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Glossary

Rider Kaleo Padilla Photo Richie Hawley

Angular velocityThe rate at which a spinning body rotates.

AnticycloneA body of air in which the atmospheric pressure is higher than the pressure in the surrounding air; a high or high pressure area. Describes the movement of air around a high pressure; and rotation about the local vertical opposite the earth’s rotation.

ApexThe top of the wind window, the highest point on the wind clock.

Apparent air speedWhen kite is moving through the air from high point to low point increasing the speed of the kite.

Arctic airA mass of very cold, dry air that usually originates over the Arctic Ocean north of Canada and Alaska.

Arctic highA very cold high pressure that originates over the Arctic Ocean.

ASOSThe Automated Surface Observation System.This system observes skycondition, weather, temperature, dew point, wind direction and speed, pressureand precipitation.

Aspect ratioMeasurement of the wingspan divided by the width of the wing.

Asymmetric boardBoard designed with two different rails. The difference of design is intended to help to tack better or dig in the rail better when overpowered.

AtmosphereThe mass of air surrounding the earth and bound to it more or less permanently by the earth’s gravitational attraction.

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TerminologyAAdvisoryOfficial information issued by tropical cyclone warning centersdescribing all tropical cyclone watches and warnings in effect along with detailsconcerning tropical cyclone locations, intensity and movement, and precautionsthat should be taken. Advisories are also issued to describe: (a) tropical cyclonesprior to issuance of watches and warnings and (b) subtropical cyclones.

Adjustable TravelA stopper knob above the control bar which limits the distance the bar can travel.

Ahi (HI)Yellow fin tuna

AirThe mixture of gases that make up the earth’s atmosphere.

Air launchA kite flying from the kite launcher’s hand into the air.

Air massA large body of air that has similar temperature and moisture characteristics.

Air speedSpeed of air flowing over the kite.

Akamai (HI)Smart, in a clever way.

AnabaticWind flowing up an incline, such as up a hillside; upslope wind.

AnemometerAn instrument used to measure wind speed.

Angle of attack (AOA)Relative angle of kite to air flow.

Angular momentumThe energy of motion of a spinning body or mass of air or water.

Angular speedThis speed describes how long the kite needs to describe an angle in the wind window.

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4 Moderate breezeSmall waves becoming longer; fairly frequent white horses, raises dust and loose paper; small branches are moved 11 to 16.5 Fresh breezeModerate waves, taking more pronounced long form; many white horses are formed. Chance of some spray, small trees in leaf begin to sway. Crested wavelets form on inland waters 17 to 21.6 Strong breezeLarge waves begin to form; white foam-crests are more extensive everywhere. Probably some spray, large branches in motion; whistling heard in telephone wires, umbrellas used with difficulty 22 to 27.7 Near galeSea heaps up and white foam from breaking waves begin to be blown in, streaks along the direction of the wind, whole trees in motion; inconvenience felt when walking against wind 28 to 33.8 GaleModerately high waves of greater length; edges of crests begin to break into spindrift. Breaks twigs off trees; generally impedes progress 34 to 40. The foam is blown in well-marked streaks along the direction of the wind.

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Beaufort Scale0 CalmSea like a mirror, smoke rises vertically1 Light airRipples with appearance of scales are formed but without foam crests. Wind direction shown by smoke drift but not by wind vanes 1 to 3.2 Light breezeSmall wavelets, still short but more pronounced. Crests have a glassy appearance and do not break Wind felt on face; leaves rustle; ordinary vane moved by wind 4 to 6.3 Gentle breezeLarge wavelets. Crests begin to break. Foam of glassy appearance. Perhaps scattered white horses, leaves and small twigs in constant motion. Wind extends light flags 7 to 10.

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B

Back doorThe area below the apex where a kite travels during a power loop. On the wind clock this area is between ten o’clock and two o’clock opposite apex.

Backwards launchSee reverse launch.

Back loopTo jump and turn 360 degrees against the direction of travel, during which the board is higher than the rider’s head.

Back-sideSee toe side.

Beach-startStart technique with one foot on the board and the other on the sand.

Bail outTo abort a wave or jump.

Balanced aspect ratioA middle ground between high and low aspect ratios.

Bar1. The control device used in kiteboarding. 2. An obstacle formed at the shallow entrance at the mouth of a river or bay that empties into the ocean.

BarometerAn instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure.

Beach trollDrug addicts who live in the bush near the beach.

Beaufort ScaleA scale that indicates the wind speed using the effect wind has on certain familiar objects. Generally used in Europe. Virtually unused among kiteboarders in the US.

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Body rollThe act of full body spinning to untwist kite lines.

Bone YardA reef which either shows or is just below the surface of the water. Often causing riders to crash and make a skin and bone deposit on the reef.

Bowline knotAn adjustable knot used in kiteboarding to attach the trim line to the power strap.

BootiesFootwear that functions on the water as well as on the reef and beach. Generally made of neoprene.

Bra (Hi)A ride buddy.

Bro (Ca)A ride buddy.

BridleThe internal lines of the kite, which attach the kite lines to the kite.

Bridle fittingA line extending from the bridle that connects the kite lines to the bridles or kite.

Broken cloudsOpaque clouds that cover 6/10ths to 9/10ths of the sky.

Beef (HI)To throw blows, to fight.

BettyAn anachronism used to describe an active beach girl; Beach’en, Electric, Titillating, Tan, Yumster.

Bi-directionalA board that can be ridden either forward or backwards.

Bitchin’Really good.

BindingsWakeboard/snowboard style boots, that attaches the rider’s feet to the board.

BlindTo ride with your back to the kite.

Board speedSpeed of the board through the water.

Board recoilOver-tensioning of the leg leash resulting in board-body contact.

