Kiteboarding FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

The only stupid questions are the questions not asked.
Here are some answers to questions as well as some interesting information for beginners and experienced riders alike...

• Membership-related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
• Kitesurfing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
• Which kite should I use?
• What Board Should I Ride?
• Why take lessons?
• Foreplay - Practicing with a trainer kite.
• Launching and flying safely on land.
• Get out of the way!
• Kiteboarding Don'ts and Dos.

• I cannot login to the Members Section!
  The login process cannot find your details because you have never registered on the site or you are not using the correct login id and password.
  If you have never registered on the site then simply click on the Free Signup and complete the (registration) details - the three key inputs you will need to supply are your email address, a userid and a passsword.
  If you are already a Member or have already completed the Free Signup process then click on the Member Login and then on the Forgot Username or Forgot Password link - you will then be asked for your login name or email address and if a match is found inthe database then your details will be emailed to the email address in the database.
  If your email address has changed since you registered with KBV the please contact KBV via the Contact Form and request that your details be extracted from the database and emailed to you.

• I cannot remember my KBV login id/password!
  No problems - Click on the Member Login and then on the Forgot Username or Forgot Password link - you will then be asked for your email address and if a match is found inthe database then your details will be emailed to the email address in the database.If your email address has changed since you registered with KBV the please contact KBV via the Contact Form and request that your details be extracted from the database and emailed to you.

• I cannot remember my KBV registered email address!
  No problems - Click on the Member Login and then on the Forgot Username or Forgot Password link - you will then be asked for your login name and if a match is found inthe database then your details will be emailed to the email address in the database. If your email address has changed since you registered with KBV the please contact KBV via the Contact Form and request that your details be extracted from the database and emailed to you. Membership

• How do I update my KBV Details?
  Your registration and Membership details can be updated at any time as follows:
  Log into Member Central via the Members Login link and select Update Details. You will be presented with number of fields containing the details from your registration and/or your Membership. All of these can be updated by overtyping what you can see.
  To save the changes click on the Save button or if you wish to cancel the changes then click on the Cancel button. Membership

• What is the Free Signup?
  Free Signup is a service available to anyone interested in knowing what KBV is up to. Free signup is a simple process which allows you to enter your contact details as a general Contact and which adds you to our mailing list.
  Once registered in this way you will have access to the Members Login section and be able to update your details and purchase KBV Merchandise however other functions reserved for Members may be visible but will not be available to you.
  If you decide to join KBV then simply access the Members Section and purchase the membership type of your choice.
  For more information about KBV, our Membership Policy and the Types of Membership please refer to the pages under the ABOUT KBV menu.

• Where do I find out about membership types and fees?
  Have a look at the Membership Policy item under the ABOUT KBV menu - the article lists the different membership types and applicable fees.

• 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!].
• How much does it cost to start kiteboarding?
  A full set of gear (kite, board, bar, lines and harness) will run you anywhere from approximately [AU] $800 (second hand) to $2,500 ( new). Many manufacturers and dealers offer entry-level packages that are very reasonable.
• How much do lessons cost?
  Most [Australian] instructors charge $70-$100 per hour for personal sessions and most offer a package at better prices. Shop around
• 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.
• Who do I contact at KBV for lessons?
  In this regard KBV is more a regulatory body and does not give lessons directly - suggest that you look at the section on the site that is headed All ABOUT KITING - this will dsplay a list of organisations which do give lessons in the various areas and if you click on any one them you will get to their web sites with full contact details.
• 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 (see Glossary of Terms) 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.
• Do I go two-line or four-line?
  Some of us started on a two-line kite however this was a long time ago and modern technology has made it easier and safer to start lessons on a four-line kite. Have a look at the article below on Kite Types.
• What line-length should I use?
  Use the manufacturers recommendation until you are experienced enough to experiment. Most lines run from 20 to 30 metres. Many riders who fly foil kites have been known to use 40 meter sets. Generally power is propotional to line length and responsiveness is inversely propotional to line length.
• Can I put straps on a surfboard or use any old wakeboard to learn?
  Yes, you can use either but your learning curve will be shortened with a board designed specifically for kiteboarding. Have a look at the article below on Board Types.
• 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.
• What is the best trainer kite to buy?
  Most manufacturers sell quality trainer kites. Ask an instructor or local dealer to help you make the right choice. Consider however that the expense of a trainer kite can be avoided by learning through a school or with an instructor who supplies the trainer kite. Have a look at the section below on Lessons.
• 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.

Which kite should I use?
By Royce Reid, Coach, Kitesurfer Pro, Puerto Rico.

Extract from Kiteboarding

Have you ever noticed that at every beach or kite forum there are always people voicing their opinions about the right or wrong gear to use? Inevitably they are the ones using or selling the "correct gear". That bias and the increasing choice of equipment available to new kiteboarders can be overwhelming. Don't let someone else's opinion decide what type of gear you should be riding. Base your decisions on input from all the available sources such as shops, kiteboarders, and kite instructors. Here is a general overview of the types of kite available.

