Inbound: CORE HALO

Rather than just a polished up version of the previous model, the new HALO from CORE has a lot to show off, from the ‘Bionic Boom’ to a completely reengineered airframe. Plenty to cover, so we got in touch with the team in Germany…

What were your core goals when designing this latest version of the HALO, and how do they show up in the final product?

Our goal was clear from the beginning: take the DNA of the high-performance HALO Pro and make it more accessible – without compromising the riding experience. We wanted to build a wing that brings intuitive handling, effortless control and flow into every move. The result is the new HALO – a wing that feels natural from the first pump, yet still delivers the dynamic performance advanced riders are looking for. It's a wing that adapts to you, rather than the other way around.

Can you tell us about your material choices for the new HALO, why those choices were made and how they affect performance compared to the previous version?

The new HALO introduces a completely reengineered airframe built on our most advanced Dacron configuration yet: a dual ExoTex concept. At its core, we use ExoTex HD on the inner four segments of the leading edge for maximum resistance and minimal stretch. The two center segments, which carry the most load, are reinforced with an additional layer of ExoTex 2 for extra stiffness. Moving outward toward the tips, the frame transitions to a single layer of proven ExoTex 2 to reduce weight and maintain agility. This thoughtful material distribution allows us to keep the diameter slim while maximizing rigidity and control.

Matched with our CoreTex 2 canopy, the HALO gains an entirely new dimension in feel. For the first time, we’ve implemented a radial panel layout – star-shaped, converging towards the main pressure point. This layout minimizes canopy stretch exactly where the forces peak, resulting in crisp feedback, more explosive lift, and a canopy that holds its shape even under load. In short: more drive, more control, more flow.

What inspired the switch to a curved full-carbon boom, and how does it change the riding experience compared to a standard straight boom or handles?

The Bionic Boom isn’t just a visual evolution – it’s a structural leap. What makes it so effective is the complete integration: the boom connects directly to the strut with its carbon molded interfaces, eliminating flex and ensuring absolute control. The curved layout mirrors your natural arm posture, reducing fatigue and increasing leverage. But perhaps the biggest upgrade is in the power dynamics: the refined front-hand angle lets you power up or depower the wing with surgical precision. Combine that with the pistol grip in front, and you’ve got a wing that adapts instantly to whatever line you're drawing.

CORE wings have a strong reputation for control and balance – how does this version of the HALO improve the wing’s feel during transitions, wave riding, or technical maneuvers?

The overwhelming success of the HALO Pro proved how much riders appreciated that high-performance character – but it also sparked demand for a more accessible version based on our ExoTex platform. With the XC already covering the pure all-round segment, we saw the opportunity to bring a slightly more progressive option into the range. And the Bionic Boom was a direct response to a very clear challenge: create a grip system that merges the comfort and ergonomics of handles with the precision and control of a boom. The result is faster transitions, smoother flag-out in waves, and a level of stability that lets riders push boundaries without hesitation.

Were there any specific criticisms or requests from team riders or the public that you aimed to address?

Absolutely. One consistent piece of feedback was the desire for more intuitive power access and a wing that’s easier to settle into – especially for those progressing in maneuvers or exploring waves. We also heard the call for better visibility in crowded spots, which is why we added a fully redesigned window layout. The Bionic Boom was developed directly with our wave riders, who asked for a more natural hand position and maximum grip flexibility. Every detail in the HALO is a response to real-world use.

Is this new model targeted more towards a specific type of rider or discipline, or does it sit comfortably as a high-performance all-rounder?

The HALO is our most versatile high-performance wing yet. It’s designed for riders who want to feel progression in every session – from first gybes to to your first  backflips. Positioned between the XC and HALO Pro, it blends intuitive handling with advanced performance, making it perfect for ambitious freeriders, wave addicts, and technical freestylers alike. This wing doesn’t define your style – it reveals it.

Before we finish up, we’d love to hear a little more on some other releases you have coming soon. Can you give us a little overview of the new CFS (Compatible Foiling System) and the new CHASE board?

The CFS marks a full relaunch of our foiling platform. We’re introducing shorter fuselages for tighter turns, expanded stabilizer options, and newly developed wing profiles for freestyle, pump, and more technical disciplines. Every component is fully modular and precisely engineered – no compromise, just connection.

As for the Chase: it’s a next-gen 110L wingfoil board tuned for downwinders and light wind performance. The streamlined shape delivers effortless glide and ultra-early lift, even with smaller wings. It’s stable, efficient, and made for those who want to chase lines – not just ride them.