North Orbit Ultra: 2023 vs 2025 – What’s Actually Different?

What’s the difference between the 2023 and 2025 North Orbit Ultra? 

If you’ve been riding the North Orbit  since 2023 or 2024, you already know how game-changing that first Aluula launch was. It introduced an ultra-light frame, stiffer response, and faster loops that pushed the Orbit ultra  into elite progression territory.

The 2025 North Orbit Ultra isn’t just a repeat of the original, it's a smoother, more tuned version that addresses real rider feedback.

North took two years of rider feedback, storm session testing, and structural analysis to re-engineer the Ultra from the inside out. From the Micro-Strut frame to QR-coded wingtips, this version smooths out the raw edges of the original and makes it more confidence-inspiring at the top end of the wind range.

At Elite Watersports in St. Petersburg, we’ve tested both the early Ultra and the new 2025 model in everything from 20-knot seabreezes to 35+ knot squalls at Skyway Bridge. Here’s how the new model stacks up, and whether it’s worth the upgrade.

 

 

What makes the North Orbit Ultra different from the Orbit and Orbit Pro?

Big air kiteboarding has always been about chasing height, control, and that moment of weightlessness when the kite catches you at the peak of a send. In 2025, the North Orbit Ultra has become the name riders whisper at the beach when the forecast turns nuclear. Powered by an Aluula airframe and a leaner, stiffer build, this kite isn’t just a lighter Orbit, it’s a purpose-built machine for storm chasers, loop fanatics, and progression-driven kiters who want every ounce of performance out of their gear.

At Elite Watersports in St. Petersburg, Florida, we’ve been testing the Orbit Ultra in real Tampa Bay conditions, from 20-knot seabreezes at the Skyway Bridge to hurricane-strength gusts that push even advanced kiters to the edge. That local testing, combined with rider feedback, makes this review different from what you’ll find in glossy product pages. We’re here to give you the honest breakdown: who this kite is for, how it compares to the Orbit and Orbit Pro, and why you might want to book a demo before committing.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know whether the Orbit Ultra is the upgrade that unlocks your next level of riding, or if the Pro or Classic Orbit might be a better fit for your style.

What changed in the 2025 North Orbit Ultra design?

The first Orbit Ultra made waves with its Aluula frame and crisp, fast handling, but it wasn’t perfect. Some riders found it twitchy in gusts, fragile under repeated load, or difficult to manage in lighter conditions. The 2025 model fixes a lot of that without losing what made the Ultra so fun to ride in the first place.

Here’s what North changed for 2025:

1. Refined Frame Stiffness with Micro-Strut Design
The new Micro-Strut layout stiffens the frame without adding weight. It holds shape better during loops and boosts, especially when winds get punchy. You’ll feel it most during the catch phase, it snaps the kite back into position more cleanly than the original.

2. Triple Ripstop Canopy Reinforcement
2025 brings a tighter canopy layout that resists stretch and softening over time. Older Ultras had a tendency to lose their “pop” after heavy use. The new canopy holds its shape longer, keeping feedback crisp across more sessions.

3. QR Code Wingtip for Ownership + Support
New this year, North added a scannable QR code to the wingtip. Register your kite, pull up serial info, or log it for warranty. It’s a small upgrade, but riders in busy spots like St. Pete Beach or the Skyway appreciate having proof of ownership on hand.

4. Bag + Line Extension Upgrades
The 2025 Ultra ships with a better ventilated kite bag and includes 2m line extensions. Riders at Elite consistently noticed more hangtime when using the longer lines, and they’re now standard, not an add-on.

5. Improved Seam Work + Bridle Point Durability
High-stress areas now use stronger stitching and better load distribution. If you’ve ever seen early Ultras soften around the bridles or deform slightly at the leading edge, those weak points have been reinforced for 2025.

Bottom line:
The 2025 North Orbit Ultra is tighter, tougher, and more stable under pressure, especially when looping in gusty wind or riding overpowered. The changes aren’t dramatic at a glance, but they’re noticeable on the water if you’re pushing the kite hard.

