Eleveight OS One Strut Foil and Lightwind Kite Review
Kitesurfing magazine completed a review of Eleveight's 2020 OS (One Strut) kite. Yes be aware that Eleveight has released it's 2nd iteration of the OS kite in 2021, however this review will help you give an idea of the quality and performance of the kite. You can expect better fine tuning performance from the OS V2 2021 model and the exceptional build quality known from the Eleveight Kites.
Before getting too deep into the review the following updates were made for the 2021 Eleveight OS kite:
Following the feedback of kiteboarders all over the world, we made some upgrades to the OS. We started by decreasing the aspect ratio while adding more sweep to the wingtips. These adjustments highly improved stability, especially in stronger winds and gusts. Testing the latest performance-materials, we replaced the regular XT fabric with the innovative Extreme Light High-Tenacity fabric (XT LIGHT), a brand new material that is lighter yet stronger. We also used this material in our completely reworked trailing edge, which we equipped with anti-vibration patches, effectively reducing flutter. Making those modifications, we were able to develop a much sturdier kite that is even lighter than before. Hence it is more agile and covers a wider wind range.
KiteSurfing Mag Review:
SIZES TESTED (M): 8, 12 / SIZES AVAILABLE (M): 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
CONTROL SYSTEM: CS VARY CONTROL BAR
SYNOPSIS
An ultra light weight, single strut design with reactive handling, quick pivotal turns and exceptional light wind performance.
THE GOOD STUFF
The OS is the newest model of Eleveight’s impressive 2020 lineup and stands as their new light wind series kite with the focus on light wind handling and low end power. The OS features a mid swept hybrid canopy that’s made light and reactive with a single central strut and Eleveight’s use of Techno Force’s X4 canopy cloth and XT leading edge and strut material. Eleveight has had an impressive rise in the kite industry over the past few season with a full range of great performing kites and boards. Now with a new foil set up and light wind series of kites, Eleveight has all the bases covered for every discipline, wind condition and riding style. The test team was impressed with the OS handling and low end power as it rivalled some of the best single strut kites in the test. All of Eleveight’s kites come with an adjustable bridle setting which alters the turning axis point and handling. We found the OS works best on the high depower, pivotal turns setting, which gives the OS the quickest depower with lighter touch steering and quick pivotal turning. The OS has easy to find power with its swept leading edge and mid aspect ratio canopy providing a big sweet spot and smooth delivery. Easy sheet in and go performance and quick reactivity to turn initiation, the OS generates some smooth consistent pull in the turns and has reactive and intuitive handling that is perfect for foil board cruising and carving turns. Anyone looking to capitalize on light winds and expand their foil riding skills should consider the OS a top choice.
TRADE OFF
Like any single strut design, with high amounts of depower the OS will produce some flutter and lose some handling ability in the upper wind range or when its sheeted out fully on the edge of the wind.
GOOD FOR
Any level of rider that wants to advance foil skills or freeride in less wind with a stable, nicely powered and quick turning kite.
(credit: https://kitesurfingmag.com/eleveight-os-foil-lightwind/)