kiteboarding, kites and other gear with product reviews kiteboarding lessons and information current wind conditions for kiteboarding in south carolina where to go kiteboarding...best places to launch a kite tips, tricks, and articles for kiteboarding and kite flying v current events and news @ air...   who is air...learn how it all started and get to know the team   by phone, email, snail mail, or land...contact us here!   air company home page  
     
   
   
 
 

Why some gear costs
more than others?

Put simply: you get what you pay for. Kiteboarding requires some pretty technical gear. A ton of research & development goes into good equipment that’s designed to perform, last, and keep you safe.

Expect to pay $2000-3000 total for quality gear & lessons. Quite a small investment compared to other sports (i.e., no extra fuel or fees)!

 


this article featured in

2005 & 2006 kiteboarding intro guide

download airs's edited advice here

 


Saving Tips Look For:
Intro Package deals. Many schools & shops offer special packages that will save you $200-500 if you purchase gear & lessons together.

Advice: Make sure your shop takes you through an in-depth interview. Your gear evaluation skills may have yet to evolve and credible shops only demo gear with experienced pilots. Let the experience riders pair your athletic background with the proper equipment!

Be Careful: Considering new budget gear? You’ll ride cheaper, but your skills may plateau early. Low-end gear lacks performance design. Plus, you’ll likely get lower quality as craftsmanship has a price. Instead buying extra gear a few months later, spend a little more and you’ll have lasting gear that’ll stay exciting!

Avoid: Used gear from unknown sources. You’ll be taking huge safety risks. See why your first kite should be new!

 

Why your first kite should be new!

As a new kiteboarder, you’re experience in spotting good performance along with wear has yet to mature.

Just found that “insane deal”? Many used kites are sold for good reason: they’re not wanted! The gear either lacks performance or it’s been well used. People typically don’t sell kites for the heck of it.

Gear priced below market value typically equals risk. Sure, you’ll save huge, but chances are you’re increasing safety hazards. We’ve seen many kiteboarders who’ve spent more money on repairing their gear (and themselves) after buying cheap gear. They could have avoided the risks and money frustrations by just getting a new kite!

Saving Tip
If available, consider “demo” gear. Shops let others try these under supervision. Reliable dealers sell them once a year and reveal maintenance logs and history.






 
in the shop
 
    air's summer sale
save up to 50% on 2007 kites & boards
 
 

 


FREE shipping
available on
all orders

you're always
gAIRanteed!

 
 

.......................................

 
 

in the news
GK Offers Chucktown Kiter Pro Sponsorship

page 32 KB Magazine
which comes first. . .
career or kiting???

air makes world headlines all
summer long

........................................

 
  upcoming events  
 

October 13, 2007
Second Annual
gAIRage Days
demo sale
& swap meet

2008 Cozumel
Air Retreat
now taking
reservations





 
   
 
 
     
   
what you should expect to pay for quality kiteboarding gear      
     


kitesurfing lessons and kiteboarding shop located in histroic Charleston, SC
kiteboarding in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina serving kitesurfing needs in
charleston, sc - myrtle beach, sc - beaufort, sc - hilton head island, sc - savanah, ga - south carolina lowcountry

 


gathering wind data . . .
Current Wind > NW 3.0  Gst: 5.0