2012

LAUNCHPAPER 200110609

DESIGN & PROCESSING

2012

URS HUNGERBHLER HEAD DESIGNER

DESIGN & PROCESSING

In 1897, company founder Douwe Gaastra was just 22 years old when he designed his first wind powered weapon. It was not about money. It was for the love of sport, his passion for the water and the confidence that he could make something better. Gaastras motivation remains the same after 114 years; Enthusiasm for the sport, respect for natures forces and the ambition to deliver the best product available. These particular genes are at the heart of Gaastra and push the whole team with ideas to break new ground. For us it is a labor of love, every single detail is noticed to create game winning designs as best as humanly possible. We know one basic, the water will not tolerate lazy compromise. When Gaastra first introduced a kite on the market in 2001, it was clearly ahead of its time. Today, the progress in development in comparison to the early days is not so obvious. It is the fine tuning , the huge wind range, safety and top of the line quality that makes Gaastra kites stand out from the rest! We have tested the 2012 Gaastra kite collection around the world in all water conditions and we are sure it meets our high expectations. The year 2012 marks our most well-engineered products to date, without question. To guarantee the promise of having the best kites on the market, we have built a new factory to manufacture our own kites so that we can have ultimate quality control. Every single step is under our watchful eye: from the first ideas about the tailoring and testing of prototypes to the final setup and production. Everything comes from one source. Our worldwide team tests these products constantly until we are absolutely satisfied with the final result. It is not the easiest process but the only one to be sure to have the best products for our passion as well as yours. We are proud to be Gaastra! Come be part of it!

Quality by Gaastra
Design Quality:
Head designer Urs Hungerbhler is the mastermind behind our kite development. Being Swiss, he is just the perfect mix of theory and practice. During his mathematics studies, he was flying in the international paragliding competition scene. Early on, he designed his own kites on the basis of his practical experience and his own mathematical understanding. He tested them all himself and learned a lot. This long-standing background enables him to design all Gaastra Products 3D-based having perfect accuracy. Frills and gimmicks are not an option. Each new idea must convince him for the long term. You can rest assured Urs works hard to get the job done! All his designs not only look good, they are proven on the water before they can enter the market.

Processing Quality:

Our own Gaastra factories are the birthplace of all our products. Only the finest and best materials are used. The philosophy behind this is simple: monitor all production steps and check the resulting products to meet our high standards of quality, only then will the kites leave the factory.
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2012

RANGE OVERVIEW

Hatch2.

SLE KITE // Usability Cross Over

Size: 3 - 5 - 7 - 9 - 11 - 13

Jekyll5.

SLE KITE // Maximum Performance

Size: 5 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10.5 - 12 - 14

Bar System X.

4 or 5 Line System

Vane.

TWINTIP // Freestyle

Suspect.

TWINTIP // Cross Over

Xenon.

TWINTIP // Freeride

Surfkite v2.

DIRECTIONAL // Wave

Apace.

DIRECTIONAL // Freerace & Lightwind

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HATC

H
USABILITY CROSS OVER SLE KITE /KITES/2012/HATCH2

2 MERCILESS GOOD ALL-ROUNDER

DESIGNER: URS HUNGERBHLER STANDARD: 4 LINE BAR SYSTEM

freeride race speed wave freestyle wakestyle learning

100 80 50 80 90 100 100

% % % % % % %

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [

] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Logic V Bridle System Speedpump 2.0 Full Dacron Frame 2.0 RNEH Profile NACA0018 Profiles in the Tips High Quality Materials Bullet Proof Construction High Contrast Look

THE HATCH WILL ASTOUD YOU, WITHOUT OVERWHELMING YOU!

