of power and pull. Lastly, the kite handled quite well during my transitions from toe side to heel side and back. I was making all of my transitions without any difficultly as the kite seemed to easily pull me through turns and remain powered up as I came out of them. This consistent pull through the transitions seemed pretty amazing to me given the gusty conditions. I previously hesitated in ordering the 2.8 thinking it would be useful only in 30 to 40 mph and above wind conditions that I don't normally like to fly in. However, I now feel that the 2.8 would be my go-to kite for many of Maui's normal kiting days where winds are steady around 22-23 and gusting higher. In every way I could imagine, the 2.8 outperformed my 3.5. Unless I was seriously overpowered on my 3.5 yesterday which I doubt since I felt quite comfortable, I can only attribute the significant improvement to the 2.8. Next I tried the 3.7. After body dragging to deeper water at hyper speed, the 3.7 seemed like more kite than I needed for the current conditions. It felt like it had a lot more power than my 3.5. I flew it with relative ease, but I could feel its greater pull, especially in the gusts. Also, winds had become more easterly and there were more big wind holes. Flying it took a little more concentration though it flew very smoothly. Therefore I'm hesitant to judge its performance but felt it handled well even in overly gusty conditions. I can't wait to fly it on a day better matched to its size. The next day winds dropped down to an average around 15 mph. I had earlier flown my old 5.5 successfully but there was not enough pull to foil through many of my turns, especially on the outside. I also had to keep the kite moving somewhat aggressively to maintain board speed. By the time I took out your new 8.0, the wind seemed to drop even a little more as I noticed the water surface now appeared more glassy. The 8.0 had plenty of power and easily took me through the lulls. What amazed me the most was how smooth the kite flew. There didn't seem to be any jerkiness during the gusts. The kite was very responsive and I easily completed all of my transitions even on my weaker outside turns. The 8.0 flew steadier, smoother with more consistent power than any of my previous Cloud kites. My maneuverability seemed enhanced as the steady even pull of the kite allowed me to focus more on moving the board around on waves and through the water. I have to say all in all, I felt like a much better kite foiler after flying this new generation of Clouds. I can't wait to get to my new kites.
Just wanted to say how much I appreciated being able to test fly three of your newest kites. Needless to say, I will need to revise my previous order to include the 2.8! Flying the 2.8 was one of the best kite foiling experiences I've ever had and this after being pretty tired and cold from an earlier long session on the older 3.5. Based on the wind data from two on-line sources and my own experience, I judged the wind to be in a range between 22 to 33 mph. I did not consider these conditions to be uncomfortably windy and my 3.5 initially seemed well matched to the conditions. I admit that I didn't think the 2.8 would be enough kite but I wanted to see how difficult it would be to fly. Instead the kite exceeded all my expectations. Launching was a breeze (pardon the pun). I was up instantly up with none of the rapid flying movements through the power zone I expected to need to get me up and moving. One short stroke was sufficient to get me up and I was moving instantly. What surprised me the most was the ease of handling. I didn't need to move the 2.8 around as much to maintain speed as with the 3.5 and when I did need a little kick during a lull small moves gave me plenty of power and pull. Lastly, the kite handled quite well during my transitions from toe side to heel side and back. I was making all of my transitions without any difficultly as the kite seemed to easily pull me through turns and remain powered up as I came out of them. This consistent pull through the transitions seemed pretty amazing to me given the gusty conditions. I previously hesitated in ordering the 2.8 thinking it would be useful only in 30 to 40 mph and above wind conditions that I don't normally like to fly in. However, I now feel that the 2.8 would be my go-to kite for many of Maui's normal kiting days where winds are steady around 22-23 and gusting higher. In every way I could imagine, the 2.8 outperformed my 3.5. Unless I was seriously overpowered on my 3.5 yesterday which I doubt since I felt quite comfortable, I can only attribute the significant improvement to the 2.8. Next I tried the 3.7. After body dragging to deeper water at hyper speed, the 3.7 seemed like more kite than I needed for the current conditions. It felt like it had a lot more power than my 3.5. I flew it with relative ease, but I could feel its greater pull, especially in the gusts. Also, winds had become more easterly and there were more big wind holes. Flying it took a little more concentration though it flew very smoothly. Therefore I'm hesitant to judge its performance but felt it handled well even in overly gusty conditions. I can't wait to fly it on a day better matched to its size. The next day winds dropped down to an average around 15 mph. I had earlier flown my old 5.5 successfully but there was not enough pull to foil through many of my turns, especially on the outside. I also had to keep the kite moving somewhat aggressively to maintain board speed. By the time I took out your new 8.0, the wind seemed to drop even a little more as I noticed the water surface now appeared more glassy. The 8.0 had plenty of power and easily took me through the lulls. What amazed me the most was how smooth the kite flew. There didn't seem to be any jerkiness during the gusts. The kite was very responsive and I easily completed all of my transitions even on my weaker outside turns. The 8.0 flew steadier, smoother with more consistent power than any of my previous Cloud kites. My maneuverability seemed enhanced as the steady even pull of the kite allowed me to focus more on moving the board around on waves and through the water. I have to say all in all, I felt like a much better kite foiler after flying this new generation of Clouds. I can't wait to get to my new kites.
August 28, 2016
Thank you for enabling me to have one of the best experiences of my life. I used the 8.5 and 13.5 for the first time today and apologize for the hyperbole that follows below. Totally, completely, and utterly blown away by how these kites perform for hydrofoiling! I had the best kitesurfing session today since my first day of kiting and could not stop smiling from the stoke. Sailed for about five hours straight into the night. Would keep kiting through the night if I didn't have any obligations. The bar – minimalist, pleasant and compact. A beautiful object to hold and use. Form and function. Only thing that I don't understand is how little people here on the East Coast know about BRM. You made my day today and will probably continue making it until very old age! :)
Thank you for enabling me to have one of the best experiences of my life. I used the 8.5 and 13.5 for the first time today and apologize for the hyperbole that follows below. Totally, completely, and utterly blown away by how these kites perform for hydrofoiling! I had the best kitesurfing session today since my first day of kiting and could not stop smiling from the stoke. Sailed for about five hours straight into the night. Would keep kiting through the night if I didn't have any obligations. The bar – minimalist, pleasant and compact. A beautiful object to hold and use. Form and function. Only thing that I don't understand is how little people here on the East Coast know about BRM. You made my day today and will probably continue making it until very old age! :)
August 24
I just wanted to share some stoke with you about your kites… We certainly enjoyed riding them in Maui, but I rode the 8.5M for the first time here yesterday in about 12 or 13 knots of wind and I think that I am really starting to “get” what your smaller sized kites are about. Your kite design really is unique to the kites I have flown over the years and I suspect to the industry in general. The thing is, I would fly your kites the same way I fly any other kite, but with such different handling and performance characteristics, it only makes sense that I might want to adjust my flying technique to take advantage of the strengths your kites offer. My session yesterday was a bit of a breakthrough for me in this regard as I was flying the kite more aggressively and fluidly than I have with other kites in past – throwing in loops and quick direction changes that the kite seems to thrive on – and this was with the 8.5M, I can’t wait to try the 5.5M again. I always fancied myself pretty decent with kite control, but what I realized yesterday is that my kite handling techniques have become routine and were essentially just a means to an end with me previously – I would send it and then quickly park it and go along for the ride. What I am starting to realize is that flying the kite is actually FUN again and can be as much a part of the experience as the riding itself. I am sure you have become accustomed to your kite handling characteristics since you ride them so often, but I thought you might enjoy a fresh perspective. Thanks again – I am looking forward to going out again today…
I just wanted to share some stoke with you about your kites… We certainly enjoyed riding them in Maui, but I rode the 8.5M for the first time here yesterday in about 12 or 13 knots of wind and I think that I am really starting to “get” what your smaller sized kites are about. Your kite design really is unique to the kites I have flown over the years and I suspect to the industry in general. The thing is, I would fly your kites the same way I fly any other kite, but with such different handling and performance characteristics, it only makes sense that I might want to adjust my flying technique to take advantage of the strengths your kites offer. My session yesterday was a bit of a breakthrough for me in this regard as I was flying the kite more aggressively and fluidly than I have with other kites in past – throwing in loops and quick direction changes that the kite seems to thrive on – and this was with the 8.5M, I can’t wait to try the 5.5M again. I always fancied myself pretty decent with kite control, but what I realized yesterday is that my kite handling techniques have become routine and were essentially just a means to an end with me previously – I would send it and then quickly park it and go along for the ride. What I am starting to realize is that flying the kite is actually FUN again and can be as much a part of the experience as the riding itself. I am sure you have become accustomed to your kite handling characteristics since you ride them so often, but I thought you might enjoy a fresh perspective. Thanks again – I am looking forward to going out again today…
July 13
I just wanted to let you know how much I have been enjoying the Clouds, the simplicity of the connection system and the Paipo foil conversion! I truly appreciated all the time you have put into simplifying the whole experience. Everytime I connect in and launch the cloud I feel I’m missing something and at the same time marvel at the essence of the functionality in this minimalistic design. Thank you for fueling my stoke each time I go foiling and for that matter even off the water, just thinking about going foiling on the gear elicits a broad smile inside.
I just wanted to let you know how much I have been enjoying the Clouds, the simplicity of the connection system and the Paipo foil conversion! I truly appreciated all the time you have put into simplifying the whole experience. Everytime I connect in and launch the cloud I feel I’m missing something and at the same time marvel at the essence of the functionality in this minimalistic design. Thank you for fueling my stoke each time I go foiling and for that matter even off the water, just thinking about going foiling on the gear elicits a broad smile inside.
June 20
Just got in from my first session on the cloud 13.5. The wind was so light I didn’t even know if it would fly — my regular 13__ would not have been able to fly and stay in the air in such light winds. This was my first time pumping up the kite and using the bar —& went on my MHL lift foil. one word describes the cloud kite- PHENOMENAL! It was way better than my expectations—so nimble, light, responsive and super fun to fly. I felt comfortable with it right away-no learning curve at all-totally comfortable. I loved how the 13.5 did not even think about dropping out of the sky-even in super light winds. I dove it once, then up and away on the foil and what a blast! It really is totally different than regular kites and so responsive. In a league all it’s own. What I liked was the fact I was totally in control of the power—on and off at my discretion. I never felt out of control as I have felt with the other kites I have been foiling with. What a great feeling to be totally in control of the power and it made is so much easier and fun to foil. Thanks Greg—you have hit a home run with the C.5’s—they are even better than the write ups on your website—they really are magic. Fantastic kites and such pure joy and fun to fly— Love the 20m lines. My best and most fun session on a foil simply b/c of the fun factor with the Cloud kite and this in barely kite-able wind!—10-12 mph with a rare gust to 14mph. Could not be more pleased-thank you. I look forward to trying the 8.5 and 5.5 when there is more wind. Again thanks Greg—love the 13.5-what a fabulous kite to fly.
Just got in from my first session on the cloud 13.5. The wind was so light I didn’t even know if it would fly — my regular 13__ would not have been able to fly and stay in the air in such light winds. This was my first time pumping up the kite and using the bar —& went on my MHL lift foil. one word describes the cloud kite- PHENOMENAL! It was way better than my expectations—so nimble, light, responsive and super fun to fly. I felt comfortable with it right away-no learning curve at all-totally comfortable. I loved how the 13.5 did not even think about dropping out of the sky-even in super light winds. I dove it once, then up and away on the foil and what a blast! It really is totally different than regular kites and so responsive. In a league all it’s own. What I liked was the fact I was totally in control of the power—on and off at my discretion. I never felt out of control as I have felt with the other kites I have been foiling with. What a great feeling to be totally in control of the power and it made is so much easier and fun to foil. Thanks Greg—you have hit a home run with the C.5’s—they are even better than the write ups on your website—they really are magic. Fantastic kites and such pure joy and fun to fly— Love the 20m lines. My best and most fun session on a foil simply b/c of the fun factor with the Cloud kite and this in barely kite-able wind!—10-12 mph with a rare gust to 14mph. Could not be more pleased-thank you. I look forward to trying the 8.5 and 5.5 when there is more wind. Again thanks Greg—love the 13.5-what a fabulous kite to fly.
May 10
We have had quite a CloudFest the past week ! I can say we all have been very favorably impressed with the power speed and responsiveness with the cloud kites. They certainly have helped my foiling.....
We have had quite a CloudFest the past week ! I can say we all have been very favorably impressed with the power speed and responsiveness with the cloud kites. They certainly have helped my foiling.....
May 9
Love our new cloud kites! We have been using the 8.5 on most days when it is blowing 12 to 14 mph. It is magic!:-)
Love our new cloud kites! We have been using the 8.5 on most days when it is blowing 12 to 14 mph. It is magic!:-)
May 9
I like your descriptions. I think I take some of these characteristics for granted now that I've been on Clouds for 2 years. Drift, Agility, Depower. I've had 5 sessions on the C.5s now. I haven't used the 3.5 yet. The change I feel in the C.5 is difficult to describe. Oddly, I want to say its closer to invisible... but I think what that means in my hands is that its more in sync with whatever I need whenever I need it. Does that even make sense? Power when I need that punch, Quick to shift to this or that spot in the window as I need to change the vector of pull, Drift with me and wait for my next command. On a foil, in flight, I'm often only taking sips of power to supplement my glide or to support some change of tack, wind shift, etc. My C2s were great, but not as smooth or agile and just 'invisible' as these feel to me. I know that 'invisible' is a pretty odd compliment to offer, maybe. Invisible is like saying it is much closer to just being an extension of me, it requires very little attention and very little advance staging before a move. Another poorly formed impression I have is that all of these kites feel somehow larger than they actually are... perhaps I am feeling more power available to me and yet smoother but with no hit to agility at all and a more complete 'clean' de-power than the C2s gave. Again, why the word 'clean'... maybe I mean smoothness again, or less canopy chatter, I'm not sure but I just feel this from something I'm not good at describing yet. Needless to say I am very happy to be flying these.
I like your descriptions. I think I take some of these characteristics for granted now that I've been on Clouds for 2 years. Drift, Agility, Depower. I've had 5 sessions on the C.5s now. I haven't used the 3.5 yet. The change I feel in the C.5 is difficult to describe. Oddly, I want to say its closer to invisible... but I think what that means in my hands is that its more in sync with whatever I need whenever I need it. Does that even make sense? Power when I need that punch, Quick to shift to this or that spot in the window as I need to change the vector of pull, Drift with me and wait for my next command. On a foil, in flight, I'm often only taking sips of power to supplement my glide or to support some change of tack, wind shift, etc. My C2s were great, but not as smooth or agile and just 'invisible' as these feel to me. I know that 'invisible' is a pretty odd compliment to offer, maybe. Invisible is like saying it is much closer to just being an extension of me, it requires very little attention and very little advance staging before a move. Another poorly formed impression I have is that all of these kites feel somehow larger than they actually are... perhaps I am feeling more power available to me and yet smoother but with no hit to agility at all and a more complete 'clean' de-power than the C2s gave. Again, why the word 'clean'... maybe I mean smoothness again, or less canopy chatter, I'm not sure but I just feel this from something I'm not good at describing yet. Needless to say I am very happy to be flying these.
May 8
Stoked! What a difference it made to my hydrofoiling! My initial impressions: very sensitive to bar input (in a good way), great depower, incredibly easy to loop and without generating too much power, very easy to turn on and off, great at drifting. I was super impressed with how the kite stays in the air or is able to recover from some massive lulls.
Stoked! What a difference it made to my hydrofoiling! My initial impressions: very sensitive to bar input (in a good way), great depower, incredibly easy to loop and without generating too much power, very easy to turn on and off, great at drifting. I was super impressed with how the kite stays in the air or is able to recover from some massive lulls.
May 6
So I thought I’d share my stoke from my most recent session. Today the winds were about 14-15 kts for a couple hours this afternoon. I actually didn’t know the numbers till later but I showed up to the beach and felt like the 8.5 would probably be at its upper end just from the last couple of sessions so I decided to give the 5.5 a go. The guy that boosted me must have though I was nuts as he was going to fly a 13 on his big TT! (I also felt sorry for him as I got there after him and finished pumping and rigging before he finished pumping his kite!) I actually thought I might be coming back from the waters edge very soon too as most of the other guys on the water were on 14 and 15s and a few guys out there on foils were on 10’s and 11’s. Well I’m sure you know how this is going to play out… I looped the kite and in a second up was up and planing! Absolutely amazing!! I have no idea what magic you put into these kites but I have never in my life rode on anything less than a 7 m kite! In these winds I probably would have gone out on my 9 m wave kite! The 5.5 was incredibly smooth and provided just the right amount of power with every upstroke, downstroke or loop. Especially impressive for me was how nice the clouds loop. I’ve looped other kites before and mostly it seems like it goes from nothing to waaay too much power as the kite loops. The clouds for me provide just the right amount of grunt as I loop them on command. Love it. I just wanted to send my deepest gratitude again for coming up with such a revolutionary product. This is so much different than the first generation clouds and it is a quantum leap ahead of the mass production stuff.
So I thought I’d share my stoke from my most recent session. Today the winds were about 14-15 kts for a couple hours this afternoon. I actually didn’t know the numbers till later but I showed up to the beach and felt like the 8.5 would probably be at its upper end just from the last couple of sessions so I decided to give the 5.5 a go. The guy that boosted me must have though I was nuts as he was going to fly a 13 on his big TT! (I also felt sorry for him as I got there after him and finished pumping and rigging before he finished pumping his kite!) I actually thought I might be coming back from the waters edge very soon too as most of the other guys on the water were on 14 and 15s and a few guys out there on foils were on 10’s and 11’s. Well I’m sure you know how this is going to play out… I looped the kite and in a second up was up and planing! Absolutely amazing!! I have no idea what magic you put into these kites but I have never in my life rode on anything less than a 7 m kite! In these winds I probably would have gone out on my 9 m wave kite! The 5.5 was incredibly smooth and provided just the right amount of power with every upstroke, downstroke or loop. Especially impressive for me was how nice the clouds loop. I’ve looped other kites before and mostly it seems like it goes from nothing to waaay too much power as the kite loops. The clouds for me provide just the right amount of grunt as I loop them on command. Love it. I just wanted to send my deepest gratitude again for coming up with such a revolutionary product. This is so much different than the first generation clouds and it is a quantum leap ahead of the mass production stuff.
May 2
I have been getting many sessions with my new C.5's and you have nailed it with the ultimate freestyle foil boarding design. The 4 of use here are grateful for your kites. We are having more fun foil boarding now because of the new Clouds. My new favorite kite is the 8.5 for 12-14mph and I am amazed on how much power and speed that kite has. April 15
The 9, 12 and 14.5 C2s have all and continue to serve me well, Every time I have a sesh w one, I'm continually amazed, In the same way a good woman makes a man better, these kites make me a better all around rider! Feb 16
The prototype C.5 8.5 blew my mind! It was a bit much today but it still handled wonderfully. The wind range and responsiveness of the kite is amazing. I got to play a bit in the waves and had a huge smile on my face the whole day. One of my best experiences of my life! What a great product! Thank you so much for designing it. |
May 2
The package has arrived .... Dude, it is seriously small!!!!! I think a six pack of beer is larger. May 2
Rode the 8.5 yesterday and was completely stoked. Everything you've written about the new C5 kites is completely true!! You’ve completely nailed it bro! Bravo. Ridiculous 4 kites in the same space as a 12-13 strutted kite! April 28
I met a guy on the beach last week with a 9m C2. I asked him how he liked the kite, and he told me "take your current kite and tie a 2 litre bottle of water to each side of it, fly it for an hour, and then take them off. The improved responsiveness is how this kite feels all the time". April 15
Man since sending off my old clouds and having to go back to flying my old wave kites, what a disappointment!!!! Looking forward to the new babies. |
Feb 10, 2016
Did a 7 mile downwinder on my 7m cloud and surfboard at La Ventana last week. Foiling seems to get most of the attention now at BRM, but the kite is so wonderful in swell and high wind on a surfboard. Thank you for such a great, light, responsive, thoughtful product.
Did a 7 mile downwinder on my 7m cloud and surfboard at La Ventana last week. Foiling seems to get most of the attention now at BRM, but the kite is so wonderful in swell and high wind on a surfboard. Thank you for such a great, light, responsive, thoughtful product.
Nov 19
I just wanted to share some stoke from today's session. 3 downwinders on my 7m C2 (everyone else on 9m or higher). I love how even when the lines go slack it just floats there in the sky waiting for me to come back to it after surfing. Perfect kite for the wind swells we get here.
I just wanted to share some stoke from today's session. 3 downwinders on my 7m C2 (everyone else on 9m or higher). I love how even when the lines go slack it just floats there in the sky waiting for me to come back to it after surfing. Perfect kite for the wind swells we get here.
Nov 14
Your CloudWritings blog is full of good and open minded advices : Every session, riders told me that it's weird and complicated to learn hydrofoil strapless on a no volume board. That's not true. It's was easy and safe to learn strapless hydrofoil with a low buoyancy board. For instance, today, I hit seaweed, I was just ejected from the board, simply safe ! With your wind range chart, I was able to choose the right Cloud size every session. You're a genius, thank you for your gear and for sharing all your hydrofoil experience.
Your CloudWritings blog is full of good and open minded advices : Every session, riders told me that it's weird and complicated to learn hydrofoil strapless on a no volume board. That's not true. It's was easy and safe to learn strapless hydrofoil with a low buoyancy board. For instance, today, I hit seaweed, I was just ejected from the board, simply safe ! With your wind range chart, I was able to choose the right Cloud size every session. You're a genius, thank you for your gear and for sharing all your hydrofoil experience.
Nov 16
Hi Greg. I wanted to thank you for all the info on the Cloud. My 14.5 arrived last week and I was able to try it today. The Cloud worked terrific on my foil in 7-12 mph (average 10 mph). I was overpowered at times, but was able to totally depower through sheeting out the long throw on my bar. I also liked the feel of the kite - solid bar pressure, but not too much, very quick turning for a 14.5, very fast with the apparent wind when sheeted out, and real stable sitting in the window. The best part was that it just hung in the air - even in lulls to 7. The lack of struts was not even noticeable in terms of stability - very smooth. The foiling group here has been looking for a maneuverable "freestyle" kite like this (versus a Straightline "race" foil) for light wind foiling. This hits the mark. Thank you
Hi Greg. I wanted to thank you for all the info on the Cloud. My 14.5 arrived last week and I was able to try it today. The Cloud worked terrific on my foil in 7-12 mph (average 10 mph). I was overpowered at times, but was able to totally depower through sheeting out the long throw on my bar. I also liked the feel of the kite - solid bar pressure, but not too much, very quick turning for a 14.5, very fast with the apparent wind when sheeted out, and real stable sitting in the window. The best part was that it just hung in the air - even in lulls to 7. The lack of struts was not even noticeable in terms of stability - very smooth. The foiling group here has been looking for a maneuverable "freestyle" kite like this (versus a Straightline "race" foil) for light wind foiling. This hits the mark. Thank you
Oct 27
Even though there is a lot to talk about and comment, for now I’ll share my thoughts on the most striking features:
Responsiveness: The direct feel you get with the Clouds is unmatched by any other kite I have ever tried. This allows me to trim, steer, pump, kiteloop or pretty much do just about anything else I can imagine. Outstanding!
