How to choose your first kite in 2026: size, shape and level
In 2026, the allround kite market has never been more competitive or more confusing. Delta, bow, hybrid, C-shape, 9m², 12m², 17m²… How do you choose the right kite for your first season or your first real kite? This guide cuts through the noise with practical advice on size, shape, and the best allround kites available at Billy.be right now.
What is an allround / freeride kite?
An allround kite also called a freeride kite is the most versatile category on the market. It works in a wide wind range, relaunches easily from the water, and forgives mistakes. For beginners and intermediate riders, it is simply the best choice. For experienced riders who want one kite to do everything, it remains the most popular category worldwide.
The main characteristics of a good allround kite in 2026:
- Wide wind range — usable from 12 to 30+ knots depending on size
- Easy relaunch — critical for safety and progression
- Predictable bar pressure — light to medium, never scary
- Versatility — works for twin tip, foil, wave, and freestyle basics
What size kite do I need?
Kite size (in m²) determines how much power you generate. A larger kite captures more power in light wind. A smaller kite gives you control in strong wind. Your body weight and local wind conditions are the two key factors.
| Body weight | Light wind 12–18 kn | Medium wind 18–25 kn | Strong wind 25+ kn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60–70 kg | 14–17 m² | 11–12 m² | 9 m² |
| 70–85 kg | 16–17 m² | 12–14 m² | 9–10 m² |
| 85–100 kg | 17 m² | 14 m² | 10–12 m² |
| 100+ kg | 17–21 m² | 14–17 m² | 12 m² |
Billy's tip for Belgium and the Netherlands: The North Sea coast averages 18–22 knots. A 12m² is the perfect first kite for most riders (70–85 kg). If you foil, go one size up. If budget allows, a 12m² + 9m² covers 90% of your sessions.
The best allround kites in 2026 at Billy.be
These are the four kites we recommend without hesitation, tested, trusted, and in stock.
North Orbit 2026 — The safe bet
The Orbit is North's dedicated freeride kite and one of the best-selling allround kites in Europe. The 2026 version refines the already excellent wind range with an updated bridle geometry that improves low-end grunt without sacrificing depower. Bar pressure is light, relaunch from the water is among the easiest on the market. If you are learning or want maximum fun with minimum stress, this is the kite.
Best for: beginners, intermediate riders, foil, light wind sessions
Sizes: 7 to 17 m²
Character: forgiving, early planing, effortless relaunch
North Reach 2026 — The versatile machine
The Reach sits between the Orbit and North's wave-oriented Carve. It is a true one-kite quiver for riders who want to twin tip in the morning, foil in the afternoon, and throw a few tricks when the wind picks up. More direct feedback than the Orbit, slightly higher bar pressure, and a sharper turning speed. An excellent choice for intermediate to advanced riders who refuse to compromise.
Best for: intermediate to advanced, twin tip + foil combo, riders who want direct feedback
Sizes: 6 to 14 m²
Character: direct, agile, excellent upwind
Core XR 2026 — The benchmark
The XR from Core has been the reference allround kite for over a decade. In 2026, it remains the kite that other brands measure themselves against. Exceptional build quality Core kites are made to last, and a wind range that is simply unmatched in this category. Heavier bar pressure than the North kites, which many riders prefer for feedback and precision. If you want the kite that will still perform perfectly in five years, buy the XR.
Best for: serious riders, those who prioritise build quality and longevity, all disciplines
Sizes: 6 to 19 m²
Character: powerful, precise, best-in-class wind range, premium construction
Airush Lithium V14 — The best value
The Airush Lithium V14 is Billy.be's top recommendation for riders who want genuine quality without paying top-tier prices. The Lithium is a delta-hybrid allround kite with an exceptionally forgiving nature, strong early planing, and one of the easiest relaunches in its category. The V14 update brings improved canopy tension and a more refined bridle for better low-end performance. No gimmicks, no compromises — just a seriously good kite at a fair price.
Best for: beginners, riders looking for quality at a fair price, first complete setup
Sizes: 7 to 17 m²
Character: forgiving, accessible, excellent value for money
F-One Bandit Tec — The technical freeride
The Bandit Tec is F-One's technical freeride version of the legendary Bandit lineage, built for riders who want more performance without giving up the Bandit's signature feel. The Tec features a stiffer canopy and more direct steering response, translating into sharper upwind performance and a more precise drift in waves. A step above the standard Bandit, and a genuine one-kite quiver for the experienced freerider.
Best for: experienced freeriders, wave, technical riders who want precision without losing feel
Sizes: 5 to 17 m²
Character: precise, technical, excellent upwind, fluid feel
Which kite is right for me?
| Your profile | Our recommendation |
|---|---|
| Complete beginner, wants safety first | North Orbit or Airush Lithium V14 |
| Intermediate, twin tip + foil combo | North Reach or Core XR |
| Wants the best quality money can buy | Core XR |
| Great quality, fair price | Airush Lithium V14 |
| Experienced, wants precision and feel | F-One Bandit Tec |
Still not sure? Talk to us.
At Billy.be, we don't just sell kites, we help people get on the water. Jérôme and the team have tested every kite we stock and will give you an honest recommendation based on your weight, your level, your local spots, and your budget. No upselling, no scripts.
Contact us on WhatsApp: +32 456 08 01 01 — we reply fast and we know what we're talking about.