• Foil - Any aerodynamic shape that creates lift if a foil. In general a foil kite uses airflow around and into the kite for shape and stability. No need for any pumps here. A bridle connecting to several points on the kite maintains the shape and leads to a four-line or five-line connection. There are a couple of foil kites out there that have a good simple design without a bridle. The kite will maintain its shape until its leading edge is moved out of the wind. The flat wing shape of a foil gives it a greater projected area which equals more power and efficiency. Commonly known as ram-air kites, these kites have evolved to be user-friendly and fairly simple to operate and are the kite of choice for land traction. Some are more difficult to fly and relaunch than other types.
• Inflatable - This is a single surface kite which has a semi-rigid inflatable support structure. You pump air into rubber bladders inside the kite's struts. The leading edge maintains the kites curved shape while flying and the series of struts helps to relaunch the kite and keep its shape after a crash landing. Because an inflatable kite is more rigid than a foil kite it requires fewer if any bridle lines Overall, inflatables are the most popular type of kite because they float and, in general, are very easy to relaunch.
• Two-line [OBSOLETE] - The big advantage to flying a two-line kite is simplicity. It is easier to set up and put away and there's less chance of getting tangled. Before four-line kites were popular, beginners preferred to learn on two-line inflatable kites which also tend to be easier to relaunch. In addition some advanced riders use two lines because there is less clutter on the bar to get caught up in when going for technical manoeuvers. By comparison to modern technologies, a two-line kite is dangerous and cannot be depowered in gusts or in overpowered conditions.
• Four/Five-line - Four-line kites provide the rider with the ability to power/depower the kite - and this also increases the effective wind range of the kite. On four-line inflatable kites, you can "sheet" the kite in and out much as one would with a sail on a yacht. This adjusts the kite's power in gusts and lulls, changing the angle of the kite by adjusting the length of the front (or rear) lines. They can can be more complex when setting up because them are so many lines to deal with, making a greater potential for tangles. Despite this, four/five-line kites are very popular and have expanded the wind-range limits of kiteboarding. The fifth line available on some models is for increased stability but also as the safety and landing line.

What Board Should I Ride?
By Ryan Levinson, WestCoast Kiteboarding, San Diego, Ca, USA

Extract from Kiteboarding

You can have a blast on pretty much any board but some are better suited to certain types of riding. Here is what to look for among directionals, twin-tips and wake-style boards.

• Directionals have an obvious nose and tail and usually have two or more foot straps and three or four fins towards the tail. They can range from 4 to 6 feet long and 16 to 20 inches wide. If you are used to surfboards or sailboards you may find that directionals have the most familiar feel. They are popular in the surf and in flat water for riders who like a "surfy" feel to their boards. Directionals are thought by many people to be the easiest boards for beginners to get upwind and consequently to learn on.
• Twin-tips have a nose and a tail of the same shape. They offer versatility allowing you to switch directions (transition). Twin-tips are mainly used with a foot-strap setup.
• Wake-style boards aren't usually the wakeboards used behind boats but they look pretty similar. The wakeboard style is popular among riders who like to ride a boot-binding setup.

Why take lessons?
By Paul Menta, Master Instructor, Pasa

Extract from Kiteboarding

So you are wondering why you should shell out money for lessons? There are plenty of reasons. Here are the top seven.

1. Don't hurt yourself or others - Qualified instructors have developed lessons that will guarantee a positive injury-free learning experience.
2. Save money - Its often more expensive to learn on your own. Why trash your new equipment? You can make mistakes on the school's kites, boards, bars etc.
3. Knock the learning curve in half - Instructors show students safe shortcuts and get riders up to speed more efficiently.
4. Tap into experience - Most schools and instructors have worked with many students and can easily assess and address bad technique to set you on the right track.
5. Get educated about equipment - Schools are a great place to learn about the multitude of gear options available and which are best suited to you.
6. Score a discount - Many schools have deals set up with shops and manufacturers. That way when you are ready to buy your equipment you will know you are getting a fair price.
7. Enjoy a positive experience - You will have fun and learn in a safe, nurturing environment.

 

Foreplay - Practicing with a trainer kite.
By Paul Menta, Master Instructor, Pasa, and Neil Hutchinson, Coach, X-rated, Fort Lauderdale, FLA.

Extract from Kiteboarding

A great way to prepare for lessons is to train on a small foil (non-inflatable) kite. This will allow you to learn the basic physics and get used to the pull of a kite without the danger of being overpowered. Many trainer packages are available for a reasonable outlay. If you are flying a power kite for the first time do not fly in winds over 10mph [16kmh] and make sure there ids no-one around who could be injured if you lose control. Most importantly, always use your safety system [depower leash] when flying.

The following is an exercise you can practise with your foil kite. Try launching your kite and imagine a clock - bring the kite to a neutral position above you at 12 o'clock. Practice flying your kite from 12 to 3 in a [figure eight] pattern taking kite steadily up to 12 and then diving it to 3, then righting it and steering it back to 12.

