Lowkite

GONG lowkites are changing the way we harness the wind in foiling. Inspired from ram-air kites and paragliding, they feature no lines, just a bridle system. What started as an innovative downwind solution has evolved into a one-of-a-kind hybrid between kiteboarding and wingfoiling.

Whether you’re looking for an alternative to a downwind paddle or a way to ride dynamically like a wing with this kite without lines, each model was created with a clear purpose: to redefine the foiling experience by maximizing wind power with a compact design and a unique riding feel.

Lowkites can be easily packed away, need no inflation, and are incredibly light, giving you the freedom to ride without limits. They open up new horizons, from committed downwind adventures to effortless freeriding, dynamic freestyle, and high-speed freerace performance.

Born from years of expertise in kiteboarding, winging, and foiling, GONG lowkites are the product of intensive research and testing. Patrice Guénolé, a discreet innovator in kite, SUP, foil, and wing, envisioned a kite without lines, capable of transcending the constraints of conventional kites and redefining the foiling experience.

This range was created to push past the constraints of compact wings (like parawings and pocket wings), delivering more control, lift, and stability, all while preserving the minimal footprint and ease of use that make them so efficient.

The result? A range of lowkites designed for performance, lightness, and freedom, tested and approved in the most diverse conditions by the GONG team.

• Lightness and compactness: Ultra-light wings that are easy to pack and transport, perfect for downwind and foiling without constraints.

• Ease of use: No need for inflation or bladders, with a streamlined setup that gets you on the water fast.

• Maneuverability and responsiveness: With an innovative bridle system on the micro boom, steering is direct and precise, allowing for instant adjustments within the wind window.

• Lift et stability: The double-skin models (Droid and Pulse) provide exceptional flight stability, enabling smooth and controlled riding, just like a kite.

• Adaptability : Whether for downwind, surf freestyle, freeride, or freerace, there's a lowkite suited to every need.

• Easy transport: Weighing as little as 500 g to 1 kg, they pack down into a small bag, making them ideal for travel, biking, or easy storage.

• Robust and durable design: marine-grade materials, extensive field testing, and maximum reliability. Using the same high-quality components as kites and wings for long-term performance.

• Optimized accessibility: A range designed for both lowkite beginners and experienced riders, with a model suited for every skill level.

Single-Skin: Ideal for downwind runs and underpowered navigation.

The Plus and Neutra are built to simplify downwind riding by eliminating the need for a paddle.

• Plus: The most accessible and stable lowkite for beginners, perfect for getting started easily before packing the wing away and riding the bumps.

• Neutra: More technical and responsive, it allows for precise control and better trajectory adjustments, yet still aligned with a takeoff-and-pack riding style.

Double-Skin: Active riding with kite-like angles and behavior

The Droid and Pulse are ram-air lowkites designed to ride like a kite—without lines.

• Droid: Ideal for surf freestyle and aerial tricks, featuring outstanding lift and instant response.

• Pulse : Optimized for freerace and freeride, delivering exceptional upwind performance and ultra-efficient glide, designed for riders seeking speed and ultimate control.

GONG lowkites are the result of advanced technology, combining the best materials from our kites with innovative designs to ensure lightweight performance, durability, and efficiency.

• Innovative bridle system: A direct connection to a micro boom for ultra-precise and responsive handling.

• Marine-grade kites:  Built for marine conditions, with fast drainage system and reinforced durability.

• Ultra-lightweight construction: No inflation, no bladders, minimal weight for effortless transport and quick setup.

• Wind range optimization: Each size is engineered to provide the perfect balance between power and control.

Neutra

“Ideal for carving through bumps and adjusting every line with pinpoint accuracy. Pure fun on downwind runs!”

Droid

“Responsive and powerful—great for sending tricks and riding in wing mode.”

Pulse

“Absolutely insane for freerace. Speed, control, glide… it's built for ultimate precision."

Are lowkites easier to use than wings?

No —they require a specific learning process. Expect around ten sessions to get fully comfortable with them.

Can you go upwind with a lowkite?

• Plus & Neutra: Not much. They're designed to be packed away after takeoff or ridden with minimal power using a high-aspect foil and a fast board.
• Droid & Pulse : Yes, their upwind performance is similar to a kite or a wing in most conditions, except in extremely light wind.

Which lowkite is best for beginners?

The Plus – It offers great stability, a safe and straightforward experience for beginners, easy setup, and it’s an affordable choice.

Can a lowkite be used like a wing?

Not exactly, but it can work in many cases. The Plus & Neutra are designed to be packed away after takeoff or for light-wind riding, whereas the Droid & Pulse behave like kites without lines for dynamic navigation. However, since a lowkite must stay in the air, a wing will always be more efficient and enjoyable in inconsistent wind.

