Frequently asked
questions
The only stupid
questions are the questions not asked.
How much does
it cost to start kiteboarding?
A full set of gear (board, kite, bar, lines and harness) will run you
anywhere from £400 to £1500 depending on what you decide
to buy. Many manufacturers offer entry-level packages that are very
reasonable.
Is kiteboarding
easy?
Yes and no, with good instruction most people enjoy an incredibly fast
learning curve. Without instruction, trying to learn kiteboarding can
be frustrating and dangerous.
Do I need to
be in good shape to kiteboard?
A basic level of fitness is all you usually need. Modern gear can be
adjusted to work for people with a broad range of physical ability.
Why can't I just
learn from a video or a magazine?
You can learn a lot from videos and magazines, but there is no substitute
for having an instructor provide feedback, share local knowledge, maximise
safety and customise instruction to your individual needs, not to mention
most of them are really cool guys!
Why can't I just
learn from my friend?
A friend is a good starting point, but he likely won't have the beginner
friendly gear nor the patience and experience to give you the most effective
lesson.
How much do lessons
cost?
Lessons can range from around £90 to £160 for the basics.
How do I find
a school in my area?
Your local kiteboarding association or retail shop should be able to
provide a list of schools in your area. www.kitesurfing.org
Do I need any
skills before I take a lesson?
All you need is to be comfortable in the water and ready to learn. Many
people learn kiteboarding despite limited board-sport experience.
Why do lessons
focus on flying the kite?
Flying the kite well is at least 90 percent of kiteboarding. Trying
to ride a board without having good kite skills is like trying to wakeboard
behind a boat that is swerving and changing speeds. It can be dangerous,
and it is not much fun.
What equipment
would I need to kiteboard?
You'll need a kite, bar and lines, board, harness and an open mind.
In addition, there is a variety of optional accessories to customise
your equipment.
What is the best
trainer kite to buy?
Most manufacturers sell quality trainer kites. Ask your local school
instructor or dealer to help you make the right choice.
Do I need to
fly a trainer kite before I ride on the water?
Lessons are your best bet before purchasing or trying any new gear.
Many schools will teach you briefly with a trainer kite and then help
you learn on their equipment. This will give you the chance to try the
different equipment and see what works for you.
What happens
when you crash your kite?
With some instruction and practice, many kites ( especially inflatables)
can be re-launched from the water. Make sure you find out if your kite
is water re-launchable. If so, take the time to learn this important
skill.
Can I kiteboard
on the snow or Ice?
Yes, you can use your kite to pull you on a snowboard or skis. Many
riders have been crossing over to the snow and developing boards and
equipment specifically for this riding style. Check out www.kitesnowboard.com
for info and tips
|
