Naish / 2025
Pivot
One kite for every condition — the Pivot's versatility is its superpower.
Freeride
4.0 · 1 source
$1,599
F-One / 2025
Bandit
freerideall-aroundversatile
F-One's iconic all-around kite that has been refined over many generations. The Bandit delivers a perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and versatility across all riding styles.
Best for: All-around versatility
Review verdict
The Bandit finally nails waves without losing its all-around crown.
4.5/ 5 review synthesis
Strength: Higher aspect ratio and increased flight speed produce noticeably better jump height and hang time compared to previous Bandits
Tradeoff: Steering lines go to a small V and are not adjustable, limiting fine-tuning options
Evidence: 1 unverified source · Gleiten tv
Read the full evidence-backed verdict ↓Style Placement
Riding Style
FoilBig Air
Kite Shape & Aspect
Low Aspect · C-KiteHigh Aspect · Bow
Specifications
Aspect Ratiomedium
Struts3
Bar TypeHigh-Y
Turning Speedmedium
Low-End Power7/10
Depower Range8/10
Relauncheasy
Wind Range10–30 knots
Sizes5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14m
Review Summary
Mixed sourcesBased on 1 unverified source. Each source is labeled below; brand-made content is never used in ratings.
4.5/ 5.0
The 2025 F-One Bandit Brainchild is a meaningful evolution of the iconic all-around kite, now featuring a higher aspect ratio, new canopy materials, and a seven-point bridle that collectively deliver more speed, better drift, and improved jump performance without sacrificing the Bandit's signature accessibility. The dampened power delivery is the standout change — it tames the power spike that plagued previous versions, making it genuinely competitive in the waves while still being versatile across foiling, twin-tip, and freeride. At €2,100 for a 9m, it's a premium ask, but the performance uplift over previous generations is real and substantial.
Pros
- +Higher aspect ratio and increased flight speed produce noticeably better jump height and hang time compared to previous Bandits
- +Seven-point bridle without pulley delivers excellent bar feel — direct, responsive, and comfortable simultaneously
- +Dampened power delivery via new canopy fabric tames the power spike, making wave riding and strapless surfing genuinely good
- +Excellent upwind performance with stable positioning at the edge of the wind window requiring no correction
- +Strong drift performance that holds its own against dedicated wave kites
- +Accessible to a wide range of riders, including beginners, thanks to consistent and forgiving flight behavior
Cons
- −Steering lines go to a small V and are not adjustable, limiting fine-tuning options
- −Canopy stiffness is lower than stiffer-framed kites (e.g. Alula), so flight stability relies on material choice rather than structural rigidity
- −At €2,100 for a 9m, pricing is at the premium end of the market
Best for
Riders who want one kite that genuinely handles freeride, waves, foiling, and jumping without meaningful compromise.
Not for
Dedicated wave riders or big-air specialists who want a purpose-built tool rather than a refined all-rounder.
Distilled from reviews by: Gleiten tv Unverified
Video Reviews
Gleiten tvUnverified
Gleiten tvReview takeaway
Gleiten tv conducted a thorough technical and on-water review of the 2025 Bandit Brainchild, praising its new seven-point bridle, high-strength dacron construction, and novel canopy fabric for creating a uniquely dampened yet responsive feel. They were particularly impressed by the kite's improved wave performance — a known weakness of previous Bandits — and noted the higher aspect ratio delivers a clear jump performance upgrade. Tested across foil, twin-tip, and surfboard in a 9m, they rated it as genuinely impressive at its €2,100 price point.
Rider Reviews
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Where to Buy
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