Drifting: With wave riding and in particular with foiling, drifting is crucial. The Clouds drift extremely well (and getting better as I learn to used them correctly), but what makes it impressive is its ability to stay up in the air. This is probably due to the strutless design, but even when over drifting, the kite helps you recover. Will have more comments on this as we get into the wave season, but so far so good.
Relaunch: I usually don’t comment on how a kite relaunches. Some are better than others of course, but I pretty much deal with it and move on. The Cloud however, relaunches way too easily not to comment! Very impressive!
Wind Range: This is truly unbelievable. I was able to foil the 4 down to about 18mph winds! I had to work the kite quite a bit but was doable. On the high end the 4 will take on any high wind Maui throws at us, no doubt! On the other side of the range, I’ve used the 7 down to 8-12mph! Remarkable!
Even though there is a lot to talk about and comment, for now I’ll share my thoughts on the most striking features:
Responsiveness: The direct feel you get with the Clouds is unmatched by any other kite I have ever tried. This allows me to trim, steer, pump, kiteloop or pretty much do just about anything else I can imagine. Outstanding!
Drifting: With wave riding and in particular with foiling, drifting is crucial. The Clouds drift extremely well (and getting better as I learn to used them correctly), but what makes it impressive is its ability to stay up in the air. This is probably due to the strutless design, but even when over drifting, the kite helps you recover. Will have more comments on this as we get into the wave season, but so far so good.
Relaunch: I usually don’t comment on how a kite relaunches. Some are better than others of course, but I pretty much deal with it and move on. The Cloud however, relaunches way too easily not to comment! Very impressive!
Wind Range: This is truly unbelievable. I was able to foil the 4 down to about 18mph winds! I had to work the kite quite a bit but was doable. On the high end the 4 will take on any high wind Maui throws at us, no doubt! On the other side of the range, I’ve used the 7 down to 8-12mph! Remarkable!
Aug 19
I’ve used the cloud twice now foiling and agree that it is superior in every way to a strut kite for foiling. the depower is awesome as is the simplicity of the bar.
I’ve used the cloud twice now foiling and agree that it is superior in every way to a strut kite for foiling. the depower is awesome as is the simplicity of the bar.
Aug 11
I've been foiling more, crashing less, getting in sync better & better. Last time out I was out on a 7 while others were on 12s & 14s. Part was the foil and part was Cloud magic. I am amazed at how well foiling pairs with the Clouds (like you've said). I sure hope your business is going great. We need you. I keep telling (and showing) the guys here that Clouds are amazing.
I've been foiling more, crashing less, getting in sync better & better. Last time out I was out on a 7 while others were on 12s & 14s. Part was the foil and part was Cloud magic. I am amazed at how well foiling pairs with the Clouds (like you've said). I sure hope your business is going great. We need you. I keep telling (and showing) the guys here that Clouds are amazing.
Aug 5
I gotta tell you man, the 17 and 12m Cloud that I bought earlier this Summer have freakin' revolutionized my kiting. I kite all the time now, as opposed to one or twice a month. It rules. I don't want to fly anything else.
I gotta tell you man, the 17 and 12m Cloud that I bought earlier this Summer have freakin' revolutionized my kiting. I kite all the time now, as opposed to one or twice a month. It rules. I don't want to fly anything else.
July 1
Just wanted to drop a note in recognition of your work. The cloud is a really special thing! That thing is so awesomely sensitive. I’m down with it…. so much agility in light wind and it took no time to start getting dialled in to how it likes to be flown. I’m super pumped. I am so glad to have taken the plunge and will get sooooooooo much use out of this kite.
Just wanted to drop a note in recognition of your work. The cloud is a really special thing! That thing is so awesomely sensitive. I’m down with it…. so much agility in light wind and it took no time to start getting dialled in to how it likes to be flown. I’m super pumped. I am so glad to have taken the plunge and will get sooooooooo much use out of this kite.
July 30
I think your kites appeal to a much broader market than the hydro foil discipline - I ride my clouds on a Surfboard and still consider it the most fun I have had, having ridden tons of mainstream kites. You have an awesome product and I want you to reach as large a market as possible! Everyone on the beach asks about it. First question is about the struts, but then it's about how fast the kite turns and how light it is - feel and power range. The broader market needs your clouds - many, many riders would love its characteristics - get that message out!
I think your kites appeal to a much broader market than the hydro foil discipline - I ride my clouds on a Surfboard and still consider it the most fun I have had, having ridden tons of mainstream kites. You have an awesome product and I want you to reach as large a market as possible! Everyone on the beach asks about it. First question is about the struts, but then it's about how fast the kite turns and how light it is - feel and power range. The broader market needs your clouds - many, many riders would love its characteristics - get that message out!
July 29
I can't stress enough how awesome the 5meter is, I can finally foil and not be overpowered! It's a mental hurdle to put up a 5 when others are on a 10 or bigger, but man am I happy!
I can't stress enough how awesome the 5meter is, I can finally foil and not be overpowered! It's a mental hurdle to put up a 5 when others are on a 10 or bigger, but man am I happy!
July 20
One word. Wow. That is one awesome kite. I foiled in ~10mph of wind when others couldn't even keep their kites in the air. I had the whole beach to myself! Great work Greg! This is indeed a game changer. Thank you!!
One word. Wow. That is one awesome kite. I foiled in ~10mph of wind when others couldn't even keep their kites in the air. I had the whole beach to myself! Great work Greg! This is indeed a game changer. Thank you!!
July 19
Had my first day out today with C2 7m and ccs. Wow, I'm really happy for the kite and the bar. I tough my C1 8m was fast on turns but this one is super fast. I'm stoked up to the heaven.
Had my first day out today with C2 7m and ccs. Wow, I'm really happy for the kite and the bar. I tough my C1 8m was fast on turns but this one is super fast. I'm stoked up to the heaven.
July 17
Picked up my kites and got a session in on the 9m. Most fun I have had under a kite in a long time. Fits my style perfectly. Super fun kite! Don't think I will be able to ride my old kites again... Super stoked! Thanks for pushing the limits
Picked up my kites and got a session in on the 9m. Most fun I have had under a kite in a long time. Fits my style perfectly. Super fun kite! Don't think I will be able to ride my old kites again... Super stoked! Thanks for pushing the limits
June 22
Wow, I have tried the 17 C2, what a fantastic kite! I was out in barely any wind (6-8knts), with my 5'6 surf board and I loved it! The Cloud would not fall out of the sky and turned much faster than I expected... and as a bonus I was the only one out, somebody even made fun when I started inflating the kite... ha,ha, guess who was laughing a few mins later :)) Fantastic, congratulations!
Wow, I have tried the 17 C2, what a fantastic kite! I was out in barely any wind (6-8knts), with my 5'6 surf board and I loved it! The Cloud would not fall out of the sky and turned much faster than I expected... and as a bonus I was the only one out, somebody even made fun when I started inflating the kite... ha,ha, guess who was laughing a few mins later :)) Fantastic, congratulations!
June 17
I love you motivation and focus. I was on my foil bord and goofing around on a friends 15m foil kite in 8mph wind. The 15m foil kite was falling out of the sky and collapsing at every moment. So I pumped up my 17m cloud and has a fantastic session. Light wind, free ride and freestyle foilboardings go to kite is the cloud.
I love you motivation and focus. I was on my foil bord and goofing around on a friends 15m foil kite in 8mph wind. The 15m foil kite was falling out of the sky and collapsing at every moment. So I pumped up my 17m cloud and has a fantastic session. Light wind, free ride and freestyle foilboardings go to kite is the cloud.
June 17
these last two weeks have been filled with wonderful low wind days (did I just say that?) for playing with the C2 17 with the Paipo. I've kited 9 of the last 15 days with only one 12M day. Although, its been pretty lonely out there... everyone is on the beach, literally, or they just don't show at all. I've really enjoyed becoming more sensitive to the C2/Paipo combo and continue to be amazed at what I can get out of it. I'm getting beyond my fear of getting caught out there on a lull, having the kite fall, and then flounder in a mess until the mysterious next puff shows up. The C2 just stays up there like party balloon and the Paipo is so agile and requires so little to keep me up even at goofy low speeds. Fantastic combo. I find I'm still following my old concept of where the power boundaries are even though this is my 2nd season on Clouds. There's been a lot of re-calculating going on recently. Boundary adjustments taking place. I'm having fun at the magic show, exploring the bottom of possible. I'm loving your stuff.
these last two weeks have been filled with wonderful low wind days (did I just say that?) for playing with the C2 17 with the Paipo. I've kited 9 of the last 15 days with only one 12M day. Although, its been pretty lonely out there... everyone is on the beach, literally, or they just don't show at all. I've really enjoyed becoming more sensitive to the C2/Paipo combo and continue to be amazed at what I can get out of it. I'm getting beyond my fear of getting caught out there on a lull, having the kite fall, and then flounder in a mess until the mysterious next puff shows up. The C2 just stays up there like party balloon and the Paipo is so agile and requires so little to keep me up even at goofy low speeds. Fantastic combo. I find I'm still following my old concept of where the power boundaries are even though this is my 2nd season on Clouds. There's been a lot of re-calculating going on recently. Boundary adjustments taking place. I'm having fun at the magic show, exploring the bottom of possible. I'm loving your stuff.
June 2
I kind of envy you in that you've taken the time and have the passion to create something truly magical!!! What a fun and refined kite. Today when I was pointing up wind on my surfboard I pointed my toes to flatten out the board to reduce the drag and let the fins create some lift - I could immediately feel the kite accelerate with the increased apparent wind. I've never felt that on another kite before - I guess the subtleties are lost in all that heavy construction and struts keeping the canopy rigid.
I kind of envy you in that you've taken the time and have the passion to create something truly magical!!! What a fun and refined kite. Today when I was pointing up wind on my surfboard I pointed my toes to flatten out the board to reduce the drag and let the fins create some lift - I could immediately feel the kite accelerate with the increased apparent wind. I've never felt that on another kite before - I guess the subtleties are lost in all that heavy construction and struts keeping the canopy rigid.
June 1
Before the 17 I flew an _ which gets very high marks. The C2 has almost identical power & de-power but beats it is almost every other way: Agility, Re-launch, Float, Boost. The C2's extreme ability to just stay up there on nothing and re-launch on almost nothing let's me stay out an explore the bottom like I've never before been able to with very low penalties for over optimism. loving my Clouds. The way they perform (out-perform) their strutted friends keeps puzzling and wooing the status quo here. Many still believe and still teach that struts are needed for stability. Cultural change takes time. The world used to be flat. Thank you for coloring outside the lines.
Before the 17 I flew an _ which gets very high marks. The C2 has almost identical power & de-power but beats it is almost every other way: Agility, Re-launch, Float, Boost. The C2's extreme ability to just stay up there on nothing and re-launch on almost nothing let's me stay out an explore the bottom like I've never before been able to with very low penalties for over optimism. loving my Clouds. The way they perform (out-perform) their strutted friends keeps puzzling and wooing the status quo here. Many still believe and still teach that struts are needed for stability. Cultural change takes time. The world used to be flat. Thank you for coloring outside the lines.
May 27
Kiting in our typical afternoon seabreeze conditions has gone from impossibly frustrating to legit fun to the point where I am looking forward to the light wind days.
Kiting in our typical afternoon seabreeze conditions has gone from impossibly frustrating to legit fun to the point where I am looking forward to the light wind days.
May 11
I have told you before how much I love these kites. The more I use them the better I appreciate them. The are so simple with so few ways for them to break down. The pulleyless bridle, a single bladder to inflate with one valve. Rigging is so simple it makes it way safer. It adds up to trouble free years of use. And the bar is so well thought out as well. I am selling all my old kites because I just don't like any of them anymore. The speed of turning combined with the light weight makes them great in the waves and they just don't want to drop out of the air. It may take some time but I'm convinced your designs will eventually replace all the others. Just keep making these kites and bars. They are the simplest and most elegant and best performing I have ever seen.
I have told you before how much I love these kites. The more I use them the better I appreciate them. The are so simple with so few ways for them to break down. The pulleyless bridle, a single bladder to inflate with one valve. Rigging is so simple it makes it way safer. It adds up to trouble free years of use. And the bar is so well thought out as well. I am selling all my old kites because I just don't like any of them anymore. The speed of turning combined with the light weight makes them great in the waves and they just don't want to drop out of the air. It may take some time but I'm convinced your designs will eventually replace all the others. Just keep making these kites and bars. They are the simplest and most elegant and best performing I have ever seen.
May 8
the kite is fantastic; the first impression was absolutely right, so there is only one problem left: yesterday i took the _ from my son when he had a little rest. Previous one of my favourit kite… No fun at all any more, i thought i was pulled by a truck, only a few sessions with your cloud and i don’t want to kite any more with all my other kites
the kite is fantastic; the first impression was absolutely right, so there is only one problem left: yesterday i took the _ from my son when he had a little rest. Previous one of my favourit kite… No fun at all any more, i thought i was pulled by a truck, only a few sessions with your cloud and i don’t want to kite any more with all my other kites
May 7
This afternoon the Cloud arrived and we got about a 14-15mph sea breeze after work so I took it out for a spin. Very pleased!!! It turns faster than my 12_ and I was fully completely powered in 15mph, and best of all when I turned on a wave and depowered the kite it just drifted wonderfully instead of hindenburging. Also that thing is great for strapless airs... I don't know if it's the depower, the long throw on the bar, the two in conjunction but I was nailing some nice jumps. The wind steadily dropped and I think I hit my lower limit somewhere around 11-ish mph which is great but got me thinking, hmmm what about that 17m, ha ha. I'm also super impressed with the bar. Honestly I was a bit on the fence about it, because I have been making homemade bars with similar design ideas, but you've really pulled the whole thing together with an awesome level of polish. I still can't believe how light it is! It feels great! I also really like how simple everything is, you've really pared it down to the basics with the minimum amount of fuss. In design, complicated is easy, simple is hard. I can tell you've put a lot of thought into everything to pare it down this much. Very satisfied so far, and looking forward to more seabreeze sessions.
This afternoon the Cloud arrived and we got about a 14-15mph sea breeze after work so I took it out for a spin. Very pleased!!! It turns faster than my 12_ and I was fully completely powered in 15mph, and best of all when I turned on a wave and depowered the kite it just drifted wonderfully instead of hindenburging. Also that thing is great for strapless airs... I don't know if it's the depower, the long throw on the bar, the two in conjunction but I was nailing some nice jumps. The wind steadily dropped and I think I hit my lower limit somewhere around 11-ish mph which is great but got me thinking, hmmm what about that 17m, ha ha. I'm also super impressed with the bar. Honestly I was a bit on the fence about it, because I have been making homemade bars with similar design ideas, but you've really pulled the whole thing together with an awesome level of polish. I still can't believe how light it is! It feels great! I also really like how simple everything is, you've really pared it down to the basics with the minimum amount of fuss. In design, complicated is easy, simple is hard. I can tell you've put a lot of thought into everything to pare it down this much. Very satisfied so far, and looking forward to more seabreeze sessions.
April 30
I didn't know what was lacking in my old kites until I flew the clouds. I was riding the foil yesterday afternoon with my old 9. The wind was strong but very gusty and I found the combination of heavier bar pressure and less than smooth depower to be a hindrance. I still had fun, but was focusing more on the kite than the foil. I was actually thinking it would be better with less wind so I could use the 12.
I didn't know what was lacking in my old kites until I flew the clouds. I was riding the foil yesterday afternoon with my old 9. The wind was strong but very gusty and I found the combination of heavier bar pressure and less than smooth depower to be a hindrance. I still had fun, but was focusing more on the kite than the foil. I was actually thinking it would be better with less wind so I could use the 12.
April 29
I wanted to say another thanks for the paipo/foil advice. She's mounted and I've taken her out twice. The first session was painful. Lots of floundering around in the water with little to no sense of how to handle the large swing weight on the board... and I was pretty overpowered with a 9m and 20-25 knot winds. Not a great choice for a learning day. I managed a few water starts and called it quits after two hours. The next day I thought I had been hit by a mack truck. Everything was sore. I then went out today in very light winds and the cloud 14.5. Few to scant caps on the water, sunny, and warm. I was able to ride on the water, get upwind, and then started playing with getting out of the water. Lots of touch-and-go's and a few sustained rides. What a different feeling. Wow. When up on the foil, it's as if all stops, the kite stops yanking, and you glide across the water immune to the chop below. And then you crash with a smile. Stoked!
I wanted to say another thanks for the paipo/foil advice. She's mounted and I've taken her out twice. The first session was painful. Lots of floundering around in the water with little to no sense of how to handle the large swing weight on the board... and I was pretty overpowered with a 9m and 20-25 knot winds. Not a great choice for a learning day. I managed a few water starts and called it quits after two hours. The next day I thought I had been hit by a mack truck. Everything was sore. I then went out today in very light winds and the cloud 14.5. Few to scant caps on the water, sunny, and warm. I was able to ride on the water, get upwind, and then started playing with getting out of the water. Lots of touch-and-go's and a few sustained rides. What a different feeling. Wow. When up on the foil, it's as if all stops, the kite stops yanking, and you glide across the water immune to the chop below. And then you crash with a smile. Stoked!
April 29
So quick, so light, i have tested a lot of different brands in the last few years, but this is the best feeling i ever ever had with a new kite! Great- its far more above my expectations :-)
So quick, so light, i have tested a lot of different brands in the last few years, but this is the best feeling i ever ever had with a new kite! Great- its far more above my expectations :-)
April 27
The Cloud amazes me every time i’m out. I’ve been out a dozen times and i’m now dialed in, it’s incredible… i was fully powered today on the 7 while people were on 10-14, it’s mind blowing. I love it!!!
The Cloud amazes me every time i’m out. I’ve been out a dozen times and i’m now dialed in, it’s incredible… i was fully powered today on the 7 while people were on 10-14, it’s mind blowing. I love it!!!
April 23
I’ve been out a few times and the C2s are just awesome,
i don’t think i’ll ever fly anything else :)
I’ve been out a few times and the C2s are just awesome,
i don’t think i’ll ever fly anything else :)
April 22
Hi Greg, Few pics from my side taken a couple of weeks ago while travelling along the coast of Ireland. And a quick feedback after 3-4 months of use of my Cloud C1 in 5-6-8m. I just love them. Simple, tiny and so efficient as wave kites (my only use). I love the feather-like feeling of these kites. I used them first with 24m lines and now use them with 20m lines and it’s perfect. I had the occasion to use the 5m in nuking conditions. Amazing how I could handle 40+ knots. Thanks fo that and keep-up with the good job.
Hi Greg, Few pics from my side taken a couple of weeks ago while travelling along the coast of Ireland. And a quick feedback after 3-4 months of use of my Cloud C1 in 5-6-8m. I just love them. Simple, tiny and so efficient as wave kites (my only use). I love the feather-like feeling of these kites. I used them first with 24m lines and now use them with 20m lines and it’s perfect. I had the occasion to use the 5m in nuking conditions. Amazing how I could handle 40+ knots. Thanks fo that and keep-up with the good job.
April 9
I had the Paipo out today for the first time. It was blowing about 8 - 10 knots on the inside and about 12 - 15 outside. Not much swell or surf, just a bit of chop. My first time ever trying strapless and I was up almost instantly. It was very easy to get going even with the light wind on the outside, I just turned downwind a bit and got some speed and then started carving up wind. Oh my! I LOVE it. It feels so light, like I'm just skimming over the water and it cuts up wind SO easily. I was having to work hard with the _ to get up wind, but on the paipo it was easy. I really loved the way it felt and I was moving my feet around and trying different positions. I REALLY, REALLY liked the way it felt and quickly grew more and more comfortable on it. Even cruised by about 10 feet from a gray whale cruising by! What a day!! Stoked!
I had the Paipo out today for the first time. It was blowing about 8 - 10 knots on the inside and about 12 - 15 outside. Not much swell or surf, just a bit of chop. My first time ever trying strapless and I was up almost instantly. It was very easy to get going even with the light wind on the outside, I just turned downwind a bit and got some speed and then started carving up wind. Oh my! I LOVE it. It feels so light, like I'm just skimming over the water and it cuts up wind SO easily. I was having to work hard with the _ to get up wind, but on the paipo it was easy. I really loved the way it felt and I was moving my feet around and trying different positions. I REALLY, REALLY liked the way it felt and quickly grew more and more comfortable on it. Even cruised by about 10 feet from a gray whale cruising by! What a day!! Stoked!
March 30
I wanted to share my experience riding with the Cloud 5m today ! I really loved the kite ! Normally very attached to my _. I had to admit that I prefered the Cloud ! The wind was gusty and the spot very choppy, but I had a lot of fun thank's to the Cloud. Light and very fast so I had no problem when the wind felt down ! You've found a really nice shape, perfect for girls ! Easy to pump, not too powerful... Well done, I wish you lot of success with the Clouds !
I wanted to share my experience riding with the Cloud 5m today ! I really loved the kite ! Normally very attached to my _. I had to admit that I prefered the Cloud ! The wind was gusty and the spot very choppy, but I had a lot of fun thank's to the Cloud. Light and very fast so I had no problem when the wind felt down ! You've found a really nice shape, perfect for girls ! Easy to pump, not too powerful... Well done, I wish you lot of success with the Clouds !
March 30
Yesterday was my first day of the year and i took out the 9m on my twin tip. It was amazing!! The kite flies like a dream, so agile and it just turns on a dime. I felt comfortable within 2 minutes!
Yesterday was my first day of the year and i took out the 9m on my twin tip. It was amazing!! The kite flies like a dream, so agile and it just turns on a dime. I felt comfortable within 2 minutes!
March 15
Day two. Love love love the feel of the kite.
Day two. Love love love the feel of the kite.
