How to choose a kite for kitesurfing

Choosing the right kite for you can be overwhelming, especially if you're a beginner just getting into kitesurfing: there are so many brands, models, styles, shapes, and price ranges to choose from. So, we've put together some simple tips here to guide you through the process.

Still can't decide? Don't worry, you can make an appointment (in person or by phone) with our team, and we'll help you find the best kite available according to your preferences.

1. Choose the best kite for where you will be riding most.

One of the first things you should determine is the general wind conditions at your main kite-flying location. Is it a light wind spot or a strong wind spot? This is a huge factor in deciding on the size of your next kite: in light winds, you'll use a larger kite than in strong winds. Generally, there's a wind range specification on the brands' websites for their different models, which can be a good indication of the kite size you need. Keep in mind that the wind range of a 12m kite from one brand can differ from a 12m kite from another brand, as well as between different models of the same brand.

In areas with light winds, you should make sure you bring a kite that isn't too heavy, is easy to relaunch, and responds well. Since we usually fly larger kites in light winds, you don't want one that's too slow to turn because of its size, or too heavy to lift out of the water if it falls! On the other hand, in areas with strong winds, you'll want a kite that can withstand gusts and is made of very strong materials, as crashes will generally have a much greater impact.

2. The best kite according to your weight and height

Primarily, your height and weight will affect the kite you should choose. Keep in mind that the wind ranges provided by different brands are based on the "average kitesurfer," which is, for example, a person who is 1.80m tall and weighs 78kg (generally provided by the brand). Therefore, you should apply these wind ranges to yourself to ensure you interpret the information correctly.

Your weight has an effect in that, if you are a lighter person, the kite will have more pull compared to when you are heavier, so lighter people can use the same kite in less wind than the average person, but they probably won't be able to hold the kite in the higher wind ranges - whereas for heavier people it will be the opposite.

Your height has a similar influence; you generally lean back while kitesurfing, which affects your apparent weight . A taller person leaning back will create more counterweight than a shorter person. This means that two people of the exact same weight on the same kite, but one taller and the other shorter, will have different wind ranges in which they can use the kite. The taller person can continue using the kite in stronger winds, while the shorter person can use the kite in lighter winds than the average person.

3. Choose the kite for your level and challenges

Your current kitesurfing level will give you a good indication of the type of kite you should be looking at. Beginner kitesurfers should look for kites that are beginner-friendly: easy to relaunch, easy to sail upwind, forgiving, and so on. As you progress, you'll better understand how to use a kite to maximize its potential, and its ease of use for beginners will become less important. Most brands have an entry-level model, which is usually beginner-friendly and also affordable, to help you get started until you begin to understand where you want to take the sport. Even if it's a beginner kite, you'll still be able to enjoy it as you improve!

Once you know your kitesurfing goals, you can start looking for specific kite models suited to your discipline: big air, waves, kite foiling, freestyle tricks. Most brands have different models for different disciplines, so check their specifications to see what they're best suited for! If you're just starting out, these specialized kites aren't always right for you, as they might be too technical and not forgiving enough of small mistakes.

In our online shop we have labeled the kites that are suitable for beginners with the "Suitable for beginners" label to help you identify the best models for beginner kitesurfers.