Cabrinha 2026 Switchblade Design Works vs. Moto Apex

The Brazilian Storm

The Brazilian Brothers are back for a special session in Prea, Brazil. They are joined by "The Brazilian Storm", Cabrinha international team rider Kauan Grubert and upcoming rider Luan. The wind is absolutely nuclear, providing the perfect conditions to perform a side-by-side comparison between two of Cabrinha's latest high-performance releases: the brand new Moto Apex and the Switchblade Design Works.

Cabrinha riders Kauan and Luan sit beside Rubens as he interviews them.

The Moto Apex

The Moto Apex is a completely new design from Cabrinha. It features Aluula strategically used on just the side struts and incorporates a brand new bridle combination. This kite is designed as a high-performance freeride option that brings a new level of performance to the Moto lineup, and the team was stoked to see just how much performance this new design could deliver.

Only the side struts of the Moto Apex use Aluula.

Kauan's Feedback on the Moto Apex

After taking the Moto Apex out in 30-knot conditions, Kauan described it as a soft and friendly kite. He noted that the loops are easy to execute and the kite provides excellent vertical lift. One of the standout features for him was the lack of a "crazy yank," making the power delivery feel manageable and smooth. He found that the kite offers a lot of hangtime and the second lift is awesome. Kauan recommends the Moto Apex for anyone who wants to get better in big air.

Kauan performs a board-off trick during a big jump on the Moto Apex.

The Switchblade Design Works

The Switchblade Design Works takes the legendary Switchblade platform and elevates it with premium construction. Unlike the Moto Apex, which uses Aluula only on the side struts, the Design Works version of the Switchblade goes all-out with Aluula on both the leading edge and all the struts. This construction significantly boosts the performance of the Switchblade, taking it to the next level for riders who demand the most from their gear.

The Switchblade Design Works uses Aluula in its entire frame.

Kauan's Feedback on the Switchblade Design Works

Testing the 9-meter Switchblade Design Works as the wind continued to pick up, Kauan observed that it pulls more and has more yank than the Moto Apex. While it is a bit slower in the loops, it is very easy to gain height. Kauan, who personally prefers five-strut kites, found it excellent for aggressive riding and "crazy loops."

Kauan gets some big air on the Switchblade Design Works kite.

Comparing the Moto Apex and Switchblade Design Works

When comparing the two kites, the Moto Apex is the faster, friendlier, and softer option in the loops. If you are looking for kiteloop progression and want a kite that is a bit more forgiving, the Moto is the choice for you. On the other hand, the Switchblade Design Works offers more hangtime and makes it easier to go up and come down softly. If you are still working through your heliloops or perfecting your jumps, the Switchblade is a high-performance kite that remains very easy to use.

Rubens and Kauan stand on the beach beside the Moto Apex and Switchblade Design Works kites.

A Quick Look at the Cabrinha Nitro

Luan had the chance to session on the Cabrinha Nitro during the day. He found the Nitro to be very fast and quite different from other kites he has tried. He noted that it takes you up easily, turns quickly, and provides great loft throughout the flight, making it another epic option in the Cabrinha lineup.

Kauan and Luan stand beside Rubens on the beach.