Getting
Started

KITE SURFING / KITEBOARDING QUICK LINKS >>

What is a Kiteboard?

Kite Surfboards are similar to wakeboards but are used with a kite to power the rider over water and into the air.

Usually very lightweight they are designed to carve into the water on their edge to gain maximum traction from the kite.

Kitesurfing kites are usually water relaunchable, four lines will give you more control.

 

Be competent with your kite, learn safety systems and rescue, get yourself at least one kitesurf lesson and purchase a training DVD so you can go back through what you have learnt on the day as well as allowing you to progress further with the detailed DVD's that are now available.

 

Click here for training DVD's >>

How does a Kiteboard Work?

Kitesurfing is another form of kite traction on water. The speed of the board gives the buoyancy for the rider and the kite supplies the power to enable speed and lift.

Initially larger boards are required to give the buoyancy required to get on top of the water enabling easier planing. Later experience will allow smaller boards to be used and the speed of the board will create the buoyancy.

The power kite provides lift and actually helps you balance on the board. The skilled pilot will easily achieve big airs. From starting off, you quickly speed up as the power of the kite pulls you forward, almost as immediately the board gets on top of the water as you steer across the wind. Once you've learnt where to position the kite in the sky and how to balance on the board, you’re away.

I am a beginner to Kiteboarding - which is best for me?

We’re all different sizes, heavier pilots may require more larger / wider boards, or they may be physically stronger, hold more power and so require a smaller board. Lighter weight pilots generally will only require a small board but may need a larger board for those lighter wind days.

Skill level will often be the determining factor regarding equipment choice and use.

Consider yourself - Weight and Height

If you are not comfortable on the board it can spoil your fun and capability.

 

For people with previous kite flying experience and looking to get involved in kite boarding - check out the suitable options below:

 

Nobile T5 (555) 09 - 140cm - 134cm sizes	Crazy-Fly Bulldozer 09 - 135cm sizes
North X-Ride 09 - 141cm / 134 sizes	Flexifoil Alpha - 144cm
Nobile NBL - all sizes
>> For a list of all Kiteboards - click here <<

What kite can I learn to Kiteboard with?

When you are purchasing your first water relaunchable kite you want to buy one that you are going to get maximum use out of.

Some kites list sizes as sail area whereas the alternative method is to list projected area.

Inflatable and single skin kites are built mainly for surfing and other water based activities.

These kites can be launched off the water if crashed. Power requirements demand larger kites than would be flown on land during similar weather conditions.

These kites are very efficient and can incorporate depowering and sheeting in operations. It is imperative that pilots learn on land first and learn how the safety systems operate.

 

Be aware that different kites of equal size can handle and lift very differently. It is far easier to learn with a smoother, predictable, steadier flying kite than a high performance kite.

 

Remember that some days the equipment you own just will not be suitable, the wind may be too strong to fly safely - any kite flown in too stronger wind can be dangerous. Some days the wind will be frustratingly light to achieve what you have set out to do. Limits either way may also be determined by pilot skill level.

 

For people with competent kite flying experience or looking to get involved in kiteboarding, consider a 4-line kite between 9 - 12m in size for use in a majority of wind conditions. Check out the suitable options below:

 

North Rebel 09	Nobile 555 08
Cabrinha Convert IDS	F-One Bandit Dos 2 (II)
Flexifoil Atom 08	Airush Vapor 2 (II)
>> For a list of all Kiteboarding Kites - click here <<

Which Kiteboards can I do waveriding with?

These boards are usually very manoeuvrable, have good bouyancy but also light enough to do jumps if required.

 

Most boards are capable of this but specialist wave boards excel in these areas with bigger fins and softer rails.

 

Click here for our range of kiteboards >>

 

Which Kiteboards can I do freestyle with?

99% of boards are capable of freestyle riding and are usually lightweight for jumping, have good upwind capability allowing the surfer the freedom to manoeuvre with the minimum of effort.

 

Click here for freestyle kiteboards >>

 

Which Kiteboard can I do freestyle and waveriding with?

Waveriding and freestyle often merge out on the water and certain boards could be considered to be capable of both.

In addition it should be noted that there is the Wakestyle board that is often much smaller and best suited to the more experienced boarder.

 

Click here for our range of Kiteboards >>

 

My kiteboard is very fragile - is there anyway I can protect it from scratches?

Powerkiteshop have kiteboard travel board bags to help you protect your board when travelling.

 

Click here for our range of Kiteboard Travel Board Bags >>

Why do I need footstraps, leashes or fins on my Kiteboard?

Kitesurf boards need footstraps - whether you are learning in light winds or riding waves - at some point the kite is going to power up, at which point the straps will keep you and the board together.

Leashes are there for when you do leave your board at least you’ll know your board is only a few feet away.

Fins are not always used as the edge of the board can also be used like a fin to help create resistance against the kite and enhance steering.

 

Click here for our range of Kiteboard Accessories >>

Why should I buy a twin-tip board?

Bi-directional boards are great because it cuts out the need to change feet when turning, they let you jump whenever you want in any direction and make waveriding quicker.

 

They have great upwind capability and depending on size have buoyancy built in.

 

If you require any additional information regarding kitesurfing - get in touch! We are all kiters and regularly kitesurf ourselves. We will be pleased to hear your query!

 

Click here for our range of Kiteboards >>

Do I need a Harness?

A harness is used to take the strain off your arms, allow you to fly in stronger winds and reduce overall fatigue. A harness is not essential when you first start out.

 

Harnesses can be used for either 4-line handles or control bar. Depowerable kites require a harness to function correctly.

 

Simply find a harness that is comfortable for you - personal preference is the key.

 

Seat harnesses fit around the legs and lower back giving you lots of support and hip protection. These harnesses stop any chance of the harness riding up your body when the kite is overhead.

 

Waist harnesses fit around the lower back and abdomen giving you freedom of movement for technical manoeuvres.

For advice on selection call Freephone 0800 007 5707

 

To check out our selection of power kiting / kiteboarding harnesses - click here >>

Do I need safety gear?

Safety is paramount and kiteboarding can be a dangerous sport.

 

It is recommended you wear a minimum of a helmet for all activities. Safety methods and devices are being reviewed and updated all of the time.

 

Check out our selection of safety gear for water use >>

 

For advice on selection call Freephone 0800 007 5707

Will Kite Landboarding help my Kitesurfing Skills?

Kitelandboarding is a great way to learn the principles of Kitesurfing without spending a huge amount on inflatable kites and beginner boards.

 

Even when you have bought all the Kitesurfing gear - they offer a great light wind alternative to Kitesurfing. If the wind drops or goes offshore - get onto the beach, grab your Landboard and practice some light wind tricks.

 

Click here for our range of Kite Landboards >>