CORE Kiteboarding Xlite 2 2023
Reviews / Kites
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Dive into our overview below, and be sure to return for the complete review soon.
Imagine the joy of silently gliding across the water on your favorite water playground with the all-new XLITE 2. This fully optimized foiling kite from CORE offers effortless and precise riding, even in the lightest of winds. Pair it with the SLC foil for an unbeatable combination that will accelerate your foiling progression.
One major upgrade to the XLITE 2 is the canopy material, which now offers more muscle and durability, particularly beneficial for single strut kites. To cater to different preferences and conditions, we have added 2 and 3-meter sizes for those who crave slicing up the Gorge, as well as a 13.5m option for those super-light summer breezes. The bridle, panels, and shape have all been heavily modified to accommodate these new sizes, ensuring the ultimate foiling experience.
Let's dive into the details of the XLITE 2. This specialized series kite is a one-strut foil kite that has been tuned to perfection. By combining the power of our Nexus allrounder with the exceptional drifting capabilities of our unbeatable Section wave kite, we have created a foiling machine that is 30% lighter than the already light Nexus. The new CoreTex 2.0 canopy features massively improved tear resistance in both directions, slight weight savings, and a new emulsion that enhances flight, durability, and longevity. The ExoTex Light material on the struts and leading edge is incredibly tough yet lighter than what is traditionally used. Thinner, anti-snag bridles further reduce weight and improve water relaunching.
The XLITE 2 is available in a range of sizes, from 2.0 to 13.5. Serious foilers will immediately notice the lightness and responsiveness of this kite in the air. It loops with just enough pull to safely guide you through your air jibes. Beginners will appreciate the XLITE's reverse launch ability. Whether you're foiling on lake Garda, foilsurfing Silver Rock's swell, or freestyling at your favorite spot, the XLITE 2 will undoubtedly elevate your foil experience.
For the ultimate XLITE 2 experience, we recommend pairing it with the highly specialized Sensor 3 Pro Foil bar. This bar features a narrower width and super thin lines that reduce air resistance and improve steering. Even water starts in light winds become easier with this bar. The package comes with 22-meter long Tectanium Vario Lite lines (16+4+2m) that have an impressive breaking load of over 300 kilograms. Additionally, we include an additional 3m line extension for those who prefer riding with 25m lines.
Single strut kites offer better light wind control by reducing excessive canopy flutter compared to strutless kites. They are also superior when it comes to water relaunching, especially in lighter wind and surf conditions. Our single strut frame design guarantees excellent performance.
CORE's industry-leading triple ripstop canopy fabric has been further improved for the XLITE 2. It is now lighter and features massively improved tear resistance, stiffness, and durability. The new coating process ensures stability in higher winds, which is especially advantageous for single strut kites. Our CoreTex 2.0 sets the standard in breaking strength, tear resistance, longevity, UV protection, and elongation.
The XLITE 2 retains the ExoTex benefits, but now in a lighter form. Our no-stretch ExoTex Light Dacron incorporates a unique radial reinforcing thread pattern and emulsion process that allows for higher pressure airframes with smaller diameters. ExoTex Light reduces mass by approximately 10%, improving airflow, flight stability, and rider feedback. You can expect a smooth ride, snappy turns, and endless smiles with your XLITE 2.
The XLITE 2 boasts an efficient light wind profile that generates power and speed, with a maximum camber that is shifted further back to enhance drifting. However, when you give it gas, the XLITE 2 truly comes alive. You'll feel in total control as you bear downwind and confidently execute air jibes.
Quick relaunch is crucial in lighter winds and surf conditions, which is why we designed the XLITE 2 to have the ability to reverse launch when needed. The mono strut design also makes water relaunching in the surf much easier compared to strutless designs.
The XLITE 2's slightly higher aspect ratio Future-C design allows for fast, tight turns, while the broader tips generate stable, balanced flight with precise control. Picture yourself carving at high speeds and gracefully down-looping your XLITE 2. It's that easy and enjoyable.
Customize your XLITE 2 to match your riding style. Choose your preferred CIT modes on the leading edge bridle connection points. The wave mode makes the kite turn faster, increases depower, and won't pull you off your board. The freestyle mode increases your turn radius and stabilizes the kite for more natural foil-style moves. It also provides extra grunt and lift, making foot changes a breeze. The kite comes out of the bag in allround mode, which offers excellent depower, grunt, and handling. Start your foil adventures in allround mode and savor the ride!
The XLITE 2 features a super short bridle system that improves feedback, allowing you to feel your kite's position with precision. The new anti-snag bridle attachment points also enhance water relaunching. We have specifically modified the bridles for the 2 and 3-meter sizes to further improve handling.
Inflating the XLITE 2 is a breeze, thanks to the huge air hoses and strut valves that allow for uninhibited air flow. Even after a few days of not foiling, you'll have your kite pumped up and ready to go in no time.
No special hose adapter is needed for the Speed Valve 2, which connects directly to any standard 20mm OD twist lock pump hose. The Speed Valve 2 maximizes airflow, reduces inflation times, and makes pumping easier. With this inflation/deflation system, you may even consider leaving your electric pump at home.
To ensure durability, extreme abrasion-resistant patches are strategically placed on the leading edge segment seams and strut tips of the XLITE 2, providing an additional level of protection against beach hazards.
The XLITE 2 is optimized for CORE's ultralight Sensor bar system, known for precise kite control, unmatched safety, and uncluttered simplicity. For the ultimate performance, we recommend selecting the new Sensor 3 Pro Foil bar.
Rest assured that CORE kites are built to last. Our durability is backed by a six-year parts availability guarantee, meaning we will stock all XLITE 2 replacement parts for at least six years from the purchase date.
When you purchase the XLITE 2, you will receive a comfortable backpack, a comprehensive manual, and a repair kit for your convenience.
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