Carp

Koi rewrote what a yoyofriends throw could feel like back in 2020, trading raw competition specs for flow and organic shape without losing performance, and it became one of the brand's most iconic releases across steel, titanium, XL, and mini versions. Carp is the next chapter, a budget-friendly polycarbonate take on that same DNA, built to bring the Koi experience to a wider audience.

Getting there took real trial and error. The team settled on a 56mm diameter for portability, widened things to 50mm for a more modern feel, and landed on 66.6g, just a small bump over the original Koi to offset the natural power loss that comes with moving from metal to plastic. The center features a 6061 aluminum core with a small PC cap, echoing Koi's aesthetic while adding center weight for that same flowy, fun feel. Early prototypes played great but a couple of units weren't quite perfect out of the box, so the team added 6061 spacers to stabilize the assembly rather than reach for heavier stainless steel and risk losing the light, playful character. A second prototype run at the US National Yoyo Contest fixed the durability issues entirely, and after finding the added weight made it feel more powerful but less fun, the team dialed things back down to that original 66.6g target before locking in production. The rounded rim also stuck around after debate, chosen over a flatter profile for a more comfortable catch and that signature flowy weight distribution.

The name Carp keeps the connection to Koi obvious and intentional, sharing the same goal in a new, more accessible material. It's Koi's easygoing, organic spirit reworked for everyday carry at a friendlier price point. Give it a throw and feel where the flow takes you.