Cabrinha Drifter Apex 2027 – The Kite Surf Kite That Defined a Category
Category: Performance Surf / Freestyle Surf
Series: Apex 2027
Sizes: 5m – 6m – 7m – 8m – 9m – 10m – 11m
Colors: C3 • C4
Description
The Drifter has always been the go-to choice for those seeking an uncompromising kite surf kite. Designed for performance surf and strapless freestyle, it offers the best slack-line drift in the category, a fast and responsive turn, and predictable handling, so you can focus on the wave and not the kite.
Whether you're carving down-the-line, attacking the lip, or landing strapless tricks, the Drifter gives you the confidence and control to take your session to the next level.
Built with Ultra HT Dacron, featuring a Teijin D2 canopy and the latest Airframe Inflation System, the Drifter is a lightweight yet extremely stable platform, with smooth power delivery and precise handling.
2027 new features: the Vert-X bridle allows you to choose between the Unify High-Y or Low-V configuration, adapting the kite's handling to your style and the conditions. From clean point breaks to choppy onshore conditions, from kite foil to strapless freestyle, the Drifter remains the ultimate choice for those demanding drift, precision, and control in every session.
Design Profile
Hybrid 3-strut design with a moderate aspect ratio. Chopped tips optimized for surf and drift.
Technical Features
- Airframe Inflation System
- Teijin D2 Ripstop Canopy: lightweight and high-performance fabric with exceptional durability
- Ultra HT: strong, stable, and responsive material, exclusive to the Apex series
- Slack-line drift for down-the-line surf
- Adjustable Vert-X: compatible with Unify High-Y and Low-V setups
- Pure Form Panels: high-precision wing profile for maximum efficiency
- Single sliding pulley for loose and dynamic handling
- EVA battens on the trailing edge for greater rigidity
- Durable TPU bumpers on the leading edge
- HT140 struts: lightweight and aerodynamic
Key Features
- High or Low V: thanks to the Vert-X bridle, the Drifter flies in High or Low V configuration, depending on your style and the conditions
- Slackline Drift: the term the Drifter brought to the market. Focus on the wave: the kite drifts with you along the line
- Wave Tough: construction designed to push the limits, from 1 foot to 50 feet
- Rapid Power Control: instant on/off power to make the most of every wave
- True Feel: direct and responsive handling to position the kite exactly where you need it
- Versatility: excellent for freeride, surf, freestyle, and foil
Technical Specifications
| Size | Wind range (knots / 75kg rider) | Kite weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 5m | 21–36 | 1.90 |
| 6m | 19–34 | 2.07 |
| 7m | 17–33 | 2.25 |
| 8m | 16–32 | 2.45 |
| 9m | 14–30 | 2.65 |
| 10m | 13–28 | 2.87 |
| 11m | 12–27 | 3.02 |
Who It's For
The Drifter Apex is for the rider seeking the ultimate in kite surf kite design, or a fun kite for recreational foil that easily goes downwind thanks to its incredible slack-line drift. For those getting into kite surf, it offers benchmark bar feel and maneuverability; for experts, it gives the confidence to go out in a wider range of conditions or push strapless freestyle.
Rider Quote
“The Drifter gives me the confidence to forget about the kite and focus completely on the wave. It drifts effortlessly along the line, turns exactly when I want it to, and is incredibly direct when you push hard.”
— Charly Martin
Style Selector
Freestyle: ★★★★☆ (70%)
Freeride: ★★★★★ (90%)
Big Air: ★★★☆☆ (60%)
Surf: ★★★★★ (100% – Core Strength)
Foil: ★★★★☆ (80%)
Care and Maintenance
- Do not leave the kite exposed to the sun for long periods: keep it in the shade between sessions
- Always dry the kite before rolling or folding it
- Rinse the components with fresh water and let them dry before storing them
- Remove sand and foreign objects before storing the kite in its bag, in a clean, dry, and cool place
- Do not place heavy objects on the bag
- Do not leave the kite inflated in the car or in the trunk: extreme temperatures can damage the internal bladders
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
What has changed compared to the Drifter 2026?
