The kitefoil is a mast at the end of which is a rigid wing, equipped with stabilizers. This appendage, 45 centimetres to 1 metre long, is fixed under the board. It will increase the lift of the board, until it is lifted above the water. The surfer will thus gradually rise as he gains speed. To control this speed, everything happens at the feet level. The rider manages the rise of his board by exerting pressure on his board, while controlling his sail.
Why is kitefoil so popular?
Because you are flying above the water, which is an absolutely extraordinary feeling! What you feel when you start to accelerate, when you get out of the water, is something very powerful! You are exhilarated by the speed, you are connected to nature, in osmosis with the wind and the water: it is simply fantastic! The feeling of freedom that kiteflying gives you is out of this world, whatever your level. That’s why this sport is so popular.
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How to start kiteflying ?
If you have never practised this discipline, take a few lessons or do a course, it is really the best thing to do. Kitefoil is not a discipline that can be done by the average person, you need to master a lot of parameters to get started. You must therefore observe the behaviour of your board in the water, understand how it reacts, while you are not yet on it! Analyse the wind, its strength and speed. Take as much information as possible about the water.
What equipment is needed to start kiteboarding?
Think safety by equipping yourself correctly. A helmet will allow you to limit the most damaging risks, those concerning the head. Your sail must be of a reasonable size, it must not be oversized. If you want to achieve this, you will have to focus on the foil, without being disturbed by the control of the sail. The size of the mast should be adapted to your level of practice, if you are a beginner, choose a mast with a length ranging from 55 to 75 centimeters.
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How to prepare a kitefoil session?
First of all, you have to fix the foil under the board. A box is provided for this purpose, it is located under the board. For beginners, it is advised to mount the foil at the back of the box. Once you have done this, enter the water slowly, holding your foil correctly: it must not touch the bottom! Then stand with your back to the wind and your foil well positioned underwater. Once you are in deep enough water, you are ready to start your session.
How to get out of the water in a kitefoil?
A good starting position is the secret of a good kitefoil start. You will point your foil at the surface of the water and start to accelerate: guaranteed sensation! If you have fixed your foil to the back of the box, you will get less speed, but you will still feel the acceleration. This step is crucial, you must be patient and persevere. Don’t be discouraged, even if you find it difficult to stabilise your foil, this is quite normal at first.
How to be stable in a kitefoil?
Support, support, support! It’s all about your feet, especially the front foot. You accelerate and decelerate with your feet, the balance will come from the adjustments you will naturally make with practice. It’s the same with sailing, at the beginning we all have trouble understanding the direction of the wind, some time later we find the handling of the sail almost natural. By improving all these parameters, you will glide more and more easily, you will gain in efficiency at all levels.
Which brands should I choose to start kiteboarding?
DUOTONE and ION are quality brands, known for their reliability and their equipment. All members of the French Federation of Free Flight (FFVL) know these equipment manufacturers, which are recognised in the world of board sports. In Hyères, in the Var, our school uses their DUOTONE suits and ION canopies. Come and test them with us during your next kitefoil session!
