Orbit or Reach - which kite is the right for you?

 

If you're buying a kite, you've probably already come across the question: Orbit or Reach?

These are two of the most popular kite models on the market, but they are designed for slightly different riding styles. While both offer premium quality, excellent construction, and outstanding performance, their character is quite different.

In this blog, we'll look at the main differences between the Orbit and Reach and help you determine which kite best suits your riding style.

 

North Orbit – Built for Big Air

If you follow the world's biggest Big Air competitions such as King of the Air, Megaloop Challenge, or Lords of Tram, you've undoubtedly seen the Orbit in action and standing on the podium.

 

The Orbit is designed for riders who want to:

- jump higher,
- fly longer,
- perform and learn loops,
- ride in strong winds.

 

Its construction provides exceptional stability even in the most demanding conditions. The Orbit remains calm overhead when the wind picks up, giving riders tremendous confidence during high jumps and more advanced maneuvers.

The Orbit's biggest advantage is its ability to generate massive lift, long hangtime, and reliable catch when performing tricks that involve kite loops. That's why it has become the first choice of many professional Big Air competitors, as well as riders looking to land their first loop.

For learning your first loop, sizes between 7m and 10m are generally recommended.

 

Orbit is an excellent choice for:

- Big Air riding
- Megaloops
- Learning loops
- Strong wind conditions
- Advanced and experienced riders
- Anyone looking to achieve new personal height records

 

North Reach – The Most Versatile Kite in the Lineup

If the Orbit is a Big Air specialist, the Reach is a specialist in almost everything else.

The Reach is considered one of the most versatile kites on the market and is designed for a wide range of riders. Thanks to its easy handling, predictable flying characteristics, and wide wind range, it is used by many kite schools around the world.

That certainly doesn't mean it's only for beginners.

 

The Reach is also powerful enough for advanced riders looking for one kite for:

- freeride,
- jumping,
- foiling,
- wave riding,
- everyday use in a variety of conditions.

 

Its main advantage is how easily it adapts to different riding styles.

 

Reach is an excellent choice for:

- Beginners
- Advanced riders
- Freeride riding
- Foiling
- Wave riding
- Anyone looking for one kite for all conditions

 

Main Differences Between Orbit and Reach

FeatureOrbitReach
Big Air5/53/5
Hangtime5/53/5
Megaloops5/53/5
Freeride3/55/5
Beginners2/55/5
Wave Riding1/54/5
Foiling1/55/5
One Kite for Everything2/55/5
Strong Wind5/54/5

 

Which Kite Is the Better Choice for You?

Choose Orbit if:

- your main goal is jumping high,
- you're interested in megaloops or want to learn them,
- you often ride in strong winds,
- you want maximum hangtime,
- Big Air is your priority.

 

Choose Reach if:

- you're looking for your first kite,
- you want one kite for multiple disciplines,
- you mainly ride freeride,
- you're interested in foiling or wave riding,
- you want the most versatile kite available.

 

What If You Only Want One Kite?

This is the question we get most often.

If you're buying a single kite and want maximum versatility across different conditions, the Reach will be the best choice in most cases.

However, if your main goal is Big Air and you want to get the absolute most out of your equipment when it comes to high jumps, the Orbit is unlikely to disappoint.

The truth is that you can't go wrong with either of them. Both models represent the very top of the lineup, and the difference mainly comes down to the type of riding that brings you the most enjoyment.

 

Still Not Sure?

If you're unsure which model would suit you best, contact us or visit the Infinity Sport store in Nova Gorica.

We'll be happy to help you choose the right size, model, and setup based on your weight, experience level, and the conditions you ride in most often.


See you on the water!

Infinity Sport Team