The Ozone Catalyst V3 Kite
Ozone’s very popular and well renowned Catalyst now in its third incarnation
New for the V3, the Catalyst has changed from a 3 strut more delta-shaped kite of in the V2 to now being a single strut lightweight kite with an open arc canopy shape which has been derived from the incredibly successful Ozone Alpha V2. The Catalyst V3 builds on this single strut design with new materials to create a stronger kite with a more direct feel.
Some of the biggest steps forward in the kite industry has come from all around materials and Ozone on the Catalyst V3 are now using Teijins Technoforce Triple Ripstop for the canopy and Triple Ripstop Dacron for the leading edge, strut and other areas requiring added strength such as wingtips. This triple ripstop Dacron material is not only 15% stronger, it’s also noticeably lighter and has a unique Ultraflex coating for added stability and improved aerodynamics.
There is a simple bridle system connected to the leading edge on the front lines and backline pigtails are all colour coded ensure easy set up and no mistakes.
Ozone’s new higher volume one pump system using the industry standard Boston Valve makes for even faster inflation and set up times and the whole package comes in a stylish bag with a comprehensive repair kit, manual and a free bottle opener !
In the air the new shape and lightweight design of the Catalyst V3 will get you going in the lightest of breezes.
There is great feedback through the bar using the V4 Ozone Contact bar through and the kite is direct and quick doing exactly what you want with no lagging or stalling whilst the steering is relayed up and through the lines.
One thing to be said of all Ozone kites is smoothness in flight and the Catalyst V3 has built on that. The kite is forward flying without being too fast and in gusty winds, the kite behaves perfectly with slight lulls being caught and no sudden surges of power.
There is a huge usable wind range with the Catalyst V3 kite. The low end can easily be countered by some enthusiastic diving of the kite before powering off once the apparent wind kicks in and heading to the top end the kite still feels completely safe with no real difference in feel. There is good depower/trimming available through the cleat on the V4 Contact Bar, which is very easy to use.
The great user friendly appeal of the Catalyst V3 will see the kite out on beaches all over the place with both beginners reaping the benefits and also foilers taking advantage of its nimble handling and massive lightwind usability too.
Once the basics are mastered, the Catalyst V3 has some surprising performance by way of floaty jumps. Not only does this allow the rider to unlock their next stage of their kiting with ease but it also lends itself very well to learning some of strapless freestyle or general freestyle tricks to mix up your riding.
Water relaunch is super easy and Ozone have made this process as stress-free as possible by adding 2 red balls on the outside/steering lines on the bar end leader lines, which you simply need to grab hold of and let the kite move back to 9 or 3 o’clock, where the kite will await further input. This can also be employed to turn the kite for a “flip launch” in low winds.
Ozone have created a kite that is not only phenomenally user friendly but is also fun and intuitive with enough performance to see you well on your way into the world of freeride tricks. For those just starting out, or those who want a lightweight travel or foil companion, the Catalyst V3 is a rare kite that satisfies all of your needs in one.
Want to read about the Ozone Enduro V3? Read here.