March 12
Hi Greg, received all the gear today cannot wipe the smile off my face. Wow, the CCS looks awesome, such a simple design, yet does so much more than the conventional systems have been using. Can not wait for some wind. Had the best session ever on Tuesday with the 17. 15-17 knots and ripped it up felt great spent about 4 hours kiting. So surprised, normally am completely wasted when using my _ or _ after about 2 hours and sore for a few days after, from all the hard work. The 17 is just effortless, hardly felt a pain any where, over the last few days. 17 knots is a top out but these are warmer summer winds and quite gusty. It's what we get here. The clouds ability to handle gusty conditions, is one of the best features of the 17. Looking forward to some sessions on the 12. Thanks heaps Greg for the great service
Hi Greg, received all the gear today cannot wipe the smile off my face. Wow, the CCS looks awesome, such a simple design, yet does so much more than the conventional systems have been using. Can not wait for some wind. Had the best session ever on Tuesday with the 17. 15-17 knots and ripped it up felt great spent about 4 hours kiting. So surprised, normally am completely wasted when using my _ or _ after about 2 hours and sore for a few days after, from all the hard work. The 17 is just effortless, hardly felt a pain any where, over the last few days. 17 knots is a top out but these are warmer summer winds and quite gusty. It's what we get here. The clouds ability to handle gusty conditions, is one of the best features of the 17. Looking forward to some sessions on the 12. Thanks heaps Greg for the great service
Feb 5
I purchased a 17m from you about 2 years ago. I am trying to get back on the water but I tore my ACL, MCL and meniscus in a boating accident last summer. It is a long road back but the memories of flying your amazing design motivates me every day.
I purchased a 17m from you about 2 years ago. I am trying to get back on the water but I tore my ACL, MCL and meniscus in a boating accident last summer. It is a long road back but the memories of flying your amazing design motivates me every day.
Jan 5
I can't go back to my _ equipment, love your stuff. =)
I can't go back to my _ equipment, love your stuff. =)
Jan 1 2015
I've started windsurfing in 1984 and kitesurfing in 2000. In 2014, I've discovered Cloudriding. Since I have my Clouds and the Shinnster, I've really enjoyed every session. Not only, the gear is super fun oriented, but the performance is also very good especialy when you let the Cloud fly and the Shinnster glide. 2014 was a very good year for kitesurfing, thank you.
I've started windsurfing in 1984 and kitesurfing in 2000. In 2014, I've discovered Cloudriding. Since I have my Clouds and the Shinnster, I've really enjoyed every session. Not only, the gear is super fun oriented, but the performance is also very good especialy when you let the Cloud fly and the Shinnster glide. 2014 was a very good year for kitesurfing, thank you.
Dec 31 2014
you are doing a great job and changing the future of the industry
you are doing a great job and changing the future of the industry
Nov 6
I am so happy, I could gush all kinds of stupid things. We are in South Padre Island.. my home is Minnesota. I LOVE wave kiting, so SPI waves are usually the pinnacle of the season for me. This week, solid wind for 4 days. 9M Cloud for 3, 12M today. Fantastic. 40% of why I wanted to explore Clouds is because it only made sense they would excel in Wave conditions. Oh Man, excel they do!!! Better than I had hoped for. So precise, so quick, so clear through the bar, so willing to hang and float while I enjoy the wave. And the Paipo!!!!! I took it out today to see how it would perform. I didn't really figure it for a solid wave board. I was wrong. I love the way to smooths out the little chop so I can focus my attention on the wave and the kite more. You really need to market this board more. Thank you, Thank you for breaking the barriers. Thank you for freedom.
I am so happy, I could gush all kinds of stupid things. We are in South Padre Island.. my home is Minnesota. I LOVE wave kiting, so SPI waves are usually the pinnacle of the season for me. This week, solid wind for 4 days. 9M Cloud for 3, 12M today. Fantastic. 40% of why I wanted to explore Clouds is because it only made sense they would excel in Wave conditions. Oh Man, excel they do!!! Better than I had hoped for. So precise, so quick, so clear through the bar, so willing to hang and float while I enjoy the wave. And the Paipo!!!!! I took it out today to see how it would perform. I didn't really figure it for a solid wave board. I was wrong. I love the way to smooths out the little chop so I can focus my attention on the wave and the kite more. You really need to market this board more. Thank you, Thank you for breaking the barriers. Thank you for freedom.
Nov 6
I wanted to send you a quick email now I've been out on the Cloud a couple of times. My 1st session was on Tuesday. The wind was really light - around 11 or 12 mph - no sign of any white caps, and I was the only person out on the water. The Cloud was exactly what I was hoping for, a big kite that I can use in light wind but doesn't feel like a big sluggish kite. I came back from that session very excited. The Cloud definitely feels different but in a good way and found it easy and responsive to use on my surf board in such light wind. I then used it again today. I started out on my 10m _ but the wind was dying so switched to the 14.5m Cloud which saved the session. Again I was the only person out and only stopped when the sun sank below the horizon. It was interesting riding it straight after riding the _. I didn't find it any less responsive even though the kite was way bigger and the wind had dropped off a lot. It's different to handle, but already in the 2nd session I found myself feeling very comfortable with it, so I just need some more sessions. One thing I noticed when it was light as it felt that there was a continuous feedback look as I build board speed, increased apparent wind, built more board speed, increase apparent wind further - I felt like I kept accelerating as the kite fed off the apparent wind being created which was great in such light conditions. I found self land/launch a bit tricky in the 1st session compared to kites I am used to, so I used a log to launch from in the session today which worked great. So overall I couldn't be happier - I've now got a great light wind option which will increase my number of sessions significantly, especially during the winter here. Congratulations on developing such a great kite.
I wanted to send you a quick email now I've been out on the Cloud a couple of times. My 1st session was on Tuesday. The wind was really light - around 11 or 12 mph - no sign of any white caps, and I was the only person out on the water. The Cloud was exactly what I was hoping for, a big kite that I can use in light wind but doesn't feel like a big sluggish kite. I came back from that session very excited. The Cloud definitely feels different but in a good way and found it easy and responsive to use on my surf board in such light wind. I then used it again today. I started out on my 10m _ but the wind was dying so switched to the 14.5m Cloud which saved the session. Again I was the only person out and only stopped when the sun sank below the horizon. It was interesting riding it straight after riding the _. I didn't find it any less responsive even though the kite was way bigger and the wind had dropped off a lot. It's different to handle, but already in the 2nd session I found myself feeling very comfortable with it, so I just need some more sessions. One thing I noticed when it was light as it felt that there was a continuous feedback look as I build board speed, increased apparent wind, built more board speed, increase apparent wind further - I felt like I kept accelerating as the kite fed off the apparent wind being created which was great in such light conditions. I found self land/launch a bit tricky in the 1st session compared to kites I am used to, so I used a log to launch from in the session today which worked great. So overall I couldn't be happier - I've now got a great light wind option which will increase my number of sessions significantly, especially during the winter here. Congratulations on developing such a great kite.
Oct 30
thanks for CCS. a real master pice. I love it.
thanks for CCS. a real master pice. I love it.
Sept 2
Just came back from my second session on the new clouds ! What a pleasure ! i could go on what i like all about the C2 and CS. But you know it already :) It adds a huge piece of freedom to my kiteboarding.
Just came back from my second session on the new clouds ! What a pleasure ! i could go on what i like all about the C2 and CS. But you know it already :) It adds a huge piece of freedom to my kiteboarding.
Sept 1
Just had an awesome boosting session on the 12 with twin tip, winds were in the mid teens . Awesome hang time and nice height!
Just had an awesome boosting session on the 12 with twin tip, winds were in the mid teens . Awesome hang time and nice height!
Aug 30
I met a guy on the beach that described owning your 17m as 'life changing'.
I met a guy on the beach that described owning your 17m as 'life changing'.
Aug 29
Philippe just cycled past me, board under arm, 2 clouds and wetsuit in backpack, whilst I struggle to walk with all my kit. Think Im going down the right path with you set up...
Philippe just cycled past me, board under arm, 2 clouds and wetsuit in backpack, whilst I struggle to walk with all my kit. Think Im going down the right path with you set up...
Aug 28
Figured I'd fill you in with my experience based on my riding style. The other day we had some "marginal" winds, I couldn't get going with the foilboard and the 12m with 20m lines, so I threw on my 18m line Extensions and had a blast! the best part is my bar got tangled up with the depower line for a second and caused the kite to crash- thinking I was in for a swim I got the kite back up in seconds. Highly doubt any other kite would relaunch in those conditions , pretty stoked!
Figured I'd fill you in with my experience based on my riding style. The other day we had some "marginal" winds, I couldn't get going with the foilboard and the 12m with 20m lines, so I threw on my 18m line Extensions and had a blast! the best part is my bar got tangled up with the depower line for a second and caused the kite to crash- thinking I was in for a swim I got the kite back up in seconds. Highly doubt any other kite would relaunch in those conditions , pretty stoked!
Aug 28
the 17 and the paipo are the ultimate light wind combo. I have been the only one out numerous times on light wind days
the 17 and the paipo are the ultimate light wind combo. I have been the only one out numerous times on light wind days
Aug 27
The connection system is great. So simple, yet I did not miss
a thing. Good job! And the turning speed of the Cloud is amazing!! It
was a lot of fun.
The connection system is great. So simple, yet I did not miss
a thing. Good job! And the turning speed of the Cloud is amazing!! It
was a lot of fun.
Aug 27
the 17 has definitely increase my water time by at least 33%
the 17 has definitely increase my water time by at least 33%
Aug 27
The 12 arrived a few weeks ago. Absolutely loving it. Truly a revolutionary step forward in kite design. Huge kudos to you!!!
The 12 arrived a few weeks ago. Absolutely loving it. Truly a revolutionary step forward in kite design. Huge kudos to you!!!
Aug 26
The 17m is THE only among the half dozen of 16m – 19m kites I used to own one after the other that I feel safe and happy to ride with.
The 17m is THE only among the half dozen of 16m – 19m kites I used to own one after the other that I feel safe and happy to ride with.
Aug 25
Your new bar is the peanut butter that goes with your kite's jelly:)
Your new bar is the peanut butter that goes with your kite's jelly:)
July 8
I got my 9meter Cloud a few weeks ago and I wanted to tell you about the huge success it’s been for me. I have often been the only rider on the water, or sharing with kites that are 14-17 meters. I’m out there further upwind on my 9! The main thing I immediately notice about this kite is the lightness and it’s simplicity. This thing simply does not fall out of the sky! When the wind is light, the Cloud is the best tool I’ve seen to extend my session and to keep having fun on the water. It’s really amazing how efficient this kite is, I have never felt a kite stay in the air like my cloud. It just wants to fly. I love it and look forward to expanding my quiver.
I got my 9meter Cloud a few weeks ago and I wanted to tell you about the huge success it’s been for me. I have often been the only rider on the water, or sharing with kites that are 14-17 meters. I’m out there further upwind on my 9! The main thing I immediately notice about this kite is the lightness and it’s simplicity. This thing simply does not fall out of the sky! When the wind is light, the Cloud is the best tool I’ve seen to extend my session and to keep having fun on the water. It’s really amazing how efficient this kite is, I have never felt a kite stay in the air like my cloud. It just wants to fly. I love it and look forward to expanding my quiver.
July 2
I rode a C1 5m for the first time. It's the best kite I've ever flown, so much fun.
I rode a C1 5m for the first time. It's the best kite I've ever flown, so much fun.
June 27
most wave-action around here is chasing wind-swell dead downwind, and in so doing I’m amazed not just at how she drifts, but if low in the wind, it will actually climb with slack lines. Heavier kites fall back, or back-stall unless you cut back hard and give the lines some tension, which can restrict your line down the wing-wave. The Cloud is kinda like a helium balloon that drifts UP, reloading for a power dive when you need some juice.
most wave-action around here is chasing wind-swell dead downwind, and in so doing I’m amazed not just at how she drifts, but if low in the wind, it will actually climb with slack lines. Heavier kites fall back, or back-stall unless you cut back hard and give the lines some tension, which can restrict your line down the wing-wave. The Cloud is kinda like a helium balloon that drifts UP, reloading for a power dive when you need some juice.
June 27
really enjoying the cloud for duck tacks on the surfboard, my successful completion rate has doubled with the 8- stoked !!!
really enjoying the cloud for duck tacks on the surfboard, my successful completion rate has doubled with the 8- stoked !!!
June 24
Dude, the 12 is unbelievable, i have sold my strutted 12m kite and have as much fun on it as my smaller kites, sometimes when I am really dialed in on it during the session it sucks when it picks up and I have to use my strutted 10. The cloud is always at the beach with me, and its so much fun when the lines go slack and I can just focus on the wave with 100% confidence that the lines will tighten when I re-engage my edge instead of a falling kite. Whats cool is I am riding on my 12 when dudes 40 lbs less than me start riding their 12's, which is how I like it since I have an aversion to larger kites.
Dude, the 12 is unbelievable, i have sold my strutted 12m kite and have as much fun on it as my smaller kites, sometimes when I am really dialed in on it during the session it sucks when it picks up and I have to use my strutted 10. The cloud is always at the beach with me, and its so much fun when the lines go slack and I can just focus on the wave with 100% confidence that the lines will tighten when I re-engage my edge instead of a falling kite. Whats cool is I am riding on my 12 when dudes 40 lbs less than me start riding their 12's, which is how I like it since I have an aversion to larger kites.
June 6
I've had some great kiteing on the 12m. My way of describing it is, it feels like an extension of me, rather then a big force, up in the sky, that takes a lot of time and energy to control, rather then just having fun, surfing waves. It's really so much fun, and easy, and gives so much feed back, that I can concentrate on having fun rather then flying the kite. I don't know if that's what you where going for, but that's been my experience.
I've had some great kiteing on the 12m. My way of describing it is, it feels like an extension of me, rather then a big force, up in the sky, that takes a lot of time and energy to control, rather then just having fun, surfing waves. It's really so much fun, and easy, and gives so much feed back, that I can concentrate on having fun rather then flying the kite. I don't know if that's what you where going for, but that's been my experience.
June 4
The combination of cloud 17 and flyrace board is absolutely killer in light winds. The ability to build your own apparent wind out of nothing is just amazing. When kites are falling out of the sky around me, I was still doing 15 plus knots made me really happy. My son who is half my weight, could not get going with a 15m _. I had speed good hight and great fun. I used to own a _ but could never build up speed like this due to the freight train like nature of the _. (no steering in light wind). Saving for my next cloud
The combination of cloud 17 and flyrace board is absolutely killer in light winds. The ability to build your own apparent wind out of nothing is just amazing. When kites are falling out of the sky around me, I was still doing 15 plus knots made me really happy. My son who is half my weight, could not get going with a 15m _. I had speed good hight and great fun. I used to own a _ but could never build up speed like this due to the freight train like nature of the _. (no steering in light wind). Saving for my next cloud
June 4
...it was a gift to be the only in the water today having fun, the feeling is that the kite filters wind inconsistency and gives cleanest, steadiest sensation, much less on-off feeling due to gusty light wind and quite easy to stay upwind.
...it was a gift to be the only in the water today having fun, the feeling is that the kite filters wind inconsistency and gives cleanest, steadiest sensation, much less on-off feeling due to gusty light wind and quite easy to stay upwind.
June 1
...kite is simply awesome. I got about a 2.5 hour session yesterday morning on the 17m. Before getting your Cloud, I wouldn't have even thought about going out in those light wind conditions. I would be too worried that my 14 would fall out of the sky during the lulls. It was nice being out there with only a couple of other kites up. I also got an opportunity to try the kite in the waves, wow that thing is stable and all you have to do is concentrate on riding the wave!
...Wow, your paipo board just felt natural and was a ton if fun, can't believe how much fun I had for the first time riding strapless.
...you just increased my kiting days in Hawaii. I was smiling from ear to ear yesterday!
...kite is simply awesome. I got about a 2.5 hour session yesterday morning on the 17m. Before getting your Cloud, I wouldn't have even thought about going out in those light wind conditions. I would be too worried that my 14 would fall out of the sky during the lulls. It was nice being out there with only a couple of other kites up. I also got an opportunity to try the kite in the waves, wow that thing is stable and all you have to do is concentrate on riding the wave!
...Wow, your paipo board just felt natural and was a ton if fun, can't believe how much fun I had for the first time riding strapless.
...you just increased my kiting days in Hawaii. I was smiling from ear to ear yesterday!
May 27
just want to let you know that the kite arrived in perfect shape. I already tested it in two far from ideal conditions (one was sideshore ULW, and the other completely offshore varying from something like 5kt to mid-twenties). On the ULW day what impressed me the most, besides the kite's reactivity with such weak aerodynamic forces involved, was that it relaunched easily even though there was not enough wind to go upwind. On the offshore day I was amazed by how it allowed me to kite in conditions that would probably have been "unkiteable" for a regular kite. It never front stalled in the lulls (which would certainly have happened with a strutted kite), and luffed like crazy in the gusts depowering much more than a non-luffing kite would. Luckily I followed your advice and was using a very long throw bar, otherwise it would not have been possible to kite in such extreme conditions even with the Cloud. I can't wait to try it in decent wind conditions and later on with waves , but can already tell that it's just what I was looking for on a light wind wave kite: light, direct, not too grunty (in terms of static pull, with static refering to the rider, not the kite) and most importantly a paradigm-shifting drifter. Thank you for delivering it!
just want to let you know that the kite arrived in perfect shape. I already tested it in two far from ideal conditions (one was sideshore ULW, and the other completely offshore varying from something like 5kt to mid-twenties). On the ULW day what impressed me the most, besides the kite's reactivity with such weak aerodynamic forces involved, was that it relaunched easily even though there was not enough wind to go upwind. On the offshore day I was amazed by how it allowed me to kite in conditions that would probably have been "unkiteable" for a regular kite. It never front stalled in the lulls (which would certainly have happened with a strutted kite), and luffed like crazy in the gusts depowering much more than a non-luffing kite would. Luckily I followed your advice and was using a very long throw bar, otherwise it would not have been possible to kite in such extreme conditions even with the Cloud. I can't wait to try it in decent wind conditions and later on with waves , but can already tell that it's just what I was looking for on a light wind wave kite: light, direct, not too grunty (in terms of static pull, with static refering to the rider, not the kite) and most importantly a paradigm-shifting drifter. Thank you for delivering it!
May 18
Wow, I don't know where to start. I got out today for a sunset session in fairly light wind, but plenty to really let me see what this kite is all about. It was so much fun to fly. Some observations of mine are: The kite is super fast turning and really smooth. I'd come to lulls where the water was glass and I could work the kite with very little effort and pull my self through so smoothly with out losing any speed. At one point I was going pretty good and I turned straight at the kite, of course, she just drifted back wards till I was done with my silly game and then pulled me back to speed, no problem. No worries of the wind dropping cause I knew she'd stay in the air and get me back to the beach. I could go and on.
Wow, I don't know where to start. I got out today for a sunset session in fairly light wind, but plenty to really let me see what this kite is all about. It was so much fun to fly. Some observations of mine are: The kite is super fast turning and really smooth. I'd come to lulls where the water was glass and I could work the kite with very little effort and pull my self through so smoothly with out losing any speed. At one point I was going pretty good and I turned straight at the kite, of course, she just drifted back wards till I was done with my silly game and then pulled me back to speed, no problem. No worries of the wind dropping cause I knew she'd stay in the air and get me back to the beach. I could go and on.
May 6
...the kite is amazing in low wind , very fast and predictible . Excellent in gusty wind conditions.
...the kite is amazing in low wind , very fast and predictible . Excellent in gusty wind conditions.
April 29
…most folks immediately think its mostly just a very packable lightwind kite at the larger sizes, which indeed are great aspect of the Clouds, but the outstanding/revolutionary performance at the smaller and mid-sizes (all I have been on so far!) is a MUCH more significant selling point for me (especially given the wind and waves we generally have here). ___ described it really nicely the other day when we were chatting after a very strong session when we were back on old kites for comparison - the power on the Clouds is so smooth, so when you power stroke you don't feel that big jerk and then pause/delay that you get with most kites - its much more of a continuous power stroke that you can further refine as needed by moving the bar in and out and/or looping the kite - this is huge for waves (responsive when you need it, but you can turn it off for bottom turns and the like) and in general just makes the kite so much more fun and responsive to ride than anything I have been on - I found myself literally laughing and smiling at times while riding yesterday!! The power of the kites is amazing as well (and I still don't quite understand how it is achieved) - I was on my 6m yesterday having a blast in ~20 mph wind, and others (admittedly a bit bigger than me) were on kites as big as 12 and 13! People were stunned to see me on a 6m!! That to me is huge as the more you can size down, the faster the kite will be, and IMHO the more fun you will have if you are of intermediate ability at least and have gotten to the point of liking to "fly the kite" rather than just park and ride. Not to say you can't park and ride the Clouds, but doing that means you are missing a good bit of the fun with the Clouds (at least for me).
…there is some mis-information that I try and dispel when I hear it, and this includes that the kites can "taco" if overloaded (perhaps they are thinking of the old 09 ___ that lacked a center strut??), that the flapping indicates poor performance (sort of like jellyfishing on a standard kite design?), that water relaunch would be problematic (even ___ said that to me out here!), and one friend of mine even worried about the "twisting" of the kite he had heard of or read about (a great aspect of the kite but perhaps strange if not understood properly). I think the kite industry has reinforced (no pun intended) this idea that the best kite will be super rigid, and built to withstand a hurricane. The former is certainly not true based on the Clouds, and the latter ends up with a heavy kite that may indeed by super durable, but loses so much performance because of weight (poor drift, slow responsiveness) that it is defeating - a bomber kite that is not fun is NOT the answer!! The simplicity of the Clouds is also refreshing to me at least - the newer kites with a million settings to "do it all" for all styles ends up IMHO with a kite that does perhaps one discipline fairly well and everything else at a mediocre level. One person thought the kites should be cheaper since they have less material, but I indicated you were a one-man operation basically and most of the investment was time in design of what is really a quantum leap forward for kites.
…most folks immediately think its mostly just a very packable lightwind kite at the larger sizes, which indeed are great aspect of the Clouds, but the outstanding/revolutionary performance at the smaller and mid-sizes (all I have been on so far!) is a MUCH more significant selling point for me (especially given the wind and waves we generally have here). ___ described it really nicely the other day when we were chatting after a very strong session when we were back on old kites for comparison - the power on the Clouds is so smooth, so when you power stroke you don't feel that big jerk and then pause/delay that you get with most kites - its much more of a continuous power stroke that you can further refine as needed by moving the bar in and out and/or looping the kite - this is huge for waves (responsive when you need it, but you can turn it off for bottom turns and the like) and in general just makes the kite so much more fun and responsive to ride than anything I have been on - I found myself literally laughing and smiling at times while riding yesterday!! The power of the kites is amazing as well (and I still don't quite understand how it is achieved) - I was on my 6m yesterday having a blast in ~20 mph wind, and others (admittedly a bit bigger than me) were on kites as big as 12 and 13! People were stunned to see me on a 6m!! That to me is huge as the more you can size down, the faster the kite will be, and IMHO the more fun you will have if you are of intermediate ability at least and have gotten to the point of liking to "fly the kite" rather than just park and ride. Not to say you can't park and ride the Clouds, but doing that means you are missing a good bit of the fun with the Clouds (at least for me).