Does the 2025 Orbit Ultra ride differently than the first version?

Yes, and you’ll feel it right away if you’re already familiar with the original Orbit Ultra.

The 2025 model rides like a more connected, more deliberate version of its predecessor. It still loops aggressively, still rips you into the sky, and still feels razor-sharp on the bar, but now it holds shape better in gusts, gives you a cleaner catch, and feels less twitchy at the edge of control.

Here’s how riders at Elite Watersports described the difference:

More Confident Catch in Loops
The original Ultra sometimes left riders guessing mid-loop, especially in squally conditions. The 2025 model snaps into the catch phase with more stability, even when overpowered. It feels like it wants to help you land clean, rather than just survive the loop.

Cleaner Boost-to-Float Transition
Older Ultras had a slightly more aggressive vertical yank, but they sometimes lost tension at the apex. The 2025 version floats longer, glides more predictably, and gives you extra time to spot your landing or tweak a grab.

Less Feedback Lag in Gusts
With the refined canopy and frame, the new Ultra gives faster feedback in gusty water. Riders at Skyway Bridge noticed it didn’t flex or chatter as much when edging through chop, it stayed smooth and responsive under pressure.

Same Explosive Power, More Control
The DNA of the Ultra hasn’t changed. It’s still a kite built for big air, fast loops, and progression in strong wind. But where the first version felt raw and twitchy at times, the 2025 update adds refinement. You get the same power, with fewer surprises.

If you’re used to the original Ultra and loved how direct it felt, the new version won’t disappoint. But if you found the first model a little too sharp or unstable in gusts, the 2025 updates might fix the very things that held you back.

 

How does the Orbit Ultra feel on the bar and in kite loops?

One of the first things you notice with the Orbit Ultra is the direct bar feel. The Aluula frame stiffens the kite so much that every input you make translates instantly into movement. There’s no mush, no delay, just a clean connection that makes the kite feel like an extension of your body.

For riders who live for loops, this matters. The Ultra dives aggressively, then catches you with authority. You don’t get that sinking “is it going to catch?” feeling. Instead, it rockets you into the loop, delivers a heavy pull mid-arc, and then slings you upward with a fast, confident catch. The feedback is sharper than the Orbit Classic and more explosive than the Pro.

In testing sessions at Tampa Bay’s Skyway Bridge, the Ultra handled gusty 25+ knot conditions without hesitation. Loops that would stall on a heavier kite completed cleanly, with the canopy holding its shape and driving forward. That stiffness means it doesn’t deform under pressure, the kite keeps flying like it wants to pull you into orbit.

• What this translates to in real riding:

• Direct response → You feel connected in high-speed loops

• Explosive yank → Stronger mid-loop pull than the Classic or Pro

• Confident catch → The kite recovers fast, reducing sketchy landings

• Loft and glide → Even after the loop, it carries you with extra hangtime

This isn’t the kite for someone still learning how to steer through a transition. It’s for riders who already know the timing of a loop and want more speed, more pull, and more confidence when going all-in.

If you’re chasing progression in megaloops or backroll kite loops, this is where the Orbit Ultra shines brightest.

Is the 2025 Orbit Ultra worth upgrading if I already have the 2023 version?

If you’re riding the 2023 Orbit Ultra (or even an early 2024 build), you might be asking: is the new 2025 Orbit Ultra really different, and is it worth the upgrade?

Here’s the honest answer: if you’re pushing loops in 30+ knots, riding overpowered, or logging heavy hours on your current Ultra, the 2025 version is worth it. It’s not a totally different kite, but it solves real issues riders noticed in the first release. Canopy soft spots, catch inconsistency in gusts, and durability concerns have all been improved without changing the core feel of the Ultra.

The 2025 model rides more controlled under pressure. It still boosts huge and loops fast, but now it feels more stable in squalls and delivers a cleaner, more confident catch. If you’re trying new tricks at height, that added control makes a difference.

