With kite technology ever changing, and various different types of kitesurfing kites on offer, knowing what to buy can be confusing – before you start thinking about size. This guide to kite size and types covers to basic rules and information to help you make the right purchase.
Types of kitesurfing kites
Leading edge kites have a hollow tube that is pumped full of air to give the kite its shape. This kind of leading edge kite has several forms:
C-Kites – The original kitesurfing kite, experienced kiters love them for their stability and predictability. It gets its characteristic shape from the four (or five) lines attached at the corners forming a deep C when flying.
Bow – One of the newest kites on the market, these kites have a concave trailing edge so it looks much flatter when in flight. It’s also what gives it its 100% de-power and large range.
Hybrid – Developed to merge the benefits of both types of kites above, so styles can vary depending on how much of one or other design they include. But they all have convex trailing edges, which makes them different from bow kites.
Check out the range of leading edge kites, including top brands like North Kites at surf-store.com.
Unlike leading edge kites, foil kites have no bladder but are simply made up of square cells of fabric that trap air. You can get two main types of foil kite: the classic and valved.
Guide to kite size
Once you have choosen from the different types of kitesurfing kites it’s time to start thinking about size. Choosing the right size kite for your body weight and the conditions is key to making the most of your time on the water and remaining safe.
A larger kite will give you more power. But too much power in your kite and you’re in danger of getting hurt so a smaller kite will keep you safer when the wind spikes. So use this guide to kite size and if in doubt, use a smaller kite.
The ideal kitesurfing wind range is between 16 and 25 knots, and you should judge your kite size according to your weight. At the smaller end of around 60 kg, you should be looking at an 8m² kite. This progresses up towards 15m² if you weigh 100 kg.
Your main kite should be chosen for ideal conditions according to your weight. But for kiting in stronger conditions you can have a secondary kite that’s around 3m2 smaller than your main kite. Some kitesurfers also have larger low wind kites that are around 4m² bigger than their ideal kite.
So, if your main kite is 11m² based on your weight of around 81 kg, on a strong wind day, you should have a kite that’s about 8m² and on a low wind day around 15m². It’s always best to ask an expert before making a purchase, such as the experts at Surf-Store.com who off free impartial advice.
As you become more confident in your ability, you can make the judgement to move up or down in kite size. But don’t do this until you are sure you can make the step up.
Other kitesurfing kite considerations
While kitesurfing is incredible fun, it is not without its risks. It’s worth remembering that it’s never a good idea to go out in winds of more than 40 knots. And until you have plenty of experience (around 30 or more sessions) don’t go out in conditions of above 25 knots.
Power can vary between models of kites and even manufacturers, so read the manual carefully and spend some time on the sand getting to know your kite before you hit the water. Also, the size of your board can affect how much power you get.
There are plenty of types of kitesurfing kites out there, and while this guide to kite size can help, it’s always best to ask if you aren’t sure. Perhaps get in touch with the experts at Surf-Store.com as they offer impartial advice and great prices.
