simonmcc

Ozone one with the pressure gauge. Nice long stroke (far longer than the standard Naish pump) and pressure gauge for lazy me.

Riding like that must leave you far downwind quite quickly, is that correct?

Another vote for the Physco 2 5/3 - got one last October, and it is great! Was out at the start of January this year, which as you may remember was fairly cold, and with socks, gloves and hood it was fine. The only thing I did wrong that day was to set up without gloves on, which left my fingers cold through the session. On the North Coast here we wear winter suits all year round, just vary the accessories

The problem with that guy is not kiting near the beach, its kiting near the rocks, or more specifically pulling tricks near the rocks

Just adding my 2p, because of my close proximity to the beach, and my infrequent availability I very often fly solo, probably about 3 out of 4 occasions. The beach I use is huge, so I usually have lots of sandy space, no obstacles (except my car for launch/land). Like others have said, I double and triple check my equipment while setting up, and only go out if it is onshore wind. Also, in caution I frequently put up my 9, and have to come back in for the 12. Best err on the side of caution. When I'm on my own I do tend to stay in shallower water, where I am it is usually shallow quite far out, although sometimes big swell absorbs that shallowness. Still, onshore wind will bring me back if there is trouble. I also agree that having people there doesn't guarantee your safety, nothing does. It does however mitigate the risk. Perhaps I am a little cavalier, I haven't had any major incidents *yet*, perhaps my mind will change in the future. Kitesurfing is all about risk, and managing it; going out on your own is just another manageable risk. But it is still a risk, and we need never forget that

Thanks for posting that, its good to realise how easy it is to get into a lot of trouble. Some good tips from the coastguards at the side of the story (not that I always do them all...) Coastguard’s warning - If you are going out kite surfing or windsurfing this summer the coastguard recommend you do not go alone - Take someone with you who can spot from the beach - Take the proper safety equipment, including a buoyancy aid - Be aware of the tides - Stay within your limits - Be aware the water temperature will still be cold

If you are looking for a good set of exercises to help your kitesurfing strength, check this out:

Yeah, like everyone says, don't give up. I started at the end of a summer, was out 5 or 6 times, couldn't get the board start sorted at all. Waited out the winter, then started again at the start of last year, and was up and riding nicely. One thing I did over that winter was change my board - the one I had (ebay) was a bit too small for a beginner. Check that your gear isn't holding you back. Last year I got out a total of 16 times, I'm an occasional kitesurfer, but I watch windguru all the time, and plan hard to get out. Sometimes I work from home (IT) and get out for 2 hrs at lunchtime, other times I go early, or leave work early, its all about planning. Mostly, just have fun, and keep at it. I also set myself attainable targets, last years target was to be up and riding proficiently, and I managed that, even a little toeside, and some carving turns. This year is about boost for me

I asked a question, but never really answered the original question. When I need to take keys into the water I have a single non electronic key that I use to lock my real keys and fobs etc in the car (still hide them in the car). That key then hooks onto a piece of elastic inside the pocket of my board shorts, safe and secure.

Where do you guys keep your aquapack when out on the water? Doesn't it annoy you when out kitesurfing?

Another thing to be aware of - My insurance covers kitesurfing (all sports gear) but only if the stuff is in the house, so not in the car or the garage!

Go on eBay, and look out for a board bindings and boots, you should be able to get sorted for under £100 - I did it at the start of this year when boards were in big demand due to the country wide snow. Its not the prettiest board I'v ever seen, but I really dont care. If youre careful you may be able to get a real bargain package....

Yeah, I've just started doing a little bit of working out. I have never had a fitness problem, but I suppose years of sitting in an office and no real outside interest in sport have led to a gradual degradation of my fitness level. I have recently started some exercises including the ones in this video: KiteboardingExercises.com - Exercise Videos, instructions and more - Kiteboarding Exercises with Sarah Ellis I have had a few injuries this summer, and I believe all could have been prevented by better technique, and a higher level of fitness. Also I get really, really tired after 3 hrs on the water. more videos here: YouTube - airkiteboarding's Channel crossposting is cool

What? You post a survey at 12, then tell people two hours later that your "Degree project research" needs to be in shortly? You're spending too much time at the beach

yeah, the water is more forgiving, but remember that shallow water has sand under it! Last time out I fell in the shallows, and sprained my hand quite badly, its still sore after a couple of weeks Just stick at it, remember that it comes quicker to some than to others, and for me it was slow getting up and riding. I am also built with gangly legs, and it can be quite a struggle getting the board on sometimes, especially while trying not to crash the kite at the same time. Its all about practice, just stick at it. And enjoy yourself, even before I was up and riding I was really enjoying the process, get out there, have fun, and be safe