2023 Cabrinha Drifter: Leading the Revolution in Wave Kite Design

Redesigned from the Ground Up

From construction details, and materials, to the internal design profiles and arc shape varietal, every facet of the kite has been overhauled. Lighter weight materials have been introduced to achieve a more streamlined design, and they have eliminated all the two-plies, integrating 75 gram trailing edge and leading edge transition panels instead.

Enhanced Construction Details

The Cabrinha Drifter now features bi-directional pure profile panels, enhancing the transition between the segmented leading edge and the curve of the natural arc shape of the kite. They have also utilized a new lightweight 140 gram background material for the inflated parts, which combined with other construction details, results in considerable weight savings. In addition, they're using lighter bladders.

A More Lively and Playful Feel

Compared to previous models, the new Drifter design feels much more lively and playful. The kite has a leaner profile and isn't as 'grunty' as it used to be, but it still packs plenty of low-end power. Its turning speed is significantly faster, meaning it's no problem to generate some power when trying to escape an oncoming set.

Sizes and Riding Experience

The new '03 Cabrinha Drifter is available in the same range of sizes, from 4m to 13m. The combination of turning speed, direct and pivotal steering, and good drift makes it an excellent wave-riding kite. It strikes the right balance in power and handling, sits a little further back in the window for drifting, but is also capable of handling offshore winds and flying forward if necessary.

Steering and Control

The Drifter's sheeting is progressive in its behavior. It flies forward when sheeted out, but if you sheet it in during onshore conditions, it will drift. A lighter construction combined with these features result in a kite that drifts well, turns easily, and feels light in your hands.

Enhanced Durability

This year, we've eliminated rigid mini battens on the trailing edge and replaced them with foam flexible mini battens. This enhancement improves the Drifter's durability as these battens don't break or get crushed when you roll up the kite, making it a perfect choice for kitesurfers looking for a kite that can take a beating without any issues.

Attention to Detail in Construction

The seam construction has been altered to allow for better control over the tension in all internal canopy seams. We also have a unique construction at the strut where a different style of seam makes it stronger and allows us to accurately match the position of the canopy on the leading edge. Cabrinha's strict nesting methods ensure super consistent kites that are tidy and tight in construction.

The New Bridle

An important update on the '03 Drifter is the new bridle, which is much shorter than in previous years. This improvement prevents it from getting wrapped around the wingtip when tumbled by a wave. Like all the kites in the Cabrinha range, it's also a pulleyless bridle, resulting in more reliability, durability, and a fast, quick, and direct steering response.

The Drifter DNA

Despite the ground-up redesign and new construction, the 2023 Cabrinha Drifter retains the feel that made the original model so beloved. Long-time Drifter riders will find the transition seamless, as the kite feels naturally right in your hands.

In Conclusion

To sum up, the new '03 Cabrinha Drifter has been reimagined to offer an improved riding experience without sacrificing the features that made its predecessors so popular. So whether you're a seasoned Drifter rider or new to the model, you're sure to feel right at home with this innovative redesign!