 

Upgrade if you:

• Ride in storm conditions regularly (25+ knots and up)
  

• Loop hard and want a faster, more reliable catch
  

• Notice your older Ultra softening or deforming over time
  

• Want better build quality and durability for long-term use
  

Stick with your 2023 Orbit Ultra if you:

• Ride mostly in mellow wind (15–25 knots)
  

• Don’t loop aggressively or ride overpowered
  

• Still feel your current kite is crisp and responsive
  

• Just upgraded in the past 12 months
  
  

If you’ve put in a season or two on your first-generation Ultra, the 2025 updates are going to feel like a cleaned-up version of what you already love. The ride is smoother, the catch is more precise, and the durability fixes mean you’ll get more consistent feedback as the sessions pile up.

This isn’t just marketingit’s real feedback from Florida riders who tested both. At Elite Watersports in St. Pete, we’ve had riders launch the 2023 and 2025 Orbit Ultras back-to-back at Skyway Bridge. The consensus? If you’re chasing storm sessions or megaloop progression, the newer model gives you just enough edge to be worth the switch.

Still on the fence? Book a demo and try the 2025 Orbit Ultra in the same wind you ride every week. That’s the best way to answer the upgrade question for yourself.

 

How high and how long can you fly on the North Orbit Ultra?

The defining feature of the North Orbit Ultra is how it changes your time in the air. From the moment you send it, the kite responds with a vertical acceleration that feels sharper and faster than anything most riders have experienced. It’s not just about the height, it’s about how cleanly the kite carries you to the top and how confidently it holds you there.

In real sessions on the Tampa Bay coastline, riders reported a clear difference in hangtime compared to their everyday setups. The Orbit Ultra’s Aluula frame and refined canopy tension mean the kite holds its aerodynamic profile even under max load. That translates into a more efficient climb and a smoother glide at peak altitude. Instead of sagging or bleeding off lift, the Ultra suspends you, giving you those extra seconds to spot your landing, throw a board-off, or just enjoy the view.

What makes this possible:

• Lighter frame reduces drag, so the kite accelerates upward faster.
  

• Rigid structure keeps the canopy stable at max power.
  

• Micro-Strut design channels wind more efficiently, boosting lift.
  

This is where big-air riders will notice the most progression. Whether you’re chasing personal height records or practicing extended board-offs, the Ultra gives you more airtime to work with. And in Florida’s gusty wind patterns, that consistency matters, you get the same confident loft whether you’re powered in 20 knots at Skyway Bridge or stacked in a 35-knot squall.

For riders pushing their limits, the Orbit Ultra delivers the kind of hangtime that turns normal tricks into slow-motion moments.

 

Can beginners or intermediates handle the North Orbit Ultra?

The Orbit Ultra is not built for learning the basics. Its responsiveness, stiffness, and sheer power are tailored to riders who already know how to boost and loop with confidence. That doesn’t mean you need to be throwing double megaloops to fly it, but you should be comfortable edging hard, sending your kite aggressively, and handling fast pull through transitions.

Here’s what riders at Elite Watersports in St. Petersburg experienced during demo sessions:

• For beginners: the Ultra feels twitchy and overpowering. The direct bar response leaves no margin for sloppy input.
  

• For intermediates: if you’re working on controlled boosts and basic loops, the Ultra will challenge you, but it can also accelerate your learning once you’re past the fundamentals.
  

• For advanced kiters: this kite becomes a precision instrument. It rewards timing, edging technique, and commitment with explosive results.
  
  

If you’re just getting started, the smarter path is to book a kiteboarding lesson and build your foundation first. A forgiving freeride kite paired with professional instruction will set you up for long-term progression without the frustration that comes from fighting too much kite too soon. Once you’ve got your first boosts and transitions locked in, that’s when the Orbit Ultra starts to make sense.

