Le Forum Francophone

High Wind Weapons!

I'll write that since already a few people asked me for a comparison. I'm lucky to be spoiled with choice, and it's always a tough choice deciding which one to go for.



I'd say, despite being small kites, they really retain the characteristics of their DNA. The VSonic is a kiter's kite while the Trix is more of a boardrider's kite. Does it make sense?



Here's what I mean: The VSonic requires a bit more precision in the piloting, and rewards you with more upwind, more smoothness, more speed and more lift. Requiring more precision means that if you slow down the kite too much you'll lose most of its power. After a transition, a surf, or else you'll have to work proactively to regain power and keep going, or escape the dire situation you're in.



The Trix is a bit different, it won't be as smooth, you may feel some gusts a bit more, as they won't be translated as efficiently into extra speed, but you'll always keep some power and response in the kite even if it's in the wrong part of the window and if you have lost your speed. It also stays responsive in these conditions without having to act on the bar too much. The VSonic usually requires to push the bar a bit while you work it in those conditions to make it regain speed.



In terms of high end, I'd say it's very similar, I haven't done direct side by side comparison on the same day, but I've been reaching the max on both of them in very similar conditions. The kites still hold fine but the navigation gets to a point where the fun factor wears out and it's more like survival mode. It's usually due to abusive chop, waves, etc... more than pure wind strength.



Loops are fun on both of them, but the Trix feels punchier through the turn while the VSonic will get more power towards the end of the turn, just different characteristics, and they just require getting used to that. KiteLoops in 30kts+ require dedication and commitment... Fast and furious! Looping the kite in the surf is a real pleasure on those small toys, and I'd give the Trix a better rating as the power delivery is more constant and more forgiving. But with the right timing and technique, the VSonic can be exploited really well.



In terms of lines I use both on either 16 or 21m, and I'd say the Trix benefits more from the shorter lines, providing a more direct/ explosive/ brutal behaviour that is really good fun. The VSonic can take advantage of the longer lines if you have to sine the kite through the lulls. It obviously works also with The Trix, but not as efficiently and it'll give the arms a proper work out ... Best to focus on the edging of the board.

Which one to choose then?

Both!!!