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Kiteboarding for beginners9/1/2023 ![]() ![]() You also want to consider how strong the wind might be in your area and what kind of riding you want to do. A general rule of thumb is that smaller riders (under 150 pounds) should look for one sized at 136- to 148-centimeters, medium riders (150 to 200 pounds) 145-to 160-centimeters, while larger riders (over 200 pounds) want one at 150-to 165-centimeters. The first thing to consider is your size and weight. The key is to find a balance between your current need for ease, with performance you can grow into. Plus, if you’re serious about the sport, you’ll quickly outgrow a behemoth of a board. However, a board that’s too big can be much tougher to maneuver in heavy winds. As for the lines, your main focus should be on how long they are.įor a beginner, common wisdom is that bigger boards are typically easier to ride. With the bar itself, the main thing to consider is that it’s fairly lightweight, responsive, and has a comfortable grip. Different systems offer different features such as the ability to power up or de-power the kite, integrated untangling systems (something that happens a lot at the beginning), and other technical attributes. If you purchase new gear, these three things typically come together in one package. The system is composed of a bar to hold onto, lines which connect it to the kite, and a safety leash that allows you to detach yourself in an emergency without losing the kite. The more ease with which you can control your kite, the quicker you’ll be able to focus on riding. This not only keeps you safe but also has an enormous effect on your enjoyment of the sport. It’s absolutely critical to have a stellar system here with the most up-to-date technology you can afford. The control bar is the epicenter of your kite control and safety features. Our pick: Dakine Renegade Hybrid Control Bar, lines, and leash This is a great option for beginners who want to start out with the extra support but have something you can grow into. There are also a number of hybrid harnesses on the market which are essentially waist harnesses with removable leg straps. As you progress, you’ll likely transition to a waist harness due to its increased flexibility and freedom. ![]() Seat harnesses do allow you to sit back a bit more which some people argue leads to bad form - something you certainly don’t want to establish as a beginner. The leg straps help prevent this from happening and offers additional support. However, most experts agree a seat harness is the preferred first option since beginners spend a lot of time with the kite straight overhead which tends to make the harness ride up. ![]() Much of it comes down to personal preference - you want to make sure you have one that fits right and feels comfortable. For most new kiters, deciding which style to buy can be tough. Seat harnesses feature straps which go between your legs - much like rock climbing harnesses - whereas waist harnesses fit more like a thick belt. There are two types of harnesses: seat harnesses and waist harnesses. This is the piece which secures to your waist to harness you to the kite - and is arguably the most important piece of gear. To help, we’ve broken down each piece of gear to help you understand everything you need to get out on the water. The tangle of equipment is enough to make one’s head spin and causes otherwise enthusiastic riders to drop the sport before starting. There are lines and bars, leashes, safety releases, harnesses, and chicken loops - and that’s before you even get to the board or kites. Plus, you need heaps of gear to start and this is easily the most daunting part of learning. As a new kiter, you’ll spend hours “body dragging” across the water, tacking back and forth to learn how to get around - there’s no wonder there’s an entire dedicated section of kitesurfing equipment for beginners. ![]() First, you must learn how to harness the wind and control the kite to your advantage. Kitesurfing isn’t a sport you master overnight and most beginners log dozens of hours before even standing up on a board. Kitesurfing isn’t a sport you master overnight and most beginners log dozens of hours before even standing up on a boardīefore experiencing that magic moment - where you decide to drop everything and move to Baja - there’s a rather lengthy learning curve. ![]()
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