Huge power reserves combined with total control make the Hatch2, the most user-friendly package of all time. Quick and easy to assemble, the high quality workmanship and easy relaunch are standards for designer Urs Hungerbhler. What makes the Hatch2 stand out from the crowd is an uncompromising user experience on the water, coupled with anything but a boring character. The Hatch2 comes to life when you realize the sheer power it has. Together with the balanced flying characteristics and the absolutely safe handling in any situation, it guarantees quick success. And it does not matter if you are a beginner or pro- the Hatch2 is the best tool for endless fun on the water. Put it to the test and you will see!
Model Windrange Struts recom Bar ( ktn ) ( pcs ) width ( cm ) 25 - 40+ 20 - 36 17 - 32 14 - 26 13 - 22 10 - 19 5 5 5 5 5 5 46 46 46 46 52 52 Flat Area
( m2 )

Proj. Area
( m2 )

Proj. Span
( cm )

Proj. Height
( cm )

Flat AR 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2

Proj. Proj. Area Flat AR Ratio ( % ) Wingspan

( cm )

Hatch2 3.0 Hatch2 5.0 Hatch2 7.0 Hatch2 9.0 Hatch2 11.0 Hatch2 13.0

3.0 5.0 7.0 9.0 11.0 13.0

2.04 3.38 4.72 6.07 7.41 8.75

206 266 324 367 405 449

121 157 189 215 239 265

2.09 2.1 2.21 2.22 2.23 2.3

67.30 67.30 67.25 67.21 67.12 67.10

364 470 557 630 696 758

2012
RIDER: LEO ROSE & CLINTON SANTILLAN LOCATION: KITE BEACH, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: TIM HENDRICS

Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose Location: Langebaan, South Africa Date: 25.02.2010 11:07 Photo: Tim Hendrics Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0

Jekyl
SLE KITE

L
MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE /KITES/2012/JEKYLL5

5 DON`T STOP ME NOW!

DESIGNER: URS HUNGERBHLER STANDARD: 4 LINE BAR SYSTEM

freeride race speed wave freestyle wakestyle learning

80 100 100 100 80 70 80

% % % % % % %

[ ] Optimized LE for aerodynamic performance [ ] Logic V Bridle System [ ] Speedpump 2.0 [ ] Full Dacron Frame 2.0 [ ] ANMP Profile [ ] NACA0018 Profiles in the Tips [ ] High Quality Materials [ ] Bullet Proof Construction [ ] High Contrast Look

THE JEKYLL GIVES YOU AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF SPEED AND POWER IF YOU LET IT! HANG ON!!!
For five years now, Urs and his team have been working on the Jekyll. The impressive result gives speed, power and performance in a high-end kite. It is not for PROs only but caters to less experienced riders as well. The quick response time combined with direct response to the angular momentum make for a perfect flight companion. Grab one and you will not want to give it back!
Model Windrange Struts recom Bar ( ktn ) ( pcs ) width ( cm ) 21 - 40+ 19 - 38 18 - 35 16 - 29 15 - 25 12 - 23 8 - 19 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 46 46 46 46 52 52 52 Flat Area
( m2 )

Proj. Area
( m2 )

Proj. Span
( cm )

Proj. Height
( cm )

Flat AR 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

Proj. Proj. Area Flat AR Ratio ( % ) Wingspan

( cm )

Jekyll5 5.0 Jekyll5 7.0 Jekyll5 8.0 Jekyll5 9.0 Jekyll5 10.5 Jekyll5 12.0 Jekyll5 14.0

5.0 7.0 8.0 9.0 10.5 12.0 14.0

3.65 5.10 5.82 6.56 7.63 8.67 10.2

321 380 409 431 465 499 536

158 189 199 211 230 245 265

2.82 2.81 2.8 2.79 2.75 2.71 2.71

72.33 72.03 71.92 71.80 71.73 71.71 71.65

499 592 634 672 726 776 837

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2012
RIDER: NIR COHEN LOCATION: BIG BAY, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: TIM HENDRICS

Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose Location: Langebaan, South Africa Date: 25.02.2010 11:07 Photo: Tim Hendrics Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0

