Cabrinha Switchblade Design Works 2026 Review

Introduction to the Switchblade Design Works

The Brazilian Brothers are back with a full-length review and final verdict on the Cabrinha Switchblade Design Works. The Switchblade itself needs no introduction; it is a legendary kite designed by Pat Goodman that has been a staple in the Cabrinha lineup for decades. This specific version is the Design Works model, which features Aluula construction in both the leading edge and the struts.

After using this kite in Brazil for about 100 hours, the Brazilian Brothers can confidently say that the Switchblade Design Works is a much better kite than the standard Dacron Switchblade. It has retained the DNA and features of the original Switchblade, but it is a definitive step up overall.

The 2026 Cabrinha Switchblade Design works version has Aluula struts and leading edge.

Jumping Performance

In terms of jumping, the Switchblade Design Works is a lofty and very easy kite to jump. It reminds the Brothers of the Core XR because it is simple to get up and comes down very softly. If you're working on your heliloops or trying to gain height over 10 or 15 meters, this kite makes it easy. The sweet spot of the kite is impressively large, making the process of going up and coming down feel very consistent.

Rubens jumps with the Switchblade Design Works kite.

Looping Characteristics

The Switchblade Design Works performs well with accessible loops. You are still able to jump high and crank the loop, but it's a slower and rounder loop than you might expect. It's similar to the Duotone Evo in the sense that it will go around and catch you, but on the 9-meter size, you'll need to be quite high for the kite to catch you. For the best looping performance and progression, the Brothers recommend going one size smaller than you'd normally use. If you usually loop 9-meter kites, they recommend sticking with the 8-meter Switchblade Design Works for a better experience.

Rubens loops the Switchblade Design Works kite.

Ease of Use

The kite gets an A+ for ease of use. In an era where many companies are focused solely on the highest performance possible, sometimes at the expense of user-friendliness, Cabrinha has created a kite that is high-performance but remains very accessible. Regardless of your skill level, you can hop on this kite and have a blast because it is so consistent in its jumping and landings.

Rubens found the Switchblade Design Works to be an easy and intuitive kite.

The Unfiltered Pros and Cons

The Brazilian Brothers took an "unfiltered" look at where this kite shines and where it could see some improvements.

Where It Shines

Consistent Big Jumps: The jumping and hangtime are major pros, regardless of rider level.
Stability: This kite is extremely stable and is very hard to backstall or frontstall.
Wide Wind Range: It has a huge wind range, working well in light winds and remaining stable when the wind begins to crank.
Bar Feedback: The bar is well-balanced, giving the rider a great idea of where the kite is at all times.

Where It Should Improve

Bar Pressure: As the wind speed increases, the bar pressure and overall grunt of the kite become more intimidating. In 35 knots on a 9-meter, the bar feels heavy. A reduction in bar pressure by about 25% would be a welcomed improvement.

Rubens loads up for a jump.

Final Verdict: Who Is This Kite For?

The Brazilian Brothers are stoked on the Cabrinha Switchblade Design Works. Cabrinha has successfully created a kite with high performance without sacrificing accessibility. If you are considering the standard Switchblade versus the Design Works version, go with the Design Works. It is a worthwhile investment because the kite is significantly better overall. It is the ideal choice for a rider looking for a five-strut big air kite to use with a twintip. The Switchblade Design Works offers a massive wind range, easy jumps, and soft landings.

Rubens is stoked to ride the Switchblade Design Works kite.