@ Dave,
I have been flying Swithkite from the beginning.
Yes l am/was a so called teamrider.
I have flown flysurfer/ozone/swictch even tested some Zian kites, just to give you an idea.
The longest l flew Ozone kites, then l made the "Switch" to Switchkites, and l never regretted till this moment.
I had method v1 element v1 13m and now own a range of methodv2 plus their v2 controller bars.
Yes the method v1 had barpressure, in gusts they flew way into the edge of the window returning when the gusts were over, but you got used to both, the v1 controller only depowerd when qr pulled on 2 frontlines( like many others)
The first element 13m did not suit me as it was not flying far enough into the edge of the windwindow, which was perfect for the twintip guys, but not for people like me who only fly/use directional boards.
But this was the past the early beginning, now you can find high end kites at switchkites, that are 200% on par with all the topbrands, and where Switchkites is standing above the major brands is in their finishing, communication, ease in solving problems...try this on one of the major brands to be in direkt contact with one of the owners, who for years repaired kites from all brands, sold kites and so on, be in personal contact with the designer who will if he can advice you and explain you, be in touch with one of the top waveriders who will advice you in case of doubt!
This is what Switch is a lets say human company that sell topnotch kites that nowadays fly as well as any other top brand if not better, the price is right and they stand behind their customers!
Do not be afraid to ask them your questiosn, or to order if no teamrider in your area, you can always return the kite within 30 days, so where is the danger?
Do you know any other producer who sends you a new kite?
Read the return policicy send them an email with your questions, contact them with skype, and you will get an impression with the people you are dealing with!
And for every brand, you have people who will try to bash a brand..out of their ''bad'' experience, but is is difficult to do well for everyone.
Maybe have a view here one of the major testsites in Germany even tested Switchkite Nitro and bar ( english version)
http://gleiten.tv/index.php/video/actio ... gd0j90&/1/
Good luck
Dude