Big Air • Freeride • Five-Strut Performance • Sizes 6–14m
2027 North Orbit Kiteboarding Kite
A faster, smoother and more energetic evolution of North’s iconic five-strut big-air kite, built for vertical lift, long hangtime and confident high-wind control.
The 2027 North Orbit Kite refines the proven performance platform trusted for big-air progression, powered freeride and competition riding. Updated bridle geometry, a refined forward-cambered profile and a slimmer N-Max2 leading edge give the new Orbit a more playful, responsive feel while maintaining the stability and wind range that define the series. Expect fast flight across the window, direct steering, powerful upwind drive and controlled depower—plus the vertical lift, extended hangtime and dependable recovery needed to push your kite loops and aerial progression.
- Big-air and freeride performance
- N-Max2 airframe
- N-RS3 triple-ripstop canopy
- Response five-point bridle
- Stable five-strut design
- Fast loops and vertical lift
Why Choose the 2027 North Orbit?
Proven Big-Air Performance
The Orbit’s high-aspect, five-strut platform is engineered to generate powerful vertical lift and sustained hangtime. It provides the support and predictability needed for sent jumps, board-offs, rotations and progressive big-air maneuvers.
More Playful 2027 Handling
Refined bridle geometry and a smoother forward-cambered profile make the 2027 Orbit feel more energetic and responsive. Steering is quicker and more direct without sacrificing the composed character riders expect from the Orbit.
Faster Loops and Recovery
A slimmer leading edge, increased sweep and narrower wingtips help the kite rotate faster and move forward through the window more efficiently. After a loop, the Orbit climbs and catches with greater speed for smoother, more controlled landings.
Confident High-End Control
The supported airframe and five-strut construction keep the canopy steady when the wind increases. Improved depower and consistent steering help you maintain control through gusts, high-speed approaches and powered takeoffs.
What’s New for the 2027 Orbit?
Updated Bridle Geometry
Additional bridle support points stabilize the slimmer leading edge and maintain airframe rigidity. The revised layout creates a smoother, more playful response while preserving stability at the upper end of the kite’s wind range.
Refined Cambered Profile
The forward-cambered profile has been refined for cleaner airflow and smoother flight. A slightly deeper center profile increases lift and power delivery while maintaining efficient movement across the wind window.
Slimmer Leading Edge
The thinner N-Max2 leading edge reduces drag and helps the Orbit fly faster, turn more directly and deliver more vertical lift. It also contributes to improved low-end efficiency and quicker loop recovery.
Refined Arc and Wingtips
A segmented arc with narrower shoulders, wider tips and increased sweep reduces drag while sharpening steering response. The result is faster turning with a smooth, predictable path through the loop.
North Orbit Construction and Technology
N-Max2 Pro Material Airframe
Lightweight and durable N-Max2 material enables a slimmer airframe with consistent response, direct steering and dynamic recovery. Its stiffness supports the kite’s expanded depower range and high-wind stability.
Response Five-Point Bridle
The pulley-free five-point bridle supports the thinner leading edge and distributes loads across the airframe. This produces accurate steering, predictable depower and a stable response when riding fully powered.
Aerodynamic PTP2 Panels
Contoured zigzag transition panels reduce spanwise tension in the seams and create a cleaner connection between the leading edge and canopy. This helps smooth the kite’s aerodynamic profile under load.
High-Aspect-Ratio Design
The high-aspect platform efficiently converts speed into lift, giving the Orbit its recognizable vertical takeoff, powerful upwind drive and long, controllable hangtime.
N-RS3 Triple-Ripstop Canopy
The lightweight N-RS3 canopy uses a low-stretch, UV-resistant triple-ripstop weave with an advanced coating designed to maintain low porosity, durability and long-term shape retention.
Stable Five-Strut Performance
Five struts provide dependable canopy support and keep the profile controlled at low angles of attack. This structure gives the Orbit excellent top-end stability and a broad, usable wind range.
Low-Profile Bridle Lines
Low-drag bridle lines are preloaded and measured before cutting to improve dimensional consistency. The precise construction helps limit unwanted shrinkage or elongation over time.
Ultralite StitchHold Technology
Lightweight, high-tensile thread reinforces the leading-edge closing seam against repeated inflation pressure, steering loads, impact and everyday wear without adding unnecessary weight.
