Which Core Kite should I get?

Choosing the right Core kite is about knowing what each model is built to do, and how that lines up with the way you actually ride. At Elite Watersports, we’ve had a chance to test the full Core lineup with Aaron McClearnon, and this page breaks down every model in plain terms, no tech manual talk, no brand hype, just real feedback from on-the-water sessions in Tampa Bay. We’re been working with Core for a long time and they are a great partner. We often host demos, get early access to products and spend a lot of time with our rep Mike and Eric Reinstra who are both great friends. For more info of "Why Elite rides Core", check our full guide. 

Like most brands, CORE markets all their kites as versatile. And while that’s technically true, each one really shines in a specific category: big air, freestyle, foil, wave, freeride. Once you understand the differences, the choice becomes easy. We’ve found that many riders get confused on where the kites stack up and who they are built for so we decided to make a complete guide to the line up based on what the designer intended but we’ll share our feedback from years of testing. 

This guide covers the full 2025 CORE kiteboarding lineup, from the XR series to the new Pace and dedicated foiling kites like the XLITE. You’ll get a sense of how each one feels, what kind of rider it’s built for, and how they perform in the kind of variable wind we get here in Florida.

We’ve grouped the kites into categories (freeride, big air, freestyle, foil, etc.) so you can scroll straight to the section that fits your riding style. And if you’re local to St. Pete, we’ve got most of these in our demo fleet. Call us, come ride, and see what fits.

Tip from Aaron McClearnon: Don’t overthink it. “The best way to find your kite is to get it in the air.” We run demos, events, lessons and even rentals, so if you’re curious, let us help you test one for real.

You can always call us to chat about it too. We can help you pick just from a quick conversation. 727 800 2202 

Quick Guide: Which Core Kite Should I Choose?

XR8: Your go-to for big air, freeride, and smooth progression. Massive hangtime, easy jumps, rock-solid feel. Perfect for riders of all levels. 

XR Pro: Built for extreme big air and fast, technical loops. Lighter frame, snappier feel, and way more demanding. Advanced riders only. For a full comparison with the new XR Pro 2, check our comparison guide. 

Pace:  Loops, height, and fast turning with a softer touch. The most versatile kite in the lineup right now. Great for progression and crossover riders.

Pace Pro: A tuned-up version of the Pace for mega loops and advanced freestyle. Lighter and punchier. Ideal for experienced riders who want edge-to-edge performance. 

Nexus 4: Surf-friendly, playful, and surprisingly good at everything. Freeride, small waves, light foil sessions. Easy to fly. A favorite for all-level riders who like to mix it up.

GTS6: Classic unhooked freestyle and powered kite loops. Strong bar pressure and explosive pop. Not forgiving, but insanely rewarding if you’ve got the skills. 

Section 4:  A pure wave kite. Drifts down the line, turns fast, and doesn’t yank you off the board. Great for strapless surf and downwind rides. 

XLITE 2: The foiler’s kite. One strut, ultra light, minimal drag. Butter-smooth and efficient in light wind. Great for beginners and seasoned foilheads alike.

Impact:  CORE’s 5-line C-kite. No bridles, no compromises. Built for wakestyle and park riding. This is a pro-level kite. If you’re not looping unhooked, skip it.


Core XR Series 

XR8 & XR Pro – Big Air Power + Freeride Ease

What makes the XR Series a go to? The XR is CORE’s five-strut freeride powerhouse. If you’ve ever seen someone casually float into orbit on a sheet-and-go boost, it was probably this kite. The XR8 is built for huge lift, glide, and comfort , ultra stable in gusty wind, ultra easy to ride upwind. The XR Pro takes the same platform and turns it into a competition-level big air weapon. Lighter. Stiffer. Faster.

Both have that unmistakable CORE feel,  crisp bar feedback, locked-in tracking, and tons of hangtime. But they serve different riders.

Who is the XR for?

Ride the XR8 if you want a kite that practically flies itself. It’s great for progressing into big air without sketchy handling. You’ll go higher than you think, stay up longer than expected, and come down soft.

Choose the XR Pro if you already loop hard and want to jump higher, faster, and in stronger wind. It’s not for beginners. The extra speed and stiffness reward an experienced pilot , and punish lazy input.

