GEAR: SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A VERTIGO OR AYTO KITE 2026?

Two visions of performance kiteboarding: versatility or radical performance.

The GONG 2026 kite range marks a clear step up, with lighter, more powerful, and more precise kites. At the heart of this evolution, two models stand out: the Vertigo and the Ayto.

Both are performance-oriented, yet they are designed for different riders and different programs. Here’s what sets them apart 👇

Kitesurfers: Clémence and Andrew, GONG team riders, on Vertigo and Ayto (Perf Series)

Vertigo 2026: accessible performance and ultimate versatility

The Vertigo 2026 is designed to cover a wide range of disciplines without compromise. It positions itself as a high-performance “do-it-all” kite: freestyle, freeride, foil, and even surf.

Its DNA is built on a rare balance of lightness, responsiveness, and stability. Its 3-strut hybrid C-shape design delivers both liveliness and control, while maintaining a high level of performance for powered riding.

On the water, this translates into:

excellent low-end power and quick planing,
precise steering with strong bar feedback,
powerful yet controllable loops,
great forgiveness.

Who is it for? The Vertigo is aimed at a very wide range of riders. From intermediate riders looking to progress in jumps to advanced riders seeking a single kite that can do it all. It’s the obvious choice for simplicity without sacrificing performance.

Kitesurfer: Andrew, GONG team rider, riding a Steez Wood Flex twintip, Vertigo kite, and FeelX bar.

Ayto 2026: the big air and megaloop machine

The Ayto 2026 plays in a different league. With its 5-strut structure, it is designed to maximize rigidity, high-end control, and extreme jumping performance.

Its program is crystal clear: big air, massive hangtime, and committed kite loops. Its optimized shape increases projected area, generating impressive lift.

On the water, this delivers:

the best hangtime in the range,
powerful lift, perfectly controlled in strong winds,
tight loops with fast catch,
outstanding stability in gusty conditions.

Who is it for? The Ayto is designed for advanced to expert riders who chase strong sensations. It’s especially suited to those who like to ride fully powered and send committed jumps.

Kitesurfer: Yucel, GONG team rider, on Steez Carbon Pro, Ayto Aramid (Perf Series), and FeelX bar.

Three technologies to refine your choice

Both models are available in three constructions:

Perf Series: accessibility and durability in Dacron,
Team Series (Aramid): lighter weight, more responsiveness, and precision,
Pro Team Series (Aramid DP): maximum performance with structural innovations (double profile, increased stiffness, extreme speed).

Your choice between these technologies will mainly depend on your level of performance expectations and riding style.

What difference on the water? Yucel Paralik, big air and megaloop specialist, explains in this article how these technologies enhance his go-to kite, the Ayto.

Kitesurfer: Yucel, GONG team rider, with the Ayto Aramid DP.

Vertigo or Ayto: above all, a matter of style

Choosing between the Vertigo and the Ayto means choosing between two excellent kites with different purposes:

Looking for a single kite that is high-performing and easy to use across a wide range of conditions and disciplines? The Vertigo is the obvious choice.
Want to push your limits in big air and maximize your jumping sensations? The Ayto is built for that.

In short, the Vertigo stands out for its versatility: an agile, accessible, and high-performance kite capable of supporting riders from beginner to expert. On the other hand, the Ayto is a no-compromise kite, designed to push big air performance to the limit. The right choice ultimately depends on your riding style and your program.