In the exhilarating world of big air kiteboarding, few athletes have achieved the iconic status that Andrea Principi enjoys today. With two Big Air World Championships, the coveted King of the Air title, and a victory at the Megaloop Challenge under his belt, Andrea's name is synonymous with pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the water.

Recently, Andrea had the chance to put the new Rebel D/LAB through its paces in the renowned Levante winds of Tarifa, Spain. This was not just another test session; it was a deeper exploration of how this kite stands out among its peers, particularly for both pro riders and everyday enthusiasts eager to elevate their big air game. We caught up with Andrea to discuss his experience with the Rebel D/LAB and to uncover how it has influenced his riding style and performance.

The Rebel D/LAB: Redefining Jumping and Hangtime

Andrea immediately highlights the Rebel D/LAB’s standout feature: its incredible ability to generate lift with minimal effort. “The design really allows it to generate lift with minimal effort. You just pull the bar, and you’re instantly lifted high into the air,” Andrea explains. For a rider who thrives on going big, this feature is invaluable, especially when setting new Woo records where every meter counts. The ease of achieving such heights without requiring perfect timing or extensive setup has significantly boosted Andrea's confidence, allowing him to focus more on executing complex tricks rather than worrying about getting enough lift.

Stability and Predictability: The 5-Strut Design Advantage

One of the critical aspects of big air kiteboarding, particularly in extreme conditions, is the kite's ability to maintain its shape and stability. Here, the Rebel D/LAB's 5-strut design shines. “The 5-strut design is amazing. It keeps the kite stable and holds its shape, even when I’m pushing it to the limit in high winds,” Andrea notes. This stability translates to predictability—a crucial element when performing high-risk maneuvers. In extreme conditions where other kites might falter, the Rebel D/LAB remains solid, giving riders like Andrea the confidence to push their boundaries without second-guessing the kite’s response.

The Climb Back: Revolutionizing Kite Loops

For Andrea, one of the most impressive features of the Rebel D/LAB is its ability to climb back up during a loop without requiring the rider to sheet out the bar. “This is probably one of the biggest advantages of the Rebel D/LAB,” Andrea says, emphasizing how this feature has made loops much more fluid and less stressful. Compared to his experience with the Evo D/LAB, where sheeting out was necessary to regain altitude, the Rebel D/LAB allows for a smoother, more focused performance. This capability is a game-changer, enabling Andrea to concentrate on the loop itself and the subsequent trick without the added concern of the kite stalling or failing to climb back up.

Adapting to the Forward Pull: A New Approach to Big Air

The Rebel D/LAB introduces a different sensation during take-off, pulling more forward compared to the Evo D/LAB's vertical lift. Andrea admits that adapting to this change took some time, but once mastered, it became a significant advantage. “The forward pull means I travel further in the air, which actually helps me go bigger during loops,” Andrea explains. This forward momentum not only allows him to cover more ground but also provides additional hang time to execute more complex tricks, a crucial advantage in competitive settings where both height and distance are key.

Aggressiveness in Loops: A Double-Edged Sword

While the Rebel D/LAB's aggressive nature in loops might pose a challenge for some, Andrea sees it as a powerful tool in his arsenal. “The Rebel D/LAB’s aggressiveness in the loop is definitely noticeable. It’s not as easygoing as the Evo D/LAB, but that’s exactly what makes it so powerful for big air,” he says. The added yank during loops helps riders achieve greater heights and distances, essential for big air tricks. For Andrea, this aggressiveness is more of a benefit than a challenge, pushing him to refine his technique further and embrace the thrill of pushing his limits.

Advice for Riders Transitioning to the Rebel D/LAB

For riders considering making the switch from the Evo D/LAB or another model, Andrea offers valuable advice. “Be prepared for a different experience, especially with the forward pull and the aggressive loops,” he advises. Taking the time to get accustomed to how the kite reacts, particularly in high wind conditions and during loops, is crucial. The key is to stay smooth with your inputs and trust the kite’s capabilities, especially its ability to climb back up without sheeting out. Once comfortable, riders will find that the Rebel D/LAB rewards commitment and precision, offering incredible potential for going big and executing advanced tricks.

The Rebel D/LAB for Everyday Riders: A Worthy Investment

So how does the Rebel D/LAB perform for everyday riders who may not be at the pro level? Andrea is confident that this kite is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their big air game. “The Rebel D/LAB is designed to be powerful and solid, yet it remains predictable and steady, which is key for riders who are still building their confidence,” he explains. The kite's exceptional lift and hangtime make it easier for riders to stay in the air longer, giving them more time to set up their tricks. While it may not be as user-friendly for loops as the Evo D/LAB, the Rebel D/LAB shines in big air scenarios where height and control are paramount.

“The Rebel D/LAB is a fantastic kite for anyone who wants to go big, whether you're an intermediate rider or a pro. It’s designed to be powerful and solid, yet it remains predictable and steady, which is key for riders who are still building their confidence.” — Andrea Principi

For intermediate riders looking to make the leap into big air kiteboarding, the Rebel D/LAB is undoubtedly worth considering. Its combination of power, stability, and predictability makes it a valuable tool for those ready to push themselves and explore the upper limits of their kiteboarding potential.

In conclusion, Andrea Principi's experience with the Rebel D/LAB underscores its potential as a game-changer in big air kiteboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an ambitious enthusiast, this kite offers a unique blend of power and control that can elevate your performance to new heights.