When you have mastered the motion, switch to the other side and fly the kite from 12 to 9 and back again in the same steady pattern. This pattern simulates the "power stroke" of a large kite and will prepare you for the crossover [which is flying the kite from the pattern on one side, say 9 through 12 and straight into a dive to 3 being the start of the pattern on the other side].

Be sure not to jerk the kite and send it into loops. Remember that the kite is small and will react more quickly than a bigger kite. If you are not careful you can develop a bad habit of oversteering. This may cause you to lose control of a bigger kite and cause injury.

 

Launching and flying safely on land .
By Dave Tyburksi, Coach, New Wind Kiteboarding, Hood River, Or.

Extract from Kiteboarding

Flying a kite on land is an excellent way to develop your skills. However flying on land, no matter how big or small your kite is, requires that you follow certain safety rules.

 

Get out of the way!
By Matt Nuzzo, Coach, Real Kiteboarding, Cape Hatteras, NC. .

Extract from Kiteboarding

Kites take up a lot of space whether they are in the air or on the beach. The best way to avoid having run-ins with other people is just to stay out of the way. Here are some general rules.

On the beach

• The beach is for launching and landing your kite. Once you have launched, put on your board and get off - especially in tight launch zones. In Australia it is expected that you remain outside 50 meters from the beach.
• Launchers have right of way over landers - if you see people launching their kite, putting their board on, or standing on the beach with a kite up when you are coming in to land, take another tack and wait for them to leave before you come in to land.

On the water

• When you cross another kiteboarder, the upwind kite flies high and the downwind kite flies low.
• Starboard tack [wind coming from your right or leading shoulder] has right of way. This is an old-school sailing rule that has been carried over to all water sports. So, if you are riding to the right looking over your right arm, then you have right of way over an oncoming rider [ie they have to give way if there is a danger of collision].
• If you have to kite in a crowded riding area, observe the flow of kiteboarders and boats, and avoid riding within or crossing these patterns unless you are good enough. The best place for beginners to be is downwind of the advanced riders to give them space to "do their thing".
• All other boats, sailboats, rafts, windsurfers and swimmers have right of way. Many people do not know how to react to us. When in doubt - get the hell out - it is a lot easier to change direction than it is to remove your kite from the top of an 80-foot mast.

 

Kiteboarding Don'ts and Dos.
By Ken Winner, Producer, Kiteboarding "How To Rip" Videos.

Extract from Kiteboarding

Big kites aren't kids stuff. They can yank you harder than a Rottweiler on a leash chasing a baby stroller. They can drag you over rocks, fences and highways. A kite that gets out of control on the beach can hit moms and kids while going 30 mph.

A tensioned kite line can work on skin like a deli-slicer. An untensioned line can loop around a finger or an arm and leave the limb's owner bereft when the kite unexpectedly powers up and takes off.

So how can you safely enjoy kiteboarding? Follow the Don'ts and Do's.

• Don't fly near or over people including within 100 meters of beach-goers. Experts may violate the rule by sailing among windsurfers and other kiteboarders but novices should not.
• Don't approach power lines. roads, trees, electrical storms and so on. Rower lines are a particular problem because they cross water and run along some shores.
• Don't fly in onshore wind until you're an expert. You're likely to get pulled onto the beach.
• Don't fly in offshore wind unless you're an expert. You'll be blown offshore.
• Don't go out in gusty winds. They make learning very difficult and somewhat dangerous.
• Don't head out any farther from shore than you're willing to swim in an emergency.
• Don't get tangled in the kite lines or bridle. If you have to self-rescue (fold up a the kite while on the water and paddle to shore) pull the kite to you by pulling only on the kite line to which your kite leash is attached. Put no tension on the other line(s) to avoid the kite an accidentally powering up.
• Don't practice jumping on land especially if the wind isn't rock-steady If you want practice, do it in deep water.
• Don't fly the kite while holding the control bar at one end. This can cause the kite to spin out of control and twist the lines so that further control is impossible. While the kite is spinning it will exert close to mximum power.
• Do spend several hours flying a small stunt kite on land before you fly a big traction kite.
• Do fly in clear open spaces.
• Do ride with a quick-release kite leash that totally depowers the kite and keeps the kite attached to you should you have to let go of the control bar.
• Do practice releasing the control bar under safe controlled conditions to overcome the instinct to cling onto it even if it's pulling you across a highway.
• Do consider wearing a helmet to protect your head from the board.
• Do ride with a buddy who can help you launch your kite and assist you should something go wrong.
• Do consider wearing a bouyancy vest or floatation device if you have any doubt about your swimming ability.
• Do wear a wetsuit, booties, sunscreen, lycra shirt, sunglasses and other protection from the elements.
• Do learn in light steady wind.
• Do use the kite to pull you to one side of the board or the other whenever the board is directly upwind of you. That way you can avoid being in a position where a wave or a gust can throw it into you.
• Do know the kite's position and direction of travel at all times. When in doubt fly the kite high.
• Do plan how you are going to get the kite down safely if you launched in a sideshore wind and are being blown onto a lee shore. Wait too long and you'll be in trouble.