Aaron calls the XR8 “the confidence builder”, ideal for riders learning to boost or trying tricks higher off the water. But the XR Pro? “That one’s for sending it. No questions.”

Crossover & Wind Conditions

  • Jumping: Both fly high, but the XR Pro loops better and climbs faster.

  • Handling: XR8 is more relaxed. XR Pro is twitchy, direct, and ultra reactive.

  • Relaunch: Both are excellent.

  • Waves/Foil: Not ideal. These are height machines, not drifters.

We fly these kites all the time in Tampa Bay when the breeze fills in. They’re built to hold shape in gusty Gulf wind and give you confidence to edge harder and ride powered.

Read also : Core XR Pro 2 Review.

Core Pace Series Pace & Pace Pro

Loops, Lift, and All-Around Performance

What is the Core Pace for? The Pace is CORE’s answer to the modern do-it-all kite with big air DNA. It bridges the gap between the XR and the Nexus,  fast turning, responsive handling, and legit boost and jumping power. It’s a 3-strut platform with a high aspect canopy and a short fixed bridle. That combo makes it loop clean, jump high, and feel lively on the bar.

3 strut kites became popular around 2016 and really blew us away. At the time, 5 strut was king and it was believed that any less meant a loss of quality. Since they riders have gravitated towards them for the playful feel. They have only got better in the past decade and we’re really happy with our choice in stocking Core. They are German engineers and sometimes they go overboard with details but to be real, that's a good thing for the rest of us. 

  • Pace (Dacron version): Playful, grunty, and surprisingly user-friendly. Great for riders who want one kite to grow with.

  • Pace Pro (Aluula): Same shape, but lighter, stiffer, and more aggressive. Think: competition-grade mega-loop weapon.

Both Paces turn quicker than the XR, drift better in waves, and offer more feedback than the Nexus. They’ve already started to replace the Nexus for many of our team riders and locals here.

Who is the Pace for?

Choose the Pace if you want progression with personality. This kite loops well, boosts high, and still feels forgiving. Aaron described it as “the XR’s hangtime with the Nexus’s quick turnin.

Step up to the Pace Pro if you’re chasing the edge. The Pro is CORE’s first fixed-bridle Aluula kite,  sharp, explosive, and ultra-efficient in powered conditions. It’s not for beginners, and it needs the Sensor 4 bar for full safety function.

In Aaron’s words: “The Pace is the kite I’m recommending most right now. It’s that good. And the Pro, it’s a beast. One of the best loop kites I’ve flown.”

Crossover & Conditions

  • Big Air: Check. The high aspect and Aluula frame on the Pro deliver serious height.

  • Loops: Both loop beautifully. The Pro loops harder and catches faster.

  • Unhooked: Surprisingly capable. You get some slack for freestyle progression.

  • Waves: Not ideal for pure surf, but drifty enough for downwinders and strapless sessions.

For Florida riders who want one kite to ride strong wind, loop, and still cruise, the Pace is quickly becoming the go-to. We expect to see this kite replace the Nexus as the default pick for high-performance all-rounders.

Want the head-to-head details? Read our CORE XR Pro vs Pace Pro | Big-Air Kite Comparison for a full breakdown of how each kite performs, who they’re built for, and which one fits your Florida riding style.

Core Nexus 4

The Best True All-Around Kite in the Line

What is the Nexus 4 for?
 This is the kite for riders who mix it up, waves, freestyle, freeride, strapless airs, light foil days. If you want one kite that can do it all and do it well, this is the one from Core. 

The Nexus has always been CORE’s jack-of-all-trades, but v4 is lighter, faster, and better tuned than ever. It’s a 3-strut Future-C shape with a thinner leading edge and updated CIT bridle settings. You can dial it into wave mode, freestyle mode, or an all-round setting depending on your ride.

It doesn’t drift like the Section. It doesn’t boost like the XR. But it does everything pretty well, and that’s the point.

Why we like it:

  • Quick turning

  • Clean drift

  • Great bar feedback

  • Wide wind range

  • Easy relaunch

If you’re not riding one specific way every day, the Nexus makes sense. Especially for traveling or Florida riders who deal with variable wind and changing surf.

