Eleveight Stellar V3

In our previous issue, we reviewed the all-new Eleveight Stratos, a Big Air kite, and to round out the setup, we also received their latest Stellar V3. Having spent significant time with it across a variety of conditions, we’ve put this high-performance twintip through its paces. The V3 is available in 133, 136 and 139cm and for this test, we got the 136cm.

The Stellar V3 sits within what Eleveight calls their Prime Series, a top-of-the-line range where premium materials are utilized to achieve the perfect balance of maximum performance and comfort. At its heart is a lightweight paulownia wood core, reinforced with a tip-to-tip carbon stringer and targeted carbon reinforcements in high-stress areas like the heelside and channels. The result is a board that looks stunning and feels bulletproof, ensuring long-term durability. The board features deep double channels combined with a double concave bottom shape and a three-stage rocker, with a slightly flatter section through the center for added control and stability. The board comes paired with the latest Airgo V5 footstraps, which were remarkably quick to mount, and offered nearly endless stance and positioning adjustments. Once dialed in, with a storm brewing just outside the window, we headed straight to the beach to see what this setup could really do.

The first few meters on the Stellar V3 revealed a nimble, agile character balanced by impressive grip. The upwind drive is remarkable; the board locks into the water securely, yet retains enough playfulness to remain highly maneuverable and fun to ride. It’s during jumps where the Stellar V3 really begins to shine, thanks to its strong vertical lift. We must admit that at the very limit – when fully loaded and edging hard into a kicker for a massive jump – it lacked a tiny bit of that “razor-edge” grip found in stiffer boards. Yet, this is more than compensated for by its exceptional riding comfort. With a medium-to-high flex, the Stellar feels significantly less rigid than its direct competitors. While this might sacrifice a fraction of bite when hitting a kicker, the trade-off is a much smoother ride. Furthermore, that final bit of grip was never an issue on flat water, where the board felt perfectly locked in.

Landings, even at high speeds, are always controlled. But the real magic happens during low-speed landings; in those moments where you lose horizontal momentum and expect to sink, the board somehow propels you forward and saves the crash. We also can’t ignore its performance in the chop. Because the Stellar is noticeably softer than some of its rivals, it excels in messy water, cutting through the turbulence and adapting to the surface rather than bouncing over it.

Ultimately, this board is a fantastic fit for almost any twintip rider. Freeriders will love its effortless upwind ability and the sheer comfort it provides without sacrificing performance. Big Air riders will also feel right at home, especially those riding in less-than-ideal spots, where conditions can vary from flat to choppy and unpredictable.