Mystic has launched its 2026 kiting range, debuting a significant expansion in head protection alongside technical updates to its Stealth harness and flagship Majestic wetsuits. The release covers the full spectrum of the sport, introducing entry-level gear like the Recon harness to balance the high-performance carbon and Yamamoto neoprene offerings.
The update signals a shift in focus toward rider safety and accessibility. By expanding the helmet line and introducing soft-gel harness options, the brand is targeting both the extreme Big Air market and newcomers who require more affordable, durable equipment.
Expanded Helmet Line and Impact Protection
The 2026 lineup shows a major push into headwear, building on the existing Vandal and Legacy models. While the Vandal has gained traction with Big Air riders, the Legacy was developed specifically for riders dealing with waves and duck diving.
A new addition this season is a series of bump caps styled like fisherman hats. These caps utilize the same moulding as the brand's impact caps, featuring a soft, flexible material that hardens on impact.
Same moulding as the impact caps, the new bump cap is soft and flexible but hardens on impact and is CE approved.
Bo from Mystic, speaking to IKSURFMAG, noted that while many caps on the market claim CE approval, riders should check labels carefully to ensure gear has been genuinely tested for protection.
Harness Innovations: Stealth and Warrior
The Stealth remains the flagship hard-shell harness, featuring patented, thermoformed carbon plates. This construction is designed to be more flexible than standard prepreg carbon, allowing it to better handle the high-impact forces of modern kiting.
Key updates for the Stealth include:
- A new press-buckle system designed for easier adjustment.
- Buckles tested to handle loads of approximately 125kg each, exceeding standard safety norms.
- Injection-moulded foams that do not absorb water, keeping the harness light for travel.
- New colourways integrated directly through the foam moulding process.
Beyond the flagship models, Mystic is introducing the Recon, a soft-gel harness without a backplate. This serves as a budget-friendly entry point for the sport. The Warrior harness also receives an update, including an entry-level version featuring a soft-gel backplate, slotting between the Recon and the high-end Stealth or Majestic models.
Wetsuit Technology and Durability
The 2026 Majestic wetsuit range is built using a 3D modelling system and Yamamoto 40 neoprene. This high-density foam is chosen for its significant stretch and strong rebound properties. The Majestic is available in thicknesses ranging from 2mm to 6mm, featuring a thermal lining for warmth.
One technical highlight is the return of single-skin panels on the back-zip Majestic, branded as Armor Skin. Traditionally, single-skin panels provided excellent wind-chill protection but were prone to punctures and tearing. Mystic has applied a special coating to these panels to improve durability, particularly for foilers who often encounter equipment-related nicks.
The brand also continues its Evolve wetsuit line, which focuses on sustainable R&D by utilizing recycled foam without sacrificing performance.
Accessories and Lifestyle
The collection is rounded out by the Poncho Explorer range. The new DTS Poncho Rain features PU-coating and waterproof seams for use in harsh climates. For travel, a new lightweight waffle-towel poncho manufactured in Turkey has been added to the range, offering a more packable alternative to the traditional thick winter versions.
The brand's standard footpads are also now available in three colourways, including a new black version, to allow for better board customization.
