Naish 2020 Kite Preview

Retail Buyers Guide: Kites 2020

Brand: Naish
Interviewee: Scott Trudon, Brand Manager

Trends

Do you see a significant growth in the kite market, compared to last year?
We see a steady, healthy growth.

What are the main trends for 2020 in the kite market, in terms of riding discipline?
Big air is really hot right now, along with foiling in waves and all conditions.

Have you noticed any shifts in trends from last summer’s expectations?
No real shifts, more and more people are adding wings to their quiver to keep it fresh and be on the water even more.

2020 Triad Orange Blue Grey

Where have you seen the biggest growth so far in 2020? Where do you expect the biggest growth in the remaining of the year?
The one-strut kite category is seeing growth because it works well for all ability levels, as well as foiling, waves, and all-around riding.

Kite Technology

What has been successful for you in terms of kite technology or changes in product you implemented in your SS20 range?
Lighter weight and stiffer canopy design.

What new kite construction and design features from your 2020 range are working well?
Our new single-point inflation system has been well received. The new flush valve on the leading edge has also been well received, as it’s easier to use and less obtrusive.

Are new materials implemented in your 2020 kites working well?
We continue to use the same fabrics in our production kites, while prototypes are testing the durability of alternative materials.

2020 Boxer Teal Blue Grey

Are there any trends in terms of kite design, construction and materials that you are observing in your SS21 product development?
Always designing towards lighter weight and higher durability.

When will your SS21 kite range be launched?
We are anticipating 2 launches – one in the early season and one mid-season.

Retailer Help

What has been the retailer response to your 2020 range?
A significant increase in orders compared to last year.

Which retailer support method is the most effective?
We conduct bi-annual meetings with our sales network, as well as ongoing phone meetings, and communication with our customer support/warranty department.

Sustainability

Are you implementing new sustainable initiatives in the design and construction of your SS21 range?
We are actively pursuing the use of recycled materials in kite products (kites and bags), and factory practices are dramatically shifting towards more environmentally responsible printing techniques.

Best Sellers

Please name and describe your 3 highlight pieces and items that retailers should definitely order.
Pivot – Two-time King of the Air Champion, the Pivot, is unrivaled in terms of performance and versatility. It is famous for its jumping ability, incredible wave riding performance, amazing response and tight, pivoting turns. Backed by Naish’s legendary construction, the Pivot uses only the best materials available. The Pivot has a wide wind range and incredible power generation for fast riding and huge boosts. Naish’s flagship kite, the Pivot continues to lead the charge in innovation and performance.

Boxer – MORE THAN JUST ANOTHER ONE PUNCH KITE. Winner of The Kite Mag’s Ultimate Test One-Strut Category, the Boxer sets the standard for one-strut kites. Refined and powerful, the Boxer delivers incredible low-end power while it’s Quad-Tex canopy and Luff Strut contribute to a refreshing top-end. The Luff Strut allows the canopy to expand and contract which aids in smooth power delivery in gusty conditions. Designed primarily for foiling, the Boxer has a great range of power in the throw, quick “pivoting” turns and also has great downwind drift. These characteristics also make the Boxer amazing for light wind freeriding and down-the-line kitesurfing. The Boxer also has the widest range in sizes available for any Naish kite, ranging from the all new 2.8 m2 all the way up to 16 m2.

Triad – THE RIGHT KITE FOR 99% OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION. The Triad is quickly becoming a modern classic, known as the kite that can be used by anyone, anywhere, for anything. When we created the Triad, we focused on creating an optimized rider experience with seamless transitions from the beginning stages, to intermediate and beyond. In the air, the Triad is intuitive and stable with true sheet-in-and-go power and forgiving steering that doesn’t overreact, making it very comfortable and easy to fly. Whether you’re just starting, finding your place in the waves, learning kite loops, foiling or just want to become a better rider, the Triad is a true all-rounder.