Kiteboarding is a sport on the rise gaining increased popularity over the last decade. Affordable, rather simple but highly addictive, kiteboarding has been characterized as a pure adrenaline booster. But to fully enjoy the fun it has to offer, you need to purchase the basic kiteboarding equipment.
In particular:
1. Kite
The proper kiteboarding kite is essential to boost your kiteboarding experience. A mistaken choice can lead to frustrating falls and bad rides making you quit the sport in no time. If you are new to the game, a small kite is suggested. You will be able to control it better due to its minimized force. The best types of kites are:
- C-kites: extremely durable (made out of nylon), stable and controllable. Experienced kiteboarders suggest the C-kites as the best solution.
- Foil kites: highly predictable, light (made out of fabric), with specialized air cells keeping the air sealed and maximizing speed.
- Bow kites: the newest development with remarkable durability, stability and the unique ability to depower rapidly and relaunch without difficulty. Ideal for rookies.
Generally, kites come in many sizes, patterns, shapes and colors. Visit an experienced kiteboarding store and ask for a professional to help you choose. Do not hesitate to ask anything you need too. Moreover, it is best to inform the experts of your techniques and location you wish to kiteboard. This way, you make sure you get the most suitable kite for you. If possible, try different types to determine which one is best for you. Do not go with the cheapest solution as, usually, there is always a reason for such a low price.
Important tip: remember that a kiteboarding kite also includes the bar, line and safety system. Nevertheless, you can always buy pieces separately if this is what makes you feel safer and more comfortable.
2. Kiteboards
Kiteboards come also in different sizes, shapes, colors and types. The best ones are said to be the twin-ups. Twin-ups are ideal for both newbies and experienced riders as they have the unique ability to surf in both directions. You do not have to change your body posture to alter the direction making twin-ups extremely easy to handle. Moreover, they are ideal for wave-riding as they lack foot-straps anabling you to stand in your toes. Nevertheless, if you feel more comfortable with foot-straps, there are always the standard kiteboards.
In kiteboarding, size does matter as wider boards offer maximum stability and better float. If you are a rookie, a wider board will give you all the steadiness you need to help you stay up and riding for a longer period. Especially when combined with the proper kite, a longer board will make you ride like a pro!
3. Kiteboarding Harnesses
Choosing the proper kiteboarding harness can be a daunting task. Always try before you buy to make sure you have made the right choice. Generally, there are four types of kiteboarding harnesses. Specifically:
- Waist harnesses: this is the most popular type as it takes the kite force off your arms allowing you better control.
- Seat harnesses: ideal for new riders, the seat harness offers better body posture helping you stay up longer. Nevertheless, it limits down freestyle motion making it a wrong choice for wave-riding.
- Vest harnesses: vest harnesses are highly suggested for the ones with severe back and waist chronic pains. The vest harness minimizes kite pressure spreading it evenly all over your body.
- Shorts: shorts are in fact seat harnesses but significantly smaller. They offer the same protection and safety without being so bulky.
4. Kiteboarding Clothing
The proper clothing literally makes the difference in kiteboarding. Depending on where you will choose to ride, a wetsuit or a drysuit will save you from sunstroke or hypothermia. Moreover, they significantly protect you from pain in case of a bad fall or abrasions due to blows against the board. Again, try before you buy. Make sure it fits you properly being neither too tight nor too loose.
Kiteboarding is a highly addictive sport becoming more and more popular nowadays. Purchase the essential kiteboarding equipment and enjoy everlasting hours of fun!
Source:
http://www.destinationkiteboarding.com/kiteboarding- equipment.html