…there is some mis-information that I try and dispel when I hear it, and this includes that the kites can "taco" if overloaded (perhaps they are thinking of the old 09 ___ that lacked a center strut??), that the flapping indicates poor performance (sort of like jellyfishing on a standard kite design?), that water relaunch would be problematic (even ___ said that to me out here!), and one friend of mine even worried about the "twisting" of the kite he had heard of or read about (a great aspect of the kite but perhaps strange if not understood properly). I think the kite industry has reinforced (no pun intended) this idea that the best kite will be super rigid, and built to withstand a hurricane. The former is certainly not true based on the Clouds, and the latter ends up with a heavy kite that may indeed by super durable, but loses so much performance because of weight (poor drift, slow responsiveness) that it is defeating - a bomber kite that is not fun is NOT the answer!! The simplicity of the Clouds is also refreshing to me at least - the newer kites with a million settings to "do it all" for all styles ends up IMHO with a kite that does perhaps one discipline fairly well and everything else at a mediocre level. One person thought the kites should be cheaper since they have less material, but I indicated you were a one-man operation basically and most of the investment was time in design of what is really a quantum leap forward for kites.
April 15
finally I just tried the Cloud 17 in 8-15 kt, you are a genius! I will be able to kite double time and enjoying it as if it was a smaller and faster kite than his size! Bar feeling is great and super easy to fly!
finally I just tried the Cloud 17 in 8-15 kt, you are a genius! I will be able to kite double time and enjoying it as if it was a smaller and faster kite than his size! Bar feeling is great and super easy to fly!
April 2
Finally got to ride using the 13m you sold me last December. Love it. Super light, fast, flies forward in the window and just fun to fly. Thanks for a great kite.
Finally got to ride using the 13m you sold me last December. Love it. Super light, fast, flies forward in the window and just fun to fly. Thanks for a great kite.
March 28
Had a top 3 session for the year today with the new Cloud. Did a ton of runs cranking turns & even when I’d build a lot of apparent wind it would behave incredibly well for such a big kite. Just blown away by how it loops, gives power without taking me off track, sits back when you ask her to, & so reliably where you want her to be. Thanks Greg – gonna be a love affair.
Had a top 3 session for the year today with the new Cloud. Did a ton of runs cranking turns & even when I’d build a lot of apparent wind it would behave incredibly well for such a big kite. Just blown away by how it loops, gives power without taking me off track, sits back when you ask her to, & so reliably where you want her to be. Thanks Greg – gonna be a love affair.
March 26
Adding the 17m Cloud C2 has tripled my kiting days. I knew that getting a kite bigger than 13.5m would increase time on the water but I thought the added time would be less fun. The kite has tripled my fun kiting days. Because I prefer the performance of the 17m Cloud over my smaller strutted kites, I had to get a 12 meter Cloud for those average wind days and now those days are even more fun.
Adding the 17m Cloud C2 has tripled my kiting days. I knew that getting a kite bigger than 13.5m would increase time on the water but I thought the added time would be less fun. The kite has tripled my fun kiting days. Because I prefer the performance of the 17m Cloud over my smaller strutted kites, I had to get a 12 meter Cloud for those average wind days and now those days are even more fun.
March 24
Alright now I am completely sucked in to the Cloud thing! Had a ripping time on the 6m earlier this week - my bottom turns were instantly so much better as I was not having to fight from being pulled off the board so much as I came back around - just push the bar out, lean in and carve-ola! And on the other end of the spectrum I could carve on the wave while the 6 happily drifted along and slap the lip until it started to break on me, and a little whip of the 6 cleared me to safety every time from the beefier waves!
Alright now I am completely sucked in to the Cloud thing! Had a ripping time on the 6m earlier this week - my bottom turns were instantly so much better as I was not having to fight from being pulled off the board so much as I came back around - just push the bar out, lean in and carve-ola! And on the other end of the spectrum I could carve on the wave while the 6 happily drifted along and slap the lip until it started to break on me, and a little whip of the 6 cleared me to safety every time from the beefier waves!
March 17
As you said about canopy goes flat, i really love it, for me it feels natural and im alot "closer" with the kite, feels more alive sort of! A normal kite feels "dead" and all the same when comparing them back to back! Really a funny feeling! Kind of like a normal skateboard and switching to a carving board, you have to be really gentle with every input! on other kites i have to time much earlier to loop kite before hitting wave before now its lightning fast!
As you said about canopy goes flat, i really love it, for me it feels natural and im alot "closer" with the kite, feels more alive sort of! A normal kite feels "dead" and all the same when comparing them back to back! Really a funny feeling! Kind of like a normal skateboard and switching to a carving board, you have to be really gentle with every input! on other kites i have to time much earlier to loop kite before hitting wave before now its lightning fast!
March 17
Thanks for all your help. I took the kite out Saturday and Sunday and it worked great. Sunday I was first man out and last man in. I love how fast it turns so I can keep it in the pocket when the wind is light.
Thanks for all your help. I took the kite out Saturday and Sunday and it worked great. Sunday I was first man out and last man in. I love how fast it turns so I can keep it in the pocket when the wind is light.
March 14
Put up my new C2 9m yesterday for the first time. Before yesterday, I've only flown my C1 17. My attraction to Clouds has been the performance of the smaller kites & this kite delivers. It really does pull like a conventional 11m but flys with the speed of my conventional 6m. It's lightning fast with back line tension & super stable when sheeted out a few inches. I'm stoked. Gonna get a C2 5m when Greg gets them in & run a 5-7-9-17 quiver. It's gonna be a fun season. The new inflation valve is nice too. It pumps up so easily, for a second I thought my pump was broken.
Put up my new C2 9m yesterday for the first time. Before yesterday, I've only flown my C1 17. My attraction to Clouds has been the performance of the smaller kites & this kite delivers. It really does pull like a conventional 11m but flys with the speed of my conventional 6m. It's lightning fast with back line tension & super stable when sheeted out a few inches. I'm stoked. Gonna get a C2 5m when Greg gets them in & run a 5-7-9-17 quiver. It's gonna be a fun season. The new inflation valve is nice too. It pumps up so easily, for a second I thought my pump was broken.
Feb 7
Last saturday I was snowkiting. Big winds. Was so great. I ride the 17m until 16knots. Whoo that was fantastic. Your new bridle made her a unbelievable fun machine in stronger winds. Than the wind increased and I chanced to the 10m. At the end I was snowkiting for 4 hours. Next day I had to roll out of my bed because my legs were to heavy to stand up normally. That was one of my best sessions ever.
Last saturday I was snowkiting. Big winds. Was so great. I ride the 17m until 16knots. Whoo that was fantastic. Your new bridle made her a unbelievable fun machine in stronger winds. Than the wind increased and I chanced to the 10m. At the end I was snowkiting for 4 hours. Next day I had to roll out of my bed because my legs were to heavy to stand up normally. That was one of my best sessions ever.
Feb 5
Just wanted to let you know I've been out on the 8 and love it!! So super smooth, responsive, and optimal bar pressure. I can really think about my feet and board more now and it's great to be able to shed power for turns and jibes. And man, that 8 has a lot of power on tap when you want it! Hope to be able to get out on the 6 and 5 soon.
Just wanted to let you know I've been out on the 8 and love it!! So super smooth, responsive, and optimal bar pressure. I can really think about my feet and board more now and it's great to be able to shed power for turns and jibes. And man, that 8 has a lot of power on tap when you want it! Hope to be able to get out on the 6 and 5 soon.
Feb 5
I have seen what your 17m kite can do, how it just sits there in winds where my ___ falls out of the sky. And people riding it on their surfboards when I am just sitting on the beach all day waiting for 2 more knots or even when I am paddle boarding and guys are on it with their hydrofoils crashing and the kite just stays in the air.
I have seen what your 17m kite can do, how it just sits there in winds where my ___ falls out of the sky. And people riding it on their surfboards when I am just sitting on the beach all day waiting for 2 more knots or even when I am paddle boarding and guys are on it with their hydrofoils crashing and the kite just stays in the air.
Jan 24
One of the good things about the cloud is that you get to know everybody on the beach. The cloud is such a rare site that they all want to know what it is. Yes we have had fun with it. I am gradually changing my style from speed and big lift to more curvy and wave... …Uncomplicated setup on the beach is great, the cloud is a real easy going friend.
One of the good things about the cloud is that you get to know everybody on the beach. The cloud is such a rare site that they all want to know what it is. Yes we have had fun with it. I am gradually changing my style from speed and big lift to more curvy and wave... …Uncomplicated setup on the beach is great, the cloud is a real easy going friend.
Jan 18
Today I tried the 8. It is easy to get used to the luxury... Is what I wanted. I can say that: it is a fun kite, for riders who like to run with great maneuverability a little sail, under power. Today, I got up on the beach, only to see how he was in the sky. I did not think I would turn in the water for 1 hour with winds from 9-12, 13 knots. when it rose to 18-20 I changed sail, because the canpy roared like a muffler Ducati motor bike.. I make a comparison with the feelings of today in the sea:
like a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino (Italian wine)
such as homemade lasagna
like a cashmere quality sweater
like to f.... with a pretty, nice and athletic girl..
Today I tried the 8. It is easy to get used to the luxury... Is what I wanted. I can say that: it is a fun kite, for riders who like to run with great maneuverability a little sail, under power. Today, I got up on the beach, only to see how he was in the sky. I did not think I would turn in the water for 1 hour with winds from 9-12, 13 knots. when it rose to 18-20 I changed sail, because the canpy roared like a muffler Ducati motor bike.. I make a comparison with the feelings of today in the sea:
like a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino (Italian wine)
such as homemade lasagna
like a cashmere quality sweater
like to f.... with a pretty, nice and athletic girl..
Jan 7
…Cloud 17 flew like a dream. Wind was up and down like it often is here. I've gotten to fly the kite several times now and I absolutely love it. It is super smooth and really quick in the sky. It is very stable in gusts and it seems to handle lulls better than heavier kites, sitting back in the window but staying up in the air. At one point today I was one of only three kites out and I was definitely having the most fun. I love the way the kite flies. When my other kites wear out I will be replacing them with Clouds. …my friend …was finally able to try the kite. He came back to the beach with a big smile on his face and said it was the best kite he had ever flown!
…Cloud 17 flew like a dream. Wind was up and down like it often is here. I've gotten to fly the kite several times now and I absolutely love it. It is super smooth and really quick in the sky. It is very stable in gusts and it seems to handle lulls better than heavier kites, sitting back in the window but staying up in the air. At one point today I was one of only three kites out and I was definitely having the most fun. I love the way the kite flies. When my other kites wear out I will be replacing them with Clouds. …my friend …was finally able to try the kite. He came back to the beach with a big smile on his face and said it was the best kite he had ever flown!
Comments from CloudRiders in 2013:
Nov 30
Just got back. ~8mph winds. riding upwind on a twin tip with the kite parked. @(#(amp;(@ AMAZING! Thank you!!!!! You saved my winter. I've never been out with no chop before. It was almost glass. The kite is fantastic. It's responsive, easy to fly and seems like it "wants" to fly. The wind dropped to 5 and below and the kite would stay in the air while on the sand with no problem. My other kite will fall out of the sky when the wind drops to 10. Let me know when your bar is ready. I'm a believer. Thanks again!
Nov 29
I finally could test my Cloud and... I LOVED THE KITE! Until the arrival of the Cloud, I used to ride a 14 and 10 ___. I used to pray for stronger winds so I could ride the 10 instead of the 14. I replaced the 14 with the 13 Cloud. To my big surprise, I am now having as much fun (or even more) with the 13 Cloud than with my 10 ___. Besides being really fast, I'm loving the fact that I can get a lot of power with the bar really closer to the chicken loop. Having the bar closer makes it really more comfortable to me.
Nov 4
I had to use my ___ yesterday, and I was reminded how much smoother the Cloud is. A traditional kite yanks you around, while the Cloud is smooth seamless power delivery.
Nov 4
Interesting day yesterday, got to the lake to a very gusty and windy day, went out on the 8M (most ppl on 9s-10s). got a couple of rides, some nice floaty jumps, and then it pick up and was way overpowered. I was amazed (again) and how safe and control the cloud feel when overpowered. Came in to rig down, went to my strutted 7M and it was ok but I’d rather be on a cloud!
Oct 20
Had my first ride on the 17m today. Forecast was light, 7 to 10. Figured it was just a good day just to put it in the air and tune the bar. This is a day which I would have never even bothered to rig up before. When I arrived at a local spot there were a few kites on the beach and one kite in the air - person could not stay up wind and had to do the suckers walk. I pumped up the big 17m Cloud and put it in the air. I was completely amazed on how light it felt compared to my other kites. Even though, others couldnt ride, the pull felt good enough to me. So I grabed my 5'10 fish and the way I went. UNBELIEVABLE!!! I rode for an hour (able to effectively get upwind) while other just watched from the beach!. Of course when I landed the kite, I was greated by 4 locals who could not believe I was up and riding. Thanks for your advice below. You were right, if I live near the water, be on it as much as possible. The 17m Cloud will definately buy sessions I would have never had before!!
Oct 19
Received the Cloud 17 this afternoon. Took it straight to the water as I've been dry for a while due to light winds. Had a blast!!! & more than enough power with average 7 mph wind. You have created an amazing kite. The Cloud 17 turns faster than my 12, holy apparent wind & that drift, wow. I'm packing to head out of town for a week but had to quickly share my stoke!
Oct 16
The boys have tried kites. They have an incredible performance, these kites are unbeatable with aur wind (bora) super gusty. The wind from 5 to 30 knt my kite and was the only one who has not ever stalled.
Oct 10
Second ride was on the bay, wind conditions around 8-12 MPH with gusts to 15. Again, the stability in the air and how easy it was to walk up and down the beach amazed me. With me that day were a couple guys on 14’s, one 16, and one 18. After a while of riding, I noticed I was the only one left riding, the rest of the crew, including the 16 and 18, were left with their kites in the water wishing for more wind. Apparently the wind died off and shifted directions, which had not even affected the cloud. That’s when I realized how amazing the Cloud really is. Final thoughts: the Cloud is amazing! It turns quicker than my 14, depowers more, and refuses to drop out of the sky. Luffing was not an issue for me. Once you get the feel for the cloud and find the sweet spot on your bar the canopy stays fully taught. For me, 8-12 MPH is perfection for the Cloud. 15 MPH is a little much, but with a lot of depower can still be fun. Overall, outstanding product, proud to be a Cloud owner. Thanks so much for a great product and all your customer service!
Oct 10
Others stood with 12m and 14m in the water and I passed with 10m. Madness! The eyes of the others. : D The cloud was perfect. So playful.
Oct 6
Finally got to take my 13m Cloud for a trial run on a beautiful late afternoon fall day here in the South of California. Amazed with the responsiveness and smooth power delivery of the kite. The wind jumped up as the sun set, and was able to deal with the excess power and get back to the beach safely. Kite worked like a dream from ~9-17mph. Gets me wondering how the small kites fly...
Oct 3
after many nice sessions i am very happy with my cloud 17. no matter if it´s a backroll with kiteloop on my bidirectional or just cruzin strapless on my directional, the kite makes so much fun.
Oct 3
Hi Greg, once again thank you for your service, I got to fly all 3 kites in one day, started off with 17 at 6 knots, then 13, and finished the day on 10. I gotta say, the 10 is a rocket!!! I didn't expect it from it but the kite has so mug power that I was still riding and jumping on it when others went back to 12s and 14s. It turns faster and more responsive then a trainer kite, I just love it. Simply the best kites I've ever flown. Thank you once again
September 19
Just wanted to say thanks for making a great kite. I received the 17 and it definately lives up to the hype. One thing, now that I can ride more you need to promis me that you will give me a job when I get fired from this one due to me being late to work more often than usual because of how much more I can ride. Thanks again for a great kite.
Sept 17
What can I say... I'm completely hooked on the Clouds. Riding other kites is not nearly as fun, unless I actually want something that is slow.
Sept 17
After a season of Cloud's I must say still stocked about this kite and all the time with a smile on the water.
Sept 14
Since the wind was reading 30+ when I got there, I put up my 6m ___, feeling that I would be OP'd on the 6m Cloud... I was interesting to ride my older kite after a few months on the Cloud. I used to LOVE that 6m ___, it seemed so fast and nimble. I have to say, after having ridden the Cloud for a while, it seemed like a dog. Even though it's tiny, it seemed slow to move and respond, and when I got on a wave and wanted it to drift, it just falls out of the sky - at least in comparison... I still had fun, but it certainly reinforced my stoke about the Cloud!! I've been holding onto that old 6m because the 6m Cloud rides so much bigger... Thinking I will need a 5m from you for winter/spring days.
Sept 12
I finally got to fly 13, holy smoke this thing is a rocket, excellent upwind and handles like a charm, love love love the kites. Thank you.
Sept 10
today I tried the kite from 10 m, the wind was from 15 to 20 knt. The kite and' incredibly stable in the air and has an exceptional range of use. This kite use it as 12-10-8. Congratulations Greg beatifull kite
Sept 9
Kind of funny to watch all the kites on the beach and I'm the only one out. 17m + surfboard + 6knots = fun. Stoked on Cloud.
Sept 6
Gotto to say, I love my cloud. Its so cool and steady. Had a blast with only 7ms of wind.
Sept 2
I just wanted to let you know I had my maiden voyage on the 17M Cloud. Wind was fluctuating 8-12 knots and occasionally gusting 15 and it was awesome! I totally get what you meant about the sweet spot in trim. It took me a few tacks to figure out where she was dialed in but when I did - wow! I can see how people might ride it outside of the sweet spot and have some issues with turning speed but when you figure it out, it is awesome. Turning was surprisingly sharp for a 17M and the general feel of the ride (regardless of trim) was smooth like butter. It was like learning to drive stick shift - you can get by driving in the "wrong gear" for the rpms of the engine, but eventually you just feel when it's right. 230lbs on a twin tip at that wind speed previously meant sitting on the beach or a frustrating walk upwind. Definitely a session-saver. Definitely see how I can get out in under 10kn with my floaty wide directional. Getting a feel for the kite was far more intuitive that I thought it would be based on your warnings. As the wind picked up over 15kn+ I felt it was time to come in, but not in an intimidating way. Being overpowered felt like an honest chat the kite was having with me: "hey man, this is too much wind, but I'm going to get you back no problem"... Awesome work on this kite. Very stoked to see what comes next, and trying some other sizes. Launching for the first time, It helped when I heard a guy on the water yell: " dude, you are going to love that kite! I have the 13!". Thank you so much for the info leading up to the purchase and, most importantly, an awesome new kite. Keep'em coming!
Aug 31
Today I had another fantastic day with the Cloud 8 and had also the opportunity to ride another kite in direct comparison. I can only say: I won´t ride any other Kites :-). Thank you for this great kite! I have now also decided to sell my last and smallest other kite and would like to have a small Cloud as well.
Aug 27
As you know I've had the 10m cloud for a few months now. Whatever the conditions its my goto kite, the majority of time I'm out on my 10. Normally I'll be swapping between a 8, 10 or 12 but now i find the 10m Cloud covers this wide range. The 10m Cloud is the most balanced kite I have ever flown. Thanks for a great kite I will be getting a few more.
August 15
Simply best kite ever!!!! Took 17 out as soon as I or it, wind 7 ish and most other kites were literally falling out of the sky, the cloud just wanted to fly. I'm 190 lbs, was on 140 twin tip. Even in this conditions I never even powered the kite up all the way. Upwind.... I've never gone up wind so far in other kites, within couple short runs I was in the middle of the lake watching others walking their kites to the beach as they didn't have enough wind, it was just me out there until the wind picked up a bit and one other guy came out on 21 ___. Didn't get to try relaunch yet because I simply couldn't put the kite in the water, even after I wiped out and crashed, the cloud just stayed up in the air. All I want to say is I'm super impressed, you multiplied my riding days by three fold, I've never flown kite that is as smooth, powerful and responsive all at the same time, you have a customer for life Thank you
August 10
I just got back in town after a week of travel and three weeks of bad wind before that. I spent 5 hours this morning under the Cloud 17. The wind was super light and I was the only kite out. I really needed the kite therapy time and the Cloud delivered! I am truly amazed at the flight characteristics of the kite. Thanks for a great kite!
July 29
This sat we had a solid average of 10 knots, prob went from 7 - 12 max all day at the coast. Finally, I got to ride it, I rode waves and it was awesome. Quite different. But I think for light wind, in a great way, really nice kite. Didn't seem like a jumper ...but it is a 17 and light wind, and maybe I wasn't used to holding the bar in all the way in / short throw; at the initial downstroke it always felt really light in power, regardless of the depower setting. ...but just in the initial downstroke because the power came on like a Mack Truck once I got some speed. Rode it on a big board with some decent waist - chest high waves. Nice. Super fun. I really liked the short throw depower once I got used to it, and how the kite in general worked in the waves.... really nice. I had a big smile on my face and honestly had so much fun for 10 knots while the other few guys hoping to kite that day were either struggling or hoping for more wind on the beach.
July 29
Got the chance to try the 8M and now I understand why you ride the 6 so much! The 8 felt super grunty in 20 to 25 w gusts in the low 30s. It manages the lulls extremely well for its size. When it got lighter (upper teens) i was out on the 8 still when most ppl on 10, 12 and even 14s.
July 28
The cloud is probably the best de-powering kite I have ridden.
July 26
Cloud arrived and i allready had great fun with it, when before i would have been waiting for more wind.....;-)
July 24
Just thought I'd let you know that I launched the Cloud today and am really happy with how it performed! Started the morning on my 14m ___ and had good winds for about an hour until it started to drop....imagine being glad that the wind was dying so I could try out the Cloud! Got it pumped and in the air, no problems and that's when the discovery and fun began. I'm an old sailor so the canopy luffing when de-powered was quite a pleasing sound and the power-on was pretty much immediate with a very short pull-in on the control bar. For a 17m kite, it sure responds much more quickly than I would have thought. The wind continued to drop a bit and the other kites were falling out of the air..... but not the Cloud. I was even able to get up and going on my 146 twin-tip (no small feat for a 220 lb guy!) when others were trying to get their kites back up in the air. I'm happy to report that your kite drew a bit of a crowd at the kite beach and a lot of questions from the other kiters.... hope you'll be hearing from some of them. Thanks again for all of your advice and helping me make what I now know was a great buying decision.
