today's kiteboarding lesson: how to catch air . . .
If you like water sports, kiteboarding is the
latest craze. It's is an exhilaritng sport people find extremely therapeutic. And, with proper guidance and kiteboarding instruction, many pickup kiting quickly. To help guide you with the lingo, gear, timelines, and training, we've divided this kiteboarding lesson section into the following 5 areas. reserve now!
call 843-388-9300 oremail us
earn $100!!! click on
the specials tab above to learn about AIR'S deals
kiteboarding is incredible . . . BUT it is a sport! It takes time to safely learn the basics.
That’s why we've structured our classes on 5 core skill levels. First, choose your class based on your skill level using the chart below. Then, browse air's classes on the left and choose the ones meeting your goals.
When making reservations, you'll be interviewed and paired with instructors who have similar athletic backgrounds. Kite classes are designed with sensible lesson plans based on your skill level!
reserve your lesson now! call 843-388-9300 oremail us
kite zen essentials 1 learn up to 4 times faster*
for
new kiters (L0)
what 1.5 hour kite
control workshop
rate $99 / student
pre-requisites none
gear will need trainer kite
for homework
times Mon, Fri, Sat (Times vary with Tides)
summary
To learn the basics, you don't have to be near the water,
but you do need to first reach . . . kite zen Get ready, you're
about to become the pilot of a single wing. From power managemnt to full simulation exercises, your first training step is mastering total kite control. By taking air's Kite Zen class, you'll learn critcal flight skills that'll help you're kiteboarding training advance up to 4x faster.*
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
In this 1-hour workshop, you'll study primary power kite control
techniques and learn:
Power Kite Basics:>>>Your
hands-on training starts with basic safety, rigging, launching, control,
and landing. We'll review power kiting's absolute basics so you may practice safely.
You'll fly (probably crash a
few times) until you're saying: "ahhh...that's how this thing works."
Concepts, Theories & Control Techniques >>>Once
you understand basic power kiting, you're ready to learn and master power
kite control. In this class, we'll review 10 techniques and the exercises
you'll practice to reach kite zen. From power strokes to simulated vehicle
riding, your homework is then to get out and master how to step on the gas, let off the gas, and hit the brakes...all using your kite, till you're
flying blind!
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
*important class details and statistics
The kite zen class will be held outside either on the beach or a field depending on weather conditions. If weather is bad, the class will be held in the class room at air's shop. It will not be rescheduled.
Kite Zen is a class
with a set lesson plan and is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check things
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class
People skipping basic kite control training (kite zen) significantly increase their kiteboarding learning curve. Our stats show those who skip kite control average a
10% success rate (see below). Those students taking kite zen and mastering the simulation exercises show a 90% success rate.
Success is defined as being able to get up on a kiteboard and sustaining a short distance ride in the final class: board balance. We measure it by recording kite zen participation and comparing it to board riding success.
We can only coach and guide you in power kiting and kiteboarding techniques. It is up to you to practice what you learn until you master the skills.
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
.
core basics essentials 2
for
new kiters (L0) or novice flyers (L1)
what Core kite management skills split into 2 classes: A: Rigging & Safety -1.5 hours B: Power Control - 2 Hours
rateA = $149, B = $199 / student
$50 credit awarded for completing both*
Did you know kiteboarding is 80% kite flying? Heck yeah this sport is FUN! But it does require some very serious safety, power, and control techniques. That's why in air's most popular class, you'll learn critical kite management skills. With only two students per instructor and a heavy safety focus, this class is designed to make you a self sufficient kiter by learning the Core Basics in two classes. These 2 Core Classes may be taken separately or together.
With "Challenge by Choice" as air's motto, our personal trainers will help you're skills progress quickly, comfortably and safely. Most students graduate the Core Basics class ready to take on their first kiteboarding session.
Core Basics A - Rigging & Safety 1.5 hours
Completely land based, this class is held regardless of wind conditions. We'll start with a little kiteboarding science, discussing critical weather, riding, launching and landing theories, concepts & rules. Then you'll learn how to fully rig and inspect a full size inflatable kite. Once you've got your kite ready, then we'll review critical proper crash control management along with using safety systems & techniques.
Core Basics B - Power Control 2 hours Now that you understand how it all works, it's time to make it happen. You'll dive into getting wet as you rig, launch and FLY your first full sized inflatable kite. Using an exclusive short line teaching system, you'll learn proper power control as you body drag through the water. And, we'll even take you through several safety scenarios so you can practice your crash control. Most students leave fully ready to take out their kites and fly solo.