Bar System

X FACTOR R+D: URS HUNGERBHLER & TIM HENDRICS /BAR/2012/BARSYSTEMX

[ ] New Quick Release for highest safety level possible [ ] Independent Depower- / Adjuster Range setup (Shiftadjuster) [ ] 4 or 5 Line Setup usage [ ] 46 or 52 cm bar width [ ] 21 + 3 m flying lines [ ] Meets the DEFAULT SETUP (All lines same length, when full power) [ ] Eurocord lines for best performance and low stretch [ ] Iglidur G Washer in swivel for lowest friction [ ] FSE Ocean 3000 Depower rope: [ ] Bullet Proof Construction [ ] High Contrast Look

COMPLETE NEW DESIGN FOR THE MOST VERSATILE BAR SYSTEM OF THE WORLD
The new Bar System X from Gaastra is designed for precise flight control and safety. After extensive research and development the whole team tested it for more than a year every day and put every last little tiny detail under the microscope. The result is a technically perfect system, packaged in a cool yet almost alien like look. Based on the proven functionality of the Bar System v9, with innovative ideas and attention to detail the complete system was massively revised by the team. The result is the Gaastra Bar System X that can be set up on almost any kite! QR: A quick glance and you will see the new Quick Release (QR). A marvel of technology, it is made to give the pilot the confidence that it is fully there at the crucial moment and will work without any problems, no matter what! To ensure this, the ingenious mechanism works completely without typical moving parts. Magnets ensure that the QR is closed. This provides absolute security against accidental opening, but at the same time ensures that in all circumstances it will release when needed! Everything under control? If the QR gets triggered, the difficulties dont stop in most other bar systems. Two problems typically occur: The safety line has wrapped itself while driving around the root line. Even if the safety line is free, it is a possibility that the kite is not really unable to fly. Not so with the Bar System X! Both problems master the Bar System X with ease. Thanks the horizontal separation in the Bar and the QR Swivel head the complete systems is always cleaned up and remains completely free. No line is tangled to another. To ensure the maximum performance of the Swivel, it is mounted on a high performance Iglidur G washer for lowest friction possible. As in the previous Bar System v9 of Gaastra the kite is unable to fly after the quick release is triggered!
SPECS / MODEL BAR WIDTH ( cm ) DEPOWER RANGE ( cm) ADJUSTER RANGE ( cm) LINES ( number ) POWER LINE LENTH ( m ) STEERING LINE LENTH ( m ) ROOT (500kg) LINE LENTH ( m ) SAFETY LINE (yellow) LENTH ( m ) POWER LINE END ( technique ) STEERING LINE END ( technique ) 5TH LINE END ( technique ) POWER LINES ( color ) STEERING LINES ( color ) 4 Line System 46 - 52 50 30 4 15 + 3 21 + 3 6 ~6.80 knot loop blue white / black 5 Line System 46 - 52 50 30 5 15 + 3 21 + 3 6 ~6.80 knot loop loop blue white / black

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RIDER: URS HUNGERBHLER

2012

LOCATION: HAAKGAT, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: TIM HENDRICS

Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose Location: Langebaan, South Africa Date: 25.02.2010 11:07 Photo: Tim Hendrics Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0

Van

E
/BOARDS/2012/VANE FREESTYLE

HIGHLY EXPLOSIVE! R+D: TIM HENDRICS NEW SCHOOL TWINTIP Accessories: Fin details: [ ] Pro Pads [ ] Ergo Straps [ ] Handle [ ] Fins 4 x 5 cm fins in G5

TWINTIP

[ ] Precise flex pattern for highest performance and comfort [ ] Newschool shape and outline [ ] Wider stance options [ ] Pad Technology glass base and responsive EVA layers [ ] Full Wood Core Construction

