The 2027 North Orbit is a refinement rather than a ground-up redesign. It keeps the same N-Max2 airframe and 5-strut platform introduced in 2026, but adds updated bridle geometry, a more refined forward-cambered profile, and slimmer, more swept wingtips. The result is a kite that turns faster, feels more direct at the bar, and flies a bit smoother, while keeping the stability and wind range the Orbit is known for.

It’s designed to work across skill levels. Despite its big air pedigree, the Orbit has a reputation for light bar pressure and an easy, forgiving relaunch, which makes it approachable for newer riders. More experienced riders get the added benefit of precise steering and reliable loop recovery for progressing into kite loops and technical big air tricks.

The standard Orbit uses North’s N-Max2 airframe with a 5-point bridle and is built to bring pro-level performance at a more accessible price. The Orbit Ultra steps up to a lighter, more advanced N-U80 airframe with a 6-point bridle, aimed at riders chasing the fastest, most explosive performance and maximum wind range. In short: Orbit for accessible pro performance, Ultra for the most premium, race-tuned feel.

The 2027 Orbit is available in sizes from 6m to 14m. As a rough guide from manufacturer wind range figures: a 6m suits 20+ knots, 8m around 16–35 knots, 9m around 14–32 knots, and 12m around 10–25 knots, with the 14m covering lighter days down to roughly 8 knots. Given how variable UK wind can be, most riders build a two-kite quiver — something in the 7–8m range for blowy days on an exposed UK coast, paired with a 10–12m for the lighter, gustier days more typical inland or in summer. A 9m is often the most versatile single size for year-round UK riding. The right size ultimately depends on your weight, local wind strength, and the type of riding you do most.

The Orbit is built to perform at its best when fully powered, making it primarily a big air and freeride kite for moderate-to-strong wind rather than a light-wind specialist. That fits UK conditions on the coast reasonably well, but riders on inland UK lakes or during lighter summer sessions may want to size up (11–14m) or look at pairing it with a dedicated light-wind kite for those flatter, lower-wind days.