FAQ's

• What is the difference between Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing?
  There is no difference - both terms are use to describe the sport
• Is kiteboarding easy to learn?
  Yes and no. With good instruction many people enjoy an incredibly fast learning curve. Without instruction trying to learn kitesurfing can be frustrating and is dangerous.
• Do I need to be in good shape to kiteboard?
  A basic level of fitness is all you usually need. Modern gear can be adjusted to work for people with a broad range of physical abilities [but you do need to be able to swim!].
• Do I need any skills before I take lessons?
  You need to be comfortable in the water and ready to learn. Most people learn kiteboarding despite limited board-sport or sailing experience. Windsurfing, wakeboarding and even surfing experience does help but only to a limited extent.
• Why do lessons focus on flying the kite?
  Flying the kite well is at least 90% of kiteboarding. Trying to ride a board without having good kite skills is like trying to wakeboard or ski behind a boat that is swerving unpredictably and changing speed. It can be dangerous and is not much fun.
• Why cant I just learn from a video or magazine?
  You can learn a lot from videos and magazines but there is no substitute for having an instructor provide feedback, share local knowledge, maximise safety and customise instruction.
• Why cant I just learn from my friend?
  A friend is a good starting point but they probably won't have beginner-friendly gear and may not have the patience and experience to give you the most effective lessons.
• Do I need an assistant to launch or land the kite?
  If you are still learning to use the equipment you should not try to land or launchg by yourself. As you gain proficiency, you may not need any assistance to launch or land your kite unless you are on a crowded beach where the safety of others is at risk. It is never a good idea to have an inexperienced person assist to launch or land your kite at any time.
• How big a kite should I ride?
  Choosing the right kite size is directly related to the individual's weight, skill level and goals. If you are a big person who wants to cruise around in light wind, you are going to need a large kite (and probably a big board too). If you are small and want to ride in heavy winds then you are more likely to need a small kite. Similar considerations should be made for board size. Ask your instructor or a reputable equipment supplier what would be best for you.
• How do I tell the wind direction and strength?
  Toss sand into the air and it will blow in the direction of the wind. Stand with your back to the wind and turn your head slowly left-to-right until you feel/hear the wind equally on both ears - you will then be facing in the downwnd direction. Your kite launch/land position is then direcly in line with your shoulders to your right or left.
  Several efficient wind meters that measure wind speed accurately are available on the market. Its a minimal investment and will help you make sure you take out the right kite.
  It is also useful to familiarise yourself with the Beaufort Wind Scale which describes wind speed in a number of different ways including physical signs and the associated terms that are typically used on weather reports (eg: "winds fresh to moderate").
• Do I have to live near the ocean to kitesurf?
  No, you can ride anywhere with a stretch of clear land, water or snow and wind. People ride on lakes, rivers, snowfields, grass fields, even hard-packed dirt.
• Can I kiteboard on snow or ice?
  Yes, you can use your gear to pull you on a snowboard or skis. many riders [in the USA] have been crossing over to the snow and developing boards and equipment specifically for this riding style. Check out www.kitesnowboard.com for more information.
• Can I relaunch on water?
  Yes, most kites will relaunch very easily depending on the kite size, the rider's experience and the strength of the wind. Certain foil kites are not designed to relaunch however some have inflatable cells or one-way valves to stop water entering the cells and make relaunch possible.
• How many boards do I need?
  This depends on the wind ranges you are likely to ride in. A bigger board is usually good for beginners and for light wind and a smaller board better when the wind picks up however you can usually get away with one board to start with.
• Do I need to fly a trainer kite before I ride on the water?
  Not necessarily but experience with a trainer kite is always a good idea - lessons are the best bet before purchasing or trying new gear. Many schools will teach you briefly on a trainer kite and then help you learn on their [full size] equipment. This will give you the chance to "kick the tires" on different equipment and see what works for you.
• Is it safe to ride in offshore winds?
  It is never safe to ride in any conditions you cannot handle. Make a plan before you go out and determine where you will land up if you or your equipment fails. And never ride alone.
• What happens if I put my kite up and am lifted off the ground?
  This can be a frightening experience when learning to kite. Don't panic. Try to sit down and steer the kite steadily to the edge of the wind window. If someone is around then have them hold you down until you can safely land your kite. If all else fails then deploy the safety system [grab the tether on your safety leash and let go of the bar].
• What can I do if someone is coming right at me?
  Look at your surroundings. If you see someone coming in your direction either ride downwind of them or put your kite in neutral well ahead of their getting close to you or passing you. Many new riders panic and put their kites straight up in neutral [at the top edge of the power zone] at the last minute. If you know your surroundings then you will have time to telegraph your position.