How to Choose a Kiteboarding Kite

With many different shapes, colors, and sizes to choose from, taking action and choosing the right kite for your needs is a daunting process. When you take lessons in kiteboarding, your instructor will guide you down the right path to finding the ideal kite. Most instructors are trained to give their students the best possible rundown of the kite that will suit them and the ideal sizing for a kite too. Sizing a kite and fitting a kite comes down to your weight, the style of kite and the location where you are going to use the kite most often. 

Here are some of the differences between the main types of kites in kiteboarding:

Inflatable Tubes

These are some of the most common types of kites. These inflate with a pump to give the kite a rigid skeleton. Offering a fairly constant pull that you can use to get yourself through the waves. When most people talk about kite surfing, they are usually speaking about some form of an inflatable kite. 

C kite

This shape looks like a C and it has a strong curve along the front edge of the tube. This type of kite is usually crafted for a better form of direct steering. Its shape allows for a better level of control as the wind is delivered to a very small area. This type of kite is not ideal for use in lower wind areas and primarily made for advanced riders. 

Bow kites

This is often a balanced type of profile and it offers improved power and wind range. This kite often offers a softer level of handling but also an easier relaunch process as it won’t require as much wind. Most have bridals and some incorporate pulleys to make steering smoother. Higher boosts, longer hangtime and improved wind range is offered with this type of kite. 

Delta kites

This design features the advantages of both types of kites including quick handling and wide wind range. It’s one of the easiest to relaunch and it has some great distribution of weight through the canopy. The most popular models of kites in the market are a Mixed hybrid also known as a Delta-Bow Kite. The only issue with Delta kites is that they have a greater chance to invert than other types of kite shapes and have a harder time resting on the water at the edge of the wind window. 

Hybrid or Concept

Hybrid C’s, Hybrid Delta - Bow or concept kites are often created by manufacturers that want to bring together several shapes and the advantages of each style of kite. Which is becoming the most popular kiteboarding kites on the market. 

Foil kites

Choosing a foil kite will give you a type of kite with a series of closed cells on the leading edge that allow airflow into the kite to make up the rigid platform needed to hold shape. These double layered canapés are designed for lighter winds or for racing. In recent years they have been better known for snow kiting and hydrofoil riding.  

Foil kites are commonly used for trainer kites and they’re a great way to get started because of the larger air chambers and easy inflation. If you’re looking for a very versatile type and easy to learn with, these are a great option. 

If you are in the market for a kite then contact us today to learn which option is the best for you!