Who is the Nexus for?

If you’re the type who wants to ride waves in the morning, throw a few loops mid-day, and maybe hit a foil session when the wind drops, the Nexus is built for you.

Aaron calls it the “quiver killer,” and we’ve seen a lot of riders here switch to the Nexus because it just makes life easier. No need to own three kites. Just pick your mode and go ride.

It’s also a solid progression kite for intermediate riders. Not as grunty as the XR, not as aggressive as the GTS, it hits the middle. Great feedback, soft landings, and plenty of range to grow into.

For directional riders who jump, freestyle riders who dabble in waves, or foil riders who want one kite to keep in the car, this is the move.

Crossover & Conditions

  • Waves: Good drift and fast turning, especially in CIT wave mode

  • Freestyle: Approachable for unhooked tricks, handles loops well

  • Freeride: Rock solid, playful, and stable

  • Foil: Light enough for mellow foil sessions

If you want a one-kite quiver that won’t let you down, the Nexus 4 earns its spot. For many of our St. Pete riders, this kite just works, day in, day out.

 

Core GTS6

The Kiteloop Machine

What is the GTS6 for?
 This is CORE’s loop-and-send freestyle kite. 3-strut, open-C shape, ultra short bridle. Fast, powerful, and built for riders who want to throw down , hooked or unhooked.

The GTS has always been about loops and freestyle control. Version 6 keeps that DNA but adds better drift and faster steering thanks to lighter struts and ExoTex upgrades. It loops hard, catches reliably, and stays stable during passes.

If you want a kite that pulls like a truck during loops but still stays predictable, this is it.

Why we like it:

  • Tight, fast loops

  • Explosive pop

  • Smooth catch

  • Unhooked slack

  • Predictable feel

It’s aggressive but not wild. You can tone it down with CIT settings or crank it into full freestyle mode when you're ready to go big.

Who is the Core GTS for? This one’s for riders pushing freestyle and megaloops. If you’re doing S-bends, passes, board-offs, or experimenting with downloop landings, grab the GTS. Personally this is one I would pick this one from the line up for myself. I tend to gravitate towards kites that ask something from the rider. If you’ve been riding a few seasons, you’re really missing out if you don’t give a kite like this a chance. Defo hit Aaron up for a demo to expand your horizons. 

Aaron calls it “the one that pushes you.” You’ll go further, loop bigger, and stay in control. The bar feedback is sharp, the pull is clean, and the kite doesn’t fold or freak out when you edge hard.

Like I said, it’s not for beginners. The power delivery is snappy and it doesn’t have the auto-pilot feel of the XR or Nexus. But for advanced riders or intermediates stepping up, this is the tool. Auto pilot kites are money for first or even second year riders. Some never grow out of them. Others find the “Stick Shift kites” and they can’t go back. 

It also works for strapless freestyle and wave crossovers , tight loops and better drift make it a sleeper pick for directional riders who throw tricks.

Crossover & Conditions

  • Loops: Best in class

  • Freestyle: Full slack and pop for unhooked

  • Waves: Quick, drifty, and fun in small surf

  • Cruising: Works fine, but not built for mellow rides

This kite wants to be ridden hard. And if you answer the call, it rewards you. We’ve seen more riders in Tampa Bay start looping with confidence on this kite , the GTS6 gives you the guts, the catch, and the control.

What is new in the the CORE GTS6? Read our dedicated guide for this kite. 

Core Section 5

Pure Wave Performance (and Foil-Friendly)

What is the Section 5 for?
This is Core’s pure wave kite. Lightweight, drifty, and built to disappear when you’re on a wave face. It’s fast, reactive, and depowers instantly when you don’t need it.

The Section 5 is a 3-strut Future-C shape tuned for surf. Thinner leading edge, fast pivot, ultra clean drift. You ride it like it’s not even there, until you need it, and it’s exactly where you expect.

It’s also a favorite for foilers who want something more responsive than a single-strut kite.

Why we like it:

  • Floats downwind with slack lines

  • Snaps through tight turns

  • Fast water relaunch (huge in surf)

  • Light bar pressure

  • Built to stay out of the way and stay in control

Aaron tested it in real Florida surf and said it best: “This kite just knows what to do. It doesn’t fight you. It drifts, it turns, it relaunches , everything just clicks.”

