In addition to the Chimera Standard Model, which is available in ten sizes, the board is also available in a hollow construction, known as the Chimera NVision. This is available in four sizes (68/78/88/108 litres).
On land
The Chimera NVision does not have an EPS foam core; instead, the load is borne by stringers and a thicker shell. This results in a weight saving of around 2–2.5 kilos compared with the standard construction. This weight saving is reflected at the till – at 2,999 euros, the NVision version costs a whopping 1,250 euros more than the standard version (1,749 euros). If water does get into the hollow construction, it can easily be drained out via a screw at the stern. The size we tested, with a volume of 88 litres, is quite elongated at 6’3’’ (190.5 cm) in length. Due to the design, there is no carrying handle; however, if you have long arms, you can still tuck the narrow board under your arm. A fairly thin but grippy pad has been glued to the deck; footstraps can be fitted into the plugs, but are not included in the scope of delivery.
On the underside, the substantial bevels (chamfered edges) immediately catch the eye, making the hull significantly narrower than the deck. A very long foil box has been fitted, which is positioned quite far forward overall.
On the water
You hardly notice that the Chimera is slightly longer and narrower than other mid-length boards when you step onto it, as the longitudinal axis is always well stabilised when the foil is mounted, Thanks to its generous length of 6’3’’, the board is also beautifully stable in the water around the transverse axis, and any mistakes in weight distribution are generously overlooked when getting going. Overall, this elongated board delivers excellent take-off performance; it converts pumping energy directly into forward thrust and exhibits no annoying drag when getting going. Once airborne, the board feels extremely light and agile underfoot, with its low weight having a thoroughly positive effect here. However, combined with its narrow width, the Naish Chimera NVision does require a bit of finesse to fly in a controlled manner; wider boards offer advantages in this respect. When we tested the standard version with a capacity of 108 litres, we weren’t 100 per cent happy with the touchdown behaviour. The smaller version, built using the NVision design, leaves nothing to be desired in this respect, however, as the outline appears somewhat more harmonious overall, particularly at the front. If you happen to lose your grip or hit a choppy wave on the cross, you’ll be gently guided back up without the board slowing you down too much.
The board also performs exceptionally well during manoeuvres and when riding swell: its greater length is offset by its low moment of inertia, making the board feel more compact than it actually is. This means there’s nothing to stop you from executing fluid manoeuvres and tight turns whilst downwind.
Naish Chimera NVision – the verdict
The feather-light Chimera NVision impresses in light wind conditions with its very early take-off. This makes it a hit both in calm inland spots, when used with large wings, and when downwind, in combination with nimble foils. To fly this narrow-profile kite with ease, you should have moved beyond the beginner level and be able to perform basic manoeuvres confidently. Anyone keen on jumping a lot or even freestyling will probably opt for a more compact model anyway; apart from that, the lightweight construction isn’t really suited to such manoeuvres.
Take-off, agility
Suitable for beginners
No carrying handle
Naish Chimera NVision – technical specifications
- Test model: Naish Chimera NVision 88
- Length: 6’3’’ (190.5 cm)
- Width: 22.7" (53.8 cm)
- Weight (measured by us, excluding straps): 4.20 kilos
- Volume: 88 litres
- Available sizes: 6’0’’x68 // 6’1’’x78 // 6’3’’x88 // 6’6’’x108 litres
- Contents: Board
- Price: 2,999 euros
- Info: Visit the website
- Special features: Also available in a standard design
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf