This kite is a 4x4, pretty good for most riders needs and wants. The 2008 Evo was a tractor with great relaunch and big range. It's evil gruntiness scared the hell out of a lot of people; self included. My humble opinion is that North got the design bang on in 2009 - it's not the same kite, whatever the name.

The 09 and '10 evos are fast, stable, easy to handle, great bar feel and easy to relaunch. Good in gusts and better with 4 lines. Tough enough to withstand bad beginners and badder waves.

Bad points: Personally I think the graphics suck on 09 and 2010 Evo's. No big deal there. The 2010 version feels a tiny weeny bit stickier. Watch out for the 2010 plastic bladder tags - they can be a pain, same goes for the elastic cords at the tips - might be a good idea to cut those off. North extras and goodies not really up to standard. No big deal there either, but it might help.

The Evo is powerful - less than the Fuse, but more so than many kites in its class. If I lived in a more wavey spot I'd probably go for Evo's, but I've stuck with the Fuse for this year. I get bigger air with less effort, the Fuse is a lazy rider's kite, whereas the Evo needs work - which is fun too sometimes. Basically I steal my girlfriend's Evo when I feel like a change. I don't reckon you need a bigger kite than a 9m or 10m Evo - probly best with 9. Probably, next to the Fuse, one of the most underestimated kites on the market. I'd like to try it alongside a Takoon Furia and/or Best Kahoona - probably in the same league. Hope this helped.