![]() ![]() I don’t like being overpowered, particularly when riding strapless, so I can choose a smaller kite and shorten the back lines slightly by connecting them to the knot closest to the kite. This allows me to increase or reduce the amount of power in my kite based on current wind. On my Cabrinha kites, there are 3 knot positions where the steering lines connect. Many kites have different knot settings for adjusting power. ![]() I always choose this option -even though it means connecting from the leading edge, front side of the kite – unless I have space constraints.Ī side benefit of unrolling with your back to the wind is that you can run the lines nice and smooth through your fingers and easily feel any knots or cuts on them. However, unrolling your lines walking downwind will make it MUCH easier to keep your lines from tangling, particularly in strong wind. The advantage of walking upwind (line tips are upwind from the bar) is that you’ll be connecting your lines to the back of your kite (trailing edge), which allows you to quickly see if the bridles are clearly set up. There are typically 2 ways to extend your lines in the sand/grass: unroll the lines while walking towards the wind (upwind) or with your back to it (downwind). When I arrive at the beach, I take my kite bag, harness, bar and pump out of the car, immediately put on my wetsuit, then go down and set up my lines. getting blown away, someone’s lines cutting into it, or someone’s board flying through it. ![]() The less time your kite spends being whipped by sand and hard wind, the longer it will last.Īlso, the lower the chance of something happening to it, e.g. Suit up and set up your lines firstĮspecially with strong wind, pumping your kite should typically be one of your last steps before getting out. fresh out of kite school, I recommend also using a floatation jacket, especially if the wind is gusty and/or there are waves (check out my post on kite vests). If you’re a complete rookie kiteboarder, e.g. If, because of the conditions and/or your beginner level, there’s a good chance you may end up losing your board or failing to relaunch your kite today, wear a thick enough wetsuit that will keep you warm if you find yourself floating and drifting downwind toward the shore for a long time. Aside from the relative accuracy of meters, the other riders may know something you don’t about today’s conditions – tide, storm, thermal effects… 4. No matter how much you think you know, don’t rely solely on a wind meter. Or, if you’re a newbie, look at what everyone else (assuming you’re not the only kiter on that beach) is pumping, talk to them, and adjust for your weight, board, and skill level. When it comes to picking your kite for the current session, always listen to 1) your natural body sensors and 2) popular wisdom! Step on the beach near the water, put your face out in the wind, and let your brains compare current wind speed with your previous sessions. In cold weather, I also take a poncho tower robe for changing more comfortably. I also usually pack a large bucket to put my wet harness and wetsuit in, a plastic bag for the wetsuit in so it doesn’t get damaged from the harness straps in the bucket, and a longer bag for my wet bar. As a beginner kiteboarder in the past, I’ve lost a few sessions due to a missing bar – or even board! In my case, these things are not stored together at home, so making sure I get everything before I leave is vital. I always count these 5 items (on my fingers) before leaving: See also: how to choose the best kitesurfing kite for a beginner 2. Unless, of course, you’re in a zone where cars tend to get broken into… No matter how sure I am about the conditions, I try to always bring my 3 kites and both a twintip and a directional – some friends also have their foil kiteboard handy just in case. ![]() There’s nothing worse for a beginner kiteboarder than reaching the beach after a long drive just to realize everyone is riding on 12m kite but you left yours at home after seeing the 25-knot forecast (or conversely with a light wind forecast). Do the checklist before driving awayīefore leaving home 1. Keep your kite towards the water until clear Tense up your lines before walking around the kite Pull out your front bridles before connecting ![]()
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