Zam said..tvesurf said..Zam said..tvesurf said..Zam said..tvesurf said..
Searched the internet but cant find any direct comparisons on the low end of the fly vs the firefly. Anyone that has experience with both and can say something about the low end of both wings?
i've got both the fly 3 pro and firefly pro. the feeling when you pump is quite different - the fly pro has more pull-and-go power, and more backhand pull for sure.
the way you pump both wings is not the same. the firefly needs more technique and finesse to generate the same power. but this is because the fly pro is exceptionally easy to pump and get going with.
i rented the non aluula fly once, and the feeling was about the same.
Thanks, that helps a lot already. Im wondering if this is still relevant for the 2026 range. According to NP the firefly is now the allrounder suitable for all levels and the fly iv now the 'performance' wing.
Im on the fence between the regular models (not the pro) and looking for something with good low end that creates good lift even when slightly underpowered.
I've held the 2026 Firefly pro (both my wings are 2025). the biggest difference is that they changed the positioning of the wings in the range. the 2026 Firefly Pro now no longer has aluula in the tips. So it's pure aerotex or whatever its called. This made the wing relatively heavier than last year's model. I can't tell you how the on-water feeling is different. To be completely honest, there isn't a massive difference in feeling between the Fly Pro and Firefly Pro (they feel very similar, but the Fly Pro goes upwind faster and higher, plus the differences I mentioned). But if they've stuck to the same design brief, the Fly should have better low end than the Firefly, which might appeal to your use case. If you're not sure about the 2026 ones, get the 2025 models on discount. They're very good wings, and my only gripe with them is that they aren't autopilot tacking wings like some of the other brands.
What I personally can't figure out is that in the GWA slalom races, one of the better French women's riders is using the Firefly Pro to race and not the Fly Pro, and it's been performing well compared with more premium competitor wings. Neil Pryde/JP have nobody of real note on the men's side.
The 2025's are unfortunately not an option at my local shop as the distributor doesnt have any stock in the sizes i want to get. As i'm usually just freeriding in light wind or riding in waves i think the firefly will best suit me. I found a review on a dutch website on the 2026 firefly stating that it has a strong low end and requires little pumping to get going:
ridersguide.nl/product/neilpryde-firefly-iv-2026/ Can't wait to hear your experience - good luck!
I personally love the performance of my 2026 4 m. Firefly (Dacron). Now waiting for the 5 m. I’m not sure if the stitching will be better but I will check in a couple of months. However, I am so far satisfied with the shape, ease of handling, and good power. I personally didn’t feel to pay extra for the pro version considering minimal weight difference.
Review by Foiling Magazine on the 2026:
www.thefoilingmagazine.com/test-center/neilpryde-fly-iv-pro-firefly-pro/
Using 2x4 woods help me to transfer force much better with mallet hitting the mast. You may hurt yourself if the tail comes forcefully with your system.