We realize some people feel it is suited more for indoors because it may feel delicate. The micro carbon rods used in the frame are quite resilient and the flexible tips help absorb gust when you do fly it in wind. We have even had customers tell us they flew their Skate in 15mph of wind. Although we don’t encourage this, the kite will take it.
Hunter & Paul
Focus Kite Designs
www.focuskites.comNew Website Online Now!!
As the one who told Paul I was flying mine in 15 mph winds (just ask Shawn Tinkham about my "product testing"
) I can attest to the durability of the Skate. It isn't as fragile as some here believe it to be. It handled the winds and gusts with gusto. (I know, lousy pun:
) As far as the fabric, any kite fabric will endure some wear and tear in sand. Just check out the 1.5 oz fabric and heavy dacron LE material of a Thor's Hammer after regular beach flying. After all, the primary ingredient of sandpaper is?
Beach, grassy glen, indoors - the Skate can handle all of them - but like any kite it will take it's hits regardless of where it is flown. Now if you expect it to last forever and remain pristine - the best solution is to not fly it at all.
But that's no fun.
We were supporting an event for the city of Norfolk, VA over the 4th of July weekend and Sunday was rainy with very light winds. The Skate was the only kite we could keep in the air. I flew an Urban Ninja in calm conditions at another event and it was a great flyer as well. When the winds are in the 1-6 mph range, I fly my Blue Moon 61/49. These are all great no/low wind kites that have individual personalities, so don't let the acquisition of one prevent you from trying the others.
