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Kristin
Know condition of current before selecting your kite
Currents are an element of kiteboarding that are often overlooked by those unfamiliar with them.
A surface current moving in the same direction as the wind can have the same effect as reducing the wind speed. This is caused by the flowing current pushing you toward your kite as you ride, killing the kite's power.
For example, if the wind is blowing 20 knots from the right, and there is a 5-knot current moving in the same direction, the power when kiting will be equivalent to 15 knots. The faster the current, the more power lost, which means you may need to ride a larger kite than you would normally for the given wind conditions. This can also be reversed when the current pushes the opposite direction of the wind, requiring a smaller kite.
Rip currents are dangerous off shore flowing currents that can pull you or your board out to sea. Rips can form anywhere waves are breaking and typically the larger the surf, the stronger the currents. They can be spotted from shore as areas with slightly lower waterlines and calmlooking, comparably discolored water. If you ever end up in one, swim parallel to the shoreline to get out of the rip current before swimming back toward the beach. Fighting the rip current head on will only wear you out.
If you are unfamiliar with the currents at a new beach, take a minute to ask a local. A number of beaches use signs to warn visitors of the local currents and any other dangers. If you are a beginner, it may be best to avoid areas with strong currents. Likewise, advanced riders are at just as much risk.
So whether you are still learning to ride upwind or are throwing handle passes every time you leave the water, taking time to be aware of the currents could save you some frustration, or maybe even your life.
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