Broneah Kiteboarding – We Build Kiteboarders – kitesurfing, kiteboard, kitesurf, lessons, camp
BRONEAH INTRO TO KITEBOARDING:
So you’re thinking about getting into the best water sport on the face of the planet! That is a very good decision, but there are a few things that could make or break your experience in the sport of kiteboarding. Hopefully some of these suggestions will make your encounter the best it can be. Kiteboarding is a simple sport when you take the right approach getting into it. Alternatively, kiteboarding can be a very difficult sport if you try to rush things and avoid advice from others. Here we will run you through the best possible approach to take in getting into the sport in a step by step process.
STEP 1: EDUCATE YOURSELF
Your first step is to take some time and research the sport. Make some calls, or talk to people who already kiteboard. This way you can get a better idea of exactly what the sport is. It would be a good idea to find out if you have a local kiteboarding shop or community that does the sport in your area. If so do what you can to meet those people and get some background on the sport for your particular area. We would also suggest that you pick up a video or Kiteboarding Magazine, this will give you a chance to see a little bit more about the sport, what you can do with it, and the people involved.
STEP 2: GET EDUCATED
After giving yourself a little background on kiteboarding your next step is to take a lesson. Don’t even think about getting gear until you take a lesson. By purchasing equipment before you take a lesson you are taking a huge risk; how do you know that is the right gear for you? Is it the proper size board, kite, bar, lines, etc? Or is the kite even a good kite? These are all things you do not know at this point, so why get gear? Kiteboarding is a fairly technical sport so having a professionally certified instructor guide your through the proper setup will save you both time and money. Putting money into professional instruction is the single best thing you can do getting into kiteboarding. Not taking a lesson is like trying to fly a plane with no prior instruction, CRAZY!
STEP 3: GET PROPER GEAR
KITES: For 95% of the kiteboarding world in North America and for the entire globe for that matter you will never want to get a kite over 10-12 meters for your first kite. Do not let others tell you differently. Getting too large of a kite for your first kite will not only intimidate you but will be hard to work with and manage as a beginner. A typical 10-12 meter kite or smaller is still a very large kite and will work for you in both light and heavier winds. You would much rather be out with too small of a kite than too large of a kite when you are beginning the sport. As for the kites, you will definitely want to get into what is called a low to moderate aspect kite for your first kite, do not get a high aspect kite. Low to moderate aspect kites are much more stable and will make your learning phase that much simpler. As far as bar set-up goes, if you’re purchasing a brand new kite just use what the manufacture recommends. If you are purchasing used gear, make sure that your certified instructor inspects the kite and bar thoroughly before use.
BOARDS: When getting into the sport it is always better to follow the idea of using a larger board and smaller kite. You will have a much better experience if you’re using a large board with plenty of surface area to get you up and planing with controllable power. This will force you to have better kite control, which in the long run will make you a better kiteboarder. For the average sized person of 170-200 lbs we would suggest getting into a board that is about 160cm long. If you’re dramatically larger or smaller than that then go with a larger or smaller board depending on your size. Once again the certified instructor that teaches you will be able to give you a good idea of what will work best for you. You will never grow out of a large board. Once you progress and are looking to get into something smaller you can always keep your larger board and use it for those light wind days, and trust me you will have them! It is also key to make sure you are using foot straps during your learning stages. Wearing wakeboard bindings makes things much more complicated.
HARNESS: This is a personal preference decision. You can choose from either a waist or seat harness. Typically women like to wear seat harnesses along with people that have experienced back pain. The most common harnesses are waist harnesses that allow a bit more freedom and movement on the body. Once again this is personal preference and you will soon learn what works best for you.
STEP 4: CONTINUE EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSION
Even after you become a fairly competent kiteboarder it is a great idea to continue your progression by taking part in an advanced kiteboarding camp. Many kiteboarding schools offer camps all around the nation and globe in some incredible places. Choose a spot that gets consistent wind where you will be able to spend a solid week riding every day with professional certified coaches by your side! This is the ultimate way to progress your kiteboarding skills fast and efficiently. At this point you will also be able to discuss expanding your kite and board quiver to the next level.
