Interested in kitesurfing? Want to give it a try? We are here to answer all of your questions.
What is kitesurfing? ‘Kitesurfing’ or ‘kiteboarding’ is a watersport that uses wind to pull a rider across the water surface on a surfboard or kiteboard. With the right equipment, experience and wind, arider can kitesurf anywhere that is a clear area free of physical obstacles.
Who can kitesurf? Absolutely anybody who’s interested in kitesurfing can master it. Anyone who can stand up, and know left from right and how to swim, can learn to kitesurf. While being in physical shape is great, kitesurfing does not require much upper body strength as it probably appears to require. The best kitesurfers know it’s actually more about technique and riding style than sheer strength.
How long can I kitesurf? The harness worn around the rider’s waist enables you to “hook in” to the power of the kite, and most of the kite’s pull is absorbed throughout the entire body and not just through the arms. Hence, it is possible to kite for very long periods of time, sometimes hours- much longer than waterskiing or wakeboarding!
How is kitesurfing different from other water/board sports? If you windsurf, surf, snowboard, skateboard or wakeboard, then you already have many of the board skills required to kiteboard. Kitesurfing is somewhat similar to these sports, except you use an inflatable kite to harness the wind for propulsion. However, 85% of the sport is about controlling the kite safely. Kitesurfers are able to tackle any conditions from butter flat lagoons to charging overhead surf upon successful completion of lessons from a professional instructor.
Do I have to take lessons or can I learn it by myself? As soon as you are handed a kite, you will suddenly understand why you want someone there showing you what to do. Kitesurfing is commonly classified as an extreme sport and it can be very dangerous if you do not know proper techniques. While a kite is big enough to easily pull the rider thirty feet into the air when it all goes right- but it is also big enough to put one into hospital when it all goes wrong. In wrong conditions and in wrong hands a kite can be very dangerous; you owe it to yourself and those kiters that you will be riding with to seek out the best instruction possible.
How many lessons do I have to take? The answer is…it depends! On average, you will require 2-4 hours for the first lessons, another 2-4 hours for the second lessons to be able to stand up on the board and ride independently. From that point forward, practice, practice, practice.
What equipment do I need? Call us first and we will advise you. For lessons, you do not need to purchase anything. Our professional instructors are happy to advise you of what to purchase at a later date to ensure you do not buy the wrong gear. We will ensure that you by the right equipment for your particular needs. Your instructor will give you advice on which kite will be best suited to your ability and the local conditions wherever you intend to ride.
What size of kite and board do I need? Three factors play a role: your riding skills, your weight and the conditions in which you are planning to use your equipment. Feel free to ask for advice from our qualified instructors.
How much does it cost to have my own kitesurfing equipment? All riders need 5 pieces of equipment – a kite, a bar, a board, a harness and a pump. Whether you are in the market for new gear or gently used gear, we can help you secure both to meet your needs. A complete set of 5 new gear costs between AED 8,000 to 8,500; gently used gear runs between AED 5,000 – 6,000 depending on the year and condition of the kite.
Any other questions? Just ask!