Learn to Kitesurf

Kitesurfing is a sport that started about 10 years ago. It’s a mix of wakeboarding, surfing, windsurfing and sailing but also with the ability to jump to huge heights. The sport is growing a seriously fast rate as second hand equipment is relatively cheap now and there are many kite schools all over the world to learn the sport in a safe environment.

When starting out it is very important to take lessons or go with someone who has a lot of experience and is willing to help you get started. The sport can be very dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. The kitesurfing kite range from 5m^2 to 20m^2 and have specific wind ranges which do depend on the size but also the type. 

Types

The most common kitesurfing kites today are C shape, Hybrid and Bow kites. All have Inflatable leading Edge and 3-8 Inflatable Struts that form the shape of the kites.

C Shape Kites

These are the original type of inflatable water kite.  They are the choice of the pro’s due to there consistent pull and roar power, but are known for having little depower and not being very forgiving. But with the introduction of a 5th line safety some years ago and hi-depower models coming onto the market from 2007 to present day most are very stable safe kites with all the pull and power of the old kites.

Hybrids and Bow Kites

First introduced into kitesurfing in late 2005/6, these were the first kites to bring full depower kites to the market. There are still inflatable kites but have a bridle attached to the leading edge to significantly change the angle of attack therefore making the kite able to de-power  by moving the bar away from you. Hybrid kites feel more direct than Bow kites as bow kites have more pulleys on the steering lines.  But hybrids sometimes lack the de-power offered by a bow. When introduced they offered a safer/easier way to learn to kitesurf as the C kites of the time offered very little safety.       

Today there is a kite for everyone, nearly all common kites have a high level of depower and safety and it’s just a case of what feels right for you and depending on which discipline you choose to focus on.   

Disciplines

Freeride – This a what most kitesurfers do, cruse around, some big jump and some tricks. Normally with a twintip board between 130-140cm by 38-44cm

Freestyle – Focusing on tricks and stylish moves, this is what will draw you to the sport.

Wakestyle- Becoming part of freestyle now, the tricks are similar to that of wakeboarders, the kite must be low and very powered to simulate the pull of a boat. Wakeboard bindings help land when really powered. 

Waveriding – Surfing with a kite with a surf board with or without straps. Small fast kites are used so and the kite does not pull when you are on the wave.

Course Racing – As it says racing around a course the same as windsurfing and sailing. Speed and tactics is the key to winning,

Now you know some of the very basic’s of kitesurfing, get yourself on the forums and learn some more.