The main new feature is the adjustable Vert-X bridle with a single sliding pulley, which allows you to set up the kite in Unify High-Y or Low-V configuration. The Ultra HT construction, Teijin D2 canopy, and Airframe Inflation System remain.
High-Y or Low-V – which is better?
It depends on your style and the conditions: the Vert-X bridle is designed precisely to customize the response and bar feel. You can try both configurations and choose the one you prefer.
What bar should I use?
The Drifter 2027 is designed for the Cabrinha Unify system (High-Y or Low-V setup). Contact us to check the compatibility of your current bar.
Is it suitable for strapless freestyle?
Yes. Compared to kites more oriented towards freeride, the Drifter has less aggressive vertical pull, which helps keep the board under your feet and maintain control during strapless tricks.
Can it be used for kite foil?
Yes, it is an excellent kite for recreational foil and downwind thanks to its slack-line drift.
What wind range does it cover?
From 12 to 36 knots depending on the size and the rider's weight (see table, based on a 75 kg rider).
What is the difference between the Drifter and the Moto Apex?
The Moto Apex is an all-rounder that sits further forward in the wind window; the Drifter is dedicated to surf, with superior drift that allows you to "park" the kite and surf towards it.
Is it suitable for those starting out with kite surf?
Yes: the bar feel and maneuverability allow you to focus on the board and the wave. However, it still requires a good foundation in kitesurfing.
What is the difference between the C3 and C4 colors?
Only the graphics: construction and performance are identical.
What is included?
The kite comes with its bag. The bar and lines are sold separately.
ZZZSURF Shipping and Delivery
Buy with peace of mind: with ZZSURF you get your windsurfing, wingfoil, kitesurfing and watersports products delivered directly to your doorstep, anywhere in the UK and most European countries.
Shipping Times
- Italy: Standard delivery in 24/48 business hours from shipment for most items in stock.
- Europe: delivery in 2-5 business days depending on the country of destination.
- For islands, remote areas or bulky items (boards, SUPs, foils, rigs, masts and booms) delivery time may vary by 1-2 business days.
Shipping Costs
- Italy: Free shipping on orders over $50. For lower orders, a shipping charge may apply.
- EU countries: Cost starts from €24.90 for orders under €200, the price however may vary depending on country and volume of products. The exact calculation is displayed during checkout.
- For bulky products (boards, sails, foils, SUPs, kayaks, etc.) a surcharge may be required. It will always be clearly communicated prior to order confirmation.
Shipping Methods
- We ship with specialized express couriers (GLS, BRT, DHL, UPS, SDA, etc.), selected according to product type and delivery area.
- All products are packed carefully and, where necessary, with reinforced packaging to ensure maximum safety during transport.
- You will receive tracking via email/SMS as soon as the shipment leaves our warehouse.
Pickup at Headquarters
- You can pick up your orders for free at our ZZSURF warehouse in Gallarate Via Mameli 48 (VA) Italy - Please note this is not a store but a pickup point where orders already placed on the site can be picked up.
- You will be notified as soon as your order is ready for pickup.
Important Notes
- Always check the integrity of packages upon delivery and sign with reserve in case of damaged packaging.
- For any doubt or urgency, you can contact our customer service: info@zzsurf.com or WhatsApp directly from the website
- We also ship to Switzerland and UK: contact us for a customized quote.
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On ZZSURF, operated by Twoside srl, you can choose from several payment methods, all of which are secure and designed to provide you with maximum convenience:
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Major credit and prepaid cards are accepted, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express. This method allows you to complete your purchases quickly and securely.
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With Klarna you have the option to purchase now and pay off the amount later, choosing from various installment options as needed. A credit card is required to complete payment through Klarna. The maximum amount allowed, including shipping costs, is €1,500.
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Paying with PayPal will allow you to make secure and fast transactions without having to re-enter your card information each time. In addition, in some situations, PayPal allows you to split the payment into convenient installments directly from your account.
Bank Transfer:
If you prefer, you can also pay by bank transfer. You will receive all the necessary details when you place your order. Shipment will be made only after verification of receipt of payment.
After placing your order you will need to make the transfer payable to : Twoside srl , IBAN IT74M0326850240052341838010 indicating the order number
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