Kiteboarding is the ultimate fusion of wakeboarding, windsurfing, snowboarding, skateboarding and kite flying. Using specially designed power kites (controllable kites that pull & lift); kiteboarding pilots propel their boards across land & water catching extreme air! By simply maneuvering their kite, experienced riders are jumping 20 to 40 feet while performing amazing aerials as they glide back down.
To get started, pilots simply hook into a harness, launch a large power kite, slip their feet into a board and then launch across the water. Many can kite for hours with little physical strain. With the new developments in kite design, power kiting is more about technique than strength.
The biggest rush is in catching air and flying. It’s such a blast because you can spin, flip or just fly. Though, many riders enjoy just gliding through the water and working on the sport’s more technical tricks, despite media glamor.
Power kites are also used with terrain boards, buggies, snow skis, snowboards and even kayaks. Land based kiting usually requires a much smaller kite (less horsepower is needed), and can be easier to learn. Most pilots love kiting so much, they often crossover into other power kite sports when conditions prevail.
There are two power kite types: Leading edge inflatable (LEI) These are the most common kites flown over water. They have internal bladders that form a frame when pumped up. LEIs can float and launch off the water, which is why they’re so popular. Ram Air (AKA foils) These kites resemble small parachutes and sometimes look like an air mattress. They’re flown mostly on land and maintain shape with only a bridle system made out of high test line. While risky to use over water, they are popular because they fly better, produce more power, cost less, and are easier to use & maintain.
A pair of skis and a stunt kite. . . Power kites have lifted and pulled pilots recreationally for decades. Crazy as it sounds, kiteboarding actually started off in the late ‘80s in Oregon when some professional water skiers replaced their boats with wind power. Hawaii soon caught on and started using surfboards with kites in the early ‘90s.
It was only a few years later when the first official kiteboarding company appeared in 1998. And, in the mere years since, kiteboarding has become the world’s fastest growing water sport.
Equipment technology is rapidly advancing, making the sport easier for beginners to learn and professionals to perfect it. Some kites are even being developed for serious work. For example, Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft used kites to pull them across Antarctica.
Charleston loves kites. . .
South Carolina’s Lowcountry offers some of the best kiteboarding conditions in the nation. With barrier islands, rivers, inlets and near inland lakes, pilots take on the wind year round. Our Atlantic flat water and waves make an absurd playground for all experience levels. Kiteboarders fly off beaches, waves & flat water in any season!
Xplor More: Charleston Kiteboarding
Spring boasts steady warm southerly winds averaging 18-30 mph (15-25 knots). Fall & winter offer similar speeds but from often gusty northeast frontals. Charleston summers typically rely on afternoon thermals ranging 10-18mph (8-15 knots). The barrier islands provide flying spots for any wind direction. Low tide sandbars create flat water with Atlantic swell breaks on the outside.
Want to kiteboard?
While very easy to learn and astounding fun, following specific rules will ensure safe and exciting kiteboarding experiences for both pilots and spectators. Like any sport, safety comes first. Power kites, their lines and control equipment must be used responsibly. Taking lessons from a certified / insured kiteboarding school will get you riding quickly & safely.
To learn the basics, you don't have to be on or near the water. Since kiteboarding is 80% kite control, the first step is to become proficient in flying a power kite. Start by purchasing a trainer power kite (a small ram air foil kite) and practice all the exercises your certified instructor reviews with you. Doing so will help you get used to the power on land and learn how to control the kite safely and skillfully, before flying full size kites.
Getting geared!
A full setup includes a harness, kite/control system, & board. Pilots use different kites for varying wind conditions. While used gear is available, you must be very careful in spotting wear & tear. Initial investments range from $800+, and then the wind is free! When choosing gear, consider:
• Your body weight
• Wind conditions in your area (average speed & direction)
• Your skills (beginner, advanced, pro)
• Board size (length & width)
• Board type: FreeRide (softer flex twin-tip) or freestyle (wide stiffer flex wake) or wave(directional surf)
• Kite Size?
• Kite type: FreeRide (more de-power & range) or FreeStyle (more aggressive & technical) or Wave (tight turning)
• Type of safety system?
• Is the kite designed for more pull or lift?
• How fast does the kite move?
• How easy does the kite water relaunch?
• Kite's wind range?
is South Carolina’s only dedicated power kiting shop and school.
(0 items)