Who is the Core section for? Wave riders, period. If you’re riding strapless, chasing down-the-line surf, or doing surfboard airs with the kite sheeted out, the Section 5 is what you want. It’s made for surfing, not boosting.

For foilers, it’s also a great option. It drifts well, doesn’t overpower, and stays stable when the apparent wind shifts mid-jibe. For downwind foil runs, this kite is money. To be honest I prefer wave kites when I kite foil. About 5 years ago I was experimenting with single and no strut kites but the drift, the stability and the maneuverability of a wave kite just feels right i my hands. I find them the optimal tool for my style of Foiling. You really should book a demo to try try yourself. 

While it’s not built for jumps. Not a freestyle kite. If you’re a twin-tip rider this can be a fun kite but its not going to match the other models in twin tip performance. You can however use it to learn underpowered kite loops, shred in a light hearted playful way and many old school riders prefer them. The shape is reminiscent of kites we used back in the day but far better so that tracks. 

Crossover & Conditions

  • Surf: Best in class. Turns fast, drifts forever.

  • Foil: Excellent. Light, stable, and quiet on the bar.

  • Freeride: Passable, but not the point.

  • Jumping: Soft, floaty lift , not a boost machine.

This kite is for people who want to focus on riding the wave, not flying the kite. If you’ve ever felt like the kite is yanking you off the lip or pulling you out of position, the Section fixes that.

We’ve had great foil sessions with it too, especially when chasing light wind swell. It’s stable, easy to control, and lets you flow.

Check out our full CORE Section review for more details. This review breaks down how it performs in real Florida conditions, who it’s best for, and why progressing strapless riders choose it over all-around kites like the Nexus. 

Core XLITE 2

The Foiler’s Favorite

What is the XLITE 2 for?
 This is Core’s dedicated foil kite. One strut. Ultra light. Quiet in the sky. Built for riding in 6–12 knots. It’s not flashy, and that’s the point.

The XLITE combines drift from the Section and canopy balance from the Nexus, wrapped into a single-strut package that floats in nothing and stays stable when you’re carving or transitioning. This kite isn’t trying to boost. It’s trying to stay in the sky when nothing else will. Fun for the right says but not our favorite for cranking strong winds. Our hard core foilers sometimes take the Section out for nuking days on the kite foil where they are on a 4m. The extra struts seem to help with our strong north winds at Skyway. But when its light this kite is one of the only weapons we can seem to get out on. 

Why we like it:

  • Flies in 6–8 knots

  • Smooth steering

  • Light bar feel

  • Great drift for foiling

  • Stays overhead, even when flagged out

This is a foil kite for  foilers, it’s  not a crossover. Don’t buy it for twin-tipping unless you just want to mow the lawn on big sizes. But if you're foiling often, this is something you should consider. 

Who is the Core XLITE for? Foilers. Period. If you’re riding in light wind and want a kite that stays up while you flow through jibes, tacks, or downwinders, this is your kite. It’s quiet, responsive, and doesn’t yank or surge.

Aaron loves it for early lightwind sessions in Tampa Bay. “It flies in nothing. Drifts like crazy. Just lets you focus on the foil.”

Beginner foilers will like the forgiving feel. Advanced riders will appreciate the quick handling and stability when pushing tricks.This kite makes foil progression feel easier. More confidence. Less fighting the kite.

Crossover & Conditions

  • Foiling: Best in class

  • Lightwind: Excellent , sub-10 knots is its home

  • Freeride: Meh. Playful but soft on a twin tip

  • Waves: Usable, but not its job

We’ve tested this in thermal puffs, early morning glass, and borderline foil days. If you want to ride more and stress less, get on the XLITE. It’s the simplest way to turn “maybe” days into “yes” sessions.

 

Core AIR & AIR Pro

Lightwind Twin Tip Kites


What are they for? These are lightwind-specific kites designed to keep twin tip riders on the water when most people are sitting on the beach. Not foil kites. Not crossover freeride models. Just pure low-end machines built to make the most out of sub-14-knot days.

