How to use kitesurf kites

Kitesurf kites: In using the wind’s power to travel as fast as possible across the water and high into the

air, kitesurfing falls somewhere between kiting, windsurfing and wakeboarding. Standing on boards

similar to wakeboards but fitted with kitesurf kites, kitesurfers try to jump into the air and do other stunts

while they ski over the water.

The evolution of kitesurf kites

Despite its image as a recent invention of adrenaline junkies, kitesurfing has been around for a long time.

It originated in the 13th century where it was used as a form of transport in the East where, attempting to

increase the speed and stability of their canoes with the help of the wind, the Chinese fitted them with sails.

The next step in the evolution of kitesurf kites occurred in the 19th century where George Pocock

redesigned the kite so that it could be used for both sea and land transportation. He introduced the 4 line

design and increased the size of the kite – these new traits enabled boats and carts to turn and to travel

upwind. Samuel Code was responsible for the next step in the evolvement of kitesurf kites with his man-lifting kites launched in 1903 which made it possible to cross the English channel via this mode of

transportation.

Kitesurfing shook off its image as a merely utilitarian activity in the period 1970 – 1980 when it became known as a popular extreme sport, especially in Maui, and manufacturers started supplying water-launch

kitesurf kites, making it one of the fastest growing extreme sports now being practiced. In 2006 there

were 210,000 kitesurfers internationally using 114,465 kites of which 39,600 kitesurfers using 23,608 kites were from the USA and Canada. The growth of the sport is predicted to be in the 35% to 50%

range.

The safe use of kitesurf kites

A safety vest, guards for heads, knees and elbows and an emergency line-cutter are essential safety equipment for any kitesurfer.

Acquire a basic knowledge of water sports before you start using kitesurf kites. Either take lessons or use

your experience in previous water sports to help you. If you can water-ski or have been on a wakeboard you will be better prepared for being towed by kitesurf kites and windsurfers will know how to use wind

strength for performing tricks and jumps.

Newbies often get into trouble when they misjudge distances and wind speed. A few sessions with an

International Kiteboarding Organization certified instructor is advised for any prospective kitesurfer.

Only kitesurf in locations earmarked for kitesurfing and look out for shallows, buildings or power lines in

the area to ensure your kitesurf kites do not get entangled. And always check the weather forecast before

you leave home so that you do not get caught in a gale.

Kitesurfing is only for strong simmers. A life jacket is only a safety device and cannot get you back to

shore or swim you to your control bar if your kite has taken off without out. As an additional precaution,

always keep kitesurf with a buddy who can look out for you.

You can finish reading this article on our website about kite boarding gear.