Body-dragBeing pulled trough the water by a traction kite without a board.

9 Severe galeHigh waves. Dense streaks of foam along the direction of the wind crests. Waves begin to topple, tumble and roll over. Spray may affect visibility. Slight structural damage occurs (chimney pots and slates removed) 41 to 47.

10 StormVery high waves with long overhanging crest. Resulting foam in great patches is blown in dense streaks along the direction of the wind. Whole surface takes on a white appearance. Tumbling of sea becomes heavy and shock-like. Visibility affected. Seldom experienced inland. Trees uprooted; considerable structural damage occurs 48 to 55.Copyright Scout Notebook - 2001

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Center linesThe inside or leading-edge lines on a four-line kite.

Center line slideA technique used to move from the kite to the board while in the water.

Channel bottomEdges on the bottom of the board other than the rails.

Chicken loopAn old school term to describe the Trim Loop. The center harness loop on a four-line bar.

ChinookA strong downslope wind that causes the air to warm rapidly as a result of compressive heating. Called a Foehn wind in Europe.

ChuckTo discard, throw away, abandon.

ChuckingTo toss a new rider into the water on full length lines.

Clarissa HempelThe KITEs Safety girl, who is also a professional kiteboarder and model.

ClearThe appearance of the sky when it is without clouds, or clouds cover lessthan 1/10th of thc sky.

ClimatologyThe scientific study of climate.

Cloud Condensation NucleiSmall particles in the air on which water vapor condenses and forms cloud droplets

CloudyThe state of the sky when clouds cover 7/10ths or more of the sky.

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Buffer zoneAn area or distance maintained between a rider and an obstacle. Generally twotimes the length of the kite lines.

Burn (Fl)To smoke herb, pot or pakalolo

BurlyBig and ugly, usually used to describe conditions or women

BuryTo put sand or other weight on top of a kite sufficient to keep the kite frommoving. C CalmThe absence of apparent motion in the air.

Cabo-Verde IslandsVolcanic islands west of Senegal. Good for kiteboarding.

CarbonA strong, lightweight material used to make boards. Also, a chemical found in coal and in all living things.

CeilingThe height of the lowest layer of broken and overcast clouds.

CelsiusA temperature scale in which zero is the freezing point of water and onehundred is the boiling point.

CGCenter of Gravity. The lowest point of body weight

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Control positionBoard in hand at side.

ConvectionThe transfer of heat by movement within a gas or liquid.

CoreThe body, the center of gravity of a persons body

CoronaA disk of light surrounding the sun or moon. This is a result of the diffraction of light by small water droplets.

Crackin’A wave breaking with attitude.

CrittersAny living organism with a defense system.

Cross wind90 degrees to the wind.

CruisingLight casual action, mellow.

CycloneA body of air in which the pressure is lower than that of the surrounding air; a low or low pressure area.

D

Dacron/MylarLightweight, strong material found in the struts of marine traction kites.

Dialed (Fl)The way you want, usually used to refer to conditions or gear.

Da Kine (Hi)The good thing, a brand name. Can be used to mean anything.

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Coastal floodingThe submersion of land areas along the ocean coast and other inland waters caused by sea water over and above normal tidal action.

Coastal watersIncludes the area from a line approximating the mean high wateralong the mainland or island as far out as sixty nautical miles including the bays,harbors and sounds.

Coho windName for the cold easterly winds that blows through the Columbia River Gorge during the winter months. Local interest groups created the name in 1996/1997.

Cold frontThe leading edge of a cold air mass as it moves toward warmer air; its movement is characterized by a drop in temperature and humidity after the front passes.

Cold lowA low pressure system with cold air mass from near the surface to allvertical levels (also called a cold core low).

Combined seasThe interaction of wind waves and swell; the combined seasheight is equal to the square root of the sum of the squares of the wind wavesand swell.

CondensationThe occurrence of vapor transforming into a liquid.

ConductionThe transfer of heat between bodies that are in contact.

Controlled crashThe act of tucking the knees to the chest and dropping the bottom of the body to the water to slow speed.

Controlled hopA small jump used to control both board and kite speed.

Control linesThe outside lines on a four-line kite bar.

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Dolphin modeWhen being pulled under water, relaxing and giving a dolphin kick towards the power.

Doppler RadarRadar that determines the intensity of rainfall and velocities ofwater and air particles; the National Weather Service uses a type of DopplerRadar called the WSR-88D, or NEXRAD; velocities of detected targets aredetermined by Doppler shift in frequency.

Double head nodThe act of nodding the head yes twice to indicate a kite launch.

Double-pull-inTo pull in on the kite bar with both hands. The #1 technique problem in kiteboarding.

Down burstA vertical or nearly vertical downward burst of strong winds atground level. Usually associated with a thunderstorm.

DownwindThe side of the observer away from the wind. Also to travel away from the wind.

Drop inTo take off on someone else’s wave.

Drop zoneThe area underneath the kite.

Dude (Ca)An over used term used to refer to a person, friend or ride partner.

Dust DevilA rapidly rotating column of air carrying dust, leaves and other lightweight material; dust devils usually develop during hot, sunny days over dry and dusty or sandy areas.

Dust stormAn area where high surface winds have picked up loose dust,reducing visibility to less than one-half mile.

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Dangerously closeA kiteboarder who can get power in but can’t edge it out.

Dead manTo jump upside down while letting go of the bar.

DefaultThe secondary area for the kite or person to exit safely when primary area is nolonger an option.

Depowering systemSystem that allows riders to depower their kites partially and or completely.A power strap is an example of a partial depower system, a fifth line completely depowers a kite.

DepressionA region of low atmospheric pressure that is usually accompanied by low clouds and precipitation.

Dew PointThe temperature to which a certain amount of air must be cooled in order for saturation to occur (a cloud or fog to form); the drier the air the lower the dew point.