THE VANE BRINGS YOUR BLOOD TO BOIL WITH UNMATCHED POP AND GRIP
The Vane is the weapon of choice for our team when it comes to take a new-school twin tip out on the water. An explosive board but dont forget its perfect all-round capabilities that quickly and directly take you to the next level. The aggressive edges and incredible pop mixed with state of the art technology from the Gaastra R & D Lab makes the Vane a very versatile board. Shape details: The Flex is precisely tuned for maximum performance without compromising comfort. The Wide Stance option makes the take off and landing quite easy. The reason behind this is the new pad technology: Super grippy EVA layers bonded to a fiberglass layer. Even King Kong cant crack them up! The new-school shape comes with 5 cm deep fins to go upwind easily and at the same time keeps the board loose and soft enough even for the hardest turns. Construction details: Full wood core offers unique flex design and proven durability State of the art technology: lightweight and extremely robust Heavy Duty Metal Inserts

SPECS / MODEL LENGTH ( cm ) WIDTH CENTER ( cm) WIDTH TAIL ( cm) SCOOP ( mm ) WEIGHT ( kg ) * FINS FIN SCREW STANCE OPTIONS ( inside to inside in cm ) STRAP INSERTS ( number of options ) STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm ) RAIL THICKNESS CENTER ( mm ) RAIL THICKNESS TAIL ( mm )
* Estimated Weight

Vane 127 127 38.5 26.6 36.3 2.38 4x 50mm G5 CAD M6 44 3 14 5.0 4.1

Vane 130 130 40.5 28.8 36.5 2.58 4x 50mm G5 CAD M6 44 3 14 5.0 4.1

Vane 133 133 42 29.9 41.8 2.6 4x 50mm G5 CAD M6 44 3 14 5.0 4.1

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RIDER: LEO ROSE

2012

LOCATION: BRANDVLEI, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: FOX

Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose Location: Langebaan, South Africa Date: 25.02.2010 11:07 Photo: Tim Hendrics Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0

Suspec

T
/BOARDS/2012/SUSPECT CROSS OVER

MR. VERSATILE R+D: TIM HENDRICS FREERIDE Accessories: Fin details: [ ] Pads [ ] 3D Straps [ ] Handle [ ] Fins 4 x 5 cm fins in G10

TWINTIP

[ ] Dynamic flex for the best ratio of comfort and performance [ ] Cross Over shape and outline combines Freeride, Freestyle, Cruising and Newschool abilities [ ] Optimized Scoop perfect balance between power & effortless riding [ ] Wood Core Construction

COME WHAT MAY - THE SUSPECT MAKES EVERYTHING EASY

The Suspect is optimized specifically for freeriders, and free riding with a really big range . It glides on very easily and quickly reaches top speeds without significantly sacrificing smoothness. The Suspect is easy to jump and very easy to land. The stretched outline helps to get upwind like a bat out of hell. Shape details: The Dynamic Flex gives you full comfort and full performance. The improved Scoop of the Suspect ensures the ultimate balance between tight sharp turns and wide, loose carves. Construction details: Wood Core for a lot of feedback ABS-edges for highest durability and more grip in the turns Heavy Duty Metal Inserts

SPECS / MODEL LENGTH ( cm ) WIDTH CENTER ( cm) WIDTH TAIL ( cm) SCOOP ( mm ) WEIGHT ( kg ) * FINS FIN SCREW STANCE OPTIONS ( inside to inside in cm ) STRAP INSERTS ( number of options ) STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm ) RAIL THICKNESS CENTER ( mm ) RAIL THICKNESS TAIL ( mm )

Suspect 132 132 39 29.7 32 2.3 4x 50mm G5 CAD M6 44 3 14 10.5 4

Suspect 136 136 40 30 35 2.4 4x 50mm G5 CAD M6 44 3 14 11 4

* Estimated Weight

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Xeno

N
/BOARDS/2012/XENON TWINTIP FREERIDE

SMOOTH CRIMINAL R+D: TIM HENDRICS FREERIDE Accessories: Fin details: [ ] Pro Pads [ ] Ergo Straps [ ] Handle [ ] Fins 4 x 6 cm fins in G5