It’s not about gatekeeping the kite, it’s about matching the right tool to the right stage of your progression. Think of the Ultra like a high-performance race car: thrilling in the right hands, but not what you hand someone on day one of driver’s ed.

The takeaway: if you’re already landing solid boosts and feel ready to push into storm sessions, the Orbit Ultra is the kite that will open that door. If you’re not there yet, Elite can help you get there with lessons and gear setups designed for progression.

 

What wind range does the North Orbit Ultra perform best in?

The Orbit Ultra thrives when the wind turns on. During demos in Tampa Bay and at the Skyway Bridge, the kite consistently showed its sweet spot from 20 knots up through the mid-30s, and it held composure even when gusts pushed far beyond what most riders would consider comfortable.

Here’s what that means in practice:

• 20–25 knots → The kite feels lively but manageable. This is where you’ll start sending higher jumps with noticeably more float than your standard setup.
  

• 25–35 knots → The Ultra enters its prime. Loops become explosive, jumps skyrocket, and the hangtime feels endless. This is the range where riders chasing progression will get the most out of the kite.
  

• 35+ knots → Storm mode. At this level, the stiff Aluula frame really matters. Instead of buckling or deforming, the kite holds its shape and keeps driving forward, giving you control in conditions that push lesser kites to their limit.
  
  

Florida kiters know how unpredictable wind can be, seabreezes one day, squalls the next. That’s why the Ultra’s stability across such a wide range is a big deal. You don’t need to swap kites every time the forecast jumps; the Ultra is built to stay solid whether you’re cruising in steady 20 knots or holding down a squall at the Skyway.

It’s worth noting: the kite’s efficiency means you can size down in heavy conditions without losing the boost you’re chasing. Riders who normally reach for a 12m in 20 knots may find that a 10m Orbit Ultra feels just as powered, but with faster response and cleaner loops.

Bottom line: if you’re a big-air rider in Florida, the Orbit Ultra covers more of your season than almost any kite on the water.

 

How does the Orbit Ultra perform in real Florida windlight or storm?

Not every day in Florida is a storm-chasing mission. Most riders spend their time in the 20–25 knot seabreezes that roll across Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast. But when squalls do hit, the wind can jump from 22 to 35+ knots in a matter of minutes.

So the question becomes: does the Orbit Ultra really work across that full range?

The short answer: yes. And in both types of conditions, it gives you something useful.

In everyday 20–25 knot seabreezes, the Orbit Ultra feels smooth, efficient, and easy to control. It rewards precise edging and clean sends. The lightweight Aluula frame means the kite flies deeper in the window without sagging, giving you better vertical lift and sharper boosts, even when the wind isn’t cranking.

Here’s what local riders at Elite Watersports noticed during mellow sessions:

• Boosts feel sharper → even moderate sends launch with more height
  

• Bar feel stays crisp → no sluggishness, even on long sessions
  

• Hangtime improves → more glide time for board-offs or slow grabs
  

• Efficiency saves energy → less drag = longer, smoother sessions
  
  

But when the wind picks up, this kite really comes alive. Florida storm sessions are messy, gusty, unpredictable, and demanding. This is where the 2025 Orbit Ultra separates itself from most big-air kites.

In 30+ knots and gusty squalls at Skyway Bridge, riders reported:

• Gust absorption → the Aluula frame holds its shape instead of ballooning
  

• Loop consistency → the kite drives through full arcs and recovers clean
  

• Confidence under pressure → you know exactly where the kite is mid-loop
  
  

Unlike heavier kites that fold, twitch, or deform when nuked, the Ultra stays locked in. It doesn't mute the power, it just channels it more cleanly. That means you can commit to big sends and aggressive loops without wondering if the kite will be there when you need it.

So whether you’re carving through buttery seabreeze at East Beach or timing loops in 35 knots off Fort De Soto, the 2025 Orbit Ultra delivers. It’s the rare kite that feels alive in mellow wind, and doesn’t flinch when the storm hits.

