2026 Switchblade Design Works
High-performance freeride with ALUULA precision.

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The benchmark in surf.
For over a decade, the Drifter has defined what it means to ride waves with freedom. Unmatched down-the-line drift, lightning-fast response, and effortless control have made it the reference point for anyone chasing the perfect wave.
For 2026, that legacy continues. Built with the upgraded Airframe inflation system and with refined construction throughout, the Drifter is smoother, stronger, and more consistent than ever before.
While its DNA is rooted in surf, the 2026 Drifter pushes beyond the wave. With exceptional pop, predictable bar feel, and confidence inspiring landings, it’s also become a favorite for strapless freestyle progression taking riders to the top of the podium.
From barrels to big airs, full rail hacks to strapless rotations, the Drifter is the ultimate tool for riders who want to surf, fly, and freestyle without compromise.
3-strut, moderate aspect ratio hybrid design. Chopped surf/drift wing tip design.

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TRUE FEEL
Direct and responsive steering allows you to put the Drifter where it needs to be and focus on the wave or the trick you are doing.
COMPACT BRIDLE
The short static pulley-less bridle ensures the ultimate in reactivity and control.
SLACKLINE DRIFT
A term that the Drifter brought to the market, and many have tried to emulate. Focus on the wave ahead, safe in the knowledge that the Drifter kite will drift with you down the line.
WAVE TOUGH
Like any Cabrinha kite the Drifter comes packed with features to give you the freedom to push your limits whether its 1 foot or 50ft.
SMOOTH AS SILK
Precision craftsmanship and assembly allow the Pure Form Panels to crate the cleanest entry to the kite to date.
RAPID POWER CONTROL
Every wave is different, and to maximize your time on them you need to have the ability to power on and off at will.
Wind/Weight Chart
| Size | 5m | 6m | 7m | 8m | 9m | 10m | 11m |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind Range in Knots (75kg rider) | 21–36 | 19-34 | 17–33 | 16-32 | 14–30 | 13-28 | 12–27 |
| Weight of Kite (kg) Without Bag (Tolerances may vary) | 1.78 | 1.98 | 2.18 | 2.37 | 2.57 | 2.77 | 2.94 |

ULTRA HT
An Apex series product from the CAB Design Works Team. Developed exclusively for kite leading edges, this is a strong, stable, and exceptionally responsive material. Ultra HT reduces the weight of the leading edge and struts while boasting incredibly low elongation and response. A unique and proprietary coating process increases durability and performance unlike anything you have felt before.

TEIJIN D2 RIPSTOP CANOPY
Engineered to provide a lightweight material with exceptional bias control and recovery, the Teijin D2 Material works hand in hand with the Ultra HT material on the Apex kites to provide the next level in performance and reactivity.

BULLET PROOF BUMPERS
These new Durable TPU bumpers are strong, lightweight and durable. They crossover protecting the canopy to LE sewing. A new manufacturing process helps with abrasion when the kite is resting on a hard surface.

2026 AIRFRAME
A single point inflation system engineered for simplicity, durability, and global compatibility. Its streamlined design ensures quick setup and pack down, delivering the reliability and confidence to perform in any condition.

APEX BRIDLES
Cabrinha's new apex bridles are thinner and have lower elongation that optimises efficiency and steering. The reduced diameter lines increase airflow efficiency as airflow passes between the lines.
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High-performance freeride with ALUULA precision.
The Switchblade Design Works is for the rider who seeks increased performance in a confidence inspiring design.
Ideal for the freeride twintip kiter, who has ambitions to take their jumping to a new level, riding more powered up, jumping with more consistency. This rider is looking for a kite that helps them push harder and progress to new levels without punishing small mistakes.
For kiters who already know and trust the Switchblades unmatched flying qualities and feel, the full Aluula frame of the Switchblade adds a further level of responsiveness, efficiency and high end control.
The introduction of the Vert-X Bridle provides even more choice in how the kite flies, allowing riders to choose between the Unify High-Y or Low-V configuration to fine tune handling characteristics and overall ride feel.
Versus Standard Switchblade:
The Design Works version maintains the Switchblade DNA with a focus on stability, wind range, easy jumping, and predictable landings. But the full Aluula frame adds a lighter, stiffer, more responsive feel, leading to better efficiency, faster reaction, and improved performance at both the low and high ends of the wind range.
Versus Nitro / Apex Nitro:
The Nitro may reward expert riders with higher peak performance when perfectly timed, but it requires more precise technique to extract it. The Switchblade Design Works is the ideal choice for most riders who want to jump higher more consistently and land with more control. It is is step closer to the high performance big air area, while remaining easier and more forgiving.
Versus Moto Apex:
The 3 strut Moto Apex is lighter, and very versatile, providing better value for riders who who ride in different styles and conditions. The Switchblade Design Works is for the true twin-tip freerider who wants more structure, increased wind range, better support when overpowered and jumping.
Versatile all-around freeride.
Stable freeride progression
Big air and kiteloop performance.
Wave and foil drift.
Light wind efficiency.


