So… things have been going pretty good with your kitesurfing training at your favorite kitesurf school. In fact it's been ging so good for you that you're totally hyped and you can see yourself enjoying this wonderful and challenging extreme sport in the long-term. Given that, you've decided that you want to buy your very first, very own kite. Congrats!  

This is a big step to make and it's never as easy (or as hard) as it looks. Beginners and people who'd rather take up kitesurf as a hobby on the side usually prefer to rent their equipment and not go through the hassle of traveling with their gear across the world. This is a practical decision and there is nothing bad to it, in fact it's the better option in some individual cases. Both renting and owning a kite have their pros and cons.

Before confusion starts setting in, you can check these quick answers to common questions, as well as basic tips and tricks that will make it easier for you to choose a first kiteboarding kite!

 

I want a kite of my own… but I also want to save some money.

You may have already noticed - kiting is a pricey sport! One kite alone can cost more than a thousand dollars, so when you’re just starting out, it’s good to be smart, as there will probably be some trial and error. Renting is definitely cheaper but even if you decide to buy, you absolutely don't need to shell out the big bucks immediately… unless you absolutely crave the most shiny and new models! If that's not the case, be sure to check the past-season discounts at the kite-shops. Late autumn is usually the time when brands introduce their new lines and lower the prices of past collections, so you can find pretty sweet bargains for your first choice.

Another solution when you’re just starting out is to buy second hand - but you will need to be a little more savvy in order to pick up kites in good condition. Which brings us to the next question!
 

How do I check if a second hand kite is in good condition?

A second-hand kite has probably seen some harsh winds, and you can't really know how it's been handled by it's previous owner until you take a close look. The main things to keep a keen eye on, are:

1. Check how the canopy looks. Kites with visible stress marks or faded colors have bigger chance of breaking;

2. Check how the leading edge looks. Does it have visible damage like cuts or scratches? You shouldn’t be able to see the bladder through;

3. Check for air leaks. Pump up the kite and leave it overnight - if it deflates during this time, it's not a good choice;

4. Check the pigtails / pulleys for damage and if they are moving without issues.
 

A general rule of thumb is that if it feels somewhat off for you, then you should pass on to the next offer. Don't feel pressured!

 

What type of kite should I go for?

There are many types of kites and each of them are meant to serve a certain style or weather condition, but the following are usually best for a beginner's choice for a first kite:

• Lightweight - lightweights are very useful if you're looking to ride when the wind conditions are very light and other kites won't fly well. Lightweights have a lot of drift, so if you are kitesurfing on onshore winds, the kite won't fall so easy when you're going down a wave.
   
• Bow Kite - they cover a vast amount of wind ranges and are very efficient. Bow kites are very easy to relaunch, at least compared to other types of kites. A very good beginner kite that is versatile and comfortable.
   
• Hybrid Kite - hybrids are best for freeride, big air, megaloops and freestyle riding. They are a perfect second kite when you already have good kite control and want to progress into big air. Hybrids offer rapid depower, quick turning and have stable arcs to ensure high jumps. A good choice for a second kite, but if you're REALLY into it and feeling like you could tough it out, it can also be a first!

 

What kite size should I choose?

Picking the right size depends on rider weight, average wind speed, and your selected board size. If the kite's too small, it won't take off even in the strongest winds, or it will fall quickly. If it's too big, handling can get very difficult or even dangerous for a less experienced kiter. Generally said, the kite should be able to lift your body weight and the board. This is a rough estimate of which size of kites correspond to which rider body weight:

• 5 meter kites: 54 kg or less
• 7 meter kites: 68 kg
• 9 meter kites: 80 kg
• 11 meter kites: 90 kg
• 13+ meter kites: over 90 kg

Tip: kite sizes are written in square meters - that means, they cover the total size of the kite and not just it's length or width.  

 

Can I use one kite for all weather conditions?

It's really tempting to have a one-size-fits-all-conditions kite, but unfortunately that's not entirely possible. There are certain spots that allow you to spend most days with one kite, but if the wind changes, then your kite won’t work and you'll be wasting the day. Usually kiters will need 2 or 3 kites that cover most of the wind strengths, are tailored to the weight of the rider, the board size and allow the rider to be flexible throughout the changing weather conditions.

Enriching your set of kiting gear with the right equipment will gradually and naturally happen with acquired experience. You can start off with only buying one kite and seeing how well you perform with it. Go for a model that will cover 70% of the wind ranges at your local kiteboarding spot. That will help you decide what else you would need for the future.

 

What brand should I choose?

According to specialists, most kite surfing kites are pretty solid and perform well. You do get what you pay for, though. More established brands like Cabrinha, North Kites, Slingshot Kites and Best Kiteboarding have better quality control, improved safety systems, more refined bars and just an overall better construction than some of the off-brands. So the choice of brand depends mostly on your set budget and the recommendations of your local kiting shop.

 

Don't get too nervous! Buying a first kite is an exciting experience and it's normal to feel a bit confused in the beginning. As with everything else that is first in your life, you will remember it for a long time, so don't rush it, take your time and enjoy the ride afterwards! 

Don't forget: Even though it's good to be informed, you don't really need to know everything on the first go (or even the second). It's a journey and knowledge comes with time and experience. Be sure to talk to the kiteboard specialists at your kiteshop. They will help!

 Find the best extreme spots (or create your own) at www.xtreemo.com/map 

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