DisturbanceA disruption of the atmosphere. Usually refers to a low pressure area, cool air and inclement weather.

DirectionalA board that has a distinct nose and tail.

DivergenceRefers to the spreading out of winds.

DoldrumsThe regions on either side of the equator where air pressure is low and winds are light. Dolphin kickThe full-body aqua man kick used to propel yourself through the water.

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FairDescribes weather in which there is less than 4/10ths of opaque cloud cover and no precipitation; there are no extreme visibility, wind or temperature conditions.

Fall offTo go downwind because of light winds.

Fall windA strong, cold, down slope wind.

FathomThe common unit used to measure depth in the ocean; it is equivalent to six feet.

FetchThe area in which waves are formed by a wind with an approximatelyconstant speed and direction.

Final checkWith tensioned lines, the kite launcher allows the kiteboarder to check lines,bridles, and bladders for symmetry.

Flagged A kite opens up when kite lines become asymmetric.

FlatTo land a jump under the kite and directly on top of the board.

Flat areaThe measurement of the total surface area of the kite when it is spread out flat onthe ground.

Figure eight knotUsed on control lines. Secure and can be undone.

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E

Ebb CurrentThe movement of a tidal current away from the coast or down anestuary.

EdgeThe side of the board. To carve the side of the board aggressively.

El NinoA great warming of the equatorial waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean; El Nino events occur every three to seven years and are related to shifts in global weather patterns.

EpoxyA two-part chemical used to glass boards.

Eps/pvcFoam sandwich.

Equal hand pressureTo push with one hand as you pull the same amount with the other hand(EHP).

Extended outlookA basic forecast of general weather conditions three to fivedays in the future.

F

FAAThe Federal Aviation Administration.

Face plantTo crash face first.

FahrenheitThe standard scale used to measure temperature in the United States. On this scale, the freezing point of water is thirty-two degrees and the boiling point is two hundred and twelve degrees.

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Free handThe hand that does not have your wrist leash.

Free diverA spear fisherman, usually marked by a plastic jug or float.

FWTSAn acronym meaning fleshy white thigh syndrome.

Frog stormThe first bad weather in spring after a warm period.

FrontThe boundary or transition zone of two air masses; if cold air advances and replaces warmer air the front is a cold front. If warm air advances and replaces cooler air the front is a warm front.

FrostThe formation of thin ice crystals on the ground or other surfaces; frostdevelops under conditions similar to those of dew, except that the temperature drops below thirty-two degrees.

Funnel cloudA funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a cumulus or cumulonimbus cloud; thiscloud is related to a rotating column of air that is not in contact with the ground.

G

Gale warningA warning of one minute sustained surface winds in the range of 34 kt (39 mph or 63 km/hr) to 47 kt (54 mph or 87 km/hr) inclusive, either predicted or occurring and not directly associated with tropical cyclones.

Geostationary SatelliteA satellite positioned over the equator. It revolves around the earth once every twenty-four hours, thus remaining in the same position relative to the earth’s surface.

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Float Used to describe a kite flying upside down.

Float & fly planA plan of exactly what is going to happen when your kite is in the air and you are in the water.

Flash AustinThe first guy to ride upwind on a kiteboard.

FLLFull length lines.

FlowerA young attractive beach girl.

Fleshy white thigh syndromeWhen water forces board shorts up the rider’s leg exposing his pale thigh.

Foehn WindEuropean term for Chinook Wind. Warm, down slope wind.

FogWater that has condensed close to ground level, producing a cloud of very small droplets that reduces visibility to less than one km (three thousand and three hundred feet).

Foot strapsPadded neoprene loops which connect the rider to the board.

Forward adjustment pointThe adjustment point on the trailing edge of a kite closest to the leading edge. Used to slow the steering of the kite.

FlukyInconsistent and unpredictable winds.

Flatter Arch KiteKites which have less of the traditional C shape and more of a flatter shape, ie ( .

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H

HailPrecipitation in the form of balls of ice. Produced by liquid precipitation freezing and being coated by layers of ice as it is lifted and cooled in strong updrafts of thunderstorms.

Hale (Hi)A Hawaiian meeting house.

HalosRings or arcs that seem to encircle the sun or moon and are the result of the refraction of light through the ice crystals that make up cirrus clouds.

HangThe amount of time a rider stays in the air. HarmattanA hot, dry, and dusty northeasterly or easterly wind that occurs inWest Africa north of the equator and is caused by the outflow of air fromsubtropical high pressure areas.

HarnessA heavy-duty kiteboarding belt with an open “J” hook used to attach the rider tothe harness lines. There are two types: seat and waist.

Harness linesHeavy-duty lines attached to the bar, they allow the rider to balance body weight against the power in the kite without using upper body strength. There are two types of harness lines, fixed and center.

Heavy surfThe result of large waves breaking on or near the shore. Resulting from swells or produced by a distant storm.

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Geri (Fl)A senior citizen.

Goofy footIn board sports, riding naturally with the right foot forward.

GrabTo hold the board during a jump.

GradientThe time or spatial rate of change of an atmospheric property.

Greenhouse effectThe heating of the earth’s atmosphere caused by imbalances in the atmosphere’s radiation cycle, characterized by so called greenhouse gases such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, that trap the heat from the sun in the atmosphere and inhibit re-radiation of that heat into space from the earth at night. Theoretically, this results in a gradual warming of the atmosphere.

GrinderA really big wave.

Grind1) To ride your board onto reef & beach. 2) To feed hard, in an urgent way.

GrommetA young kite surfer or surfer.

GruntMore pull than lift.

Gust frontThe leading edge of a thunderstorm’s downdraft air that is most prominent beneath the rain-free base and the leading edge of a thunderstorm; this gust front may precede the thunderstorm by several minutes and have winds that can easily exceed eighty miles an hour.