[ ] Comfortable and fast Soft flex pattern [ ] Cross Over shape and outline combines Freeride, Freestyle, Cruising and Newschool abilities [ ] Wider stance options [ ] Pad Technology glass base and responsive EVA layers [ ] Single Shot Wood Construction [ ] Easy Scoop optimized for easy planning and control

UNBELIEVABLE HOW EASY THE XENON MOVES THROUGH THE WATER

The Xenon is the freeride masterpiece from Gaastra. The shape has been continuously developed and offers exceptionally smooth drivability. The Xenon glides throw the water without you thinking about it. The all-rounder perfect twin tip board! Shape details: We have not yet found anyone to not like this board. Its smoothness impresses ambitious free riders, the impressive speed brings the eyes of the racers to shine and its loose maneuverability is the reason for rapid progress. The Xenon has a wider stance, together with a new rocker that delivers superior upwind performance. The softer flex in conjunction with a new outline and rail shape result in a fast and very comfortable board. For maximum grip the Xenon comes with 6 cm deep fins. Construction details: ABS sidewalls that converge toward the tips, to guarantee perfect grip and soft landings. High-Performance Construction: Foam core with high density in order to save weight and ensure the correct flex. Optimum combination of weight and durability Heavy Duty Metal Inserts

SPECS / MODEL LENGTH ( cm ) WIDTH CENTER ( cm) WIDTH TAIL ( cm) SCOOP ( mm ) WEIGHT ( kg ) * FINS FIN SCREW STANCE OPTIONS ( inside to inside in cm ) STRAP INSERTS ( number of options ) STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm ) RAIL THICKNESS CENTER ( mm ) RAIL THICKNESS TAIL ( mm ) * Estimated Weight

Xenon 135 135 41 29.3 32.4 2.9 4x 60mm G5 CAD M6 35 2 28 5.0 3.5

Xenon 145 145 43 30.8 42.2 3.2 4x 60mm G5 CAD M6 35 2 28 5.0 3.5

Xenon 155 155 45 32 51.4 3.5 4x 60mm G5 CAD M6 35 2 28 5.0 3.5

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2012
RIDER: MAURICE MATHUIS LOCATION: BRANDVLEI, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: TIM HENDRICS

SURFKIT
DIRECTIONAL

E
/BOARDS/2012/SURFKITE2 WAVE

2 HIGH PERFORMANCE SURFING

SHAPER: HARRY BREHM WAVE Accessories: Fin details: [ ] 2D Pads [ ] D Straps [ ] Fins 1 x 114 mm 2 x 113 mm fins in G5

[ ] Comfortable and fast Soft flex pattern [ ] Cross Over shape and outline combines Freeride, Freestyle, Cruising and Newschool abilities [ ] Wider stance options [ ] Pad Technology glass base and responsive EVA layers [ ] Single Shot Wood Construction [ ] Easy Scoop optimized for easy planning and control

MADE TO SURF FAST AND HARD

The Surfkite v2 has a simple structured Range: Two boards that are suitable for all wave conditions. They work great in both slower onshore waves and fast reef breaks! They are traditional surfboard Shapes, developed by South African Harry Brehm. They are tested in a variety of waves around the globe. The wide Stance gives a natural surf style on the Wave. The Fins keep calm even in the hardest of turns and are optimized for minimal drag to get you quickly back on the next wave! Shape details: 56 The board is designed for all wind conditions and slower waves. It is more rounded in the outline and gives maximum maneuverability. The sharp Boxrails near the Fins give a lot of power to the tail to make big spray off the top! An average rocker delivers maximum speed in gusty conditions. The broader Pintail can also be turned easily with less pressure. 510 Large powerful waves are the perfect playground for this shape. It holds the speed better and brings control to the turns through the long Outline. More surface to the water means more grip. The sharp Boxrails from the Fins to tail makes it a very powerful Board at the cut back. The rocker provides maximum speed, even in gusty conditions. The narrow Pintail holds faster more controlled and powerful turns. Construction details: Fiberglass construction Wood reinforcements under the pads Additional layers of glass on all stress zones
SPECS / MODEL LENGTH ( cm ) WIDTH MAX ( cm) CONCAVE MAX ( mm) SCOOP ( mm ) WEIGHT ( kg ) * VOLUME ( ltr ) FINS FIN BOX FIN SCREW STANCE OPTIONS ( inside rear to inside rear in cm ) STRAP Weight * EstimatedINSERTS ( number of options ) STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm ) Surfkite 5 6 162 45.1 4.5 144 3.3 19.8 2pcs 113mm (5) 1pcs 114mm G5 CAD Mini Tuttle M6 47.5 3 25 Surfkite 5 10 170 45.5 3.5 138 3.4 20.1 2pcs 113mm (5) 1pcs 114mm G5 CAD Mini Tuttle M6 47.5 3 25