 

Does the North Orbit Ultra change how you train and progress?

The Orbit Ultra isn’t just a kite you ride, it’s a kite that changes how you approach training. The extra height, hangtime, and loop power don’t just make sessions more fun; they open the door to tricks you might not have attempted on a heavier, slower kite.

Here’s how it impacts progression:

• Extended Hangtime = More Trick Attempts
  With the Ultra suspending you longer, you get extra seconds to try board-offs, rotations, or handlepasses. That extra airtime is the difference between bailing mid-trick and riding it out clean.
  

• Direct Feedback = Faster Learning Curve
  The stiff Aluula frame makes the kite’s response immediate. When you pull too hard, sheet too much, or mistime a loop, the feedback is instant. That clarity helps you correct mistakes quicker and lock in the right muscle memory.
  

• Confidence in Storm Conditions
  Knowing your kite will catch you even in 30+ knots builds trust. That confidence lets you push further, looping lower, sending higher, and going for tricks that felt out of reach before.
  

• Session Efficiency
  Riders often say the Ultra gives them “more progression in one storm session than a week of freeride.” That’s because every jump, every loop, and every mistake comes with clear feedback and more hangtime to adjust.
  
  

At Elite Watersports, we’ve watched riders step into the Ultra and immediately expand their trick list. Not because the kite does the work for them, but because it gives them the tools, airtime, and confidence to push further.

If your goal is progression in big air, loops, or storm riding, the Orbit Ultra doesn’t just meet you there. It accelerates the process.

 

Which Orbit model is right for you in 2025?

North now offers three distinct versions of the Orbit platform, the Orbit, Orbit Pro, and the Orbit Ultra, and choosing the right one depends entirely on where you are in your riding and where you want to go next.

At Elite Watersports, we’ve tested all three in real Florida conditions, from mellow seabreezes to gusty 35-knot squalls. Here’s how they compare and who we recommend each model for in 2025:

Standard Orbit – Best for Confident Intermediates
This is the most accessible version of the Orbit lineup. It has the same five-strut stability and vertical boost the kite is known for, but with more forgiving handling and smoother power delivery. It’s a great choice if you’re upwind consistently, starting to land jumps, and want to step into big air without being overwhelmed.

Go with the Orbit if you:

• Ride mostly in 15–25 knot conditions
  

• Are learning to boost and loop with control
  

• Want a stable, forgiving canopy to progress on
  

• Prefer easier relaunch and smoother steering
  

Orbit Pro – For Riders Already Looping and Going Big
The Pro takes the standard Orbit and sharpens it. You get a lighter build, faster kite speed, and quicker loop initiation. It’s made for riders who are already boosting high and want to transition into more advanced tricks like rotations, board-offs, and late-loop landings.

Choose the Pro if you:

• Are confidently jumping and looping in powered wind
  

• Want faster steering and more forward pull in loops
  

• Don’t need as much adjustability or low-end range
  

• Ride powered most of the time (20–30+ knots)
  

Orbit Ultra (2025) – For Advanced Riders & Storm Progression
This is the highest-performance version in the lineup, and the 2025 model takes everything a step further. With the Aluula frame, triple ripstop canopy, and refined bridle layout, it loops hard, catches clean, and holds shape even in messy storm wind. This kite rewards commitment.

Ride the Orbit Ultra if you:

• Are consistently riding in 25–35+ knots and overpowered conditions
  

• Want the fastest loop and highest jump potential
  

• Need a kite that won’t collapse or fold mid-loop
  

• Are working on WOO scores, storm riding, or technical board-offs
  

Quick Summary:

• Orbit = forgiving progression platform
  

• Orbit Pro = loop-friendly and competition-tuned
  

• Orbit Ultra (2025) = storm specialist and big air progression tool
  

Still not sure? That’s where a demo comes in. Book a test session through Elite Watersports and fly each model back-to-back at the Skyway or Fort De Soto. You’ll feel right away which one fits your riding style best.