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Honeymoon positionTandem kiteboarding position where the partners arm is around your neck,legs over yours, and your arm is around her back.

Hooked inThe act of being attached to the kite via the harness and the harness line.

Horse LatitudesSubtropical regions where anticyclones produce settled weather.

Hot LaunchTo launch the kite deep in the wind window with a lot of force. To launch a kite with a lot of power.

Hurricane/typhoonA tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind (using the U.S. one-minute average) is 64 kt (74 mph or 119 km/hr) or more. The term hurricane is used for Northern Hemisphere cyclones east of the International Dateline to the Greenwich Meridian. The term typhoon is used for Pacific cyclones north of the Equator and west of the International Dateline.

Hurricane local statementA public release prepared by local National Weather Service offices in or near a threatened area giving specific details for its county/parish warning area on (1) weather conditions, (2) evacuation decisions made by local officials, and (3) other precautions necessary to protect life and property.

Hurricane seasonThe portion of the year having a relatively high incidence of hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico runs from June 1 to November 30. The hurricane season in the Eastern Pacific basin runs from May 15 to November 30. The hurricane season in the Central Pacific basin runs from June 1 to November 30.

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HeckleA barrage of comedic statements highlighting an embarrassing personal fact.

HecklelableThe act of committing a severe ride error in front of your peers.

Heel sideThe standard ride position in kiteboarding. The wind is hitting the rider’s back first and then the kite.

Hehe nalu (Hi)Wave skipping, surfing or kiteboarding.

Hero LandingTo land the kite leading edge down, unassisted.

High or High Pressure AreaAn area of high pressure that is usually characterized by clear skies and fairweather carried by sinking air; winds rotate clockwise around and outward fromthe center of the high.

High WindSustained wind of 40 miles per hour or greater and/or gusts greater than 58 miles per hour.

High SeasThat portion of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans beyond the territorial limits of a country.

High wind warningA high wind warning is defined as one-minute average surface winds of 35 kt (40 mph or 64 km/hr) or greater lasting for 1 hour or longer, or winds gusting to 50 kt (58 mph or 93 km/hr) or greater regardless of duration that are either expected or observed over land.

HoleA spot in the wind that is less windy than surrounding areas. Often characterized by glassy water.

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Interlocking knotUsed to add one line length to another.

InversionAn increase in temperature with height; a reverse of the normal cooling with height.

InvertedTurned inside out or upside down.

IridescenceBrilliant patches of green or pink sometimes seen near the edges of high- or medium-level clouds.

IsobarThe line of equal pressure denoted on surface weather maps.

IsothermThe line of equal temperature denoted on surface weather maps.

J

Jet streamA zone of strong winds concentrated in a narrow band in the upper atmosphere; these winds are often referred to as the “storm track” since the jet stream often steers atmospheric storms.

JibeTo change direction 180 degrees by turning downwind.

Hurricane warningA warning that sustained winds 64 kt (74 mph or 119 km/hr) or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Hurricane watchAn announcement for specific coastal areas that hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours.

HygrometerAn instrument used to measure humidity.

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I

IceShort for an addictive drug call Crystal Methamphetamine

Ice HeadA person addicted to Crystal Meth.

Impact zoneThe area in which breaking waves exert the most force.

Impact jacketA lightweight water jacket. Often has some flotation.

InflatableA kite with air filled struts.

InsaneBeyond imagination. A term used to describe intense wind strong enough to blow car keys down the beach, 35knots plus.

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Kite-broA person familiar with catching and launching a rider’s kite.

Kite clockDescribes the kite’s position in the wind window. There are seven positions on the kite clock; they are 9,10,11,12,1,2,3 plus the back door.

Kite mareA tale of an unfortunate kiteboarding incident.

KITEsKiteboarding International Training Evaluation. The modern teaching methodology created by John Holzhall on Maui.

KookSomeone who consistently lets go of his or her kite.

KnotThe unit used to measure wind speed, equal to 1.15 statute miles per hour.

Kona windA Southerly wind found in the North Eastern pacific. This wind reaches the Big Island of Hawaii first, which is the Southern most Hawaiian Island, and then travels up the state. Kona is a city on the Big Island.

L

Land breezeA coastal breeze that blows from land out to sea. It occurs when the sea is warmer then the adjacent land.

Land handThe hand a rider uses to bring the kite back into the power zone.

Larks headA reversible connection used in kiteboarding to attach kite lines to bridle fittings.

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Jump startTo boost off the beach, put the board on and land riding.

JuicedTo be fully powered.

K

Kama’aina (Hi)Resident of the State of Hawaii.

Katabatic windWind blowing down an incline, such as down a hillside; down slope wind.

Kiawe (Hi)A thorny tree found around many of Hawaii’s kiteboarding beaches.

Kicker (Fl)A small bump of wave.

Keiki (Hi)A child.

Killer adviceWhen someone tells a new rider to waterstart their first day on full length lines.

KiteboarderSomeone who can launch from one spot, ride, turn around and come back to the same spot.

Kick-outJump technique to get out of the wave over the back of the wave.

Kite-skiPackage composed of waterskis developed for kiting and a special kite with a control bar. The control bar is equipped with a disc brake to relaunch the kite.

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LoadedPowered up, fully powered.

LoftingBeing involuntarily lifted by the wind. An occurrence when wind rises at a speed faster than the descent rate of the rider.

Looping Rider spins 360 degrees while the board is at a point higher than his head.

LooseQuick turning.

Low or Low Pressure AreaUsually characterized by clouds of precipitation caused by rising air; often related to inclement weather such as winds flowing counter-clockwise and into the center of the low.

