Get the SKinny on Kitesurfing and How to Go
The new craze reaping rave reviews from adventure sports lovers today is Kite surfing. It combines the thrill and skills of balancing one’s body on a surf or kite board together with the expertise of controlling a huge Kite surf Kite. The movement is dominated by the wind conditions prevailing at that time.
It’s almost unbelievable that control of the kite board as well as the kite lies in the hands of a single individual who has to gather the stamina as well as the courage and skill to maneuver both.
But surfing is no more a ‘high risk’ sport. Over the years technology has brought in more reliability to the safety equipment being used, the designs of the kite, as well as the release systems and commands. Even the board has foot strap bindings though expert surfers don’t use them much.
A novice at the sport will do well to find a good learning school to learn the intricacies of the sport. Ask around locally to know which is the best place to enroll and gain skills on landing, launching etc. and much later you might even be taught certain tricks on the board which you can practice. The school will also teach you all the safety essentials. It’s also advisable to make your initial attempts with a trainer kite which would enable the learning process easier. But before trying out kite surfing, can you at least fly a kite? Now is the time to learn if you don’t know already.
‘Size’ matters here, i.e. the size of the kite should be chosen depending on the force of the wind. Experiment with smaller kites only if you are a skilled kite surfer able to battle strong winds. Gentle winds require bigger and more controllable kites. Be prepared for a number of failed attempts before you get the gist of the sport. Remember the controls lie in your hands and persevere to bring about a balance between the board and the kite to excel at the sport. The two types of kites generally used for this sport are Foil kites and Inflatable ones. The latter is preferred by most because of the ease it provides in launching and landing. The rider can have better control over it as well.
Learning this sport can indeed be a bit heavy on the pocket. Enrolling in a learning school will require a substantial fee plus the kite surfing equipment does not come cheap. Costly gear like life jacket, helmet, kite pump, board harness etc. has to be compulsorily used. But local people may be able to help you find the gear at reasonable prices, keep a check on the quality though.
Also be prepared for unexpected changes in wind speeds. Learn to protect yourself in case of emergencies. Rests assured, it’s high time you got yourself a good Kite and Board and tasted the excitement of this thrilling sport!
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