Kiteboarding Tips

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Kiteboarding / Kitesurfing Tips

I thought I would just make a quick post with some general ramblings/tips about kiteboarding :

Don't use wakeboards for kiteboarding.......Some more experienced riders use wakeboards as one of their boards for sliders,etc....but most riders(including new riders) should just use boards designed for kiting which will have less rocker than a wakeboard and a different edge since your edge/rail shape is very important for your ability to cut upwind and control your speed.
Don't store your kites wet and loaded with sand in them....I am always amazed to see riders literally shove their kites into the bag without properly laying out the kite and rolling it up so your bladders aren't twisted,etc......Fixing bladders and valves is a time consuming pain in the A$S so spend a couple minutes and pack your kite correctly.
Don't feel lame or embarrassed flying a trainer kite at your local riding spot. Most locals love seeing new riders starting out on a trainer as that is the correct way to go instead of trying to launch some 7 year old kite they bought for $30 on craigslist. If you dont have an open area to fly your trainer then just ask a local rider where they recommend and they will advise you of the rules.
You don't have to be a strong 20 year old to kiteboard. I remember learning in the Gorge in Oregon in 2003 and watching this 70y/o guy launching 30 foot airs. People of all ages and sizes are kiting now and with the advances in equipment it is even easier. Personally I thought windsurfing was much harder and exhausting then kiting (I could barely carry a beginner windsurfing setup when I was in shape and 21 y/o......it was bigger than some cars).
Get a lesson.....Yeah you might be good at water sports and think you can just figure it out yourself and save the money, but I guarantee you haven't felt anything as powerful a kite and it can be damn scary being overpowered without the right knowledge (Check out the crash video on my Safety page)
Finally, be respectful of others around you. Don't be a punk. Kiting can be banned in an instant in any location from accidents and you have to respect the rules and riders around you. Don't forget that everyone has to learn at some point so rather than ripping on some new rider because they are doing something incorrectly, just go up and talk to them and help them out. Just remember that it can be intimidating starting out kiting after your have had lessons and trying to make sure you are doing everything right setting up your new gear, so help out the beginners.

Ok that's all for now.