LullA decrease in the wind for a short duration.

Legaignoux (Bruno and Dominique)The two French brothers who designed the first marine wing, the Wipika.

M

Macro burstA large down burst within a 2.5-mile or larger outflow diameter with damaging winds lasting five to twenty-five minutes.

Magnetic sportA sport where the body follows the eyes.

Mahalo (Hi)A Hawaiian word which means thank you.

Mahu (Hi)A gay man.

Mana’o (Hi)Spirit.

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Latent heatThe heat energy that must be absorbed when a substance changes from solid to liquid and liquid to gas, and which is released when a gas condenses and a liquid solidifies.

LaunchTo bring a kite skyward from the earth’s surface.

LaunchedA term to describe a rider who rockets from the earth’s surface.

Leading edgeFront of the kite.

Lead lineThe thicker lines that connect the kite lines to the bar.

Leg leashThe strap that connects the board to your leg or body.

Left barTo pull in with the left hand while pushing the same amount with the right hand.

LiftThe aerodynamic or hydrodynamic force that results from the passage of air or water.

LightningAny and all forms of visible electrical discharges produced by thunderstorms. Kite lines conduct electricity wet or dry! Riders should not fly when lightning is present.

LinkTo add lines together.

LitTo have plenty of power.

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N

NaishA brand of kites owned by Robby Naish. The first complete modern kiteboarding set-up to enter the marketplace.

Naish, RobbyHawaiian Superman.

Natural stanceThe ride stance in which the rider feels most comfortable. There are two types of natural stances, goofy (right foot forward) or regular (left foot forward). Neutral steeringSteering while in the harness with no hands on the bar. Also called Core Steering.

Neutral zoneTo position the kite directly overhead at the zenith of the wind window.Also called the apex.

Neutral barA bar position which requires arms extended equally.

Nice & windyA wind measurement term used when wind moves water in the shape of definedwhitecaps.

NOAANational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; parent agency of the National Weather Service in the Department of Commerce.

No-go zoneThe area 25 degrees to either side of the direction of the wind not readily possible to kiteboarding.

NoseThe front of the board.

Nuclear windUsed to describe smoking windy conditions.

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Marine traction kiteA kite designed for water use. Its structure comes from five interior inflatable struts and one inflatable leading edge chamber.

MATMaintain composure, Analyze the situation, Take appropriate action.

MethodA proven process.

Micro climateA local climate that differs from the main climate around it.

MilibarThe scientific unit used in measuring and reporting atmospheric pressure.

Mermaid positionPosition of partners hands on kite handler’s shoulders.

MeteorologyThe study of phenomena of the atmosphere and all the processes that take place in the atmosphere and their relationships with processes at the surface of the earth.

MonsoonA seasonal change in wind direction bringing dry air or heavy rain.

MoShort for homosexual.

Motorcycle throttle movementWrist movement required to get into the harness, similar to a motorcycle throttle.

MSLMean sea level.

Mummy wrapMultiple wraps of kite line around the body.

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PatternThe path of a kite.

Partly cloudyThe appearance of the sky when 3/10ths to 6/10ths of the sky is covered with clouds.

ParkedA kite hovering in any position on the kite clock. In kiteboarding, advanced riders edge off a parked kite.

PlaningWhen the board breaks free of the bow wave and rides on top of the water.

PinchTo track into the wind. closer than 30 degrees off the wind.

Poach (Fl)To take.

PopVertical pull

PitThe bottom of a breaking wave.

PitchThe angle of the trailing edge of the kite.

PonytailThe bridle fitting on a kite.

Power strapA strap extending from a four-line bar that allows the rider to manually adjust the kite’s angle of attack.

Port tackWind direction with the wind from the rider’s left as he faces the water. To ride away from the beach with the left hand forward.

Pau (Hi)Finished, done with the task.

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O

Ocean cultureCustoms consistent with ocean living, no worries, no problems. Old schoolBelieves in what was. Old-fashioned.

Off ShoreA general term to describe wind blowing from the land to the water.

Offshore watersThat portion of oceans, gulfs, and seas beyond coastal waters extending to a specified distance from the coastline, to a specified depth contour, or covering an area defined by specific latitude and longitude points.

Ono (Hi)A white fish, delicious, ie ono grinds.

OvercastWhen more than 9/10ths of the sky is covered with clouds.

OverpoweredWhen a kiteboarder can’t hold an edge against the pull of the kite.

OzoneA form of oxygen in which the molecule is made of three atoms insteadof the usual two. Ozone is a primary component of photochemical smog.

P

PaddlersTraditional Hawaiian canoers.

Panic pullA double-arm-pull against a powered kite. A hurdle humans have to overcome to advance in kiteboarding.

PadFoam pad on the board made of comfortable and anti-slip material.

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PuffyA term used to describe wind that comes and goes.

Push outTo apply enough foot pressure to push the power out of a board.

Q

Quick releaseThe mechanism that instantly depowers the kite by releasing one line.

QuiverA number of kites or boards usually of the same brand but different sizes.

R

RadarA method of detecting the distance, size, and movement of objects by the reflection of radio waves.

RadiosondeA balloon carrying instruments for measuring conditions in the upper atmosphere.

RailThe edges of a board.

RainA type of precipitation that is in the form of water droplets larger than 0.5mm.

Ram AirA kite that is open at one end and sealed at the other. Rapid Air Movement fills the kite and gives it shape and structure.

Rat’s nest30-meter kite lines tangled into a ball.

RashieA lycra rash guard shirt used in the tropics to reduce sun exposure.

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Power packageThe combination of board area + kite area + line length + bar length + wind speed.

Power packageThe combination of board area + kite area + line length + bar length + wind speed.

Power loopA kite looping in a descending path through the “back door” of the wind window and returning to its point of origin.