Swept, Slim Wingtips
Slimmer swept wingtips improve steering precision and turning speed. They help the kite respond quickly to bar input and complete loops with a smooth, controlled trajectory.
2027 North Orbit Size and Wind Range
North’s published wind ranges are general guidelines. Rider weight, board size, water conditions, air temperature and riding style can all affect the most appropriate kite size.
| Kite Size | Published Wind Range | General Riding Character |
|---|---|---|
| 6m | 20+ knots | Extreme-wind control, fast loops and smaller-rider high-wind sessions |
| 7m | 18–36+ knots | High-wind big air with very fast steering and recovery |
| 8m | 16–35 knots | Powered big air, fast loops and strong-wind freeride |
| 9m | 14–32 knots | Versatile big-air size balancing lift, speed and loop performance |
| 10m | 12–29 knots | All-around freeride and big air with broad wind-range coverage |
| 11m | 11–27 knots | Additional low-end power while retaining responsive handling |
| 12m | 10–25 knots | Light-to-moderate wind freeride, jumping and long hangtime |
| 14m | 8–22 knots | Maximum low-end power and light-wind freeride coverage |
Safety note: Wind ranges overlap and should not be treated as absolute limits. Choose a kite size appropriate for your weight, experience, board and local conditions. When unsure, consult an experienced kiteboarding professional before launching.
Which North Orbit Size Should You Choose?
High-Wind Sizes
The 6m, 7m and 8m Orbits prioritize fast turning, rapid loop recovery and control in strong wind. Choose these sizes for dedicated high-wind riding or as the smallest kite in a multi-kite quiver.
Core Big-Air Sizes
The 9m and 10m provide a versatile balance of boost, hangtime, turning speed and usable wind range. For many riders, one of these will serve as the primary powered-freeride and big-air kite.
Lighter-Wind Performance
The 11m and 12m generate more low-end power while retaining the Orbit’s efficient upwind drive and responsive feel. They suit riders who want to jump and freeride before smaller kites become practical.
Maximum Low-End
The 14m offers the greatest light-wind coverage in the range. Pair it with an efficient twin tip when maximizing time on the water matters more than the fastest possible turning response.
Who Is the 2027 North Orbit For?
Best For
- Big-air riders seeking vertical lift and extended hangtime
- Freeriders who want strong upwind drive and a broad wind range
- Riders progressing into kite loops and advanced aerial maneuvers
- Experienced riders who value stability in powered conditions
- Anyone wanting pro-level Orbit technology without an ultra-premium airframe
What You’ll Notice
- Smoother and more energetic steering
- Fast flight across the wind window
- Strong vertical lift and long float
- Quicker turning and loop recovery
- Consistent depower and dependable top-end control
What’s Included?
Included
- 2027 North Orbit Kite
- Kite bag
- Repair kit
- Sand bag
Not Included
- Control bar and flying lines
- Kite pump
- Harness
- Board and bindings
Complete your setup with a compatible North control system and appropriate kiteboarding safety equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the North Orbit a big-air or freeride kite?
It is designed for both. The high-aspect five-strut platform delivers the lift, hangtime and stability required for big air, while its wind range, upwind drive and predictable depower make it an excellent powered-freeride kite.
How does the 2027 Orbit differ from previous versions?
The 2027 Orbit uses updated bridle geometry, a refined forward-cambered profile, a slimmer leading edge and more swept wingtips. These changes create faster turning, smoother flight, improved lift and a more playful overall feel.
Is the 2027 Orbit suitable for kite loops?
Yes. Its slimmer leading edge and refined wingtips help the kite turn faster, travel forward through the loop and climb quickly for recovery. Riders should learn looping maneuvers progressively with professional instruction and suitable conditions.
Is the Orbit only for expert riders?
No. Its stable canopy, predictable response and broad depower range make the Orbit accessible to progressing riders, while its lift, speed and loop performance provide the capability experienced big-air riders demand.
Does the Orbit include a control bar?
No. This package includes the kite, kite bag, repair kit and sand bag. A compatible North control system, pump and other kiteboarding equipment are sold separately.
What sizes are available?
The 2027 North Orbit is produced in 6m, 7m, 8m, 9m, 10m, 11m, 12m and 14m sizes. Color availability can vary by size and current inventory.