FAQs

What is kiteboarding?

A combination of using the elements, air and water. Initially kiteboarding could be perceived as a watersport. When you take up kiteboarding your learning two sports at the same time. First steps are managing the kite on land and then progressing to the sea. Flying the kite is a good 80% of your learning curve. The last 20% is all about boardskills… may be its an airsport?

Do you need to be very fit to kiteboard?

Anyone can learn to kiteboard. Though we would recommend that you are a confident sea swimmer. If anything a few months of practicing kiteboarding and you’ll experience a new kind of fitness …. Especially in the core strength area. The kite is matched to your ability and body weight transferred through to a harness so no extra upper body strength needed.

Do many Girls kiteboard?

Yes, kiteboarding has definitely encourage more ladies into the water. They make great boarders often proving to be great kiteflyers, due to not muscling a kite round the sky using their upper body strength. Kiteboarding has the added attraction of managing less kit, too and from the beach.

Is kiteboarding a safe sport?

Yes. Like any buzz sport we advise you take the correct journey. The sport is a safe as you wish to make it. Have plenty of lessons and don’t be tempted to take shortcuts. Remember to take up liability insurance. (may be a link to the BKSA)

Is the UK good for kiteboarding?

Britain is great for kiteboarding. I came from a windsurfing background and find my self on the water in light wind conditions experiencing the same amount of fun I would have had in strong wind windsurf conditions.

Is kiteboarding an expensive sport?

Like most sports of today, kiteboarding does have a price tag. Though with the growing popularity of the sport there is plenty of second hand product available. With a bit of careful advice and research you can buy wisely.

How long does it take to learn to kiteboard?

This can depend on your ability and level of commitment. Its advisable to learn to fly your kite correctly on land and know it like the back of your hand, before going on the water. Starting a sport like kiteboarding may lead to a change in your lifestyle. Being so much fun it has a level of addiction… be warned kitesurfing can be great for your health.

How much wind do you need to go kiteboarding?

Ten – twelve knots of wind, to get on the water. Power kites (land) start to be fun above 7 knots. If you own a small kite, trust your knowledge and ability kiteboarding can be experienced in very strong winds. We advise you take your time with any wind strengths above 25 knots and have weather knowledge.

Do I need knowledge of other sports to kiteboard

No, but any knowledge will help. Kiteboarding is one of the only sports I know, which encourages so many Air and board sport skills to the water. So if you do powerkite, paraglide, wakeboard, snowboard, ski, skateboard, surf, windsurf or mountain board… it will all help…

Can you kiteboard by yourself?

Kiteboarding by yourself is not advisable. You should always have a buddy for the early years and then hopefully become part of the growing kiteboard community where you will experience the elements together. Many beaches are now promoting local clubs to assist with beach management and safety.

Is it easy to travel with kiteboarding equipment?

A lot easier, than with windsurfing kit. Fortunately kiteboard companies produce user friendly luggage making your journey to other countries far more appealing. Many airlines except kiteboard equipment as long as you stick by their guide lines.

Is there a National or International Association for Kiteboarding

Yes there are…. You have the BKSA British kitesurfing Association who will offer you access to their membership and public liability. You also have the IKO International Kitesurfing Association offering a similar Product. These associations set the standards for schools and instructors to apply to and will offer a list of these within your area.