July 21
I got to try your cloud 17 and fell in love with it
July 8
I've probably had around 10 sessions on the 17m cloud so far in pretty marginal (7knots ~ 12knots). I'm amazed how the kite is able to stay in the air in 7 knots will some lulls, and it is really quite stable. I know my other big kite would have fallen out of the sky under the same condition, but this hasn't happened with the cloud yet. I'm pretty powered once wind picks up above 14knots, so that's where I usually switch to a smaller kite. Anyway, the cloud 17 is filling in the gap in my quiver nicely, and it's performing exactly as I expected. I think it's going to be a busy summer with many more sessions that I otherwise would've missed.
July 8
today was the day for my first ride on the cloud 17. to put my impression in just one word "stoked!!" at the end of the day when the wind got low and gusty i thought these are the right conditions to try my new kite for the first time. usually i call it a day when the wind comes below 6-8 knotes. my kitespot it tiny, i have to start the kite by putting it into the water and let him drift away until the lines are under tension. the whole starting area is behind some trees so there are always turbulences. when is saw the kite in the face to position and the fabric gluing on the water i thought it can´t be possible to get him in the air. but just pulling one steering line a little the kite got his profile and was launching super easy. the kite stood in the air like nailed down. on the water the feeling of the kite was great. it turns like a weasel and absorbs gusts like a damper. it feels incredibly light . to go upwind was difficult because of the low wind. during backrolls with kiteloop i was surprised how quickly the kite is looping. i need to change my timing because the cloud turns much faster than my other kites. it´s just fun to feel how light, easy and soft this kite is flying. thanks for developing such nice product. i am wishing you all the best and a lot of success with board riding maui. i will recommend the cloud to all my mates.
July 7
Wanted to let you know I had my first session with the Cloud today. Perfect day for it! Light wind, 10-13kts, with a nice SE swell. Wind was straight onshore, lots of kites on the beach, very few on the water. Made the difference between riding for a few hours or sitting on the beach hoping for wind. Not due to skill but due to having a Cloud!! Thanks again
July 6
Wind was from 3 to 10 knots, very unstable. The only stable thing was the cloud :-) Amazing!
July 6
light is better in lightwind. funny enough it does the job better than i expected. sheet out and the kite flutters back waiting on you...the drift is awesome. All i have to say is i love the 17m cloud and now im always looking for an excuse to travel because i can kite in low wind.
July 5
Ive found that when riding in light wind the best is to loop it to get speed downwind and then edge upwind with kite at 50 to 60 degrees and let the kite breath. When you hang on the bar sheeted in the kite continues pulling but at a much slower speed and less upwind. Ive only experienced this with a 133x40 board which is not a light wind board. The performance was acceptable for 10 knots.less than that i could only hold ground. I have yet to try it with my 135X48. I know this will be the killer combo.
July 5
I got the 10 out yesterday for a bit.. it's crazy the low end on that thing.
July 5
I became within one or two of low wind session the star of the spot ... First of all lots of attentions from kiters and lots of question when I took of the cloud by 8nds. What where when how how, proto ? ... and so on. Then for more than 45 mins the 1st day, the spot belonged to me, alone on the calm sea, light onshore breeze, 7 to 8 nds, my skim and my 17m2 cloud, when dozen of kiters probably swear Eole to kill me as soon as I stopped. Testwise speaking, I had the chance to test the kite from 9nds to 18nds during the same session. Highest confortable window to me would be 15 nds, trim engage, more and the clouds in this size become very powerfull and quiet uncomfortable, but this a only for test purpose and I changes quiet quickly to a 10m2 ___. No need to say what is has been already said, beautiful pure design, very ligth to handle, and not really a big issue to kite with, just to be a bit more attentive to the wind window. The kite turns as quick as any 14m2 and even more quicker, and you never feel overpowered when it is used within its wind windows. conclusion is: I sent wonderfull afternoon sessions when the wind was that light that all friends of mine had to stay on the beach, glancing at the cloud and of course at me :) Many thanks and long life to Boardriding maui.
July 5
The fun started immediately. One of the hottest sessions ever today with the 17m. From the post office on the spot. My kite colleague flys a ___19m. He was caught somewhere between disbelief and ecstasy, when he was allowed to test the 17er.
July 4
I rode the 17m 3 sessions and the 10m one session. Love the kites. The major issue I notice with your kites is the time lost at explaining to kitesurfers where I got my kite from. I was impressed by the power I could get from the 10m Cloud while only powerful 13m could make it.
July 3
It (the 17m) looks GORGEOUS in the air, even better than in the photos! It's almost like a piece of flying art! I really like the simplicity of the design. Going along with how small it looks, it also feels and turns smaller (all good things obviously). It turns as fast at the 13.5m kite I have, if not faster.... and it feels a lot lighter too
July 1
finally got perfect conditions for my cloud 17 yesterday. Was a pleasure to be the only kiters next to a 21 m. Espacially concerning my weight!!! Fantastic feeling how with the lightest gust the kite generates power and even upwind thee was no problems at all. So thank you for this wonderful experience, I'd never be on water with so little wind before.
July 1
The Cloud 17 flight very nice and easy due to its lightweight. It’s very impressive how it turns well and quick for this surface ! Me and my friends are very impressed ! So I have a loooooooooooooot of fun with the Cloud
June 30
today, I could finally use my 10 m Cloud for the first time. Wind was between 12 and 17 knt and I used my 5'9" strapless, and basically the Cloud worked really well. I was indeed stoked by it´s turning speed, the sensitivity to steering input and the overall ease of use, it felt just very "playful" and overall much better for surfing than my 12 m² ___.
June 29
I experienced the feeling with backline tension, then the performance is at it's best. I was racing my friend with an 15m ___ (designed for speed) and could keep up, amazing this power combined with turning speed. So easy to steer it for such a size, doesn't feel huge and slow, really a great property of the cloud 13.
June 29
The kite has a lot of power even in that low end conditions and is turning really fast! Nice one!!
June 28
Just a few thoughts on my first session on my 10m cloud yesterday in marginal wind conditions. The other kites flying were 14m,13m and a few 12m. The Cloud was extremely fast and agile in the air. There was good low end grunt and depower was spot on. I normally would of taken my 14m ___ yesterday but I was very surprised that on the 10m Cloud I managed to keep up with most of the other kites.
June 27
Small Kite feel in 17m (This is truely the fact about everyone claims about, when thinking of bigger Kites then 14. You solved it! Yeah!!) - Simplicity in Design and Function!!!!!
June 27
It's refreshing to see such customer support.
June 17
I have been loving the Cloud 17! I recently purchased a Lift Foilboard and in light winds, the foild board and Cloud 17 are an unbeatable combination. I weight 200lbs and am able to ride very easily in 6 - 8 mph winds. I have added line extensions (Total line length 30 meters) Pretty much if the kite will fly and you can hold it to the side at 10 or 2 o'clock position and still turn it back in the up direction, you are good to go. I am using a custom bar with extreme depower range to allow the kite to fly in super light wind if needed. (Could just pull center lines to get the same effect) Again, I love this kite!
June 16
Yes a cloudy day indeed. It was a bit light for my weight (215lbs @ 6'6" ) so I had a tendency to pull the bar to hard. The other guy suggested to pull a little depower so the kite would have more freedom to build its own power, instead of me holding it back all the time. Worked like a dream.
June 12
I finally got a decent long session with the Cloud yesterday and it was one of the most rewarding kite sessions I've had in awhile! I think I finally hit a few "a-ha" moments on how the cloud works! What I was finally able to pin down about the kite is that the pull on the center lines is pretty light and steady, and a lot of the pull that would normally come in through the gusts comes through the bar and not the harness. I'm finding out that it's not the bar that gets the grunt, it's the kite. I was playing around with steering the kite quickly (which is new to me, I've never flown a 7m before, but I can imaging that the 10m's turning speed must be close, it turns faster than my 9m.) and she responded with all the power I could want out of it. Gradual movements don't really seem to do much, but quick turns really does the trick! In essence, the most elegant way that I can put it is that, she likes the whip. I finally got the hang of getting some jumps, I usually send the kite back on my 9m slow as I get ready for the jump, and doing that with the cloud just didn't feel right, the power wasn't coming at the right time. However, if I give the kite a hard jerk backwards to send it for a jump it's perfect! It actually didn't have any extra pull as it sends until it hits 12, and then BAM! Sit down on the edge, pull in the bar and a way it goes. All in all, I'm incredibly happy with the kite.
June 6
I just wanted to pass along that I received my 17m cloud a couple weeks ago. I have had 3 sessions with it and am very happy. 2 of the sessions took place in conditions that previous to this were unridable for me. 7kts on a big board and I was having no problem riding upwind and doing small jumps. Pretty incredible! When I heard of your strutless design, I knew that it's light weight but inflated leading edge would be perfect for the gusty and inconsistent winds of an inland lake. Anyway thanks for everything, and for doubling my time on the water!
June 6
the last two days I made a big step in riding the clouds... felt just awesome!!! here is a link of a video a made yesterday on my last run. but at this time was as you see not more enough wind for me to ride proper... or was it just my lack of riding? I don´t know... https://vimeo.com/67790836
June 4
I've got a few more sessions with the 8 :) amazing kite, as powerful as my 12 ___! I have the feeling like now i can do finally something with the bar. But still have alot to learn to guide her. totally stoked. im sure for the next 3 years i'm happy with the Clouds. Alot of people are very interested in the Cloud. Everybody thinks like ' hey why nobody made a strutlesskite till yet, Struts are obviously not needed :)
June 4
Scored a demo....The Cloud 13 was great fun with outstanding speed and handling performance on Seneca Lake when everyone else was wrangling 15 to 18 meters. Didn't get a chance to check out a relaunch because the Cloud just wanted to fly! Way cool kite.
June 4
My upper range with the 13M (to be able to enjoy the kite) seems to be low 20's. the other day it was 17-22 and it was great until it picked up. I got super overpowered to the point that I couldn't do anything but keep the kite high and sheeted out. later I checked the wind and it was 25 gusting 30mph, no wonder I was overpowered!
June 1
Went out on it (8 Cloud) again today. Had a total blast again. I crashed the kite for the first time today - relaunch was super easy. I was expecting the square wingtips to make it harder, but no problem. I had more thoughts while on the water, but I've forgotten them now! Other than Cloud is totally the right name for the kite! Sometimes it really feels like you're getting a ride from a cloud. "Cloud and proud"! I'm totally sold on these kites. Love them. Could I put in an order for the 10m and the 6m, please?
June 1
We flew her (13 Cloud) today in 15mph. Best turning kite I've been on. rapid fire.
May 31
I had my first session out on the Cloud 8 today. W O W !!!! What an amazing kite! I came in half super stoked and half mind blown - such a fun kite. Definitely a very different kite to anything I've tried before. I absolutely love how fast it is. Turns faster than my 7m! The short throw on the bar felt odd at first, but I ended up loving that too. It gives you so many options when you turn and loop the kite. Oversheeting, I could make kiteloops really gentle, or sheet out a bit and get a hard pull. Really cool! How well it drifts is pretty ridiculous. I'd need more sessions on it to really tell, but it seems I can get going in about the same amount of wind as the ___ 9m. The kite feels really connected to the wind - like it really is making the most of every bit of wind there is. To me, it seemed like the gain in power was not so much a gain in power as the kite being really efficient. It was a strange feeling - normally the amount of pull from the kite would have made me feel really underpowered, yet there I was, blasting along at high speed. I liked the light bar pressure - I thought it would help save my elbows a bit, but I ended up getting so enthusiastic with turning the kite and whipping it around the sky that it didn't at all, hahaha! And, it turns like a dream. Makes riding your board and moving the kite with you feel really natural. I'm normally not crazy about kites that fly upwind so much as that sometimes means that they have a tendency to hindenburg and also usually means that they are harder to turn up and back across the window. No problems there, though. Kite seemed very stable in the sky, and as I mentioned, I love how it turns! Some nice little touches too - metal sliders instead of pulleys. Also really liked the boston valve. And it's the first time I've liked having a one-pump kite ;-) I can see also that there are a lot of things to learn with this kite. There are ways to fly it that I haven't been able to with other kites, and I bet it has more things I haven't found yet. So, congratulations on making such a unique kite. And thank you.
May 29
You have a winner with the Cloud! I had both the Kite and the board out for the first time this day for a short evening session in Copenhagen. Sunshine and around 10 knot stable wind. I measured an average 4.6 m/s "gusting" to 5.6 m/s. I had no problem self launching with the anchor method. No one else out but me and a guy on ___ 21m. I first used a small twintip. I was well powered under these conditions but it took some time go upwind. Changed to the Paipo and went upwind like on rails. Amazing under these conditions. In conclusion both kite and boards worked amazingly well. The kite was extremely stable and not any tendency at all to drop out of the sky in the lulls. I have tried a big door and a ___ 21m under similar conditions and the upwind performance of the Cloud/Paipo was definitely better.
May 29
I got to try the 13m Cloud yesterday afternoon when the wind died down. Was able to tack further upwind compared to the guys on race boards and 12m. Stoked!
May 26
I got to take the 17cloud out today in 10 mph, 8-12, winds and had a nice ride, definitely not able to do that with anything else. The kite flies much more like a regular strutted kite than I expected except it really seems to like to stay in the air. Easy to relaunch and I was the only one on the water which is what I was looking for. You did a nice job with it. BTW I shredded so if you want your first team rider feel free to send all the other sizes jk.
May 24
Just wanted to let you know that I was super impressed with how your kites performed. I have tried a lot of first model kites and they usually have some serious kinks that need to be worked out, but not the Cloud. The 6m down winders I had on the Ocean were awesome. The kite drifts like nothing I have ridden before, and does dissappear while your ripping down the face. Its easy to reengage and has awesome amounts of depower. I think a lot of experienced riders will appreciate this kite. The 13 had tons of power but was smooth and light touch steering.
May 19
Just came back from a session with the 8, huhh. 3 hours real fun in some waves with 15-30kts gusty westwind. Power delivery - just awsome. In touch with the cloth. pretty agressiv some time :) i like ! have to ajust my steering here and there a bit ;) but the clouds feel very good ! few days ago a had a wonderful 13 session with 8-10kts. In the end i was alone - the kites hindenbourgd, the cloud, put in some rotation was stayng there, wating for a bit more wind to come and here we go again ! 30 min alone gliding in nothing.
May 18
Had a nice southerly system blow through for the weekend; I was the first one out and the last one in. boosting with that Cloud is pucker-tastic when it's powered....good lord what a fast-yet-large kite.
May 14
A had so much fun on the water and bottom turns and cut backs are so easy with the very fast and light kite.
May 13
6m super duper fun! Took the 6m out in SUPER light conditions and was amazed that it could get me upwind when guys were working their 12m’s. didn’t think I had a chance in hell of making it off the beach as couldn’t even get the kite to fill with wind at first! Had to use basically two fingers on the bar. super light pressure then got lit up like crazy on the outside where I was OP’ed…
May 12
the handling and the turning is just what i want a kite to be. I need to get used to the way to ride the cloud but I like it!! i have to sheet the bar in more than to other kites. To the end i felt quit comfortable with this because there are really nice and not to strong bar pressure and direct feedback what the kite is doing and where he is positioned in the window.
May 11
About the clouds difference from other kites: I sailed the 17 cloud for 30 or 45 minutes on our spots on an especially bad day. I know quite well about the kite in little wind. With the cloud I don't found the slightest thing that disturbed me, I loved the feeling. So much pull, so fast to turn. And standing on the beach with the kite over the head and in the wind window at lulls --- soo much stability. What also shocked me that the kite had not the slightest fold in the cloth. We don't see that often. What I found that the simple pull of the kite is strong enough with the directional board.
April 28
It was no fun with the old stuff after flying the cloud
April 26
had a great kiting session when I would have normally stayed at home watching videos. that alone made my day and will make many more days to come. Btw, the only two guys at the club were stoked by the kite tech, and excited by its range
April 26
I was out yesterday on the Cloud 17. Wind was averaging 8 knots - Lulls to about 5 - Gusting to 10 direct on-shore. The session was sublime however a little lonely since everyone else was on the beach watching or stuck in the shore pound unable to get out. I actually felt a little bad for them. Keep in mind I weigh in at 200 lbs. I had no problem charging out through the shore pound and running for miles up and down the coast catching small shoulder highs when running to the south. The Sups and short boards were my only company.
April 24
Yesterday we tested the Cloud17 the first time on the Traunsee in real Low Wind Conditions. WInd was between 6 and 10 Knots. Board was a big Twintip with 150 x 46 cm. It was just amazing, how powerful, stable and nimble the Cloud is!!! Several Guys between 83 and 93 kg were testing the Cloud and the unique comment was, that this is most funniest Kite in this big size, that has ever been on our spot by now. In austrian and german Internet Forums the hype about this kite and the whole concept is daily getting higher!
April 24
Rode the cloud for the second time today!!! Unbeleivable I'm stoked! This kite is super light, stays in the air with practically no wind, and gets me going before the whitecaps. I've always figured I needed whitecaps to kite but not anymore! We had between 10mph and gust probably 25mph today and I was able to ride the whole time, even in the big gusts. I could just let go of the bar when it got too much, and never felt in danger! I'm sold and so are a few other guys here that I let ride it. You really hit a home run on this kite for me. ....I forgot to mention big smooth powered jumps and good hang time. The power is really smooth even doing kite loops or fast turns! This may soon become my favorite kite
April 24
Just to let you know the 17m Cloud recieved an extremely good review on the biggest German speaking kitesurfing forum: http://forum.oase.com/showthread.php?t=133962&page=2
April 23
Well the cloud got quite a few looks yesterday at the beach. I think riders can't quite figure it out. I say it gives them something to talk about when I'm out riding because they are stuck on the beach. I rode for a couple of hours yesterday and had a blast. It turning speed when the wind is light is just amazing for a big kite, makes your session much more enjoyable.
April 19
Outstanding kite. Just out of the water. The Kite was phenomenal it did not fall out of the sky when the wind drop to 7. I have never flown a kite that would not have hindenburgered in those conditions.
April 19
I had a second session yesterday. Lulls to 9 gusts to 18 avg 13. I was nuking while others were puking. The kite flew great. I worked through the sheeting with light back line tension.
April 16
I have to say, was really nice to be the first and last rider on the water; at my size I NEVER get to do that :-P
April 14
Had my second ride on the (17) Cloud today and I think I have figured it now. Trim was now perfect and the wind range just fitted. It was 6-12 knots and it was just really nice. The turning is amazing and the kite powers you nicely out of frontside carve. Jumping was also better than on the first session. Bar pressure was fine, last time it must have been the thick gloves which made it tiresome. But most amazing today was the the lowend. In the beginning there where quite a number of guys on 17s and they were all doing fine. Later on the wind dropped and must have been around 6-7knots. I was the last one out together with a guy on a big ___. I had power, I was blasting along, went upwind with ease and then the water got absolutely glassy. Never experienced that before while kiting. It wasn't super radical but extremely fun...and somehow soulful. ...I had a big grin on my face driving home today and I am waiting for those soft summer breezes with a very relaxed state of mind.
April 6
1st wave sesh on 17, awesome, more later.
April 1
At last Easter delivered, ENE 18/20mph, sunshine, 2 degrees C perfect conditions for the 6 mtr little rocket! What a lovely machine, absolutely no trouble getting dialled into it, a real pleasure to sail when others were out on 10 and 12 mtr kites, brilliant session till the cold ended it
March 31
I've had a few more sessions and also went out on my 10m ___ again which was an interesting comparison. I'm now starting to like the Cloud's smoothness and it seems somehow more consistent power when turning compared to the ___ if that makes sense. I'm now rather looking forward to the days with winds appropriate for the 13m Cloud rather than the 10m ___. The other day I got an old lady come up to me commenting how nicely it shines against the dark sky, and I agree, stick with the white, it's great. I also saw the video on how to pack it up, folding in half and rolling along the leading edge, that was quite helpful, way better than my previous method.
March 30
had a great day in ice water with the 10m and must say thanks a lot for the cloud. works for me perfect without to adapt to much to the different feel of the kite. Great performance and good feedback on the bar makes me smile while kiteing and the speed it's perfect too. And your right regarding the size, two sizes smaller than a regular kite fit for me with my big board very well.
March 30
First ride on my 17 cloud. im 150lbs and rode a 134X35 mako board i ride since 2006. wind side onshore 10 to15 and gust to 20. when i riged the kite wind was 10 to 12 knots. put the kite up on the beach and wow instant grunt. good pull to go and have a blast. very stable kite and flutering is inexistent when the bar is pulled in. sheeted out the kite flutters. the kite is gentle on the pulling and picks speed up really fast. went out to deep sea the wind picked up to 15 to 20 knots. this kite is fast turning even for its size. i didnt try any loops. i didnt try to jump. i believe for my weight, 15 knots is the top end of the kite. At this wind range i had to full depower the kite and i felt vibration on the bar this is the obvious sign for max depower and overpowered in this kite due to flutter Even in this conditions kite is stable. now the fun part!! i dropped the kite in the water and it came back up gently and instantly ... very good. no went for some shoulder high waves and droped the kite. woops!! i punched out and the kite got pulled and tummbled in two waves . result was the kite turned inside out and got pushed to the sand. After inspection no rips or damage done by the waves. Big smile and end of the session. My afterthougts are: should have bought an 13m! kite is too powerful!! Need to try this kite in its intended 7 to 13 knots range( i believe this is the range for my weight)
March 29
actually there were a lot of clouds over Northern Germany today, but they were all grey beside one. We are still waiting for spring to come but I could not wait any longer. So I was out with the Cloud today. Snow on the ground, water 1°C, air 1°C. Wind was 7-10 knots sometimes gusting into 14 knots. Well, I broke my low end record, I was never on the water before in winds that low and really enjoying myself. In the lower and mid range it was really nice, powerful and fast. Turning speed is really nice for a kite of this size. I think it turns faster than my 14m ___. I have not figured out the jumping yet. I believe I have to get my timing right, the bar position and I also have to get used to the width of my North Nugget to properly use the rail and the fins. The trim was not perfect yet, the point of complete depower to far up on the depowerline. Have to lengthen backlines although I checked before, but it was not the weather to fiddle around with knots on the beach. In the gusts, when depowered to the point it starts to flutter there was quite some bar pressure. It was a bit tiring but part was due to the thicker gloves I had to use so we will see how it feels in warmer weather. On my way back home I thought I should have it kept more sheeted in and drive the kite via rail and fins forward in the window more. Have to try next time. Like you said, the kite has a very own character and one has to give it a little time to fully adapt to it. All in all it was really good fun, increasing my range drastically on the lower range. I will try to do some pictures next time (if the sun is coming back to this hemisphere).
