Inbound: RRD EVOLUTION & EVOLUTION GOLD WINGS

Evolution is a constant over at RRD HQ, never resting on their laurels and always looking to stay ahead of the curve. Which is exactly what seems to have been the case with the latest Evolution wings that recently dropped. We rustled up a few questions, and went asking…

Hey team. So the EVOs have evolved into the new Y30 Evolution Wings! Please give us a little overview of the two new wings, and their major differences…

The new Y30 Evolution Wing and Evolution Gold Wing represent the latest step in the ongoing development of our wing line. Both wings are built on years of design evolution and rider feedback, but they cater to different needs. The Evolution Gold Wing is our high-performance model, built in Aluula for maximum stiffness, control, and lightness. The Evolution Wing, while using more traditional materials, still delivers excellent performance with a very balanced and accessible feel, ideal for most riders.

What was the design philosophy behind the new Evolution Gold Wing, and how does it build on previous models?

The Evolution Gold Wing was designed with one clear goal: to maximize performance through lightness, stiffness, and responsiveness. It builds on all the knowledge and design work we’ve accumulated over the years, taking that evolution to the next level by combining a refined shape with innovative materials. The result is a wing that delivers ultra-light performance and ultimate control.

Aluula is clearly a big part of the story for the Gold Wing. Why did you choose to use it only in specific sections rather than throughout the entire frame?

We focused on placing Aluula precisely where it delivers the most performance gain. We identified the high-stress zones, especially the middle section of the leading edge and the strut junction, as the areas where added stiffness has the biggest impact on control and responsiveness. By applying a double layer of Aluula 82g/m² in these key zones, we achieved exceptional rigidity with minimal weight. This targeted approach allowed us to take advantage of Aluula where it matters most, without adding unnecessary complexity.

Compared to the Gold version, the Evolution Wing uses more traditional materials – how does the performance stack up for the average rider who’s not necessarily chasing grams?

The standard Evolution Wing performs exceptionally well for most riders. It’s strong, stable, and easy to use in a variety of conditions. While the Gold version offers a clear step up in responsiveness, especially in early planing, pumping, and high-speed control, the standard Evolution still offers a solid, confident ride that suits a wide range of riders.

Tuned canopy tension and twist dynamics are highlighted as refinements in the Y30 wings. What’s the payoff in terms of handling?

We’ve refined both the canopy tension and the wing’s twist dynamics to improve handling and stability. A central load spreader is positioned at the center of effort, where all the panels converge. This creates a more balanced structure, boosting overall stability, enhancing performance, and making the wing smoother and easier to handle across a wide range of conditions. Meanwhile, Energy Spreaders on the tips help manage airflow release and reduce leading-edge deformation in gusts, minimizing turbulence. The result is a wing that feels more stable, more responsive, and less prone to overpowering, especially in challenging wind conditions.

Both wings feature the Quick Lock System, where you can choose between rigid handles or a full carbon boom. What kind of rider is each option best suited for?

We’re currently in a transition phase in wing design, moving from rigid handles to booms, while riders are still exploring what setup best suits their style and preferences. That’s why we decided to offer maximum flexibility. Both Y30 Evolution Wings feature the Quick Lock System, allowing riders to quickly switch between rigid handles and a full carbon boom, while also making the wing incredibly easy to set up and pack down. While both setups deliver precise control, we believe the boom will become the preferred option over time, thanks to its superior stiffness and reduced strut flex and torsion. 

From a materials perspective, how does the standard Evolution Wing compare to the Gold version in terms of feel, stiffness, and longevity?

From a materials perspective, both wings offer high performance, but with some key differences. The Gold version, reinforced with Aluula, is lighter, stiffer, and more responsive, providing enhanced longevity thanks to its advanced materials. Meanwhile, the standard Evolution, built with a durable Rectex Dacron 160 g/m² frame, remains solid and reliable, delivering consistent performance that riders can trust session after session. Additionally, both wings feature an internal 70 g/m² Insignia reinforcement stripe inside the leading edge, which further increases structural stiffness and durability across the entire wing.

Finally, what is a rider going to feel the moment they launch either of these wings for the first time?!

Right from the start, riders will feel the wings’ responsiveness, stability, and solid feel. The standard Evolution delivers a smooth, reliable ride that’s easy to control, which is great for anyone looking for confidence across different conditions. The Gold version offers even more rigidity and responsiveness, especially clear when pumping, accelerating, or riding fast in stronger winds. Both wings perform really well, each suited to different rider needs, without losing what makes the Evolution series so trusted.