Learn up to 4X faster! It's been proven that those students with land based power kiting experience progress up to 4 times faster. Be sure to get the most out of your Core Basics class by first takingair's kite zenOR orderingair's remote training kite package.You'll be ready to ride much quicker.
Earn $50 Gear Credit! For everyone's safety, anyone wishing to purchase gear must be trained in the Core Basics (from any certified kiteboarding school). That's why you'll earn a $50 credit towards the purchase of new kiteboarding gear when you complete air's Core Basics classes*
Plus, you're also receive air's first time kite package, which includes training manual & handouts.
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
In Air's Core Basics, we supply all the gear. You'll start off in the shop with your instructor reviewing kiteboarding theory and science. Then, you'll head straight for the water. In this accelerated kite class, we'll train you for kiting on your own with exercises in:
how kiteboarding works what makes kites pull and the differences in kite design styles
evaluating weather conditions what's happening now and what it's going to do
kiter safety etiquette rigging, launching & riding rules along with rights of way
choosing when and where to ride combining meteorology with location
getting to know your kite setting up and managing your kite
basic launching & controlling kite dynamics using kite-hoops
power control 1 using kite's power to pull you through the water
rigging & safety systems using short lines, how to rig, inspect, and use all systems
launching, landing & releasing assisted launching & landing along with crash control techniques
self-rescue what to do when your without a board or kite
water re-launching what to do when you kite is down
power control 2 body dragging with more power using short lines
solo launching & landing managing your kite without help
basic board starting controlling your kites power for water starting
If you have your own gear, we highly suggest bring it to class so we can show you details specific to the make and model of your kite, board, and harness.
Once trained in proper safety & rigging techniques, you're ready to work on riding in the final essential class: Board Balance
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
*$50 Gear Credit Your $50 gear credit may be used toward the purchase of any New inflatable kite or kiteboard (excluding clearance items). Your credit is valid for 60 days from your lesson date. Ater the 60-day period, it expires.
**important class details and statistics
We can only coach and guide you in power kiting and kiteboarding techniques. It is up to you to practice what you learn until you master the skills.
The Core Basics class is held outside on the beach depending on weather conditions. Class will be rescheduled if winds are less than 8 knots or greater than 25 kts, severe weather is in or near the area, or conditions are outside the 120 degree rule (add the water temperature and the air temperature - if the total is 120 or more...class is on!).
Core Basics is a class
with a set lesson plan and is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check things
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class.
People skipping Core Basics significantly increase their risk of injury. Our stats show those attempting kiteboarding without instruction average a
98% injury rate. Those students mastering proper Core Basic techniques show a 2% error rate.
Error rate is defined as a students needing assistance during self-rescue drills in our third class: Board Balance. We measure it by recording safety and rigging participation and comparing it to those who are able to self-rescue.
Put on your sunscreen and bring your towel...
you're about to ride a kite! Your patience in studying and practicing is all about to pay off. In air's final essential kiteboarding class, you'll combine the Kite Zen and Core Basic skills to achieve Board Balance.
An optional class, students are expected to arrive self-sufficient in kite management, power control, and safety techniques. It's designed for students looking for extra help with water starting on a kiteboard and sustaining the ride. If your'e looking for extra help with the core basics, the you'll want to take a Skill Booster.
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
In the Board Balance class, we'll bring all the gear ( inflatable kites, boards, and harnesses). If you have your own gear, we highly suggest bringing it to class so you can get a good feel and understanding your kite / board riding characteristics.
We'll meet at the shop and then head to the water and work on your Board Balance with these exercises:
> safety system & self-rescue review
> body dragging power control warm-up
>handling both your kite and board on land and in water
> water starting - getting up and on your board
> sustaining your ride with proper body and board position
Once on the board, it's like riding a bike. You'll have the balance down and will only need a few sessions before you're riding comfortably for hours! Should you like a little help with specific skills, be sure to sign up for a Skill Booster
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
*important class details and statistics
The Board Balance class is held outside on the beach depending on weather conditions. Class will be rescheduled if winds are less than 10 knots or greater than 25 kts, severe weather is in or near the area, or conditions are outside the 120 degree rule (add the water temperature and the air temperature - if the total is 120 or more...class is on!).
Board Balance is a class
with a set lesson plan and is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check things
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class.
People taking Board Balance significantly increase their board riding skills. Our stats show those who actively participate in the Board Basics class average a 75% riding rate (see below). Those students skipping Intro to Riding show a 25% riding rate.
