Duotone has officially released the 2027 editions of the Neo and Neo SLS, updating its dedicated wave and strapless freestyle range. The launch maintains the brand’s two-tier approach to construction, offering the standard Neo for predictability and the SLS (Strong Light Superior) version for riders seeking faster reaction times in the surf.
These models serve as the backbone of the brand’s surf program. The Neo has historically defined the category through its ability to drift while the rider moves toward the kite on a wave face, a characteristic Duotone continues to prioritize in the 2027 design. The new lineup aims to bridge the gap between pure wave riding and the technical requirements of modern strapless freestyle.
Refined Drift and Handling
The 2027 Neo is engineered for intuitive handling and smooth power delivery. In wave riding, the kite must remain stable and responsive even when line tension is low. Duotone has focused on ensuring the Neo provides a consistent pull, which allows riders to focus on their rail work rather than managing the kite’s position.
- Smooth power delivery across the wind window.
- Intuitive bar feedback for "set and forget" wave riding.
- Enhanced drift capabilities for down-the-line surfing.
- Reliable performance in a wide wind range.
The standard construction offers a balance of durability and flex that many riders prefer for its comfortable, damped feeling in gusty conditions. By providing a predictable platform, the Neo remains the choice for kiters who want to build confidence in larger swells or when first learning strapless transitions.
The SLS Advantage in Critical Sections
For riders demanding higher technical performance, the 2027 Neo SLS utilizes high-end materials to reduce weight and increase canopy stiffness. This results in a kite that steers faster and provides more direct feedback through the bar.
The Neo SLS takes things further with faster steering, direct bar feedback, and a sportier, more dynamic feel in critical sections.
The SLS version is specifically tuned for precision. When riding "in the pocket" of a wave, the ability to snap the kite into a new position is vital. The reduced weight of the SLS frame improves the light-wind threshold but also enhances the kite's ability to stay aloft when lines go slack during aggressive turns.
Strapless Freestyle Performance
Beyond the surf, both Neo models are staples in the strapless freestyle discipline. The 2027 range continues to offer the specific lift and hangtime characteristics required for air transitions and technical board flips. The Neo's quick relaunch remains a key feature, as strapless riders frequently drop their kites while attempting new maneuvers in the impact zone.
The 2027 Neo and Neo SLS are now available through the Duotone online store and global dealer network. As the season progresses, these kites are expected to be the primary tools for the brand’s professional team during the upcoming wave championship stops.
