To keep safe in the beginning it doesn’t have to be an expensive exercise, think about what you may already have available to you from other sports and hobbies. You can find the gear listed below in most Kite Shops or Sports Retailers, alternatively you can also take a look at our 'Buy & Sell' section for potential options.
Deciding and purchasing the right safety gear is an important process in equipping yourself for Landboarding, it's as equally important as 'Choosing The Right Landboard' and will protect you whilst you're learning and as you advance your skills.
Don't skimp on safety, it's always cheaper than a medical bill after the incident!
Helmet
This can be as simple as a bike helmet to begin with. If you look around hard enough there will be one of these not being utilised by you or someone around you. Ask around you will find one pretty easily. As you progress you can look into Protec helmets or even snowboarding helmets. You will find these come up on sale from time to time. I personally utilise a snowboard helmet I got on sale at Anaconda for a very reasonable price. It’s comfy and is rated to protect my head. It has ear covers which is handy for those winter months and is vented to let some air in if desired. Ensure that your helmet is a good fit and not too sloppy. Have it done up tight enough that it doesn’t move around on your head, but not too tight that it’s uncomfortable.
Knee Pads
These are a must for landboarding. At some stage or another when your learning to landboard you will fall to your knees and most likely at a degree of speed. Make sure your knee pads are a good fit and will not slide down your leg when your planing across the grass on your knees.
Elbow Pads
An optional extra layer of protection for your elbows. These do not need to be fancy just something to protect you if you have a tumble. You’ll find these are the first piece of safety gear to go once you become somewhat proficient.
Footwear
Bear in mind you want some sturdy, comfortable shoes. There are many preferences for Landboarders here on Extreme Kites. Some of us like to use bulky skate style shoes, some hiking boots and some Crocs. Although I wouldn’t recommend Crocs for beginners, I would recommend something somewhat waterproof and capable of taking some abuse. You can ease into Crocs at you leisure when you become proficient and for those hot summer months.
Gloves
Again are optional. They can help you with your grip on the handles or bar and keep your hands warm at the same time. Motocross gloves make and excellent choice for kiting or visit Bunnings, there are plenty on offer there. Remember the thinner the better, you don’t want bulky fingers around your kite handles or bar.
Wrist Guards
They can be worn if you have concerns about your wrists, but usually get in the way of steering the kite responsively.
Sunnies
These are a must for keeping that glare down. Find your old pair as your likely to have them fall off your face in a spill and they will get scratched.
Suncream
Don’t forget to slip slop slap. When your concentrating for so long on your board skills and kite handling - you often forget to apply suncream. Do this at the start of the session, so you don’t forget. Remember to take plenty of water and stay hydrated too.
Clothing
For your initial runs, wear long clothing that will cover up your bare skin. Old jeans are good to start in and at least a long sleeve t-shirt or jumper. Ensure you keep comfortable and have the ability to move freely, just think along the lines of minimising any cuts or abrasions to bare skin if possible.
Remember to think about what else might be available to you. I started out with an old motorbike jacket that already had shoulder pads and elbow pads fitted, this saved me having to buy elbow pads and kept me warm. Another bonus was that it had a back pad as well. If you’re worried about falling on your butt, you can pickup a pair of padded shorts from the motorbike shop fairly cheap as well. And if you are concerned about your back, you can pickup some motorbike armour or a spine protector. Watch out for the clearance sales at motorbike shops or outlets.
Last of all, when your starting out, remember to try and have a friend or spotter close by that can lend a hand when needed.
If you have any questions or unsure about anything ask in our 'Landboarding Community Forum', there are lots of people who will be more than happy to help you make a decision on what's suitable for you.
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