Riding rate is defined as a students who is able to get up on the board and ride for at least 20 seconds. We measure it by recording and comparing riding rates at the start and end of each class.
We can only coach and guide you in power kiting and kiteboarding techniques. It is up to you to practice what you learn until you master the skills.
No hand holding , you just want a little coaching the air support class is a group session with 3 - 5 kiters and an Expert Coach. Depending on conditions, we'll gather at one of Charleston's luxury launch areas, rig and get everyone riding. The coach will be there to help you boost your skills and help you recover from those lost board crashes.
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
Done in two hour sessions), air support classes are typically held twice weekly. Demo gear is available so you can try the latest. Though, you will need to bring your personal kite, board, and harness.
>>>how to jump
>>>changing directions
>>>self launching & landing
>>>going
up-wind
>>>load & pop
>>> rotations
>>>water re-launching
>>>riding switch
>>>general guidance
Once you're skills are boosted, soak up some knowledge on topics like meteorology and performing kiteboarding tricks. . .sign up for a Kite Workshop
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
***important class details and statistics
The Air Support class is held outside on the beach depending on weather conditions. Class will be rescheduled if winds are less than 10 knots or greater than 25 kts, severe weather is in or near the area, or temperatures are below the 110 degree rule ( if water temperature plus air temperature = 110 or more...class is on!).
Air Support is a class
with a custom lesson plan defined by students' desire to perfect certain kite flying and/or board riding skills. This class is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check things
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class
We can only coach and guide you in power kiting and kiteboarding techniques. It is up to you to practice what you learn until you master the skills.
It's simple, you
tell us what you need help with the most and we'll customized instruction to strengthen
those skills. Most common skill boosters include:
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
Done on an hourly rate
(minimum two hours), custom classes are typically one on one with an instructor
for riders who wanting certain skills improved. Demo gear is available so you can try the latest. Though, we highly suggest bringing your personal kite, board, and harness.
>>>perfecting
water starts
>>>changing directions
>>>self launching & landing
>>>staying
up-wind
>>>going up-wind
>>>riding new vehicles
>>>water re-launching
>>>riding switch
>>>general guidance
Once you're skills are boosted, soak up some knowledge on topics like meteorology and performing kiteboarding tricks. . .sign up for a Kite Workshop
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
***important class details and statistics
The Skill Booster class is held outside on the beach depending on weather conditions. Class will be rescheduled if winds are less than 5 knots or greater than 25 kts, severe weather is in or near the area, or temperatures are below the 110 degree rule ( if water temperature plus air temperature = 110 or more...class is on!).
Skill Booster is a class
with a custom lesson plan defined by the student's desire to perfect certain kite flying and/or board riding skills. This class is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check things
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class
We can only coach and guide you in power kiting and kiteboarding techniques. It is up to you to practice what you learn until you master the skills.
.
kite workshops special events
forlevels 2-4 kiteboarders
what custom workshops on specific topics
rate Free - $39 / each
pre-requisites None
gear May include demo gear.
times custom
summary
From low pressure systems to riding unhooked . . . Air is partnering with local and industry experts to bring you the latest and greatest knowledge to perfect your riding. Join Pros like Davey Blair, Sky Solbach and NOAA weather experts for in-depth workshops on intriguing topics. Learn what those clouds mean or how to invert during a jump.
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
topics
Join Air's exclusive guest speakers and learn how to have more great sessions. Kite Workshop topics may include:
>>>advanced meteorology
>>>riding un-hooked
>>>using wake-skates
>>>jumping & transitions
>>>going up-wind
>>>crossing over to land
>>>demo'ing gear
>>>kiting travel
>>>how to forecast wind
example workshops
date & time TBA Kiteboarding Sciences Join meteorological and engineer experts for in depth looks into what affects your kiteboarding sessions.
Date & Time TBA Beyond Boosting learn proper loading, timing AND some cool moves to do while you're hanging around up there
date & time TBA in the field with Flexifoil Apply you're new skills in deciphering significant weather cues that'll make your next session better. All using the latest Flexion Gear.
Date & Time TBA North'ern Nights Hang with, ride with, and learn from the North Kiteboarding team. Plus, demo the latest North Kiteboarding equipment.
Looking for a killer ride: join us for a Kite Surfari!
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
details
reserve your class today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
***important class details and statistics
Kite workshops are held in the shop and/or outside on the beach (depending on weather conditions).
.
kite surfaris beyond basics 3
forlevels 3-4 kiteboarders
what remote kiteboarding at secret spots
rate $49 / person
pre-requisites experienced kiters only
gear rental gear available
times custom
Do you live for
sessions? If you love kiteboarding in Charleston, then taking a trip on 'liquid
air' out to one of the low country's uninhabited barrier islands is a must!