  • AIR = Dacron frame. Heavier but durable and price-friendly.

  • AIR Pro = Aluula frame. Ultra-light, noticeably snappier, and way more efficient in light air. It climbs better, loops tighter, and drifts more naturally downwind.

Both kites deliver early power, smooth acceleration, and stable drive in light conditions. The AIR Pro just does it with more finesse.

Why we ride them

  • Pulls like a truck in 10–12 knots without feeling sluggish

  • Turns tighter than you’d expect from a lightwind kite,especially the Pro

  • The AIR Pro loops cleanly without yanking you off your edge

  • Gets big guys planing early without upsizing to a 15 or 17

These kites don’t just keep you upright,they give you real session power. We’ve had riders on the Pro looping in 12–14 knots while everyone else is mowing the lawn or switching to foils.

Who are they for?

  • AIR: The go-to for everyday riders who just want more sessions

  • AIR Pro: For aggressive lightwind freestylers or riders chasing marginal wind performance. It’s also a killer travel kite if you want to pack light and cover more wind range with fewer sizes.

We recommend the Pro to intermediate-to-advanced riders who want a lightwind kite that doesn’t ride like a log. If you’re still dialing in basics, start with the AIR.

Crossover & Conditions

  • Freeride / Twin Tip: 100%,that’s the core use case

  • Foiling: Skip it. Too much power, not enough drift.

  • Big Air: AIR Pro loops, but not made for megaloop progression

  • Waves: Not ideal,too much surface area and sluggish in surf

These kites are session-savers in Florida. When the wind’s barely touching whitecaps, the AIR series gets you going without switching to a foil setup. Especially in spots like Tampa Bay or Sarasota where seabreezes tease but don’t always deliver, these kites fill the gap.

If you’re chasing max ride time and don’t want to mess with foiling or bigger board volume, this is your weapon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Core Kites

What size Core kite should I get?

It depends on your weight, wind range, and riding style. For most riders in Florida, a 9m and 12m quiver covers 80% of sessions. Bigger riders or lightwind zones may want to add a 14 or AIR kite. Foilers can drop into the 5–8m range. Call us if you want a clean size map,we’ll dial it in for your weight and local wind.

Which Core kite is best for beginners? 

Start with the Nexus 3 or XR8. They’re stable, easy to relaunch, and forgiving while still giving you room to grow. Don’t buy a C-kite (like the almost c shape GTS or Impact) if you’re just starting out. They’re built for advanced freestyle and require more control.

Can I use a Core kite for foiling?

Yes,especially the XLITE and Nexus. The XLITE is purpose-built for foiling. The Nexus works great too, especially if you want a crossover kite that also rides well on a twin tip. Avoid heavier big-air kites like the XR if you're just learning to foil,they’ll yank you around.

What’s the difference between Aluula and Dacron?

Aluula is way lighter and stiffer than traditional Dacron. That means faster turns, better drift, and easier loops. But it costs more. If you want top-end performance and max efficiency in lighter wind, go Pro. If you’re on a budget or just want durability, Dacron still rides great.

Is Aluula worth the upgrade?

If you care about weight, responsiveness, and looping speed,yes. For freeride, big air, and foil riders, the upgrade is real. If you’re mostly cruising or just getting started, the standard Dacron versions will serve you well for less cash.

Are Core kites good for Florida conditions?

Yes,especially in the 2025 lineup. CORE’s tuning works well in variable wind. The XR8 and Nexus 3 handle gusts cleanly. The AIR and XLITE are great for low-end days. And the Pace is surprisingly fun when the wind fills in. We’ve tested every kite right here in Tampa Bay. Check our full guide "Why Elite Watersports Chooses CORE Kiteboarding for Florida Riders" to know Why Elite rides Core. 

Want to Try a Core Kite for Yourself?

We ride everything we sell. If you’re in the Tampa Bay area, come test a Core kite in real Florida wind. Whether you want to loop a Pro model or cruise on a Nexus, we’ve got the demo gear and on-the-water knowledge to match you to the right kite fast.

Call us at 727-800-2202 or stop by the shop. We’ll talk you through the options, get you set up for a session, or book a lesson to help you get dialed in.