As a windsurfer (probably the wrong way to begin on a kite forum) I am after a large kite for those marginal days on the water for when the wind is around the 10 - 15 knots. Weighing around the 110kg mark I was thinking of a 14m kite with surfboard.
Some advice please without the usual poley comments on what others think would be a kite size they would recommend and brand and model (after second hand as it will be my beginner kite). Obviously wanting something that is easy to relaunch.
Thanks for any genuine advice!
for light wind i think a skimboard is a better option than a surfboard...my 2c
at 105kg i don't ride until it gets to 15 knots at least
hi shi thouse
I'm around your weight. As my light wind kite, I've been riding a 2008 Slingshot Rev 1 15m. I estimate I needed 17-18 knots to stay upwind on that, riding a 146cm twin tip. I don't really notice much difference on a 6'2" surfboard, in fact toe side I think I need more power than a twin tip. May be my technique.
I recently upgraded to a Slingshot Rally 14m. I think it has as much, if not more power than the 15 Rev. Still, I'll need 17-18 knots to stay upwind in still water.
Your windsurfing experience may give you an advantage, but most people I've seen take to the sport, particularly surfers who don't want to ride twin tips, struggle to learn on a surfboard, straps or no straps.
If you want to ride light winds, a great board is something like the Slingshot Glide, big and smooth.
I agree on second hand as a first kite. Unless you are a gifted kite flyer, you will bash it.
