Cabrinha Switchblade 2023 – Specs, Ride Feel & What Changed

The 2023 Cabrinha Switchblade continues its legacy as a top-tier freeride and big-air kite, combining stability, smooth power delivery and refined handling. This generation builds on the strengths of its predecessors with subtle updates for cleaner response and rider-friendly performance.

Specifications (2023)

Design purpose & performance

The 2023 Switchblade is engineered to be a dependable all-around freeride kite that handles a wide range of conditions and rider levels. Its balanced profile delivers smooth power and easy relaunch, while the five strut frame gives stability when powered or overpowered. The overall feeling is composed and predictable, which is why many riders choose the Switchblade as a single-kite quiver.

This generation refines steering response and canopy tension for cleaner feel through gusts and smoother transitions between power and depower.

Features & benefits (2023)

• 5-strut durable frame that holds shape well
• Nano Ripstop canopy for consistent aero profile and longevity
• Predictable power delivery suitable for freeride and boosting
• Large sweet spot for forgiving handling
• Smooth relaunch due to optimized swept leading edge
• Great upwind performance for confident edge control
• Long hangtime for big air jumps
• Refined canopy shaping for smoother gust response vs 2022

Ride feel (on the water)

On the water, the 2023 Switchblade feels composed and reassuring. The handling prioritizes smooth power and a wide wind range — you’ll notice a stable pull that doesn’t yank or snatch unexpectedly. Steering is balanced, neither too quick nor too sluggish, which helps with both cruising and initiating jumps. When you load and release for a big pop, the kite gives predictable lift and a floaty hangtime that many freeriders enjoy.

Compared with competitive freeride kites, the Switchblade tends to feel slightly more planted and linear — it doesn’t chase the most aggressive turning speed, but it rewards riders who value stability and range.

What changed vs 2022

• Lighter steering feel for quicker response to bar input
• Smoother power transitions through gusts and depower
• Refined canopy shaping for more forgiving handling
• Still carries core Switchblade DNA — stable freeride with boosting capability

Who it suits

• Freeride riders who want a dependable one-kite quiver
• Boosting and hangtime progression riders
• Intermediate to advanced riders who value stability and predictability
• Riders moving up from beginner freeride kites

Who might prefer another Cabrinha kite

• Dedicated wave / drift focus → Drifter
• More playful, lighter steering → Moto
• Freestyle-leaning handling → FX2

Official product book PDF

Download Cabrinha 2023 Product Book (PDF)

FAQ