March 28
Had a short but nice snowkiting session before I went to Mexico. As soon as I got going, I felt right at home with the Cloud. I had 4 nice sessions on the Cloud 13 in Mexico. Wind ranged from 10 to ~22mph. The day that was blowing low 20s I was about to rig my 10M ___ but decided to test the upper range of the Cloud. Even though bar pressure increased, the 13 felt very controllable and easy to play with. The kite is fast which helped me to get going on lighter wind (I was using a 132x40 TT) Relaunch: if you manage to crash the kite (not easy to do!) but I did a couple of times, relaunch was fast and easy, it is amazing that you look at the kite LE down, canopy touching the water and you think there is no way is gonna relaunch, next thing you know it's up in the air. Jumping: it wasn't working right for me until I started pulling on the bar (sheeting in) after sending it. I'm used to sheeting out a bit with the other kites. once I got used to it, awesome jumper. Self-landing was tricky but very doable. I read a lot of comments about fluttering with the clouds, personally didn't bother me at all, in fact I like how by looking at the canopy (if it's full or not) it helps you fly the kite more efficiently and maximize the power of the kite. Did not try it unhooked. Overall, I love the kite, I need more water time with it but thus far it performed way better than my 2010 13.5 ___, not only flying speed, but also lower and upper ends.
March 19
I finally got to fly a 17m cloud last weekend on the outer banks. Here's my take: Background: intermediate, 180#/82kg, 8 or so years kiting, lots of other sailing experience. Location: Pamlico Sound, Rodanthe, NC Conditions: SSW wind 8-10 knots gradually building to 20 or so, flat water to light chop. Gear: 17m Cloud, 23m lines, 20" bar, 135x42 twin tip, 6' thruster surfboard Definitely a different feel from the (kites) I usually use. It did take a few minutes to get used to the feel and different feedback. It felt more like a "sail" than a "wing" at times. The kite speaks to you differently from conventional multi-strut LEI's. I switched back and forth between the twin tip and surfboard as the wind built. I think the Cloud is a good kite! I liked how the 17's turning is fast for its size and feels direct. As others have said, stability is excellent, and it drifts very well. 23m lines on a 20" bar was fine for freeriding. Bar throw is short, but there is linear adjustment within that short distance, it is not strictly on and off. Upwind seems good, though it took a minute to figure out the right trim/balance for upwind with a medium-sized twin tip in low wind (about 10kt). I definitely got good speed in lighter wind than I am used to. I think the the cloud did better "changing gears" -accelerating, turning, drift, etc.- in light wind than other, heavier kites I have used. Boosting was good, did not feel super high or abrupt like a C kite, but good quick steering, decent height, great glide/hang time, soft easy landing. Didn't unhook. I never dropped the kite - I'm saving relaunch, waves and silly maneuvers for later, warmer weather. For my size, I think the kite has a range of at least 8 or 10 knots to 17 or so on regular surfboards or medium twintips. Obviously, specialized boards would extend this and mileage may vary. After the wind got to 20 knots, my legs were getting tired, so I rigged down to a 9m kite. That should tell you, the range is good. Now, at 20 knots, when I sheeted the bar out a lot, like a foot or so, I could feel the luffing as a vibration in the bar. This felt weird, but it happens only when you sheet out way too much, and likely should rig down. Stability and control remained good whether luffing or not. At this point, I could ride a 9, or be powered up on a 12. So I don't call the luffing a real flaw. I think I'll happily take it as a compromise, along with riding powered at speed in 10-12, and having a light wind kite that fits in the bag with another kite, instead of taking up another XL bag. I am psyched to get sessions with this kite that I'd miss with my 13, and so far it seems more fun to fly than any other XL size kite I have used.
March 17
Took the kite out in about 25 very gusty knots yesterday. I was way over powered but I find the (13) Cloud depowers really quickly. It reacts quickly to anything as long as it's powered actually, something I'm not used to but I've got a feeling my other kite will feel quite slow now. I think it's been mentioned on your home page as well but I noticed I don't have to move the bar much to go from least power to maximum, will have to see if I prefer that or not when I ride more. I'm happy with it so far and think it'll help me evolve as a kite surfer giving me a different experience.
March 4
Love the kite (Cloud 17), fast turning and light, just what I hoped for.
February 27
Less is More!" I had a great time with it, I could feel the power in the kite but didn't feel overpower, I love how stable it is, I can let go of the kite and it stays park at 12. I was able to get out with 7 mph winds with my 6' surfboard and I know the wind speed because I took out my wind meter before I went out. I wound up going downwind but I was never able to go out before at this low wind, the kite would just drop, as soon as it picked up to 11 mph I was able to go upwind and have fun on the surf. I used my 22 meters lines setup with my 56 cm bar, I'm going to get extension just to see how it feels.
February 23
Self launching and landing works fine using chicken loop clipped into a buried sand bag. Weighting the kite down on the beach with a bag of sand on the sail doesn't work...leading edge lifts and slides the bag off the trailing edge. A board on the leading edge does seem to work. I'm going to add a carabiner to a small sand bag and will clip this into he pump leash. (Im not very keen on sharp board on a kite). Leash to the bag pretty short (just a few inches) to limit the amount the kite can lift and bang about.
February 23
Had another light air session yesterday for about 30mins. 8-12 Kts. The kite turned nicely, got into a good rythum with it. Once you carve first and then turn with the kite you will power out of the transitions. At 205lbs and on a 147 board, I was not set up for light air, but did very well.
February 19
Over all the (17m) kite turns well, has a lot of pull in very light air, way faster than some other big kites all around, good solid ride when there is no way I could have been riding today in such light air!
February 19
first time with cloud 17, not ideal condition, side off very gusty like 7-17. i can compare with my old 16 ___ 2011. cloud turn tight and much faster, no need to build speed for power, pull the bar and go even in the lulls. it has more power, high end think is better for ___. i use 52cm bar 24 m but i think is better longer bar like 56cm. upwind is unbelievable, much better! p.s.I am 85 kg use directional 155-50 strapless
Feb 17
I had the opportunity to ride the new cloud 13m kite this morning at my local spot. wind was marginal probably in the mid to upper teens based on the local wind sensor. I think greg drexler has addressed some key issues with big kites and responded with a great product. first of all big kites can be heavy. sometimes its a challenge to keep a big sheet of fabric in the air especially in the lulls. due to lack of struts, this kite weighs in around 6 pounds. big kites have been known to turn slow. as with many other newer kites, they seem to be making these kites turn much better than in the past. the cloud seems to pull very nice through a loop. I am impressed with it's turning speed. large kites always take more effort to pump up. yeah this "one pump" kite takes about as much effort as my 10m ___. I'll add that I've been flying a 14m ___ for the past couple of seasons and absolutely love that kite. the cloud is a bit different than the ___, but both have pretty good low end. the cloud really sits back in the window and bar pressure is more prominent when compared to the ___. I think the major advantage of the cloud over most other kites of its size, is this kite seems to handle the lulls better than any other kite I've experienced in lighter winds. I have only flown the 13m so I can't give you feedback on how the smaller sizes perform. I like the size when rolled up making it a great travel kite. I used this with the naish control bar, but have also flown it with the blade unibar. both bars work great. just about any 4 line control bar will work, however the jury is out whether it performs as well with a bar with short front lines (north, cabrinha, best) or if shorter lines limits its performance.
February 16
OMG, OMG, OMG! Got to the beach around 2:40 today, in time for wind to have dropped to 9m weather. Like an idiot, I only put the 6m in the van along with my ___, so I was forced to go have fun with my 9m ___. After a few waves the wind had obviously ramped up, so I shot to the beach for my new Cloud 6. I had to tie knots in the front bridle leaders to fit my lines and I launched with bar almost fully depowered. I was amazed that I couldn't turn the kite very easily, so I put it down and reinspected my setup. Went to bar and sheeted the cleat all the way out except for about 2"…. Made a HUGE difference. Launched and became Mr. Aggressive Kiter. Discovered it really likes you to ride super agro in the waves. I had the BEST session ever, no lie. This kite will make anyone who rides it a better kitesurfer. It is so light, so quick and so solid….. might I add forgiving …… to a point. It did punish me once or twice for over controlling. Best downwind drifter I could ever imagine….. Pure Kite Nirvana! Thank you for this opportunity to take a quantum step in ocean enjoyment. Not to mention less pumping, less weight to shlep around, less space in car
February 15
Great build quality, flies real nice.
February 13
I flew the 10 2 days ago and as they were all with 12 or above it is was funny to see people surprised when I told them I was under a 10. I used a larger bar than the one i used with the 6 and it was slightly too large i think. The beach wankers kite specialists were suspicious about the relaunch ability so i did have a test session (5 relaunch in a raw) : It is just as good as would do a usual kite :) I am now convinced strutless is the good way; easy, light, and quick turning.
February 13
I had a PM regarding how the kite handles on the ground for launching etc. I launched the kite leading edge down several times with no problems, just a slight pull on one of the outboard lines and it just rolls over like any other kite. Hot launches were tried in the light winds and with the kite sitting on it's TE just a handfull of centre lines and off it climbed to the zenith. The kite sat stable on the snow as long as there was wind in the canopy. With no wind in the canopy the kite settles on the snow, but you have to put snow on it to keep it there, as it is very light and will move in any sort of breeze at all! Pretty normal handling otherwise, it's just alot lighter than just about any other kite out there, including foils so you have to make sure it's held down securely on the snow or sand.
February 12
Anyways, the line of kites is called the CLOUD and they are strutless, only thing you need to pump up is the leading edge! Build quality is the same as the other top brands as it's made in the same factory along side the others. It is a very simple kite to rig and the bridle frames the canopy in such a way that the overall "structure" of the kite is very rigid when inflated. It behaves normally in flight, nothing funky about it. The handling is crisp, light and direct. There are no pulleys in the bridle at all, just two sliders that work perfectly. It feels like a refined ___ to me, only livelier on the end of the lines. The depower stroke is very short, and is more like on/off which is a very cool way to design a kite in my opinion, it just works with the handling. The power generated by the kite is developed in a very linear way, and makes great use of apparent wind to feel like a bigger kite than it actually is. Greg has a very pure and minimalistic approach to design, which is harder to achieve than you would think!? Even the kitebag is simple, but very slick. I have an 8m, the 13m and my 17m is on it's way right now, very cool kites! If you see me out riding, say hi!
Feb 11
Just finished my first session with my 13m Cloud on the snow.....a wonderful experience! Wind was less than 10knts for most of the day, snow was really fresh and deep for Southern Ontario due to the recent storm..... Elmhirst's Resort on Rice Lake was the location, a few guys and one lady out kiting today. Sunshine was fantastic, and it was a balmy -5c...... The Cloud performed flawlessly in all respects, light on the bar which I like, short depower stroke, more like on/off in about 6" of bar travel. Turns are unreal, very responsive but not twitchy at all. Nose down relaunch was no problem, just rolled over and waited for my next bar input. Hot-launch from trailing edge down was very controllable, no issues at all. Felt very much like my ___, but much livlier on the end of the lines if that makes sense to you? All in all a great kite, and Greg should be very proud of the design.
Feb 6
OK, I just lubed with silicone spray my squeaky pump and timed it. It took 57 cycle full downward pushes with a double action pump to ping the LE, Which took about 1 Minute. Last Sunday I had only a half an hour test fly in a 7 to 9 mph variable winds with 3 - 5 mph lulls. So I can't really comment or give a full review from this short testing. What I can confirm the weight of the 17m is: 7.0 lbs (3.2 kg) The steering speed is great and when the wind dropped to 3 mph or dropped the kite to the soup during unpowered low wind jibe, it relaunched unexpectedly easily when the wind came back to around 7 mph (NOT KNOTS!) I think the kite is still flying in about 5 mph, I'm just guessing.
February 6
Conditions where tuff for the first day of my new kites : gusty from 10 to 20knts and oscillating from side off to off shore. When I arrived on the spot everybody had packed because the kites were falling in the lows. I was too excited so I went out... and could sail until the wind got completely down 30 min later. All the credit to your kites which are able to fly in very VERY little wind. then it picked up again, I could do proper good surfs. a few kite loops to reach the section then the kite drift really good and made his own life while i was surfing : it 's a completely new thing for me not to have to keep doing kite loops while surfing. in conclusion : people used to say kitesurfing strapless is like ___: very scary the first time and once you've done it you realise it is better this way. this DEFINITELY applies to kitesurfing stutless too... unless not many people know it yet :)
Jan 24
thanks for the weight ! this makes your zero-strut kite cloud the lightest tubekite (per squaremeter) available.
Jan 8
I received my new Boardriding Maui strutless 13m prototype kite and got a chance to ride it in very, very gusty conditions at Newcastle today. Surprisingly it was a really good ride in crappy gusty 6 - 30 knot conditions (well except during the gusts when I had trouble holding it down). Indeed it is a very interesting kite as having no struts, weighing nothing and having a low AR it has an incredible low end. In fact I would recommend people fly these kites one size smaller than their SLE. In fact, given the low end of the kite I really should've been on a 10m or an 8m. When I launched at noon there was hardly any wind, 6 to 8 knots maybe and once up the kite charged upwind and I was nicely powered on the Paipo. As far as flying characteristics the Cloud kites are really quick on/off with just a bit of sheeting and they turn very, very fast. I also got the chance drift launch and relaunch the kite today without a problem, once the canopy has wind in it relaunches like any other kite. One nice thing is without struts they inflate and pack up in no time. If any one ever wants to try it out, just find me on the beach. I think Greg at Boardriding Maui is onto something here and in five years struts for freeride kites will be a thing of the past. Also, the crazy thing about these kites is that they pack up small and my 13m weighs maybe two to three pounds max. In fact I received my kite in a 10in x 10in x 6in box. These kites are designed for freeride and surf goodness, dedicated wakestyle not so much. Interestingly they are designed to luff which takes getting used to. These kites are designed for those who like a simple and fun kite that's real fast. I haven't done much unhooked riding on these but I will report back. The leading edge and bridles are bomber quality and in general I would compare the quality to Cabrihna. That being said the kites are so light that you have to have sand on them when not flying. I would say that 6 to 8 of inches of throw is all that's required for this kite. So slide the stopper down. Once the back lines go slack the kite just kind of sits there. I will let you know what happens when you oversheet after a few more sessions, but because the kite is so light it doesn't really backstall. However, the instructions that come with the kite indicate that all lines need to be the same length when the bar is pulled all the way in, so that's how I more or less rode it.
Jan 5, 2013
I've heard Boardriding Maui kites and boards are on their way soon. Can't wait to get my new quiver. Since I had the opportunity to ride these in Maui, I want to answer some persistent questions: - Relaunch?: Yes, they relaunch great - Responsive?: Very, very responsive. Like flying one or two kite sizes smaller. Little bar throw is required for power/depower, so good to put your stopper down a bit. - Boosting?: Goes way big the kite is so fast and light it really sends you up - Surf: A++ Best surf kite I've ever ridden - Unhooked: Okay, but didn't have ideal wind to try a lot of tricks nor time to make fine tuning adjustments. Worked good on raileys, but the kite goes to the edge of the window like other SLEs. - Feel?: To me the Cloud feels a lot like a North Rebel, so grunty but more responsive and with lighter bar pressure. - Overpowered?: No problem in over-powered conditions, seems to ride just like any other SLE kite. Maui can be a very good test location for gusty, over powered conditions. I also can't wait to take these new kites snowkiting
Nov 30, 2012
Last week in Maui I got the opportunity to ride the Boardworks Maui Cloud kite and I can honestly say it is without question the best surf kite I've ever ridden. In fact I'll be buying two more when they go to production. About me so you know this review isn't BS, I've been riding for 7 years and get on the water an average of 80 times a year. I started on ___ moved, to ___ and for the last few years have flown ___. The day I tried an 8m Cloud I was riding my 12m ___. The 8m Cloud had way more pull then my 12m ___ once on a plane. These kites are quick, grunty and so light because of the lack of struts that I just let the bar go a few times while surfing and the kite just sat there with no input and was chill with the bar completely sheeted out. Once on a wave you hardly notice the kite is there and can really shred. As for jumping these kites go absolutely huge, and might only compare to a ___ for height on jumps. In fact I also tried to mega loop the Cloud a few times, it's so fast it really gets to the top of the window and provides a cush landing. As for unhooked, definitely not a C-kite, but surprisingly decent and was able to railey on it no prob, but didn't have the wind to try any handle passes so I don't know about how well the lines go slack, etc. My only criticism of these kites is that for the average rider they may be too fast turning, but I like a fast kite so besides that they are awesome. Way to go Greg!
Nov 30
Just got back. ~8mph winds. riding upwind on a twin tip with the kite parked. @(#(amp;(@ AMAZING! Thank you!!!!! You saved my winter. I've never been out with no chop before. It was almost glass. The kite is fantastic. It's responsive, easy to fly and seems like it "wants" to fly. The wind dropped to 5 and below and the kite would stay in the air while on the sand with no problem. My other kite will fall out of the sky when the wind drops to 10. Let me know when your bar is ready. I'm a believer. Thanks again!
Nov 29
I finally could test my Cloud and... I LOVED THE KITE! Until the arrival of the Cloud, I used to ride a 14 and 10 ___. I used to pray for stronger winds so I could ride the 10 instead of the 14. I replaced the 14 with the 13 Cloud. To my big surprise, I am now having as much fun (or even more) with the 13 Cloud than with my 10 ___. Besides being really fast, I'm loving the fact that I can get a lot of power with the bar really closer to the chicken loop. Having the bar closer makes it really more comfortable to me.
Nov 4
I had to use my ___ yesterday, and I was reminded how much smoother the Cloud is. A traditional kite yanks you around, while the Cloud is smooth seamless power delivery.
Nov 4
Interesting day yesterday, got to the lake to a very gusty and windy day, went out on the 8M (most ppl on 9s-10s). got a couple of rides, some nice floaty jumps, and then it pick up and was way overpowered. I was amazed (again) and how safe and control the cloud feel when overpowered. Came in to rig down, went to my strutted 7M and it was ok but I’d rather be on a cloud!
Oct 20
Had my first ride on the 17m today. Forecast was light, 7 to 10. Figured it was just a good day just to put it in the air and tune the bar. This is a day which I would have never even bothered to rig up before. When I arrived at a local spot there were a few kites on the beach and one kite in the air - person could not stay up wind and had to do the suckers walk. I pumped up the big 17m Cloud and put it in the air. I was completely amazed on how light it felt compared to my other kites. Even though, others couldnt ride, the pull felt good enough to me. So I grabed my 5'10 fish and the way I went. UNBELIEVABLE!!! I rode for an hour (able to effectively get upwind) while other just watched from the beach!. Of course when I landed the kite, I was greated by 4 locals who could not believe I was up and riding. Thanks for your advice below. You were right, if I live near the water, be on it as much as possible. The 17m Cloud will definately buy sessions I would have never had before!!
Oct 19
Received the Cloud 17 this afternoon. Took it straight to the water as I've been dry for a while due to light winds. Had a blast!!! & more than enough power with average 7 mph wind. You have created an amazing kite. The Cloud 17 turns faster than my 12, holy apparent wind & that drift, wow. I'm packing to head out of town for a week but had to quickly share my stoke!
Oct 16
The boys have tried kites. They have an incredible performance, these kites are unbeatable with aur wind (bora) super gusty. The wind from 5 to 30 knt my kite and was the only one who has not ever stalled.
Oct 10
Second ride was on the bay, wind conditions around 8-12 MPH with gusts to 15. Again, the stability in the air and how easy it was to walk up and down the beach amazed me. With me that day were a couple guys on 14’s, one 16, and one 18. After a while of riding, I noticed I was the only one left riding, the rest of the crew, including the 16 and 18, were left with their kites in the water wishing for more wind. Apparently the wind died off and shifted directions, which had not even affected the cloud. That’s when I realized how amazing the Cloud really is. Final thoughts: the Cloud is amazing! It turns quicker than my 14, depowers more, and refuses to drop out of the sky. Luffing was not an issue for me. Once you get the feel for the cloud and find the sweet spot on your bar the canopy stays fully taught. For me, 8-12 MPH is perfection for the Cloud. 15 MPH is a little much, but with a lot of depower can still be fun. Overall, outstanding product, proud to be a Cloud owner. Thanks so much for a great product and all your customer service!
Oct 10
Others stood with 12m and 14m in the water and I passed with 10m. Madness! The eyes of the others. : D The cloud was perfect. So playful.
Oct 6
Finally got to take my 13m Cloud for a trial run on a beautiful late afternoon fall day here in the South of California. Amazed with the responsiveness and smooth power delivery of the kite. The wind jumped up as the sun set, and was able to deal with the excess power and get back to the beach safely. Kite worked like a dream from ~9-17mph. Gets me wondering how the small kites fly...
Oct 3
after many nice sessions i am very happy with my cloud 17. no matter if it´s a backroll with kiteloop on my bidirectional or just cruzin strapless on my directional, the kite makes so much fun.
Oct 3
Hi Greg, once again thank you for your service, I got to fly all 3 kites in one day, started off with 17 at 6 knots, then 13, and finished the day on 10. I gotta say, the 10 is a rocket!!! I didn't expect it from it but the kite has so mug power that I was still riding and jumping on it when others went back to 12s and 14s. It turns faster and more responsive then a trainer kite, I just love it. Simply the best kites I've ever flown. Thank you once again
September 19
Just wanted to say thanks for making a great kite. I received the 17 and it definately lives up to the hype. One thing, now that I can ride more you need to promis me that you will give me a job when I get fired from this one due to me being late to work more often than usual because of how much more I can ride. Thanks again for a great kite.
Sept 17
What can I say... I'm completely hooked on the Clouds. Riding other kites is not nearly as fun, unless I actually want something that is slow.
Sept 17
After a season of Cloud's I must say still stocked about this kite and all the time with a smile on the water.
Sept 14
Since the wind was reading 30+ when I got there, I put up my 6m ___, feeling that I would be OP'd on the 6m Cloud... I was interesting to ride my older kite after a few months on the Cloud. I used to LOVE that 6m ___, it seemed so fast and nimble. I have to say, after having ridden the Cloud for a while, it seemed like a dog. Even though it's tiny, it seemed slow to move and respond, and when I got on a wave and wanted it to drift, it just falls out of the sky - at least in comparison... I still had fun, but it certainly reinforced my stoke about the Cloud!! I've been holding onto that old 6m because the 6m Cloud rides so much bigger... Thinking I will need a 5m from you for winter/spring days.