 

North Orbit Ultra FAQ

How much does the North Orbit Ultra cost?

The Orbit Ultra sits at the premium end of the North lineup because of its Aluula frame and reinforced canopy. Pricing varies slightly by size, but you can expect it to cost significantly more than the standard Orbit or most freeride kites. The investment reflects the advanced materials and performance benefits, if you’re a big-air progression rider, it’s built to last seasons of heavy use. For the latest pricing, check the North Orbit Ultra product page or stop by Elite Watersports to see available sizes in stock.

 

How does the 2025 Orbit Ultra compare to the 2023 model?

The 2025 version rides smoother, loops more predictably, and holds its shape better in gusty or overpowered conditions. It still delivers the same explosive lift and aggressive feel the Ultra is known for, but with more refinement and long-term durability. If you loved the original but found it twitchy or softening over time, the 2025 model will feel like a cleaned-up version with better control.

 

Are the 2m line extensions worth using on the Orbit Ultra?

Yes. Adding the included 2m extensions can transform the feel of your session. Longer lines increase your hangtime window, giving you extra seconds to throw tricks and spot landings. In Florida demo sessions, riders consistently noticed higher jumps and longer float when extensions were added. For storm riding or hangtime-focused tricks like board-offs, they’re a must-try.

 

Will the QR system help if my kite drifts away?

Absolutely. North added QR-code registration on the Orbit Ultra’s wingtip. When you scan and register your kite, it logs ownership details. If your kite ever gets separated from you, you have proof of ownership ready to show. It’s a small detail, but a huge peace of mind when you’re riding crowded beaches or traveling with your gear.

 

What size Orbit Ultra should I ride in Florida?

It depends on your weight, style, and the local forecast. For Tampa Bay seabreezes in the 18–25 knot range, many riders prefer the 10m Orbit Ultra for balance between lift and control. When storms roll through and winds push into the 30s, stepping down to an 8m keeps the kite fast and manageable. If you’re unsure, Elite Watersports can help size you correctly, or better yet, book a demo and feel the difference firsthand.

 

Is the Orbit Ultra good for storm riding?

Yes. The Aluula frame was designed to handle gusty 30–40 knot conditions without losing shape. At Skyway Bridge, demo riders reported that the Ultra stayed locked in where heavier kites buckled. If storm sessions are part of your progression goals, the Ultra is built for exactly that environment.

 

Can I use the Orbit Ultra for everyday freeride sessions?

You can, but know that this kite is tuned for progression. In 20-knot seabreezes, the Ultra still delivers sharp boosts and efficient glide, but it feels more aggressive than a freeride kite. If you like the idea of every session being a chance to push higher, it’s perfect. If you prefer cruising and learning, a more forgiving kite is better suited.

 

Do I need a different bar for the Orbit Ultra?

No, the Orbit Ultra is compatible with North’s Navigator control system, the same bar used across their lineup. However, riders pushing for big air often tune their bar with line extensions or different line lengths for trick variety. Elite can help you set this up during your demo or purchase.

 

How durable is the Orbit Ultra in saltwater and Florida heat?

Salt and sun are tough on any kite, but the Ultra’s triple ripstop canopy and reinforced seams are designed to hold up under pressure. Regular rinsing and proper storage are key, Elite recommends a freshwater rinse after saltwater sessions and keeping the kite dry before packing. With basic care, the Aluula frame and canopy will last longer than traditional constructions.

 

Is the Orbit Ultra worth upgrading to in 2025?

If your focus is big air, loops, and storm riding, yes. The Orbit Ultra’s stiffness, light weight, and hangtime advantage make it one of the most progression-oriented kites available today. If you’re still building fundamentals, it’s smart to wait. But for riders ready to step into the next level of performance, upgrading in 2025 makes sense.

Still deciding?

Book a demo at Elite Watersports and feel the difference between Orbit models in real Florida conditions. Whether you’re chasing storm sessions or smooth progression, we’ll help you find the right fit.