Power strokeTo move the kite on an ascending and descending path to increase power.

Power zoneThe two sides of the wind window, 1 o’clock to 3 o’clock and 11 o’clock to 9 o’clock, used when generating power or traveling across the direction of the wind.

PrecipitationAll forms of water that fall from the sky and reach the ground.

PFDPersonnel Flotation Device.

Prelaunch proceduresTechniques involved in getting you and your kite ready to launch.

PressureA measure of the weight of the air. Usually measured with abarometer in meteorology.

Projected AreaDetermined by measuring the kite area, which is presented to the wind while in flight. If you were to take a snapshot of the kite from directly underneath, it the area shown represents the projected area.

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RiderThe term to describe any level of kiteboarder.

RidgeIn the atmosphere, an elongated high-pressure area that lies between two low-pressure areas.. RippingIn side-stance sports, the act of seamless riding.

Rip-stop polyesterA lightweight material often characterized by small box like squares. Used inboard shorts and kite canopies, known for being light and strong.

Right barTo pull in on the kite bar with the right hand while pushing the same amount with the left.

Rossby wavesLong waves that form in air or water that flows almost parallel to the equator, which results from the effect of the earth’s rotation.

RunA part of a session. In kiteboarding, to ride one way.

RubberAny type of wet suit.

S

Safety plan ABCs of depowering, buffer zones, self-rescue, and the KITEs MLL.

Sandal bindingsAn open-toed, heel binding used in kiteboarding

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RawinsondeA balloon that is tracked by radar to measure wind speeds and wind directions in the atmosphere.

Really windyLeaves and bigger objects move across the land. Small ocean waves take shape 15-20 knots.

Rear adjustment pointThe adjustment point on the trailing edge of the kite, furthest from the leading edge adjustment point. Used to increase the turning speed of the kite

Relative humidityThe amount of water vapor in the air as compared to thepercent of the amount of water vapor it would take to saturate the air.

Reverse steeringThe steering technique involved when a kite is leading edge down in the water.

Reverse tacoA kite bending backwards and breaking like a hard shell taco. This usually happens during a launch when an inexperienced rider moves towards his launcher. The kite then breaks over the launchers shoulder.

Reverse launch1) Using bridles on a kite to launch trailing edge first from the water. 2) To launch on the land side and then fly through the apex of the wind window to the waterside.

Regular footA ride style where the rider is left foot forward.

Reride (tm.)A registered trade mark of Airush for a kiteboarding safety system that allows the kite bar to travel up one line to depower the kite.

RideTo edge off a powered kite for a length of time.

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ShakaThe famous Hawaiian greeting, thumb and pinky finger extended.

ShapeThe design of the board.

ShapedThe act of building a board’s core.

Shine (FL)To blow off. to dis.

ShoreThe dry area near the water’s edge.

Shore-breakThe first wave that breaks on the beach. A dangerous wave when it’s big.

Shore poundHeavy waves breaking where the water meets the sand.

Single skinOne layer of cloth or fabric.

SlipperHawaiian for sandal or flip flop, also the name of the KITEs Method boards.

Small craft advisoryA marine advisory issued for sustained winds and/or frequent gusts greater than20 knots.

SnakeTo overtake someone aggressively. To take some thing from some one.

SnobberknockerHard impact resulting in the snot being knocked out of the rider’s head.

SlogTo go slow.

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Scoop (or scoop line)The curvature of the bottom of a board that goes from the nose to the tail. On the nose, it’s called nose rocker and the tail, it’s called lift or tail rocker.

Sea breezeA coastal breeze that blows from sea to land during daytime in summer. It is caused by warm air rising over land and being replaced by cooler air from over the sea.

SessionEvery thing which happens between the launch and the exit. A series of runs.

Slot machine techniqueTo pull the center strut of a kite to remove sand from the kite.

Side ShoreMoving parallel to the shore.

Side shore windWind moving parallel to the shore.

Side-stanceSports in which the rider travels with one foot leading and the other foot trailing. Surfing, kiteboarding, wake boarding, snowboarding are examples.

Sea gullA kite that makes a flapping motion while flying.

Self launchTo launch unassisted.

Set1) To pressure against. 2) a group of waves.

Set handThe rider’s hand used to initiate a jump.

SkunkedTo miss out on the wind or have no wind.

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Starboard tackRiding with the right hand forward with the wind at your back

StatementProvides the public with information concerning the status of existing severe weather conditions; it is used to cancel a watch or warning or delete part of a watch or warning that refers to areas that are no longer being threatened by a certain weather hazard

Stationary frontThe boundary between cool and warm air in which neither air mass is advancing.

Stay (Hi)Hawaiian slang for going or moving.

StopA ball or piece of plastic that keeps the bar from moving further up the kite lines.

Storm trackThe path that a low-pressure area follows.

Storm warningA marine wind warning for winds greater than 48 knots (55 mph).

Storm surgeAn abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or other intense storm, and whose height is the difference between the observed level of the sea surface and the level that would have occurred in the absence of the cyclone. Storm surge is usually estimated by subtracting the normal, or astronomic, high tide from the observed storm tide.

Storm tideThe actual level of seawater resulting from the astronomic tide combined with the storm surge.

StrokeThe movement or path of the kite when flying on the wind clock.

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Space ShuttleA kite launching leading edge pointed up from the deepest point in the wind window.

Spiel (Fl)The story, the skinny, what real happened.

SpillTo let out power in the kite or board.

Spoon positionThe fitting together of two bodies while tandem kiteboarding.

SquirrelyWind blowing from all directions at nearly the same time.

SLTShort line technology.

Snap shackleA re leasable shackle often used to attach the riders center lines to the harness.

SpinningTo turn 360 degrees in the air while riding.

