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AIRUSH Union
Sizes Available: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16m
Sizes Tested: 7, 9, 10m

Airush Says:

By starting from scratch with the all-new kite model for 2016, the Union sets out to unite the key freestyle characteristics of the Razor with the key characteristics of our industry leading Wave kite and the freeride abilities of the Lithium.

The next generation Dyneema Load Frame takes the biggest innovation in kite construction to a whole new level and is combined with the Technoforce D2 by Teijin, for the ultimate mix of durability and lightweight performance. For wave performance, this optimised weight is essential for improved drift stability, while the load frame makes all the difference when additional durability is required. The result is a superbly balanced kite that excels in the broadest range of conditions, satisfying your demands no matter what the discipline.

Visit for more info: www.airush.com/2016/kites/union/

Our Testers Say:

“Great handling – easy and fast,” Rob Shea.

“Boosty and stable. I got my biggest air on this!” Ross Danielson.

“This kite really comes alive in the higher range,” David Gordon.

Meet the 2016 TKB Test Team.

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TKB Says:

The Union is new for 2016 with a 3-strut medium/higher aspect shape on a C-shaped platform with swept back wingtips that Airush is marketing as a freestyle capable freeride crossover. The Union features a large flow Boston valve that requires the larger inflation nozzle for a quick inflate, three steering settings on the wingtip that allow the rider to adjust for Bar Pressure and two settings on front bridle with three pulleys. The Union uses Airush’s “Dyneema Load Frame” to add rigidity and long term durability to the canopy but this year the reinforcements are noticeably narrower than years past. Testers gave the Union high praise for its light to medium bar pressure and crisp steering response as well as noticeably bigger boosting power than the Lithium. The Union’s steering arc is broader than the pivot style steering of the Lithium, but overall very quick turning and lively feeling with good depower. The Union relaunches well, but not quite as quick as the Delta-shaped Lithium. Testers recommend the Union as an excellent choice for the rider that wants a kite for hooked and unhooked freestyle as well as wave riding and general freeriding.

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Airush sent us their feature rich Progression bar to test with our Union kites. The Progression is a dual adjustable length bar with 45/52cm adjustable bar ends. It’s got 24m flying lines (with 10m and 14m extensions) a PU coated sheeting/throw line, sliding stopper, single center-line safety depower and a low V that allows for a quick single line flag or self land. Two above bar depower handles (more power/less power) keep the depower strap within the rider’s reach while a push away quick release with integrated swivel that doubles as a quick release guard is on the bottom end. The center lines end in a knot and the outside lines end in loops. While the PU coated sheeting/throw line offers durability and longevity, the length of sheeting/throw cannot be adjusted. The color coded floats are attached to the durable rubber molding encased bar tips for a softer bar end and the outside leader lines allow riders to adjust the length of the outside lines for stretch or tuning. The depower extensions handles worked flawlessly and the grip strikes a nice balance between grippy texture and medium plushy grip.

Visit for more info on the bar: https://www.airush.com/2016/kites/progression-bar/