Sept 12
I finally got to fly 13, holy smoke this thing is a rocket, excellent upwind and handles like a charm, love love love the kites. Thank you.
Sept 10
today I tried the kite from 10 m, the wind was from 15 to 20 knt. The kite and' incredibly stable in the air and has an exceptional range of use. This kite use it as 12-10-8. Congratulations Greg beatifull kite
Sept 9
Kind of funny to watch all the kites on the beach and I'm the only one out. 17m + surfboard + 6knots = fun. Stoked on Cloud.
Sept 6
Gotto to say, I love my cloud. Its so cool and steady. Had a blast with only 7ms of wind.
Sept 2
I just wanted to let you know I had my maiden voyage on the 17M Cloud. Wind was fluctuating 8-12 knots and occasionally gusting 15 and it was awesome! I totally get what you meant about the sweet spot in trim. It took me a few tacks to figure out where she was dialed in but when I did - wow! I can see how people might ride it outside of the sweet spot and have some issues with turning speed but when you figure it out, it is awesome. Turning was surprisingly sharp for a 17M and the general feel of the ride (regardless of trim) was smooth like butter. It was like learning to drive stick shift - you can get by driving in the "wrong gear" for the rpms of the engine, but eventually you just feel when it's right. 230lbs on a twin tip at that wind speed previously meant sitting on the beach or a frustrating walk upwind. Definitely a session-saver. Definitely see how I can get out in under 10kn with my floaty wide directional. Getting a feel for the kite was far more intuitive that I thought it would be based on your warnings. As the wind picked up over 15kn+ I felt it was time to come in, but not in an intimidating way. Being overpowered felt like an honest chat the kite was having with me: "hey man, this is too much wind, but I'm going to get you back no problem"... Awesome work on this kite. Very stoked to see what comes next, and trying some other sizes. Launching for the first time, It helped when I heard a guy on the water yell: " dude, you are going to love that kite! I have the 13!". Thank you so much for the info leading up to the purchase and, most importantly, an awesome new kite. Keep'em coming!
Aug 31
Today I had another fantastic day with the Cloud 8 and had also the opportunity to ride another kite in direct comparison. I can only say: I won´t ride any other Kites :-). Thank you for this great kite! I have now also decided to sell my last and smallest other kite and would like to have a small Cloud as well.
Aug 27
As you know I've had the 10m cloud for a few months now. Whatever the conditions its my goto kite, the majority of time I'm out on my 10. Normally I'll be swapping between a 8, 10 or 12 but now i find the 10m Cloud covers this wide range. The 10m Cloud is the most balanced kite I have ever flown. Thanks for a great kite I will be getting a few more.
August 15
Simply best kite ever!!!! Took 17 out as soon as I or it, wind 7 ish and most other kites were literally falling out of the sky, the cloud just wanted to fly. I'm 190 lbs, was on 140 twin tip. Even in this conditions I never even powered the kite up all the way. Upwind.... I've never gone up wind so far in other kites, within couple short runs I was in the middle of the lake watching others walking their kites to the beach as they didn't have enough wind, it was just me out there until the wind picked up a bit and one other guy came out on 21 ___. Didn't get to try relaunch yet because I simply couldn't put the kite in the water, even after I wiped out and crashed, the cloud just stayed up in the air. All I want to say is I'm super impressed, you multiplied my riding days by three fold, I've never flown kite that is as smooth, powerful and responsive all at the same time, you have a customer for life Thank you
August 10
I just got back in town after a week of travel and three weeks of bad wind before that. I spent 5 hours this morning under the Cloud 17. The wind was super light and I was the only kite out. I really needed the kite therapy time and the Cloud delivered! I am truly amazed at the flight characteristics of the kite. Thanks for a great kite!
July 29
This sat we had a solid average of 10 knots, prob went from 7 - 12 max all day at the coast. Finally, I got to ride it, I rode waves and it was awesome. Quite different. But I think for light wind, in a great way, really nice kite. Didn't seem like a jumper ...but it is a 17 and light wind, and maybe I wasn't used to holding the bar in all the way in / short throw; at the initial downstroke it always felt really light in power, regardless of the depower setting. ...but just in the initial downstroke because the power came on like a Mack Truck once I got some speed. Rode it on a big board with some decent waist - chest high waves. Nice. Super fun. I really liked the short throw depower once I got used to it, and how the kite in general worked in the waves.... really nice. I had a big smile on my face and honestly had so much fun for 10 knots while the other few guys hoping to kite that day were either struggling or hoping for more wind on the beach.
July 29
Got the chance to try the 8M and now I understand why you ride the 6 so much! The 8 felt super grunty in 20 to 25 w gusts in the low 30s. It manages the lulls extremely well for its size. When it got lighter (upper teens) i was out on the 8 still when most ppl on 10, 12 and even 14s.
July 28
The cloud is probably the best de-powering kite I have ridden.
July 26
Cloud arrived and i allready had great fun with it, when before i would have been waiting for more wind.....;-)
July 24
Just thought I'd let you know that I launched the Cloud today and am really happy with how it performed! Started the morning on my 14m ___ and had good winds for about an hour until it started to drop....imagine being glad that the wind was dying so I could try out the Cloud! Got it pumped and in the air, no problems and that's when the discovery and fun began. I'm an old sailor so the canopy luffing when de-powered was quite a pleasing sound and the power-on was pretty much immediate with a very short pull-in on the control bar. For a 17m kite, it sure responds much more quickly than I would have thought. The wind continued to drop a bit and the other kites were falling out of the air..... but not the Cloud. I was even able to get up and going on my 146 twin-tip (no small feat for a 220 lb guy!) when others were trying to get their kites back up in the air. I'm happy to report that your kite drew a bit of a crowd at the kite beach and a lot of questions from the other kiters.... hope you'll be hearing from some of them. Thanks again for all of your advice and helping me make what I now know was a great buying decision.
July 21
I got to try your cloud 17 and fell in love with it
July 8
I've probably had around 10 sessions on the 17m cloud so far in pretty marginal (7knots ~ 12knots). I'm amazed how the kite is able to stay in the air in 7 knots will some lulls, and it is really quite stable. I know my other big kite would have fallen out of the sky under the same condition, but this hasn't happened with the cloud yet. I'm pretty powered once wind picks up above 14knots, so that's where I usually switch to a smaller kite. Anyway, the cloud 17 is filling in the gap in my quiver nicely, and it's performing exactly as I expected. I think it's going to be a busy summer with many more sessions that I otherwise would've missed.
July 8
today was the day for my first ride on the cloud 17. to put my impression in just one word "stoked!!" at the end of the day when the wind got low and gusty i thought these are the right conditions to try my new kite for the first time. usually i call it a day when the wind comes below 6-8 knotes. my kitespot it tiny, i have to start the kite by putting it into the water and let him drift away until the lines are under tension. the whole starting area is behind some trees so there are always turbulences. when is saw the kite in the face to position and the fabric gluing on the water i thought it can´t be possible to get him in the air. but just pulling one steering line a little the kite got his profile and was launching super easy. the kite stood in the air like nailed down. on the water the feeling of the kite was great. it turns like a weasel and absorbs gusts like a damper. it feels incredibly light . to go upwind was difficult because of the low wind. during backrolls with kiteloop i was surprised how quickly the kite is looping. i need to change my timing because the cloud turns much faster than my other kites. it´s just fun to feel how light, easy and soft this kite is flying. thanks for developing such nice product. i am wishing you all the best and a lot of success with board riding maui. i will recommend the cloud to all my mates.
July 7
Wanted to let you know I had my first session with the Cloud today. Perfect day for it! Light wind, 10-13kts, with a nice SE swell. Wind was straight onshore, lots of kites on the beach, very few on the water. Made the difference between riding for a few hours or sitting on the beach hoping for wind. Not due to skill but due to having a Cloud!! Thanks again
July 6
Wind was from 3 to 10 knots, very unstable. The only stable thing was the cloud :-) Amazing!
July 6
light is better in lightwind. funny enough it does the job better than i expected. sheet out and the kite flutters back waiting on you...the drift is awesome. All i have to say is i love the 17m cloud and now im always looking for an excuse to travel because i can kite in low wind.
July 5
Ive found that when riding in light wind the best is to loop it to get speed downwind and then edge upwind with kite at 50 to 60 degrees and let the kite breath. When you hang on the bar sheeted in the kite continues pulling but at a much slower speed and less upwind. Ive only experienced this with a 133x40 board which is not a light wind board. The performance was acceptable for 10 knots.less than that i could only hold ground. I have yet to try it with my 135X48. I know this will be the killer combo.
July 5
I got the 10 out yesterday for a bit.. it's crazy the low end on that thing.
July 5
I became within one or two of low wind session the star of the spot ... First of all lots of attentions from kiters and lots of question when I took of the cloud by 8nds. What where when how how, proto ? ... and so on. Then for more than 45 mins the 1st day, the spot belonged to me, alone on the calm sea, light onshore breeze, 7 to 8 nds, my skim and my 17m2 cloud, when dozen of kiters probably swear Eole to kill me as soon as I stopped. Testwise speaking, I had the chance to test the kite from 9nds to 18nds during the same session. Highest confortable window to me would be 15 nds, trim engage, more and the clouds in this size become very powerfull and quiet uncomfortable, but this a only for test purpose and I changes quiet quickly to a 10m2 ___. No need to say what is has been already said, beautiful pure design, very ligth to handle, and not really a big issue to kite with, just to be a bit more attentive to the wind window. The kite turns as quick as any 14m2 and even more quicker, and you never feel overpowered when it is used within its wind windows. conclusion is: I sent wonderfull afternoon sessions when the wind was that light that all friends of mine had to stay on the beach, glancing at the cloud and of course at me :) Many thanks and long life to Boardriding maui.
July 5
The fun started immediately. One of the hottest sessions ever today with the 17m. From the post office on the spot. My kite colleague flys a ___19m. He was caught somewhere between disbelief and ecstasy, when he was allowed to test the 17er.
July 4
I rode the 17m 3 sessions and the 10m one session. Love the kites. The major issue I notice with your kites is the time lost at explaining to kitesurfers where I got my kite from. I was impressed by the power I could get from the 10m Cloud while only powerful 13m could make it.
July 3
It (the 17m) looks GORGEOUS in the air, even better than in the photos! It's almost like a piece of flying art! I really like the simplicity of the design. Going along with how small it looks, it also feels and turns smaller (all good things obviously). It turns as fast at the 13.5m kite I have, if not faster.... and it feels a lot lighter too
July 1
finally got perfect conditions for my cloud 17 yesterday. Was a pleasure to be the only kiters next to a 21 m. Espacially concerning my weight!!! Fantastic feeling how with the lightest gust the kite generates power and even upwind thee was no problems at all. So thank you for this wonderful experience, I'd never be on water with so little wind before.
July 1
The Cloud 17 flight very nice and easy due to its lightweight. It’s very impressive how it turns well and quick for this surface ! Me and my friends are very impressed ! So I have a loooooooooooooot of fun with the Cloud
June 30
today, I could finally use my 10 m Cloud for the first time. Wind was between 12 and 17 knt and I used my 5'9" strapless, and basically the Cloud worked really well. I was indeed stoked by it´s turning speed, the sensitivity to steering input and the overall ease of use, it felt just very "playful" and overall much better for surfing than my 12 m² ___.
June 29
I experienced the feeling with backline tension, then the performance is at it's best. I was racing my friend with an 15m ___ (designed for speed) and could keep up, amazing this power combined with turning speed. So easy to steer it for such a size, doesn't feel huge and slow, really a great property of the cloud 13.
June 29
The kite has a lot of power even in that low end conditions and is turning really fast! Nice one!!
June 28
Just a few thoughts on my first session on my 10m cloud yesterday in marginal wind conditions. The other kites flying were 14m,13m and a few 12m. The Cloud was extremely fast and agile in the air. There was good low end grunt and depower was spot on. I normally would of taken my 14m ___ yesterday but I was very surprised that on the 10m Cloud I managed to keep up with most of the other kites.
June 27
Small Kite feel in 17m (This is truely the fact about everyone claims about, when thinking of bigger Kites then 14. You solved it! Yeah!!) - Simplicity in Design and Function!!!!!
June 27
It's refreshing to see such customer support.
June 17
I have been loving the Cloud 17! I recently purchased a Lift Foilboard and in light winds, the foild board and Cloud 17 are an unbeatable combination. I weight 200lbs and am able to ride very easily in 6 - 8 mph winds. I have added line extensions (Total line length 30 meters) Pretty much if the kite will fly and you can hold it to the side at 10 or 2 o'clock position and still turn it back in the up direction, you are good to go. I am using a custom bar with extreme depower range to allow the kite to fly in super light wind if needed. (Could just pull center lines to get the same effect) Again, I love this kite!
June 16
Yes a cloudy day indeed. It was a bit light for my weight (215lbs @ 6'6" ) so I had a tendency to pull the bar to hard. The other guy suggested to pull a little depower so the kite would have more freedom to build its own power, instead of me holding it back all the time. Worked like a dream.
June 12
I finally got a decent long session with the Cloud yesterday and it was one of the most rewarding kite sessions I've had in awhile! I think I finally hit a few "a-ha" moments on how the cloud works! What I was finally able to pin down about the kite is that the pull on the center lines is pretty light and steady, and a lot of the pull that would normally come in through the gusts comes through the bar and not the harness. I'm finding out that it's not the bar that gets the grunt, it's the kite. I was playing around with steering the kite quickly (which is new to me, I've never flown a 7m before, but I can imaging that the 10m's turning speed must be close, it turns faster than my 9m.) and she responded with all the power I could want out of it. Gradual movements don't really seem to do much, but quick turns really does the trick! In essence, the most elegant way that I can put it is that, she likes the whip. I finally got the hang of getting some jumps, I usually send the kite back on my 9m slow as I get ready for the jump, and doing that with the cloud just didn't feel right, the power wasn't coming at the right time. However, if I give the kite a hard jerk backwards to send it for a jump it's perfect! It actually didn't have any extra pull as it sends until it hits 12, and then BAM! Sit down on the edge, pull in the bar and a way it goes. All in all, I'm incredibly happy with the kite.
June 6
I just wanted to pass along that I received my 17m cloud a couple weeks ago. I have had 3 sessions with it and am very happy. 2 of the sessions took place in conditions that previous to this were unridable for me. 7kts on a big board and I was having no problem riding upwind and doing small jumps. Pretty incredible! When I heard of your strutless design, I knew that it's light weight but inflated leading edge would be perfect for the gusty and inconsistent winds of an inland lake. Anyway thanks for everything, and for doubling my time on the water!
June 6
the last two days I made a big step in riding the clouds... felt just awesome!!! here is a link of a video a made yesterday on my last run. but at this time was as you see not more enough wind for me to ride proper... or was it just my lack of riding? I don´t know... https://vimeo.com/67790836
June 4
I've got a few more sessions with the 8 :) amazing kite, as powerful as my 12 ___! I have the feeling like now i can do finally something with the bar. But still have alot to learn to guide her. totally stoked. im sure for the next 3 years i'm happy with the Clouds. Alot of people are very interested in the Cloud. Everybody thinks like ' hey why nobody made a strutlesskite till yet, Struts are obviously not needed :)
June 4
Scored a demo....The Cloud 13 was great fun with outstanding speed and handling performance on Seneca Lake when everyone else was wrangling 15 to 18 meters. Didn't get a chance to check out a relaunch because the Cloud just wanted to fly! Way cool kite.
June 4
My upper range with the 13M (to be able to enjoy the kite) seems to be low 20's. the other day it was 17-22 and it was great until it picked up. I got super overpowered to the point that I couldn't do anything but keep the kite high and sheeted out. later I checked the wind and it was 25 gusting 30mph, no wonder I was overpowered!
June 1
Went out on it (8 Cloud) again today. Had a total blast again. I crashed the kite for the first time today - relaunch was super easy. I was expecting the square wingtips to make it harder, but no problem. I had more thoughts while on the water, but I've forgotten them now! Other than Cloud is totally the right name for the kite! Sometimes it really feels like you're getting a ride from a cloud. "Cloud and proud"! I'm totally sold on these kites. Love them. Could I put in an order for the 10m and the 6m, please?
June 1
We flew her (13 Cloud) today in 15mph. Best turning kite I've been on. rapid fire.
May 31
I had my first session out on the Cloud 8 today. W O W !!!! What an amazing kite! I came in half super stoked and half mind blown - such a fun kite. Definitely a very different kite to anything I've tried before. I absolutely love how fast it is. Turns faster than my 7m! The short throw on the bar felt odd at first, but I ended up loving that too. It gives you so many options when you turn and loop the kite. Oversheeting, I could make kiteloops really gentle, or sheet out a bit and get a hard pull. Really cool! How well it drifts is pretty ridiculous. I'd need more sessions on it to really tell, but it seems I can get going in about the same amount of wind as the ___ 9m. The kite feels really connected to the wind - like it really is making the most of every bit of wind there is. To me, it seemed like the gain in power was not so much a gain in power as the kite being really efficient. It was a strange feeling - normally the amount of pull from the kite would have made me feel really underpowered, yet there I was, blasting along at high speed. I liked the light bar pressure - I thought it would help save my elbows a bit, but I ended up getting so enthusiastic with turning the kite and whipping it around the sky that it didn't at all, hahaha! And, it turns like a dream. Makes riding your board and moving the kite with you feel really natural. I'm normally not crazy about kites that fly upwind so much as that sometimes means that they have a tendency to hindenburg and also usually means that they are harder to turn up and back across the window. No problems there, though. Kite seemed very stable in the sky, and as I mentioned, I love how it turns! Some nice little touches too - metal sliders instead of pulleys. Also really liked the boston valve. And it's the first time I've liked having a one-pump kite ;-) I can see also that there are a lot of things to learn with this kite. There are ways to fly it that I haven't been able to with other kites, and I bet it has more things I haven't found yet. So, congratulations on making such a unique kite. And thank you.
May 29
You have a winner with the Cloud! I had both the Kite and the board out for the first time this day for a short evening session in Copenhagen. Sunshine and around 10 knot stable wind. I measured an average 4.6 m/s "gusting" to 5.6 m/s. I had no problem self launching with the anchor method. No one else out but me and a guy on ___ 21m. I first used a small twintip. I was well powered under these conditions but it took some time go upwind. Changed to the Paipo and went upwind like on rails. Amazing under these conditions. In conclusion both kite and boards worked amazingly well. The kite was extremely stable and not any tendency at all to drop out of the sky in the lulls. I have tried a big door and a ___ 21m under similar conditions and the upwind performance of the Cloud/Paipo was definitely better.
May 29
I got to try the 13m Cloud yesterday afternoon when the wind died down. Was able to tack further upwind compared to the guys on race boards and 12m. Stoked!
May 26
I got to take the 17cloud out today in 10 mph, 8-12, winds and had a nice ride, definitely not able to do that with anything else. The kite flies much more like a regular strutted kite than I expected except it really seems to like to stay in the air. Easy to relaunch and I was the only one on the water which is what I was looking for. You did a nice job with it. BTW I shredded so if you want your first team rider feel free to send all the other sizes jk.
May 24
Just wanted to let you know that I was super impressed with how your kites performed. I have tried a lot of first model kites and they usually have some serious kinks that need to be worked out, but not the Cloud. The 6m down winders I had on the Ocean were awesome. The kite drifts like nothing I have ridden before, and does dissappear while your ripping down the face. Its easy to reengage and has awesome amounts of depower. I think a lot of experienced riders will appreciate this kite. The 13 had tons of power but was smooth and light touch steering.
May 19
Just came back from a session with the 8, huhh. 3 hours real fun in some waves with 15-30kts gusty westwind. Power delivery - just awsome. In touch with the cloth. pretty agressiv some time :) i like ! have to ajust my steering here and there a bit ;) but the clouds feel very good ! few days ago a had a wonderful 13 session with 8-10kts. In the end i was alone - the kites hindenbourgd, the cloud, put in some rotation was stayng there, wating for a bit more wind to come and here we go again ! 30 min alone gliding in nothing.
May 18
Had a nice southerly system blow through for the weekend; I was the first one out and the last one in. boosting with that Cloud is pucker-tastic when it's powered....good lord what a fast-yet-large kite.
May 14
A had so much fun on the water and bottom turns and cut backs are so easy with the very fast and light kite.
May 13
6m super duper fun! Took the 6m out in SUPER light conditions and was amazed that it could get me upwind when guys were working their 12m’s. didn’t think I had a chance in hell of making it off the beach as couldn’t even get the kite to fill with wind at first! Had to use basically two fingers on the bar. super light pressure then got lit up like crazy on the outside where I was OP’ed…
May 12
the handling and the turning is just what i want a kite to be. I need to get used to the way to ride the cloud but I like it!! i have to sheet the bar in more than to other kites. To the end i felt quit comfortable with this because there are really nice and not to strong bar pressure and direct feedback what the kite is doing and where he is positioned in the window.
May 11
About the clouds difference from other kites: I sailed the 17 cloud for 30 or 45 minutes on our spots on an especially bad day. I know quite well about the kite in little wind. With the cloud I don't found the slightest thing that disturbed me, I loved the feeling. So much pull, so fast to turn. And standing on the beach with the kite over the head and in the wind window at lulls --- soo much stability. What also shocked me that the kite had not the slightest fold in the cloth. We don't see that often. What I found that the simple pull of the kite is strong enough with the directional board.
April 28
It was no fun with the old stuff after flying the cloud
April 26
had a great kiting session when I would have normally stayed at home watching videos. that alone made my day and will make many more days to come. Btw, the only two guys at the club were stoked by the kite tech, and excited by its range
April 26
I was out yesterday on the Cloud 17. Wind was averaging 8 knots - Lulls to about 5 - Gusting to 10 direct on-shore. The session was sublime however a little lonely since everyone else was on the beach watching or stuck in the shore pound unable to get out. I actually felt a little bad for them. Keep in mind I weigh in at 200 lbs. I had no problem charging out through the shore pound and running for miles up and down the coast catching small shoulder highs when running to the south. The Sups and short boards were my only company.
April 24
Yesterday we tested the Cloud17 the first time on the Traunsee in real Low Wind Conditions. WInd was between 6 and 10 Knots. Board was a big Twintip with 150 x 46 cm. It was just amazing, how powerful, stable and nimble the Cloud is!!! Several Guys between 83 and 93 kg were testing the Cloud and the unique comment was, that this is most funniest Kite in this big size, that has ever been on our spot by now. In austrian and german Internet Forums the hype about this kite and the whole concept is daily getting higher!