Step railAn additional level on the top of the board, intended to give the rider more flotation without increasing the board’s area.

StallWhen a kite flies too far into the wind, causing it to lose power and dive.

Stable airAir with little or no tendency to rise that is usually accompanied by clear dry weather.

StarboardThe right side of the board when looking from back to front.

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T

TackIn kiteboarding, a direction of travel.

Tacking the windSailing technique that allows you to go upwind better than 90 degrees from the wind direction. If you travel at less than 90 degrees, you cannot return to your point of origin.

TailThe rear end of a board.

Tea-bagTo get repeatedly lifted out of the water and dunked.

TemperatureA measure of the warmth or coldness of an object or substance with reference to a standard value.

Three step rockerRefers to the bottom of a board when the ends are curved more than the middle of the board.

ThrowTo push water with the edge of the board. The act of a wave pitching forward with attitude.

Toe sideA ride position where the rider is facing the wind (toes pointing into the wind) with his back to the kite.

TombstoneA board standing vertically while being pulled by the leash.

Torn up (Fl)To damage, to rip up, or to be extremely drunk.

TornadoA violent, rotating column of air extending from the ground to a thunderstorm.

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StrutThe interior casing that holds a kite bladder.

SSSnowboard and skateboard style, a term used to describe a free-ride style, or type of board.

SubmariningThe act or processes of the nose of the board submerging like a submarine.

Subtropical cycloneA non-frontal low-pressure system that has characteristics of both tropical and extra tropical cyclones. Subtropical cyclones, which can evolve into tropical cyclones, are generally of two types:(1) An upper level cold low with circulation extending to the surface and maximum sustained winds generally occurring at a radius of about 100 miles or more from the pressure center.(2) A mezoscale cyclone originating in or near a frontolyzing zone of horizontal wind shear, with radius of maximum sustained winds generally less than 30 miles. The entire circulation sometimes encompasses an area initially no more than 100 miles in diameter. These generally short lived, marine cyclones may vary in structure from cold to warm core.

Subtropical depressionA subtropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed (using the U.S. one-minute average) is 33 kt (38 mph or 62 km/hr) or less.

Subtropical stormA subtropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed(using the U.S. one-minute average) is 34 kt (39 mph or 63 km/hr).

SupermanA layout position similar to the comic hero’s flight. Used in body dragging and advanced aerials. The rider follows the power in the kite while in this position.

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Tropical airAn air mass that has a warm temperature and high humidity and develops over tropical or sub-tropical areas.

TroughAn elongated, relatively low-pressure area between two high-pressure areas.

Tropical cycloneA warm-core, non-frontal, synoptic-scale cyclone, originating over tropical or subtropical waters, with organized convection and a definite closed cyclonic surface wind circulation. Once formed, a tropical cyclone is maintained by the extraction of latent heat from the ocean at high temperature and heat export at the low temperatures of the upper troposphere. In this they differ from extra tropical cyclones, which derive their energy from temperature contrasts in the atmosphere (baroclinic effects).

Tropical depressionA tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustainedsurface wind speed (using the U.S. 1-minute average) is 33 kt (38 mph or 62 km/hr) or less.

Tropical disturbanceA discrete tropical weather system of apparently organized convection—generally 100 to 300 nmi in diameter—originating in the tropics or sub tropics, having a non frontal migratory character, and maintaining its identity for 24 hours or more. It may or may not be associated with a detectable perturbation of the wind field.

Tropical stormA tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed (using the U.S. 1-minute average) ranges from 34 kt (39 mph or 63 km/hr) to 63 kt (73 mph or 118 km/hr).

Tropical storm warningA warning for tropical storm conditions including sustained winds within the range of 34 to 63 kt (39 to 73 mph or 63 to 118 km/hr) that are expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours or less.

Tropical storm watchAn announcement, for specific coastal, areas that tropical storm conditions are possible within 36 hours.

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Trade windsEasterly-blowing winds that are found on either side of the equator and blow northeasterly in the northern hemisphere and southeasterly in the southern hemisphere.

Trainer kiteGenerally a small ram air kite used on land to lean how to fly a kite.

TravelThe amount of distance you can change the kite’s angle of attack.

Trailing edgeBack of the kite.

TransitionAny aerial move resulting in a turn.

Traction kiteA kite designed to pull a person or object.

Trim gearsThe four gears to the four line. Trim Gear One is to ride in the center harness line, Gear Three is to ride in the fixed line, Gear two is to ride in both Three and One. Gear Four is to ride out of the harness.

Trim linesThe center lines.

Trim loopThe center harness loop or Gear One.

Trip lineA safety line which when activated radically shortens one line while lengthening the other, spilling the power in the kite.

Troll (Hi)Druggies who hang out at the beach and steal.

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Vectran/DyneemaType of kite line.

W

Wahine (Hi)Hawaiian for young female.

WanaLong, black spiny sea-urchin found in most tropical waters.

WarningIs used when severe weather conditions are occurring, imminent or are expected within the following twelve to twenty-four hours.

WatchInforms the public that favorable conditions exist for the occurrence of severe weather conditions within twelve to thirty-six hours of the given announcement.

WaterA transparent, odorless, tasteless liquid; composed of hydrogen andoxygen.

WaterspoutA column of rapidly spiraling air that develops over warm, usually shallow water, in seas or large lakes.

Water launchA kite coming from the water to the air.

Weather SynopsisA description of weather patterns affecting a large area.

WesterlyWinds with a western direction occurring between latitudes of 35 degrees and 60 degrees. The whole regime forms a “vortex” around each of the poles and forms a major element in world climate.

Wet suitGenerally referring to neoprene clothing worn in water. Measured in millimeters.

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Tropical waveA trough or cyclonic curvature maximum in the trade-wind easterlies. The wavemay reach maximum amplitude in the lower middle troposphere.

