CORE XR8 Kite Overview

BIG AIR | FREESTYLE | WAVE | HIGH PERFORMANCE FREERIDE +

Core Kites Bring A Big Air High Like Never Before

The Core XR8 is the ultimate high-performance kite whether you’re into big air, freestyle, wave, or freeride. New ultra-stiff materials and a fine-tuned design combine to bring you improved stability, power, and control. The XR8’s improvements over the Core XR7 include increased durability, a low-stretch canopy, and a smaller diameter in the leading edge, and struts. If you’re looking to increase your jumps, lengthen your hang time, and improve your kiteloops, the XR8 will take you to astounding new levels.

Our Impressions of the Core XR8

The Core XR8 is like the goldilocks of big air kites by using the materials in a strategic way to optimize performance for a smooth ride that is more refined than the Core XR7. The placement of the new Exotex 2, Exotex Light, and CoreTex 2 means the weight is lighter in all the right places. When you have a kite that is too light it can sometimes put more pressure on your bar. If you have a kite that’s too heavy and spongey you’ll feel a delayed reaction in the kite while sheeting in and sheeting out. The XR8 is a direct kite that has excellent power and depower, and not much in-between.

As a result this big air kite will behave better in choppy air giving you a wider wind range. When jumping you’ll feel the impact of the lighter materials as you speed through the window faster than ever before. The Core XR8 produces more power, life, and loft so you can experience a longer hangtime, you’ll feel like you’re floating! Add a Core Sensor Bar and you’ll have the riding experience that’ll make all your friends wish they’d sprung for a Core Kites quiver.

Core XR8 Features

Core kiteboarding has advanced their XR line of big air kites with a new Exotex 2 material and significant improvements to the design. Stronger, lighter materials are strategically placed to bring you the maximum power and control you’re looking for when performing kiteloops, freestyle, freeride, and Big Air kitesurfing moves. The XR8 is also an excellent choice for wave riders due to its optimal stability and control.

• EXOTEX 2 - Ultra Rigid Dacron for a robust and lightweight leading edge 
• EXOTEX LIGHT - Robust and strategically lighter weight struts for more revving power
• CORETEX 2 – Highly durable triple canopy with UV protection
• 5- Strut Frame - provides supreme stability in any flight configuration
• Delta Bow Shape - generates more power and depower capabilities
• Intelligent Arc - Immense power at your control
• Instant Relaunch - Water launches have never been easier
• Speed Pump System - Quick and easy ventilation
• Sensor Bar System - Harmonious kite and bar system
• 6-Year Parts Guarantee - Replacement parts available through the average lifetime of your kite
• Colors: BrightWhite10 and TechBlack 10

Advanced Materials Increase Durability

The Core XR8 kite features new Exotex 2 Ultra Rigid Dacron leading edge, Exotex Light 5-strut frame, and Coretex 2 triple ripstop canopy. These materials combine for increased durability while maintaining the lightweight riding experience you’ve come to expect from Core kites. The ExoTex 2 material allow for a smaller diameter in the leading edge and the struts. The low-stretch of the CoreTex 2 canopy is perfect for smoother and earlier kiteloops. 

Improve Your Kitesurfing Skills

Performing the most advanced kiteboarding tricks has never been easier than with the Core XR8. Big Air jumps might seem intimidating, but the XR8’s supreme stability and control will increase your hangtime and make you look like a pro. If you’re a watersports adrenaline junky like us, you’ll love how effortless and comfortable advanced maneuvers become with this kite. The upwind performance is second to none and is guaranteed to enhance your riding experience. Smooth kiteloops are more efficient and easier to catch, so if you’re ready to add this type of trick to your repertoire the XR8 is here to help you out. As always, be sure you’re ready and only attempt to perform kitesurfing tricks that your skills can handle.

The Ultimate in Freeride Kiteboarding

The XR8 is not just for Big Air enthusiasts or advanced riders. The upwind abilities of this Core kite makes the XR8 suitable for beginners as well as those who have been riding for years. Going for a performance freeride kite is an excellent way to accelerate your skills. Whether you’re new to the sport or a kiter whose been riding for years, you’ll enjoy the Core XR8 for its unparalleled stability, control, and freeride capabilities.

Increased Wind Range With A Delta Bow Shape 

The Core XR lineup’s signature Delta Bow shape is specially designed to increase your wind range. This means you’ll be able to ride longer in varying wind conditions with the same kite. The overall shape of the XR8 has increased durability and allow you to power and depower with ease. The 5-strut frame also offers the most stability in a variety of flight positions.

Sizes for the Core Kiteboarding XR8

This year’s XR8 size range has been developed with the larger wind range in mind. You’ll be able to find the right size to suit your needs. If you’re looking to purchase a full quiver of core kites we recommend the Core XR8 9m and XR8 12m as your backbone. Add a 6m or 7m for super high wind areas like the gorge or for smaller riders. If you’re looking for a lightwind kite we recommend the Core  XR8 LW. Our team is always available to give you advice on kite size to make sure your quiver gives you the riding experienece  you’re looking for.

The XR8 sizes include: 5.0 | 6.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 10.0 | 11.0 | 12.0 | 13.5 | 15.0 LW | 17.0 LW

Core XR8 LW - Lightwind Peak Performance meets Comfort

The Core XR8 LW is a high performance freeride and freestyle kite built for those lightwind  days where it seems like there’s no hope to get in a killer session. Those days of sitting on the beach waiting for the wind to pick up are over with the XR8 LW. The ultra-stiff Delta Bow 5-strut frame gives you early glide and that lofty, long hangtime even when the wind is light. The lightweight and durable construction ensures that you’ll be going upwind with ease while maintaining flight stability, control, and power for every kiteboarding session.