F-One HALO 8 & 12m first impressions.

The Halo is the 2nd addition to F-one’s range of foil kites. Contrary to the Diablo which is essentially a no compromise racing machine the Halo is a versatile all conditions all terrain foil kite. Weather on water, land or snow the Halo’s aim is to deliver a reliable, friendly and comfortable ride.

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As with all F-one products the built quality is second to none. Excellent pulleys (4) and 38gr material with new insignia half circle reinforcements on every attachment point ensures durability. The bridle and mixer look surprisingly simple in comparison with other offerings on the market. Aspect ratio is adapted to every size, example, AR5.5 for the 8m, AR 6.3 for the 12m and so on.

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Although F-One recommend flying the Halo with their also brand new foil bar available in either 50cm (8/10/ 12m) or 60cm (15/19m) I used a home made 52cm carbon race bar with 18m lines .

First water start on a rainy, murky day with the 8m on a hydrofoil and I almost drove the kite straight into the water… It is very reactive and moves around the window effortlessly and with very little bar pressure required. Although only flown on the beach the 12m is also very responsive and power delivery smooth and precise. Foiling tacks and jibes are flawless and very intuitive thanks to the excellent feedback and control. In super light wind the Halo felt very solid in the air and if the wind dropped bellow the minimum required it gently fell without folding or twisting. Water re-launch was not tested but it’s air retention (on the beach) seemed particularly good.

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With the advent of Kitefoiling, high aspect cell kites made a come back, initially for light wind or where pure performance was required. Looks like this new family of versatile, easy to use foil kites have much more to offer than just pure performance and could if the market allows it grow in popularity.