April 24
Rode the cloud for the second time today!!! Unbeleivable I'm stoked! This kite is super light, stays in the air with practically no wind, and gets me going before the whitecaps. I've always figured I needed whitecaps to kite but not anymore! We had between 10mph and gust probably 25mph today and I was able to ride the whole time, even in the big gusts. I could just let go of the bar when it got too much, and never felt in danger! I'm sold and so are a few other guys here that I let ride it. You really hit a home run on this kite for me. ....I forgot to mention big smooth powered jumps and good hang time. The power is really smooth even doing kite loops or fast turns! This may soon become my favorite kite
April 24
Just to let you know the 17m Cloud recieved an extremely good review on the biggest German speaking kitesurfing forum: http://forum.oase.com/showthread.php?t=133962&page=2
April 23
Well the cloud got quite a few looks yesterday at the beach. I think riders can't quite figure it out. I say it gives them something to talk about when I'm out riding because they are stuck on the beach. I rode for a couple of hours yesterday and had a blast. It turning speed when the wind is light is just amazing for a big kite, makes your session much more enjoyable.
April 19
Outstanding kite. Just out of the water. The Kite was phenomenal it did not fall out of the sky when the wind drop to 7. I have never flown a kite that would not have hindenburgered in those conditions.
April 19
I had a second session yesterday. Lulls to 9 gusts to 18 avg 13. I was nuking while others were puking. The kite flew great. I worked through the sheeting with light back line tension.
April 16
I have to say, was really nice to be the first and last rider on the water; at my size I NEVER get to do that :-P
April 14
Had my second ride on the (17) Cloud today and I think I have figured it now. Trim was now perfect and the wind range just fitted. It was 6-12 knots and it was just really nice. The turning is amazing and the kite powers you nicely out of frontside carve. Jumping was also better than on the first session. Bar pressure was fine, last time it must have been the thick gloves which made it tiresome. But most amazing today was the the lowend. In the beginning there where quite a number of guys on 17s and they were all doing fine. Later on the wind dropped and must have been around 6-7knots. I was the last one out together with a guy on a big ___. I had power, I was blasting along, went upwind with ease and then the water got absolutely glassy. Never experienced that before while kiting. It wasn't super radical but extremely fun...and somehow soulful. ...I had a big grin on my face driving home today and I am waiting for those soft summer breezes with a very relaxed state of mind.
April 6
1st wave sesh on 17, awesome, more later.
April 1
At last Easter delivered, ENE 18/20mph, sunshine, 2 degrees C perfect conditions for the 6 mtr little rocket! What a lovely machine, absolutely no trouble getting dialled into it, a real pleasure to sail when others were out on 10 and 12 mtr kites, brilliant session till the cold ended it
March 31
I've had a few more sessions and also went out on my 10m ___ again which was an interesting comparison. I'm now starting to like the Cloud's smoothness and it seems somehow more consistent power when turning compared to the ___ if that makes sense. I'm now rather looking forward to the days with winds appropriate for the 13m Cloud rather than the 10m ___. The other day I got an old lady come up to me commenting how nicely it shines against the dark sky, and I agree, stick with the white, it's great. I also saw the video on how to pack it up, folding in half and rolling along the leading edge, that was quite helpful, way better than my previous method.
March 30
had a great day in ice water with the 10m and must say thanks a lot for the cloud. works for me perfect without to adapt to much to the different feel of the kite. Great performance and good feedback on the bar makes me smile while kiteing and the speed it's perfect too. And your right regarding the size, two sizes smaller than a regular kite fit for me with my big board very well.
March 30
First ride on my 17 cloud. im 150lbs and rode a 134X35 mako board i ride since 2006. wind side onshore 10 to15 and gust to 20. when i riged the kite wind was 10 to 12 knots. put the kite up on the beach and wow instant grunt. good pull to go and have a blast. very stable kite and flutering is inexistent when the bar is pulled in. sheeted out the kite flutters. the kite is gentle on the pulling and picks speed up really fast. went out to deep sea the wind picked up to 15 to 20 knots. this kite is fast turning even for its size. i didnt try any loops. i didnt try to jump. i believe for my weight, 15 knots is the top end of the kite. At this wind range i had to full depower the kite and i felt vibration on the bar this is the obvious sign for max depower and overpowered in this kite due to flutter Even in this conditions kite is stable. now the fun part!! i dropped the kite in the water and it came back up gently and instantly ... very good. no went for some shoulder high waves and droped the kite. woops!! i punched out and the kite got pulled and tummbled in two waves . result was the kite turned inside out and got pushed to the sand. After inspection no rips or damage done by the waves. Big smile and end of the session. My afterthougts are: should have bought an 13m! kite is too powerful!! Need to try this kite in its intended 7 to 13 knots range( i believe this is the range for my weight)
March 29
actually there were a lot of clouds over Northern Germany today, but they were all grey beside one. We are still waiting for spring to come but I could not wait any longer. So I was out with the Cloud today. Snow on the ground, water 1°C, air 1°C. Wind was 7-10 knots sometimes gusting into 14 knots. Well, I broke my low end record, I was never on the water before in winds that low and really enjoying myself. In the lower and mid range it was really nice, powerful and fast. Turning speed is really nice for a kite of this size. I think it turns faster than my 14m ___. I have not figured out the jumping yet. I believe I have to get my timing right, the bar position and I also have to get used to the width of my North Nugget to properly use the rail and the fins. The trim was not perfect yet, the point of complete depower to far up on the depowerline. Have to lengthen backlines although I checked before, but it was not the weather to fiddle around with knots on the beach. In the gusts, when depowered to the point it starts to flutter there was quite some bar pressure. It was a bit tiring but part was due to the thicker gloves I had to use so we will see how it feels in warmer weather. On my way back home I thought I should have it kept more sheeted in and drive the kite via rail and fins forward in the window more. Have to try next time. Like you said, the kite has a very own character and one has to give it a little time to fully adapt to it. All in all it was really good fun, increasing my range drastically on the lower range. I will try to do some pictures next time (if the sun is coming back to this hemisphere).
March 28
Had a short but nice snowkiting session before I went to Mexico. As soon as I got going, I felt right at home with the Cloud. I had 4 nice sessions on the Cloud 13 in Mexico. Wind ranged from 10 to ~22mph. The day that was blowing low 20s I was about to rig my 10M ___ but decided to test the upper range of the Cloud. Even though bar pressure increased, the 13 felt very controllable and easy to play with. The kite is fast which helped me to get going on lighter wind (I was using a 132x40 TT) Relaunch: if you manage to crash the kite (not easy to do!) but I did a couple of times, relaunch was fast and easy, it is amazing that you look at the kite LE down, canopy touching the water and you think there is no way is gonna relaunch, next thing you know it's up in the air. Jumping: it wasn't working right for me until I started pulling on the bar (sheeting in) after sending it. I'm used to sheeting out a bit with the other kites. once I got used to it, awesome jumper. Self-landing was tricky but very doable. I read a lot of comments about fluttering with the clouds, personally didn't bother me at all, in fact I like how by looking at the canopy (if it's full or not) it helps you fly the kite more efficiently and maximize the power of the kite. Did not try it unhooked. Overall, I love the kite, I need more water time with it but thus far it performed way better than my 2010 13.5 ___, not only flying speed, but also lower and upper ends.
March 19
I finally got to fly a 17m cloud last weekend on the outer banks. Here's my take: Background: intermediate, 180#/82kg, 8 or so years kiting, lots of other sailing experience. Location: Pamlico Sound, Rodanthe, NC Conditions: SSW wind 8-10 knots gradually building to 20 or so, flat water to light chop. Gear: 17m Cloud, 23m lines, 20" bar, 135x42 twin tip, 6' thruster surfboard Definitely a different feel from the (kites) I usually use. It did take a few minutes to get used to the feel and different feedback. It felt more like a "sail" than a "wing" at times. The kite speaks to you differently from conventional multi-strut LEI's. I switched back and forth between the twin tip and surfboard as the wind built. I think the Cloud is a good kite! I liked how the 17's turning is fast for its size and feels direct. As others have said, stability is excellent, and it drifts very well. 23m lines on a 20" bar was fine for freeriding. Bar throw is short, but there is linear adjustment within that short distance, it is not strictly on and off. Upwind seems good, though it took a minute to figure out the right trim/balance for upwind with a medium-sized twin tip in low wind (about 10kt). I definitely got good speed in lighter wind than I am used to. I think the the cloud did better "changing gears" -accelerating, turning, drift, etc.- in light wind than other, heavier kites I have used. Boosting was good, did not feel super high or abrupt like a C kite, but good quick steering, decent height, great glide/hang time, soft easy landing. Didn't unhook. I never dropped the kite - I'm saving relaunch, waves and silly maneuvers for later, warmer weather. For my size, I think the kite has a range of at least 8 or 10 knots to 17 or so on regular surfboards or medium twintips. Obviously, specialized boards would extend this and mileage may vary. After the wind got to 20 knots, my legs were getting tired, so I rigged down to a 9m kite. That should tell you, the range is good. Now, at 20 knots, when I sheeted the bar out a lot, like a foot or so, I could feel the luffing as a vibration in the bar. This felt weird, but it happens only when you sheet out way too much, and likely should rig down. Stability and control remained good whether luffing or not. At this point, I could ride a 9, or be powered up on a 12. So I don't call the luffing a real flaw. I think I'll happily take it as a compromise, along with riding powered at speed in 10-12, and having a light wind kite that fits in the bag with another kite, instead of taking up another XL bag. I am psyched to get sessions with this kite that I'd miss with my 13, and so far it seems more fun to fly than any other XL size kite I have used.
March 17
Took the kite out in about 25 very gusty knots yesterday. I was way over powered but I find the (13) Cloud depowers really quickly. It reacts quickly to anything as long as it's powered actually, something I'm not used to but I've got a feeling my other kite will feel quite slow now. I think it's been mentioned on your home page as well but I noticed I don't have to move the bar much to go from least power to maximum, will have to see if I prefer that or not when I ride more. I'm happy with it so far and think it'll help me evolve as a kite surfer giving me a different experience.
March 4
Love the kite (Cloud 17), fast turning and light, just what I hoped for.
February 27
Less is More!" I had a great time with it, I could feel the power in the kite but didn't feel overpower, I love how stable it is, I can let go of the kite and it stays park at 12. I was able to get out with 7 mph winds with my 6' surfboard and I know the wind speed because I took out my wind meter before I went out. I wound up going downwind but I was never able to go out before at this low wind, the kite would just drop, as soon as it picked up to 11 mph I was able to go upwind and have fun on the surf. I used my 22 meters lines setup with my 56 cm bar, I'm going to get extension just to see how it feels.
February 23
Self launching and landing works fine using chicken loop clipped into a buried sand bag. Weighting the kite down on the beach with a bag of sand on the sail doesn't work...leading edge lifts and slides the bag off the trailing edge. A board on the leading edge does seem to work. I'm going to add a carabiner to a small sand bag and will clip this into he pump leash. (Im not very keen on sharp board on a kite). Leash to the bag pretty short (just a few inches) to limit the amount the kite can lift and bang about.
February 23
Had another light air session yesterday for about 30mins. 8-12 Kts. The kite turned nicely, got into a good rythum with it. Once you carve first and then turn with the kite you will power out of the transitions. At 205lbs and on a 147 board, I was not set up for light air, but did very well.
February 19
Over all the (17m) kite turns well, has a lot of pull in very light air, way faster than some other big kites all around, good solid ride when there is no way I could have been riding today in such light air!
February 19
first time with cloud 17, not ideal condition, side off very gusty like 7-17. i can compare with my old 16 ___ 2011. cloud turn tight and much faster, no need to build speed for power, pull the bar and go even in the lulls. it has more power, high end think is better for ___. i use 52cm bar 24 m but i think is better longer bar like 56cm. upwind is unbelievable, much better! p.s.I am 85 kg use directional 155-50 strapless
Feb 17
I had the opportunity to ride the new cloud 13m kite this morning at my local spot. wind was marginal probably in the mid to upper teens based on the local wind sensor. I think greg drexler has addressed some key issues with big kites and responded with a great product. first of all big kites can be heavy. sometimes its a challenge to keep a big sheet of fabric in the air especially in the lulls. due to lack of struts, this kite weighs in around 6 pounds. big kites have been known to turn slow. as with many other newer kites, they seem to be making these kites turn much better than in the past. the cloud seems to pull very nice through a loop. I am impressed with it's turning speed. large kites always take more effort to pump up. yeah this "one pump" kite takes about as much effort as my 10m ___. I'll add that I've been flying a 14m ___ for the past couple of seasons and absolutely love that kite. the cloud is a bit different than the ___, but both have pretty good low end. the cloud really sits back in the window and bar pressure is more prominent when compared to the ___. I think the major advantage of the cloud over most other kites of its size, is this kite seems to handle the lulls better than any other kite I've experienced in lighter winds. I have only flown the 13m so I can't give you feedback on how the smaller sizes perform. I like the size when rolled up making it a great travel kite. I used this with the naish control bar, but have also flown it with the blade unibar. both bars work great. just about any 4 line control bar will work, however the jury is out whether it performs as well with a bar with short front lines (north, cabrinha, best) or if shorter lines limits its performance.
February 16
OMG, OMG, OMG! Got to the beach around 2:40 today, in time for wind to have dropped to 9m weather. Like an idiot, I only put the 6m in the van along with my ___, so I was forced to go have fun with my 9m ___. After a few waves the wind had obviously ramped up, so I shot to the beach for my new Cloud 6. I had to tie knots in the front bridle leaders to fit my lines and I launched with bar almost fully depowered. I was amazed that I couldn't turn the kite very easily, so I put it down and reinspected my setup. Went to bar and sheeted the cleat all the way out except for about 2"…. Made a HUGE difference. Launched and became Mr. Aggressive Kiter. Discovered it really likes you to ride super agro in the waves. I had the BEST session ever, no lie. This kite will make anyone who rides it a better kitesurfer. It is so light, so quick and so solid….. might I add forgiving …… to a point. It did punish me once or twice for over controlling. Best downwind drifter I could ever imagine….. Pure Kite Nirvana! Thank you for this opportunity to take a quantum step in ocean enjoyment. Not to mention less pumping, less weight to shlep around, less space in car
February 15
Great build quality, flies real nice.
February 13
I flew the 10 2 days ago and as they were all with 12 or above it is was funny to see people surprised when I told them I was under a 10. I used a larger bar than the one i used with the 6 and it was slightly too large i think. The beach wankers kite specialists were suspicious about the relaunch ability so i did have a test session (5 relaunch in a raw) : It is just as good as would do a usual kite :) I am now convinced strutless is the good way; easy, light, and quick turning.
February 13
I had a PM regarding how the kite handles on the ground for launching etc. I launched the kite leading edge down several times with no problems, just a slight pull on one of the outboard lines and it just rolls over like any other kite. Hot launches were tried in the light winds and with the kite sitting on it's TE just a handfull of centre lines and off it climbed to the zenith. The kite sat stable on the snow as long as there was wind in the canopy. With no wind in the canopy the kite settles on the snow, but you have to put snow on it to keep it there, as it is very light and will move in any sort of breeze at all! Pretty normal handling otherwise, it's just alot lighter than just about any other kite out there, including foils so you have to make sure it's held down securely on the snow or sand.
February 12
Anyways, the line of kites is called the CLOUD and they are strutless, only thing you need to pump up is the leading edge! Build quality is the same as the other top brands as it's made in the same factory along side the others. It is a very simple kite to rig and the bridle frames the canopy in such a way that the overall "structure" of the kite is very rigid when inflated. It behaves normally in flight, nothing funky about it. The handling is crisp, light and direct. There are no pulleys in the bridle at all, just two sliders that work perfectly. It feels like a refined ___ to me, only livelier on the end of the lines. The depower stroke is very short, and is more like on/off which is a very cool way to design a kite in my opinion, it just works with the handling. The power generated by the kite is developed in a very linear way, and makes great use of apparent wind to feel like a bigger kite than it actually is. Greg has a very pure and minimalistic approach to design, which is harder to achieve than you would think!? Even the kitebag is simple, but very slick. I have an 8m, the 13m and my 17m is on it's way right now, very cool kites! If you see me out riding, say hi!
Feb 11
Just finished my first session with my 13m Cloud on the snow.....a wonderful experience! Wind was less than 10knts for most of the day, snow was really fresh and deep for Southern Ontario due to the recent storm..... Elmhirst's Resort on Rice Lake was the location, a few guys and one lady out kiting today. Sunshine was fantastic, and it was a balmy -5c...... The Cloud performed flawlessly in all respects, light on the bar which I like, short depower stroke, more like on/off in about 6" of bar travel. Turns are unreal, very responsive but not twitchy at all. Nose down relaunch was no problem, just rolled over and waited for my next bar input. Hot-launch from trailing edge down was very controllable, no issues at all. Felt very much like my ___, but much livlier on the end of the lines if that makes sense to you? All in all a great kite, and Greg should be very proud of the design.
Feb 6
OK, I just lubed with silicone spray my squeaky pump and timed it. It took 57 cycle full downward pushes with a double action pump to ping the LE, Which took about 1 Minute. Last Sunday I had only a half an hour test fly in a 7 to 9 mph variable winds with 3 - 5 mph lulls. So I can't really comment or give a full review from this short testing. What I can confirm the weight of the 17m is: 7.0 lbs (3.2 kg) The steering speed is great and when the wind dropped to 3 mph or dropped the kite to the soup during unpowered low wind jibe, it relaunched unexpectedly easily when the wind came back to around 7 mph (NOT KNOTS!) I think the kite is still flying in about 5 mph, I'm just guessing.
February 6
Conditions where tuff for the first day of my new kites : gusty from 10 to 20knts and oscillating from side off to off shore. When I arrived on the spot everybody had packed because the kites were falling in the lows. I was too excited so I went out... and could sail until the wind got completely down 30 min later. All the credit to your kites which are able to fly in very VERY little wind. then it picked up again, I could do proper good surfs. a few kite loops to reach the section then the kite drift really good and made his own life while i was surfing : it 's a completely new thing for me not to have to keep doing kite loops while surfing. in conclusion : people used to say kitesurfing strapless is like ___: very scary the first time and once you've done it you realise it is better this way. this DEFINITELY applies to kitesurfing stutless too... unless not many people know it yet :)
Jan 24
thanks for the weight ! this makes your zero-strut kite cloud the lightest tubekite (per squaremeter) available.
Jan 8
I received my new Boardriding Maui strutless 13m prototype kite and got a chance to ride it in very, very gusty conditions at Newcastle today. Surprisingly it was a really good ride in crappy gusty 6 - 30 knot conditions (well except during the gusts when I had trouble holding it down). Indeed it is a very interesting kite as having no struts, weighing nothing and having a low AR it has an incredible low end. In fact I would recommend people fly these kites one size smaller than their SLE. In fact, given the low end of the kite I really should've been on a 10m or an 8m. When I launched at noon there was hardly any wind, 6 to 8 knots maybe and once up the kite charged upwind and I was nicely powered on the Paipo. As far as flying characteristics the Cloud kites are really quick on/off with just a bit of sheeting and they turn very, very fast. I also got the chance drift launch and relaunch the kite today without a problem, once the canopy has wind in it relaunches like any other kite. One nice thing is without struts they inflate and pack up in no time. If any one ever wants to try it out, just find me on the beach. I think Greg at Boardriding Maui is onto something here and in five years struts for freeride kites will be a thing of the past. Also, the crazy thing about these kites is that they pack up small and my 13m weighs maybe two to three pounds max. In fact I received my kite in a 10in x 10in x 6in box. These kites are designed for freeride and surf goodness, dedicated wakestyle not so much. Interestingly they are designed to luff which takes getting used to. These kites are designed for those who like a simple and fun kite that's real fast. I haven't done much unhooked riding on these but I will report back. The leading edge and bridles are bomber quality and in general I would compare the quality to Cabrihna. That being said the kites are so light that you have to have sand on them when not flying. I would say that 6 to 8 of inches of throw is all that's required for this kite. So slide the stopper down. Once the back lines go slack the kite just kind of sits there. I will let you know what happens when you oversheet after a few more sessions, but because the kite is so light it doesn't really backstall. However, the instructions that come with the kite indicate that all lines need to be the same length when the bar is pulled all the way in, so that's how I more or less rode it.
Jan 5, 2013
I've heard Boardriding Maui kites and boards are on their way soon. Can't wait to get my new quiver. Since I had the opportunity to ride these in Maui, I want to answer some persistent questions: - Relaunch?: Yes, they relaunch great - Responsive?: Very, very responsive. Like flying one or two kite sizes smaller. Little bar throw is required for power/depower, so good to put your stopper down a bit. - Boosting?: Goes way big the kite is so fast and light it really sends you up - Surf: A++ Best surf kite I've ever ridden - Unhooked: Okay, but didn't have ideal wind to try a lot of tricks nor time to make fine tuning adjustments. Worked good on raileys, but the kite goes to the edge of the window like other SLEs. - Feel?: To me the Cloud feels a lot like a North Rebel, so grunty but more responsive and with lighter bar pressure. - Overpowered?: No problem in over-powered conditions, seems to ride just like any other SLE kite. Maui can be a very good test location for gusty, over powered conditions. I also can't wait to take these new kites snowkiting
Nov 30, 2012
Last week in Maui I got the opportunity to ride the Boardworks Maui Cloud kite and I can honestly say it is without question the best surf kite I've ever ridden. In fact I'll be buying two more when they go to production. About me so you know this review isn't BS, I've been riding for 7 years and get on the water an average of 80 times a year. I started on ___ moved, to ___ and for the last few years have flown ___. The day I tried an 8m Cloud I was riding my 12m ___. The 8m Cloud had way more pull then my 12m ___ once on a plane. These kites are quick, grunty and so light because of the lack of struts that I just let the bar go a few times while surfing and the kite just sat there with no input and was chill with the bar completely sheeted out. Once on a wave you hardly notice the kite is there and can really shred. As for jumping these kites go absolutely huge, and might only compare to a ___ for height on jumps. In fact I also tried to mega loop the Cloud a few times, it's so fast it really gets to the top of the window and provides a cush landing. As for unhooked, definitely not a C-kite, but surprisingly decent and was able to railey on it no prob, but didn't have the wind to try any handle passes so I don't know about how well the lines go slack, etc. My only criticism of these kites is that for the average rider they may be too fast turning, but I like a fast kite so besides that they are awesome. Way to go Greg!