Flying kites is a great past time. It was just a matter of time before people started to modify it in new ways to make something new out of the innocent activity. Kitesurfing is an exciting sport and is one of the new sports that are steadily becoming important today.
The concept started out in France, became popular in America and then spread to Maui. Before long it has become a mainstream sport and attracted many participants. A lot of people are now getting into the sport. New gear may seem expensive to some but kite designs are continually being developed. Kitesurfing packages are now available online.
Kitesurfing gear requires several equipments other than the power kite. Enthusiasts are selling their old gear to replace it with new ones. However as a new student you must be acquainted with the different equipments first before buying anything. Kitesurfing gear can be easily misunderstood so it’s important to know what you are buying.
Scanning for kitesurfing gear
Like always the internet provides a wide array of selection. You can buy kitesurfing packages online but make sure you are buying what you need. Power kites come in different types, sizes and designs. Any student must know the proper equipment for better performance and safety.
First and foremost you have the power kite. They have two major types: the leading edge inflatables and foil kites. Leading edge inflatables or LEI kites is made of ripstop nylon and inflatable plastic bladders. LEI kites have a more direct and quicker response to the rider’s inputs which it makes it popular among kitesurfers.
They can easily be relaunched. A variation of the LEI is the bow kite made in 2005. Second generation bow kites have a higher performance. These kites are preferred over the classic LEI by riders today. They can be used by both beginners and experts.
Foil kites on the hand is composed of ripstop nylon with air pockets. They are more popularly used in land or snow. Foil kites can get easily soaked in the water because they are impossible to relaunch.
There are also other equipments needed for the rider. The flying lines attach the rider’s control bar to the power kite. It is usually in 3 or 5 line configuration and is made of a very strong material to handle the load of the rider. The control bar is a solid metal that the rider uses to control the kite by pulling at the ends. The kite harness attaches the rider to the control bar.
The harness comes with a spreader bar that is attached to the rider. The kiteboard resembles a wakeboard and comes in different types. A wetsuit is worn to reduce loss of body heat. Safety devices such as the safety hook knife (to cut entangled kite lines), helmet, personal flotation device, impact vest, boarded leash and signaling devices.
You may also need A GPS to track your distance and speed. You may also need a kitesurfing buddy or friend to help you relaunch, retrieve the kite and assist in emergency.
The first you may have to pay attention to is the power kite. If you prefer to be in the water a second generation bow kite will be suitable. You can use foil kite in land and buy the other equipments.