TruingTo make straight, symmetric, or even.

TuneTo dial in, to personalize.

TweakerPeople who make extreme problems out of nothing. Some one drugged out.

Twin tipA board that has an identical nose and tail.

TwistA cross or X in kite lines.

TyphoonA hurricane that occurs in eastern Asia.

U

Unstable airAir that rises easily and often forms clouds and rain.

UpwindThe side closest to the wind. To travel towards the wind.

Upwind ridingTraveling closer than 90 degrees off the direction of the wind.

V

Virtual kiteboarderAny kiteboarder who has never actually kiteboarded.

ValveThe stem of the inflatable kite bladder.

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WindwardWith back to the wind, the area upwind.

Wind speedMeasured speed of the wind from a fixed point.

Wind windowThe area in which a kite travels when flying.

WaterstartStart technique lying in the water with feet on the board.

Wake boardA thin board with little volume and considerable effective edge, generally usedwhen being pulled by a boat.

WipikaThe first self-relaunch able marine wing.

WorkedTo get crushed, pounded, to get hammered.

WoundTotally powered.

Wrist leashConnects the bar and kite to your wrist.

Water launchTo launch the kite from the water.

Y

Yaw, pitch, & rollThe three axes of a wing or kite.

Yellow WindThe strong, cold, dry west wind of eastern Asia that blows across the plains during winter and carries a yellow dust from the desert.

WettyA wet suit.

White capsBreaking water caused by wind.

WickedStrong wind in a nasty way.

WindAir in motion relative to the surface of the earth. Produced by an imbalance of pressure, this imbalance is caused by uneven heating by the sun.

Wind aloftThe wind speeds and wind directions at various levels in the atmosphere above the area of surface weather observations, usually above about two thousand feet AGL.

Wind directionThe direction from which the wind is blowing.

Wind goonA rider who is obsessed by wind, often uses the greeting of “What size were you on? Were you powered? What should I rig?”

Wind shearThe change in wind direction; vertical wind shear is the change in wind speed with height.

Wind waveA wave that is caused by the action of wind on the surface of water.

WindyWater will move causing scattered small white caps to appear.

Wind shadowThe area downwind of an obstacle with disrupted wind.

Wind speedMeasured speed of the wind from a fixed point.

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About the Method

This book is not an overview of kiteboarding or history of the sport. It details the most efficient path towards expert riding.

The KITEs Method is absolutely the easiest way to learn what can be a complicated sport. That is not to say that there aren’t other ways. There are and it is important to remember that most people teach the way they learned.

MethodologyI learned to swim after my dad chucked me in the deep end of the pool. I’ll never forget it. After the splash down came panic, furious paddling and finally, my first breath. Lots of people learned to swim this way.

Unortunately, most people learn to kite in a similar way. By and large, most lessons are taught using the Traditional Techniques. These techniques involve heavy ground or safety school (which is good) before new riders try to waterstart on full length lines their first day. This is a tough way to learn and an even tougher way to teach.

Consider kiteboarding more of a lifestyle than a sport. You won’t “get it” by viewing the Book and DVD. You have to get your ‘reps’ (repetitions) in. The Method helps riders sync their mind and muscles with the conditions and the equipment.

YougA hot wind during unsettled summer weather in the Mediterranean.

Z

Zen harness techniquesCounterbalancing the power in the kite with your body weight without using your hands.

Zigzag lightningOrdinary lightning of a cloud-to-ground discharge that appears to have a singlelightning channel.

ZodiacThe position of the sun throughout a year as it appears tomove through successive star groups or constellations.

Zonal windThe wind or wind component along the local parallel of latitude.

Zone of maximum precipitationThe belt of elevation at which the annual precipitation is greatest in a mountain region.

ZoolanderA professional kiteboarder who doesn’t compete. A camera slut. The best job in kiteboarding!

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Maui Photos by Lee Guthrie, eel productions, P.O. Box 427, Wailuku, HI 96793

Lee Guthrie’s talent has taken her from such diverse work as the officialphotographer for the Mevlevi Order of America, documenting the Sufis, commonly known as Whirling Dervishes, to the beaches of Cabarette, Dominican Republic to Maui, HI. Her work can be viewed at:www.eelproductions.biz

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Extra special mahalos to our Maui photographer

Lee Guthrie

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KITEs Method Book #4 is dedicated to this very moment. Other than the next moment, there is no better time in the history of our planet. The advent of the internet has brought ‘real information’ to the figer tips of millions of Extreme Sport Athletes. The best gear, locations and information are only a click away.It has never been easier for humans to walk on water and fly!

Savor the moment. Let’s ride!

Aloha & mahalo,

John

Extra special mahalos to Tonisha, our 2006 KITEs Safety girl. When she is not kiting, she is touring the US with Youth With A Mission, helping those in need find their way.

Mahalos to Erik Aeder for the helicopter shots of the 2005 Molokai Challenge. Erik is one of Hawaii’s premiere photogra-phers. He can be contacted at erikaeder.com

Mahalos to Richie Hawley for the fantastic shots of Fiji. When not shooting, he can be found playing the clarinet for the Cincinnati Orchestra.

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Special mahalos to Dave Misconish:dave@misconish.com for adding his illustrations to both the last book and this book. Dave is an accomplished artist and illustrator working out of San Francisco.

Erik Aeder

Richie Hawley

Many mahalos to our Florida/Bahamas photo team of

Mike Minichiello & Clarissa Hempel

Mike has been shooting the KITEs Method from the beginning and Clarissa has blessed us as our first KITEs Safety Girl. She remains a big part of the KITEs Method. She also shoots and rides professionally.

They can be contacted at www.youwerethere.com or found sailing the Carib-bean.

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