Kite Surfing
ALSO KNOWN AS:
- Kite Boarding |
Kite Surfing
If you can’t choose between a land or sea based activity then kitesurfing is the perfect adventure sport that combines elements of both. It’s exhilarating, yet relaxing and will have the rider soaring through the air whilst also enjoying time out on the water.
Kitesurfing is an extreme water sport that ties in elements of wake boarding, windsurfing and sailing into one. Whilst a few lessons and practice sessions will be needed to get you off the ground (literally), once the basics of launching, flying and landing have been mastered, you will be catching wind and waves in no time.
The rider’s feet are secured onto the board, with a harness worn on the upper body and arms placed on a horizontal bar to steer the sail. Using the sail to ride winds of up to 35 knots allows the rider to glide across the water and soar up to 10 meters into the air. If the timing is right, kite surfers can find themselves flying through the air for up to 10 seconds at a time! A bigger sail equals more power, so kite surfers can adjust sizing according to the wind strength and individual abilities.
Despite common misconceptions, strength is not the be all and end all here and arms of steel aren’t needed to control the sail. The harness does all the hard work whist the rider predominantly uses their arms for steering. Kitesurfing is not just for thrill-seekers and athletes, whether you are 15 or 50, it is never too late to give kite surfing a go.
Once the board and sail kit have been purchased, head down to a large body of water to prevent any collisions with fellow kitesurfers. A steady and consistent side-onshore wind is also desirable to catch the perfect gust of wind. Kitesurfing is not limited to the ocean either, and kitesurfers frequently flock to lakes, inlets and rivers to make the most of the gentle winds and open spaces.
Whilst kitesurfing is a solo sport, many coastal locations will have a strong kitesurfing community and you will find many surfers heading out to make the most of the optimum afternoon winds after a day at work. Fancy giving it a go? Find a kitesurfing location below.
All Kite Surfing Providers
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