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2012
RIDER: LEO CLUSE LOCATION: HAAKGAT, SOUTH AFRICA PHOTO: TIM HENDRICS

Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose Location: Langebaan, South Africa Date: 25.02.2010 11:07 Photo: Tim Hendrics Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0

Apac
DIRECTIONAL

E
/BOARDS/2012/SURFKITE2 FREERACE & LIGHTWIND

GO FOR IT! SHAPER: HARRY BREHM FLATWATER, SPEED, FREERIDE Accessories: Fin details: [ ] RPE Pads [ ] Straps [ ] Fins 2x185 mm in front 2x220 mm in back (G10)

[ ] High Speed outline offers extreme fast rides [ ] Additional inserts in the center for extra footstrap (optional) [ ] High power G10 Fins [ ] High quality glassfiber construction

SPEED, EXTREMELY EARLY PLANING AND EASY HANDLING: HERE IS THE APACE
The new Apace is the evolution of the kite-sport. A very powerful board that planes extremely early and runs against the wind like a train! The board concept has its roots in course racing. It started with the goal for the team riders to get a perfect board shape for the flying upwind, but soon after it came the light wind aspect. With this board you can glide at 8 knots, but the shapes will handle stronger winds with ease. In addition to the racing and performance there is plenty of fun to be had! The shape turns extremely easy! If you kite a lot on lakes or simply want to free ride you have found the right Board, right here- The Apache! Shape details: A variety of inserts for lots of stance positions! You can tune the Board perfectly to your style just by moving the straps. The APACE comes with 18.5 cm and 22 cm G10 fins. The larger fins in the rear bring stability, while the smaller ones in the front gives a greater range. The speed of this board will satisfy any rider. It has a broad, powerful tail for early planning and a compact size, so you can stow it well. The hull shape comes with a monoconcave front section into a double concave tail. The best compromise between easy handling and speed on all courses. Construction details: Fiberglass construction Mini tuttle fin boxes so you can use different fin combos Soft EVA foam deck provides the necessary comfort.

SPECS / MODEL LENGTH ( cm ) WIDTH MAX ( cm) CONCAVE MAX ( mm) SCOOP ( mm ) WEIGHT ( kg ) * VOLUME ( ltr ) FINS FIN BOX FIN SCREW STANCE OPTIONS ( inside rear to inside rear in cm ) STRAP INSERTS ( number of options ) STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm )

APACE 169.5 49.5 1.5 93 3.8 30.3 2pcs 185mm (18) 2pcs 220mm (14) G10 Mini Tuttle M6 41.5 3 25

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2012

GTIL

Room 304, 3/F, King Centre 23 Dundas Street, Mong Kok Kowloon, Hong Kong isabella@gaastra.com Tel : 852-2312-0606 Fax : 852-2312-0700 Graphics, Communications & Marketing design@gaastrakites.com Tel: +49 (0) 2234 933 40-18

Photography: Tim Hendrics // Design: FoxinA Gaastra reserves the right to improve / modify / change any product at anytime!