Kite surfing, also known as kite boarding, is an adventurous sport that can really get your adrenaline pumping. Many people also feel that kite surfing is the most extreme water sport around. So, what exactly is kite surfing? Kite surfing is like a combination of wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, and paragliding, all mixed up into one thrilling sport. When kite surfing, you use an inflatable kite to propel you across the water, while you maneuver on top of a small board, which is somewhat like a surfboard. Many sports enthusiasts like kite boarding more so than its relative wind surfing, because you will not have a sail in your face and it is much easier to gain speed and do jumps. Although kite surfing is primarily done in the water, it is also done on land and on snow.
Now that you know what kite surfing is, I will explain how to do it. First you will need to select a board. When selecting a board, you will want to consider your weight, age, your approximate wind speeds, and the activities that you will want to do. As a beginner, you will want a board that is easy to steer. After you have chosen a board, you will have two options, to partake in lessons or to be self-taught. For those who wish to teach themselves, I will explain the basics for you.
For a beginner, you will want to start by flying your kite in a neutral position overhead, and at this time having it only pulling on your body weight (you should not on the board yet). Next, you will lie down, either in shallow water or on the ground, and strap the board to your feet. Then, as well as you can, fly the kite toward the water. You will also want to fly your kite in the direction that your board points. A kite surfer can turn by returning to shallow water, or another suitable stopping place, neutralizing his kite, and then changing its direction. The best wind conditions for kite surfing are between 8 and 20 knots. A ride at 8 knots will be rather mellow, with very low jumps. A ride at 20 knots will be a much more thrilling ride, with high speeds and super big jumps. After time, you will get a feel at what wind speed is right for you. Please remember not to get too discouraged at first. You will spill quite a bit, and that will only improve with experience.
We now know what kite surfing is, and how it’s done, but where can we do it? As I stated above, in addition to water, kite surfing is also performed on land and on the snow. If kite surfing on land, you will have a wheeled board, and on the snow you use a snowboard. Kite surfing can be done almost anywhere, except it is not recommended on lakes because the wind speed is not usually great enough. The are many kite surfing associations located throughout the United Stated and the United Kingdom that can point out great places to ride. If you are unsure if kite surfing is allowed in a particular location, make sure to ask the local officials before partaking in the sport in that area. Most of all, be safe and have fun!
