Kiteboarding Magazine

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2009-10-27 17:00:00 | 1351 views | 0 Comments

Miscalculations on the launch may end your kiteboarding career before it ever starts. Or even worse, they can shut down another great riding spot! Before you launch, spend time walking and swimming your launch, entry, riding and exit areas. While you're doing that, look for:

Side-shore wind

This wind direction makes it easier to go out and come back because crosswind is perpendicular to the beach. Onshore winds make it difficult to get away from the beach, while offshore winds make it difficult to come back to the beach.

Free of obstacles and people

Mistakes happen, so make the extra effort to avoid people, power lines, parking lots and fixed structures.

Free of wind shadows

Trees, buildings, mountains and even piers will disrupt wind flow, causing gusts. Take the time to see wind on the water and understand why some areas are windier than others.

Flat water, no shore pound

Before you launch, walk into the water; if you get knocked over by a wave, you are entering an area with shore break. If a wave or shore break gets a hold of your kite, it may have more power than the wind, so try to avoid this situation.

Sandy bottom

Before riding a spot, look online at a satellite picture of the area. When you arrive, STOP and breathe; take it all in. Swim the area and learn what type of bottom you're dealing with. You'll increase your comfort level as well as discovering a lot about the area.