When you purchase gear through links on our site, we may earn a small commission. Here’s why you can trust our tests and our affiliate partner.
Eleveight have busted out the latest version of their boosting machine, the XS, and the second version of their Stellar twintip that proved very popular when it launched last year.
Photos Eliteleaguephotographer
What makes the XS such a special prospect for Big Air fans?
The XS has always been a standout kite in our range for those looking to get air. From its inception, we designed it for explosive lift, massive hangtime, and stability in howling winds. Over the years, we’ve refined the design, but the Big Air DNA and raw power remain the same. The five-strut frame provides the rigidity needed to handle strong winds, yet remains reliable and predictable when you need it most. For riders chasing height and looking to push the boundaries with loops and technical board-offs, the XS has become the go-to weapon.
And how have you improved it this year to keep up with the demands of the riders?
Big Air is progressing at lightning speed with riders now sending double or even triple loops, boogies, spins, and technical board-offs that would’ve seemed impossible just a few seasons ago. To keep the XS at the forefront of the discipline and deliver on expectations, we have improved both agility and control for version 6. We reduced the aspect ratio slightly to tighten the turning radius, making the kite loop faster with more precision – a crucial update for modern tricks where timing is everything. At the same time, we refined the arc of the leading edge to balance reactivity with improved low-end power. The result is a kite that feels sharper, more responsive, and totally in tune with the rider, all while keeping the explosive lift and drive that define the XS.
It also features some new material. How did you decide what to go for when there is such a huge choice out there currently?
Good question – there’s no shortage of new technical fabrics on the market, but not everything translates into meaningful performance on the water, and we’ve undergone rigorous testing of many combinations. For the XS V6, we chose Teijin’s X6 ripstop in the wingtips and trailing edge, specifically for its durability and minimal stretch under load in the areas that take the most abuse during loops and heavy landings. The material holds its shape exceptionally well, even under extreme pressure, which means faster recovery, better responsiveness, and a kite that stays rock solid when the wind cranks up. The main canopy features proven X4 ripstop performance, and for the inflatable structure, we’ve stuck with our trusted XT material to balance strength and performance, without the higher price tags in the league of Aluula. It wasn’t about chasing material trends, but about making a smart upgrade that riders can feel from the first session.
Sounds good! Let’s talk about the Stellar. How was the first edition received by your customers and riders?
The response to the launch of the first Stellar was honestly overwhelming. We designed it with the modern Big Air rider in mind, yet despite being aggressive enough to send it, it was still comfortable for high-performance freeriding. We had both pros and weekend warriors loving it for its solid grip and powerful pop, but also the stability it delivered during landings, especially in messy conditions. It proved that you could build a board specifically for Big Air without sacrificing versatility.
How have you updated it for this second edition?
With the Stellar V2, we didn’t want to mess with a winning formula, but we did want to sharpen it up for riders pushing even harder. The outline remains the same, but we’ve refined the tip shape and reworked the layup, introducing updated carbon reinforcements to boost rebound and stiffness where it counts. New basalt fibers strike the perfect balance between lively pop and damping for smoother landings. The result is a board that grips harder, loading up the edge to fire off the water, and has a snappier, more direct feel.
Who will we see putting the XS and Stellar through their paces in competition this year?
This season, the XS and Stellar will be under the feet of some of our talented riders. Posito Martínez, pictured here, and Arthur Guillebert are leading the charge and known for going massive and bringing raw power to their riding. However, our team aren’t just sending it in competitions, but they’re key voices as part of our development process, giving invaluable feedback that shapes the gear. What makes it exciting is that the equipment they’re using on the world stage is the same as what’s available for weekend warriors too – the Stellar V2 is also their ticket to the moon!
You can get the latest goodness from the world of kiteboarding by subscribing to our print edition. You'll get 5 packed issues, plus a free tee and free digital access. And you'll be directly helping with our sustainability efforts too!
Check it out now
