Learning to fly? - Then get the right kite

You wouldn’t jump into an F1 racing car to take your driving test and it’s just the same with kites. If you’re serious about powerkiting you need to start small before you think big.

Small powerkites are excellent entry level kites. They’re highly stable, easy to fly and great fun. The Stacker 6, Proteam 8 and Super 10 are a good place to start, with the important caveat that you never take them out in a big wind until you’ve built up your experience.

Likewise, small ram-air, soft foil type power kites (such as the Buzz and Sting) can also be used provided you steer clear of any big winds.

Wind and safety

Start flying in winds around 8 mph / 12kph and build up to stronger winds as your experience grows. For those of you without a finely tuned sense of wind speed, 8 mph / 12 kph is a gentle breeze just strong enough to extend a light flag or put leaves and small twigs in constant motion.

Always use a safety system (now supplied with all four line kites as standard). A safety system means that the moment you let go of your handles (or bar) the kite will automatically come to the ground. Simple as it sounds, you should practise letting go of your handles/bar so you’ll be ready in an emergency.

Professional tuition makes learning to fly fun and safe

The best way to start kiting safely is with some professional tuition - something that’s especially true for kitesurfing. Ask your local Flexifoil retailer for further information.