Which Kite???

[JayT]

I currently surf but want to take up kiteboarding and would like to learn how to use / control the kite and landboard as a learning tool (and when I can not get to the coast) with the end objective to get in the water having a fair idea on how to use the equipment.

 

What kite will provide the best entry level performance for both land and water?

 

Thanks in advance.

[ShapeShifter]

A lesson is the only way to go fella. And way the most convenient as you get to trash the school kites.

 

Check out the local teachers and give it a go.

[cave_raver]

Try a Peter Lynn Bomba but the size will depend on your weight. It's a foil kite on a bar that is good for land and water with lift when you need it and a resale value when you want to upgrade. Alternatively a Guerilla 1 as they may be cheaper but I've heard the bombas are better to learn on.

 

Above all get lessons. You will need to get some good experience of learning to fly before going anywhere near the water. Start on a small two line kite or even a four line foil. There are plenty of kite schools around that do tasters for learning to fly. They'll also cover safety which although sounds over the top is well worth both for yourself and others. Just don't waste your money trying to learn kitesurfing first. The money you'd pay to learn the basics (which will be on land anyway) could buy you a good land kite to practise (a small blade 2 for example) with. It'll also mean you have something to mess with around on the beach when there isn't enough for water work. Understand how the kite and wind works then get lessons.

 

CR

[shemKSW]

Dont buy a kite until you try some first. You may buy something you hate. Most good schools will have a range of different makes and styles of kites.

 

Have fun.

[JayT]

Thanks for the feedback - can you recommend any good shops etc. in London. Will be heading to Cornwall very shortly aswell so any recommendations on shops / schools much appreciated.