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 Don't jump over piers or any other coastal barrier. If you build up speed nicely and move your body away from the downwind line while pulling the bar, you'll jump up to 40 feet.įinally, ride with seat harnesses in 15-knot plus winds and find small water ramps that will help boost air time. Large kites don't necessarily mean big airs. Landing: Get the board downwind, touch down, and re-set your upwind edge.Descent: Spot your landing, and steer the kite forward, letting the bar out slowly prepare to bend your knees for impact. Hang time: Hold the bar at full power, and let the kite navigate between 12 and 1 o'clock above your head you'll swing like a pendulum.Prepare to jump: Carve upwind, leave the kite at a 45-degree angle, pull the bar, and get the kite smoothly at 12 o'clock.Get fast: Keep the kite fully powered between 10 and 11 o'clock (more or less 45 degrees) and reach medium-to-high speed.Ready to get airborne? Here's how to pull off and safely land a big air: Shoulders must also move in the direction you're flying. For example, getting your shoulders even or behind your hips will give you edge control and higher jumps. So find a nice flat water spot, free of obstacles, with steady winds.ĭetails matter. The faster you ride, the higher you'll fly. Remember that speed is critical if you're aiming at the biggest kiteboarding air of all time. Know when it's time to pull the bar to fly high and max out your hang time. Kiteboarding jumps require a lot of training, knowledge of the wind, timing, and control.
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