Kiteboarding is an adrenaline-rushing water sport that has recently gained immense popularity. It harnesses the power of wind through a large parachute-type kite to propel the rider across the water on a surfboard.
Kiteboarding is one of the most dangerous extreme sports, so choosing the right kite size is vital for a safe and enjoyable ride across the water.
However, many kitesurfers need help choosing the right kiteboarding kite size. No worries, this blog will help you.
How to Choose the Correct Size Kiteboarding Kite
Where will you be riding?
There is no universal kite size. To make the most of the different wind conditions, you should have a set of kites of various sizes.
However, buying a kite for every wind condition can be expensive. So, when choosing the kite size, know what conditions you are most likely to surf on, which is directly related to the location.
Once you pick a location, do your due diligence and study the wind statistics. Most kite surfing locations have on- and off-seasons, and your closest kiteboarding spot likely has a main season lasting for 3 to 6 months. During the season, you have more predictable wind conditions, making it easier to choose your kite size.
The shape and type of kite also matter; a foil kite like the Waydoo efoil kite can be lifted easily into the air in the lighter wind than an inflatable kite.
Most common kite sizes
- Large kite for lighter winds (14–18 m) — 3–7 m/s.
- Medium kite for medium winds (11–13 m) — 7–9 m/s.
- Small kite for higher winds (5–9 m) — 9–13 m/s.
How much do you weigh?
Your weight helps you know how much power is required to pull you on water. The heavier you are, the bigger the kite you may need and vice-versa. There is no universal weight vs. wind speed vs. kite size chart, as every kite model differs.
However, kitesurfing manufacturers like Core Kites publish some graphs to help you estimate your need. Keep in mind that those graphs are not realistic for beginner kiteboarders.
Your body weight is vital to guide you toward an appropriate kite size. So, be honest with your body weight, as a slight difference can lead to an awful surfing experience.
What is your skill level?
Your skill level matters a lot when choosing the right kite size.
Light wind or underpowered kiting is tricky and requires a lot of experience. On the other hand, overpowered riding is easy but can get dangerous and scary if your kite is too big for the wind conditions.
Remember that doubling the wind speed quadruples your kite’s power. It means that at 30 knots, your kite will pull four times stronger compared to 15 knots. It also means that at 10 knots, your kite will generate four times less pull than at 20 knots.
For beginners, both underpowered and overpowered situations are not recommended. So, it would be best if you chose a mid-range kite like the one offered by Core Kites to soar through the water comfortably.
Conclusion
These are a few things to remember that will help you choose the right kiteboarding kite size.
If you are ready to purchase the gear, Boost Kiteboarding is your go-to shop. When your kites or other kiteboarding gear need a fix and service, they can do that as they are a kite repair shop too.
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