Airush Lithium V14

At TheKiteMag, we have a soft spot for versatile, all-rounder kites. So, when we got the chance to test the latest version of the Airush Lithium, we were pretty excited. The Lithium has been a staple in the Airush lineup for years as their go-to freeride kite, and the newest release marks the V14 edition.

For those unfamiliar with the Airush models, the Lithium is a delta-hybrid three-strut kite with a medium aspect ratio, constructed from trusted traditional materials. The frame is built with Dacron, while the canopy features Technoforce D2, a proven material composed of 2×2 high-tenacity, double-coated polyester yarn. This build ensures durability and performance. While most of the construction remains similar to the V13, a key update in the V14 is the removal of the Dacron trailing edge, replaced by a more streamlined canopy. This change results in significant weight savings, with the 10m kite now weighing just 3kg, down from 3.3kg last year.

We tested the kite across various conditions, from light wind to Big Air and even some foiling sessions. From the first launch, the Lithium felt nimble and responsive. In moderate wind conditions, we immediately noticed how powerful and playful the kite was. Steering is precise and overall; the kite feels very intuitive to fly with low to mid bar pressure. One of its standout qualities is its broad wind range, especially good on the low end, with linear power delivery that makes it accessible to riders of all skill levels. In gusty, unpredictable winds, like those we often experience with Tarifa’s famous Levante, the kite remained solid and composed, handling gusts with ease.

It’s no surprise that many kite schools in Tarifa choose the Lithium for their students. It’s incredibly stable and well-balanced, offering enough power and a super easy water relaunch, making it the most beginner-friendly kite in the Airush lineup. However, don’t think it’s just for beginners; this kite’s performance will satisfy seasoned freeriders too, especially those seeking a kite that’s easy to fly without constantly worrying about its behavior or where the kite is. The Lithium is ideal as a first kite purchase, but it’s also a fantastic progression kite that can take riders from zero to hero.

When the wind picks up, the Lithium truly shines, with excellent lift and impressive hangtime for Big Air enthusiasts. The kiteloops are tight and controlled, allowing for smooth progression in the Big Air category. So, while it’s great for freeride progression with a twintip, we also wanted to see how it performed in other disciplines. In a few sub-10 knot foiling sessions, the kite’s light weight and power allowed us to have plenty of fun, even getting in some jumps in light wind. While drift isn’t the Lithium’s strongest suit, it’s still good enough to let you focus on your board or tricks instead of constantly managing the kite. We also tested it with a strapless board, where it excelled in strapless freestyle thanks to its depower and jumping capabilities. However, in the waves, it doesn’t quite match the performance of dedicated wave kites.

So, who is the Airush Lithium designed for? This kite fills the gap between more specialized models, offering solid performance across nearly every discipline. It’s an excellent first kite for beginners or any rider who loves using a twintip in most sessions but occasionally wants to take out a surfboard or foil. Whether you’re cruising, boosting or enjoying some lightwind foil action, the Lithium delivers a fun, reliable and essentially high performance experience every time.