How do single-skin and double-skin lowkites differ?

• Single-skin (Plus & Neutra): Super lightweight, ideal for downwind and light-wind foiling.

• Double-Skin (Droid & Pulse): Ram-air lowkites designed for pure navigation, offering upwind performance comparable to traditional kites.
  

GONG lowkites are changing the game in foiling, offering fresh perspectives on navigation and steering—be it for downwind, freestyle surfing, or high-speed freerace sessions.

A new sport is born. Now it’s your turn to take it further. 🚀

To find the perfect lowkite, it’s crucial to understand the elements that affect its performance and riding experience. Here are the key factors to consider:

Technical parameters that affect performance

1. Profile and lift

A lowkite’s profile shapes its power, traction, and stability in flight.

• A deep and powerful profile generates more traction, enabling quick takeoff and efficient lift.
• A flatter profile enhances speed and fluidity, perfect for freeriding and racing.
• A moderate profile strikes a balance between power and control, offering a playful yet precise ride.
  

2. The lowkite arc

The arc determines the general outline of the lowkite from the front and affects its behavior:

• Pronounced arc: Offers greater stability and maneuverability, ideal for beginner lowkites.
  
• Moderate arc: A balance between stability and maneuverability.
  
• Open arc: Enhances lift and power but can lead to tip touches in larger sizes.
  

3. Span

Span plays a crucial role in the stability and maneuverability of a lowkite.

• Shorter span: Increases maneuverability and responsiveness, ideal for the Plus, Neutra, and Droid, designed for versatility.
• Large span: Improves directional stability and glide, ideal for the Pulse and its long-distance riding performance.

4. Ratio (Aspect Ratio)

The aspect ratio (wingspan to width ratio) directly affects lowkite performance.

• Low aspect ratio: Increases maneuverability, torque, and accessibility, making it ideal for the Plus and Neutra, which are designed for easy downwind takeoffs.
• Moderate aspect ratio: Provides a balanced mix of power, control, and maneuverability, ideal for the Droid.
• High aspect ratio: Enhances glide, speed, and directional stability. The Pulse, with its ultra-high aspect ratio, excels in freerace and fast freeride. It can fly deep into the wind window and offers exceptional upwind angles and wind range.

5. Bridle system

The bridle system is a key factor in control, stability, and ease of use.

• Short bridle: Increases direct control, agility, and compactness. It simplifies water takeoffs and allows for quick packing under a lycra (Plus & Neutra) since there’s no need to manage long bridles by hand.
• Medium bridle: Provides a balance between reactivity and stability, making it the best choice for the Droid and its freestyle-oriented design.
• Long bridle – Keeps the kite higher above the water, preventing tip touches at high speeds, making it ideal for performance lowkites like the Pulse.

6.Structure: Single-skin vs. Double-skin

The range is divided into two main categories:

• Single-Skin (Plus & Neutra): Lightweight & Downwind

Ultra-light, designed to be packed away after takeoff.
Ideal for replacing a paddle in downwind foilig .
Instant power generation for rapid takeoff.
Sensitive to gusts, best used underpowered with a large foil and a voluminous board.
Easy to deploy and use at sea.

• Double-Skin (Droid & Pulse): Active riding & upwind performance

True ram-air kites, designed for full navigation.
Outstanding upwind efficiency, making them perfect for active navigation.
Pressurized design enhances stability and delivers smooth, controlled power.
Perfect for long-distance runs, wave riding, and extended sessions.

7. Wind range and choosing the right size

A key factor in selecting the perfect lowkite is matching its size to your weight and the ideal wind range.
These guidelines hold true for every lowkite in the lineup. Choosing the right size depends on wind strength, rider weight, and the desired riding program.

8. Performance criteria in navigation

• Ease and accessibility: Plus, the best partner for early take-offs in lowkite.
• Responsiveness and control: Neutra, for those seeking more finesse in downwind.
• Power and maneuverability: Droid, perfect for freeride, freestyle, and surfing.
• Speed and upwind performance: Pulse, built for freerace and high-speed freeride.

9. Conclusion: Choose the right lowkite for your needs

GONG lowkites are a game-changer in foil riding. Whether you’re after a lightweight kite for effortless downwind sessions or a high-performance option for active riding, there’s a model to meet your needs:

• Plus: Ideal for beginners and easy take-offs with downwind gear.
• Neutra: Precision and control for a smoother downwind experience.
• Droid: A highly responsive option for freeride and freestyle sessions, similar to wing riding.
• Pulse: Built for speed lovers, upwind/downwind performance, and dynamic freerace foil riding.

With these technical insights and detailed advice, you now have everything you need to choose the perfect lowkite based on your skill level, riding style, and conditions. 🚀