ELITE WATERSPORTS
Last updated 1-27 -2025
A Guide for Core, Duotone, and all high V Kites.
Everything you need to know.

Is it okay to crash a kite?
Self-landing high V kites—whether you’re using a Core XR7, Duotone Rebel, or Flysurfer, it doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be easier, safer, and more efficient than landing other kite types if you follow the correct techniques.
This guide aims to squash the myths, answer frequently asked questions, and provide step-by-step instructions for safely self-landing high V kites.If you’ve ever searched for “how to self-land a Core kite safely” or “tips for landing high V Duotone kites in strong winds,” this guide has the answers you need.
What Is a High V Kite System? A high V system refers to the point where the front lines split, typically about 15 feet from the bar. It’s common in kites from brands like Core, Flysurfer, and select Duotone models. This configuration offers unique advantages for self-landing and overall kite safety.
Why Choose a High V Setup? Efficient Safety Systems: High V kites slacken the steering lines when flagged, preventing accidental powering or unwanted steering during self-landings. Better Control During Landings: The front lines remain taut, making it easier to guide the kite into a safe resting position.
Ideal for Beginners and Experts: Whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone searching for “is a Core XR7 good for beginners?” the high V setup offers predictable and forgiving handling.




Table Of Contents
- Common Myths About Self-Landing High V Kites
- Step-By-Step Guide: How to Self-Land a High V Kite
- Pro Tips for Self-Landing High V Kites
- Why are Core kites easier to self-land than other high V kites?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Elite Watersports.
Common Myths About Self-Landing High V Kites
Can you self-land a Core kite safely?Absolutely! One of the most common myths is that self-landing a Core or any like a Duotone kite is challenging or risky because of their high V systems. This is simply untrue.
Here are some myths we’re debunking:
Myth 1: High V Kites Are Harder to Self-Land Than Low V Kites:
High V kites are often easier to self-land because their steering lines slacken completely during the process, reducing the chance of accidental powering.
Myth 2: You Need Advanced Skills to Self-Land a High V Kite:
While it’s true that practice makes perfect, self-landing a high V kite is straightforward with the right technique.
Myth 3: High V Systems Are Outdated: Brands like Core have continuously improved their high V systems, integrating modern safety features that make them easier and safer to use than ever before.


Step-By-Step Guide: How to Self-Land a High V Kite
Step 1: Prepare Your Landing Zone
• Look for a clear, open space free of obstructions or pedestrians.
•Notify others on the beach, especially if they’re unfamiliar with kiteboarding, to avoid accidental interference.
If you’ve wondered, “How do I find a safe kitesurfing landing area?” the answer is simple: scout the beach beforehand and communicate with others.
Step 2: Position the Kite at the Edge of the Wind Window:
• Slowly steer the kite to the edge of the wind window.Keep the kite stable, ensuring it’s not overpowered or pulling strongly.
Step 3: Walk Up the Front Lines:
• Maintain control by walking slowly up the front lines while keeping the steering lines slack. As the kite flags out, it will naturally lose power and rest on the ground.
Step 4: Secure the Kite:
Once you’ve reached the kite, secure the leading edge or ask a nearby person to stabilize it. If you’re searching for “how to secure a kite after self-landing,” this final step ensures safety and prevents accidental relaunches.
Pro Tips for Self-Landing High V Kites
Practice in Light Winds: Light wind conditions make it easier to perfect your technique without the risk of overpowered landings.
Communicate on the Beach: Let others know you’re landing your kite to avoid accidents. Keep Equipment Maintained: Regularly inspect your bar, lines, and safety systems for wear and tear.
Don’t Rush: Self-landing takes patience. Move slowly and deliberately to maintain control.
One huge mistake we see on Skyway Beach is someone try to land their kite in strongerwinds or without ample practice in lightwinds first. This usualy ends up with a kite falling onto parked cars.
Should I self land my kite? If there are are other kiters around Its always better to ask for a landing. It's safter and fosters a sense of comradery and community on the beach. We'll include a video of Aaron teaching how to help others land kites in this blog to help you see how it's done.
Find a wind shadow: One tip I learned early on was to look for a windshadow to practice. My Home beach has a hill about 20 feet up the beach from the water. On a north wind, there is a shaow here where your kite will simply fall out of the sky. It's brutal for launching but usefull to practice self landing techniques. See if you can find something similar on your local beach.
Why are Core kites easier to self-land than other high V kites?
Core kites are designed with highly efficient flagging systems that completely slacken the steering lines, reducing the risk of accidental powering during self-landing.
“What’s the difference between high V and low V self-landings?”
High V setups slacken the steering lines completely, preventing unintended steering. Low V setups can sometimes keep the steering lines slightly taut, increasing the risk of accidental powering.
“Can Duotone Rebel kites be self-landed safely?”
Yes, Duotone Rebel kites, which feature both high V and low V configurations depending on the model, are designed with safety systems that allow for controlled self-landings.
I remember the first time I fly a high V or Y kite. It felt awkward atempting my first self landing. I had done many low V self landins but I was unsure moving to something that felt new.
Looking back and knowing what I know now, it's funny to think about because the physics are really simple. Climing higher on the centerlines is going to take more power out of the kite. At the end of the day it comes down to regular practice and seeing someone demonstrate whats possible. Hopefully seeing Aaron exicute this will give you the confidence to try for yourself in the right conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is self-landing a Core XR7 safe in strong winds? Yes, the Core XR7’s high V design ensures that the steering lines slacken completely, allowing the kite to flag out safely even in gusty conditions.
Can beginners self-land a High V kite? We recommend you take lessons first and have some riding time under your belt before you try. When you are ready be sure to only try with wide open space, light wind and have no obsitacals downwind of you. Knowing how to use the quck release is a pre-requisit.
What wind conditions are best for self-landing?Moderate winds (10-15 knots) are ideal for self-landing, as they provide enough tension for control without overpowering the kite.
Whether you're kitesurfing with a Core XR7, Duotone Rebel, or Any high Y or V kite, mastering self-landing techniques for high V kites is a big milestone of independence for every rider.
With proper preparation, patience, and practice, you’ll find that self-landing a high V kite is not only safe but also a highly efficient way to end your session.
Let's be honest, if feels pretty rad to be able to do everything independently. I remember my first sessions where i self launched, threw down for an hour hard, then came in and landed my kites. There is a deep satisfaction that comes with complete independence.
If you’ve been searching for “best self-landing techniques for high V kites,” this guide equips you with everything you need to know. Share this with your kiteboarding community, and let’s make the beaches safer and more enjoyable for everyone. See you on the water!
Where to take kiteboarding lessons in Florida.

The nearest kiteboarding shop and kite school that services Dunedin and Clearwater is Elite Watersports located in St Petersburg. Give us a call and we can get you up and riding in no time. We teach kitesurfing lessons at Skyway beach a short drive south of Dunedin. Our condions are also beginner friendly and perfect for learning.
Call us for more info on kiteboarding in Florida.
Elite Watersports has served the Tampa and St Petersburg area for years. They offer kiteboarding and wingsurfing lessons. They also have a retail shop equpit with all of the latest kitesurfing gear.
If you need help give us a call. .
(727)-800-2202


Author

Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic
Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, Airush team rider and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. When he's not writing articles or producing kite videos you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym
Tags
Kiteboarding Landing
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