Comparison of FLYSURFER Sonic5 vs. Soul4 kites

Looking for a closed-cell foil kite and not sure whether the Sonic5 or Soul4 is the better choice for you? Here’s how to decide which kite suits you best. The Flysurfer Soul4 and Sonic5 are designed for slightly different riders, and their differences reflect these distinct target groups.

Emil and Oscar from the German FLYSURFER team took the two new kite models out on the water and compared their performance in terms of launching, handling, jumping, and foiling. The verdict? The Soul4 is a more accessible companion for everyday riding, while the Sonic5 is aimed at more experienced riders who know how to unlock its full potential.

FLYSURFER Soul4

FLYSURFER Soul4 builds on the previous generation without any major changes to its aspect ratio, but it features several practical improvements. Two deflation valves make packing easier, while a reinforced trailing edge and more robust line attachment points promise greater durability.

The main difference, however, becomes apparent on the water. The Soul delivers more pull and more pronounced bar feedback, allowing riders to feel where the kite is even when they are not looking at it. Its handling feels more intuitive, making the transition from a conventional inflatable kite easier.

And it is certainly no lazy couch potato. The Soul delivers solid performance and pleasant drift, making it a good choice for freeride foiling, too. It is also more stable and, when the lines lose tension, is more likely to recover rather than collapse unexpectedly.

FLYSURFER Sonic5

FLYSURFER Sonic5 has a higher aspect ratio, and speed is one of its greatest strengths. It climbs upwind more aggressively, generates more upward lift, and builds serious momentum during loops. These characteristics are particularly appealing to experienced riders who want to get the most out of their kite.

However, higher performance comes at a price. Faster flight also means more technically demanding takeoffs and landings, requiring better control of line tension and the entire jump sequence. The Sonic also demands more precise handling and can be more prone to collapsing when the lines lose tension.

The Sonic has a lot to offer, but riders need to know how to get the most out of it.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you are new to foil kites, want to expand your wind range, or are looking for a versatile kite for everyday riding and foiling, the Flysurfer Soul4 makes more sense. It offers a combination of performance, stability, and ease of handling that suits a wider range of kiteboarders.

The Flysurfer Sonic5, on the other hand, is the choice for more experienced riders looking for greater speed and dynamics who can harness its potential while keeping it under control.

The verdict? Not everyone needs the fastest rocket on the market. Sometimes, it is better to have a kite that lets you ride to the fullest without having to fight it all the time.

Ciao, Leguan