Design and good looks is what Airush are all about these days – and this kite is no different. It has a fresh and crisp feel and look to it.
Some kites create the impression that they have overdone the “bumpers” or reinforcement areas but on this Varial X there seems to be just the right amount of support. The overall package is delivered in a good-sized bag which can easily accommodate a lazily-packed kite (we all do it), bar and pump.
The Airush Smart bar used with the Varial X has a good feel to it and seems to be made with longevity in mind. With extensions that can be added in an instant, the bar fits all kite sizes reducing the cost to the kiter. I was really impressed with the safety release system too. One slight motion, with two fingers grasped over the sleek red eject button, was all it took to release the chicken loop from your harness.
Review Airush Varial X: The tech
The 10m Varial X did seem to sit in front of you a little too much when the wind dropped off. However, when the wind picked up to traditional 10 – 9m weather, it came alive and flew forward more and felt as though it was a more comfortable ride. In the turn, the kite spins round quickly and smoothly into the opposite direction, and carries a lot of the power. This took me by surprise a couple of times, catching a front edge because of the power running through the bottom of the turn.
This made kiteloops a breeze, but a little unnerving to begin with because of the extra power it seemed to have. The boost was impressive so if you like big jumps then give these kites a go. The float back down was easily handled too and provided a really soft landing.
Review Airush Varial X: Overall impression
You’ll be hard pushed to find a kite which can jump as well as the Varial X. You’d probably need to look at the Ozone Edge or similar to get this kind of performance, but then you will be losing out on the C-Shape SLE of the Varial X. You wouldn’t be unhappy if you bought this as a general freeride kite either. In the right wind it wants to get you going and will give you enough time to think about your landings or rotations. As an overall review Airush Varial X a good kite, with plenty of power and soft landings.