Step aboard with up to 6 of your friends aboard or our
19' creek boat and head to uninhabited remote kiting spots around capers,
the sandy hook, and bird key. Ride amongst sandbar flats, hit the hook
for incredible wave action, or dare the sand moguls with a ground board.
Kite Surfari's are available for public & private
groups. Regularly scheduled trips port in spring & summer. Price includes
beverages and light snacks.
reserve your kite surfari today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
group thairapy special events 1
foranyone
what custom kite sport outing- groups 4+
rate $49 - 189 / person
pre-requisites none
gear everything provided
times custom
So you're looking for something cool to do??? Then gather your friends and family for some group th-air-apy! We'll bring out the coaches, kites and other great stuff for you to play with and get a taste of what ancient cultures once used as a healing power to rejuvenate and enlighten.
We'll start with a quick class on basic safety and move into getting some kites flying in the air for you to hang on to. From stunt kites to power kites and vehicles, go fly a kite gets new meaning as you catch some air on a barrier islands and discover thairapy!
Group Thairapy events are customized to each group's kite flying experience.
reserve your Thairapy today! call 843-388-9300 or email us
***important details
Group Thairapy is held outside depending on weather conditions. It will be re-scheduled if winds are less than 3 knots greater than 25 knots, or severe weather is in or near the area.
Group Thairapy is a fully supervised kite flying outing
and is not a kiteboarding "ride." With proper guidance, you can learn kiteboarding quickly and safely. However, Kiteboarding
and other kite-sports require more than
a few hours to learn and perfect the basics. If you're just wanting to check kiteboarding
out, we highly recommend starting with a kite zen class
course details, schedules & rack rates (special discounted package rates available!) This chart summarizes air's kiteboarding lessons. For details, see class details tab above.
kiter levels
0
0 or 1
1
2-4
2-4
3-4
0+
essential basics
beyond basics
special
course
kite
zen
core
basics
A & B
board balance
skill
booster
kite
workshops
air
support
group thairapy
rack rate
$99/student
$149 & $199
$189/student
$149 / hr
FREE - $39
$79 / each
$39-189 / each
special
discounts
kite clinic
trainer package
kite clinic
multiple student
gear package
kite clinic
multiple student
gear package
multiple hours
gear package
gear package
multiple hours
class size
6
1-2
1-2
private
5+
2-5
4+
total
length (h)
1
3.5
2
2+
1-2
2
1 - 4
times
M, F, Sa
W, F, Sa
T, Th, Sa
custom
weekends
custom
custom
location
shop / beach
shop & field / beach
beach
beach
shop / beach
barrier islands
custom
pre-requisites
none
optional kite zen / remote training
core basics
intro to riding
none
board balance OR equivalent
none
gear
gear included
gear included
gear included
demo gear available
demo gear available
demo gear available
gear included
critical
skills
covered
choosing safe
flying conditions
choosing safe riding conditions
controlled body dragging with harness
customized per student, popular topics include:
workshops focus on very specialized topics. Designed for those already kiteboarding. Popular topics include:
Help perfecting your kiteboarding skills. From the basics to your first tricks.
Group Thairapy is a custom designed kitesport outing designed for groups of 4 or more.Get a quick basic training of various kitepsorts and spend most of the time flying and playing.
Based in Charleston, Air offers South Carolina Kiteboarding lessons to students from Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Edisto Island, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Kiawah Island & Seabrook Island!
Due to weather conditions, kiteboarding class schedules are subject to change.
PASA, IKO, & Methods Certified Kiteboarding Instructors With 20+ Years power kiting experience, air is South Carolina’s only dedicated kite sports shop and school.
In fact, we're the only dedicated kiteboarding store between North Carolina and Northern
Florida. With more than 850 students taking air's kite classes since 2002, our instructors have both credentials and EXPERIENCE!
With "Challenge by Choice" as air's motto, our personal trainers will help you're skills progress quickly, comfortably and safely. Plus, by incorporating the best techniques, lesson plans,and teaching methods from the Big 3 certification academies, Air's kiteboarding school is incredibly unique. And, we've created an excelerated program by using an exclusive short-line training system.
Low country wind conditions are just one reason we've based our kiteboarding school in Charleston, SC. With huge sandy beaches surrounding barrier islands, the South Eastern Low Country offers an incredible array of seasons with pristine beaches and beautiful winds.
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
