F-One Trigger vs. Harlem Thrive | Brazilian Brothers

At first glance, the 2025 F-One Trigger and Harlem Thrive seem pretty similar. Both are big air kites designed by Ralf Groesel and made at his Brainchild facility, have amazing digitally printed graphics, and use Proweld construction to make them extremely lightweight. But that's where the similarity ends, and one will probably meet your needs better than the other. The Brazilian Brothers have spent a lot of time on both and have some observations to help you sort out which one is right for you.

How Do the Designs Differ?

Although both kites use Proweld to ultrasonically fuse the leading edge and strut seams, the Trigger has 5 struts to the Thrive's 3 struts. This means it's a little heavier than the Thrive, though it's still one of the lightest 5-strut kites on the market at 2.56 kg for the 8m. However, the Thrive weighs in at just 2.14 kg for the 8m, making it one of the lightest kites out there.

Which Kite Jumps Higher?

In terms of overall lift, the Trigger is the clear winner. The 5-strut platform gives the kite the structure it needs to jump higher and come down more softly. That said, the Thrive is faster, though that makes it more technical and challenging to find the sweet spot, which can lead to less consistent jumping performance for less advanced riders.

Which Kite Loops Better?

That really depends on your definition of "better". The Thrive is faster. In fact, it's the fastest kite the Brothers have tested yet. It will get through the loop in plenty of time, and you may even have time for a double loop. However, you'll want to be sure to crank the bar all the way or it'll have a good bit of yank.

The Trigger, on the other hand, is also a very capable looper, and it's incredibly intuitive during the loop. It will have consistent pull no matter how much you turn the bar.

How's the Depower on the Thrive and Trigger?

The Thrive has more depower, making it easier to handle in overpowered conditions, while the Trigger has a longer depower throw, allowing you to retain good control over the kite even when it's sheeted out all the way.

Although the Brothers do love to get out on a nice, windy day, they actually prefer the Trigger's longer throw because it makes kiteloop board-offs more accessible. They can more easily maintain control over the kite when they're flying one-handed with the board in the other hand.

Which Kite is Easier to Use?

While you're still progressing in your big air journey, it's important to have a kite that's forgiving. The Trigger is the more accessible kite with its 5-strut platform providing the perfect balance between speed and lift.

The Thrive is incredibly fast, making it a more technical kite, especially in the smaller sizes. That said, it's an amazing kite for progression in the larger sizes. In fact, the 10m is so fast that it loops like an 8m.

Which Kite is Right for Me?

Your riding conditions, experience, and goals will help you decide what should be in your personal quiver, but the Brothers enjoyed the Trigger in the 9m and smaller sizes. It's got plenty of lift while still being manageable. The Thrive's speed makes the 10m and up a lot of fun for both progressing and experienced big air riders. So there may actually be a place for both in your quiver.

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