Must-Have Kitesurfing Gear: A Comprehensive Guide

In this article we will see how to choose the equipment for Kitesurfing. This guide aims to be a support, especially for those who approach this sport for the first time.

Kitesurf equipment

You're on the beach and the wind is blowing. You look up and see a series of colorful kites going up and down over the sea. People seem to be having a blast and you decide it's the right time to start. A great choice 🤟🏻

But after the course, here comes the spontaneous question: what equipment do I need to buy to practice this wonderful sport? Here's the basic set you need to do Kitesurfing:

1. Kite
2. Bar
3. Board
4. Harness

Now let's see in detail which kite to choose based on weight and discipline you want to do, what size of bar and board to buy and the different types of harness.

Kite

Initially, there are two factors to keep in mind when you want to buy a kitesurf sail:

• Your weight
• The wind that blows in your "home spot" (the spot where you think you will go out most frequently)

If there are an average of 12 to 20 knots of wind where you go out and you weigh 75 kg, you will need to use a 12 sqm sail.Weigh more? You'll need a larger size. Is there more wind where you go out? Better to use a smaller size!

Here's a chart with reference values, always calculated on a 75 kg rider.

Once you become more experienced, a third factor will come into play:

• The "specialty" you want to practice (Big Air, Freestyle, Wave)

For now, keep in mind that kitesurf sails for beginners are "Freeride" sails, stable and easy to relaunch.

Kitesurf Bar

Depending on the size of the kite you want to buy, you'll need to choose between a narrow or wide bar.

Here the issue is simpler:

• Kite larger than 10 sqm, wide bar
• Kite smaller than 10 sqm, narrow bar

Together with the bar, there are also the lines (the cables) to choose from. Usually, there are two options:

• Short lines (from 20 to 22 meters)
• Long lines (from 22 to 24 meters)

These are the "standards", but of course, even shorter or longer lines can be found, but we are talking about things that interest the most experienced.

Here the rule is: shorter lines, greater kite responsiveness; longer lines, more stable kite.

Kitesurf Board

The most common kitesurf boards are bidirectional (TwinTip) and unidirectional (Surfboard).

For now, let's focus on the TwinTip, which is the perfect board for beginners. To choose the size of the kitesurf board, also in this case, the main variable to keep in mind is the rider's weight.

Considering a length range of 134-144 cm and a width range of 36-43 cm:

• Rider under 60 kg, around 134-136 * 36-38 cm
• Rider between 60-85 kg, around 136-141 * 38-41 cm
• Rider above 85 kg, around 141-144 * 40-43 cm

When you buy the board, make sure there are also footpads (where you put your feet), because many stores - online - sell them separately!

Kitesurf Harness

You're just missing one thing and then the kit will be complete: the trapeze.

Investing in a good quality trapeze is definitely worth it, your back will thank you! There are two types available:

• the regular one, also known as the "waist" trapeze, which is the most commonly used due to its stability and freedom of movement;
• the seated trapeze, which is particularly suitable for beginners because it stays low and helps with maintaining the correct position when starting in the water.

Kitesurf Equipment: Used or New?

This is one of the big dilemmas for new kiters.

Should you save money and buy something used or go all-in and buy a brand new kit?

Well, it really depends on how much you think you'll be practicing this sport. If you've completed the course and you can't wait for the wind to pick up so you can hit the water, then maybe the best choice you can make is to buy a new kit.

Even though the initial investment is higher, you'll be set for at least 5 years (if not more). Start by buying a wing size that will allow you to get out on the water almost all the time, along with a bar.

You can also get a used board and harness in the beginning, but be careful not to get ripped off by someone trying to sell you overly used gear at a high price.

Get advice from someone who knows the industry! To buy used equipment, you can check out AdessoKite, or ask the school where you took your course!