North Atmos Carbon Review

The North Atmos Carbon is a pretty specific tool and a fun option for a kiteboarder looking to get as much upwind performance and pop as possible. I've had this board for a few months now and I think I have a good feel to break down everything you can expect. I've been using the 139 Atmos, and for perspective my personal go-to is a 147 Slingshot Refraction. The 139 is super small for me but the speed, rocker and outline allow this board to ride upwind as well as, if not better than, my 147.

Feel on the Water

In regards to feel, the Atmos is locked in. Imagine riding on a track. The board is stiff and has no flex points where you might lose energy. I did find if you soften up your edge, you can engage the center of the board and get a more playful feel if you like that in a kiteboard. It takes little to no effort to dig a heel and engage the channels and fins to drive upwind, lock the board in, and pop for a big jump.

If you check out the bottom of the board, you'll notice the center is free of channeling while the tip and tail does have channels. These do help lock in the board, but they also disperse the water in a way that helps break up the chop and allows you to get more speed out of the board. The Atmos has a more traditional feel and you can tell it's stiff on the water. The response and pop are extremely noticeable and make a big difference. The kiteboard is actually made for extremely overpowered conditions, but I found it works well in light wind as well. All the big air attributes make this a versatile tool for both scenarios.

Who this kiteboard is for

I think the Atmos is a great tool for a kiteboarder looking to get as much air as possible and ride upwind with maximum efficiency. It's not the most playful board, but if you lighten up on the edge, it can surprise you.

Who won't like this kiteboard

Anyone who has knee or back issues might find it a bit too stiff. Anyone who likes a really playful board will find the Atmos too performance-minded.

My personal take

I'm using this board to round out my personal quiver. I have a larger, slower, wakestyle board with boots and I keep the Atmos for the days that I want to mix things up and ride straps, boost big in high wind or even as a light wind tool when I need the extra speed.

Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic

Many people dream of quitting their job, traveling the world and pursuing their passions. Rygo is one of those people who pulled the trigger. A few years into his career, he decided to change everything and travel as a kiteboarder, freelance videographer & writer. His mission is to share the stoke & help people put the boarding into their kiteboarding. Get outside and kite!

#Instagram

Producer of: Ride with Blake I Sessions I Versus I Destinations I Foil Fridays