Prior to using this Flexifoil kite you confirm that you have read and understood the following warnings and instructions.
Prior to using this Flexifoil kite you confirm that you have read and understood the following warnings and instructions.
If you are under the age of 18, you should have your parents or guardians read these warnings and instructions too.
You should not use your Flexifoil products unless you are under the supervision of an experienced adult.
WARNING
The use of this product exposes the kiter to many unavoidable and unexpected risks or injuries. Flexifoil International Limited, its subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, employees and shareholders (‘Flexifoil’) are not responsible for any damage to property, personal injury caused by misuse, abuse or irresponsible use of this product by the user of the products.
Kiteboarding, kitesurfing, snowkiting and kiting are extreme sports. There are numerous inherent risks and dangers with the sport that can lead to serious injury and death to the kiter and others.
Power kites, flying lines and control equipment can be dangerous to anyone in the proximity of their use. All kite sports must be taken seriously. When using Flexifoil products you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others around you.
Leading Edge Inflatable Kites (LEI) are designed for use on water only. In the event that a Flexifoil LEI product is used for any purpose other than for kitesurfing on water, Flexifoil will not be responsible for any damage or injury that occurs due to an LEI being used on land or other than for the purpose it was designed for.
Ram Air Foil Kites (RAF) are designed for use on land only. Flexifoil will not be responsible for any damage or injury that occurs due to an RAF being used on water or other than for the purpose it was designed for.
Flexifoil strongly recommends that you:
• Seek the advice of professional instructors or/and experienced kiters. We particularly advise BKSA instructors and indeed, instructors from other Kite Boarding Associations worldwide. Incorrect use of the kite may result in serious injury or death;
• Do not fly your kite near power lines, airports, buildings, etc;
• Keep your flying lines away from people and other obstacles at any time. When flying lines and bridles are under tension, they can cut like a knife;
• Always fly in an open space and observe weather conditions;
• If your kite is a Leading Edge Inflatable Kite (LEI) which is designed for use on water, do not use your kite on the water until you are confident and comfortable with the use of a trainer kite (specifically designed for kitesurf training) on land;
• Spend enough time to become familiar with the use of your kite and remember that you are responsible for the security and safety of those around you;
• Work within your own limitations and do not exceed them;
• If you intend to use your LEI kite on water, always use appropriate protective gear and flotation devices and do not attach yourself permanently to the kite;
• If you intend to use your Ram Air Foil Kite on land, always use appropriate protective gear and do not attach yourself permanently to the kite;
Kite sports are diverse, with many disciplines and different levels. As with all extreme sports, there can be certain risks. The following warnings contains security and safety points to remember when flying your kite.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
DO NOT USE THIS PRODUCT UNLESS YOU AGREE WITH THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
The use of Flexifoil products and any of its components involve certain risks, dangers, and hazards that can result in serious personal injury and death to both the user and to non-user third parties. In using Flexifoil products, you confirm that you have carefully reviewed, understood and agree to comply with the terms of Flexifoil User Manual(s) and this document (‘Agreement’).
You freely agree to assume and accept any and all known and unknown risks of injury to you and to third parties while using this equipment. You/user of Flexifoil products understands that Flexifoil is not responsible for any damage to property or injury caused by negligent operation of this product by you/user, and you/user releases Flexifoil from all such liability. In the event of your/users death or incapacity, this Agreement shall be effective and binding upon your heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators, assigns and representatives.
The risks inherent in this sport can be greatly reduced by abiding by the warning guidelines listed in this owner manual and by using common sense.
In consideration of the sale of the Flexifoil product to you, you hereby agree to the fullest extent permitted by law, as follows:
• To waive any and all claims, that you have or may in the future have against Flexifoil International Ltd. and all related parties resulting from use of Flexifoil products and any of its components.
• To release Flexifoil and all related parties from any and all liability for any loss, damage, injury or expense that you or any users of your Flexifoil product may suffer, or that your next of kin may suffer, as a result of the use of the Flexifoil product, due to any cause whatsoever, including negligence or breach of contract on the part of Flexifoil International Ltd. and all related parties in the design or manufacture of the Flexifoil product and any of its components.
• In the event of your death or incapacity, all provisions contained herein shall be effective and binding upon your heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators, assigns, and representatives. Flexifoil related parties have not made and expressly deny any oral or written representations other than what is set forth herein and the Flexifoil User’s Manual.
WHAT FLEXIFOIL STRONGLY RECOMMENDS
We recommend obtaining third-party insurance when partaking in any extreme kiting activity. In some countries, such insurances are mandatory for kitesurfers, kiteboarders, snowkiters etc. If you are not yet able to kite or if you feel insecure, you must attend a licensed kite boarding/surfing school to learn the basics of the sport.
Get familiar with the safety precautions, which are indispensable for safe kiteboarding/kitesurfing. Any kiting activity creates a heavy strain on your body. You should only go kiteboarding/kitesurfing if you are in good physical condition and suffer from no medical conditions that may prevent you from kiting. If in doubt, seek medical advice.
Always act carefully to not endanger yourself or anyone else. Do not endanger the safety of uninvolved third parties! Be aware of the risks you take and limit them to a minimum level!
Before going on the water make sure you are familiar with your Flexifoil equipment. For your own safety, read the following instructions as well as product descriptions very carefully!
RULES OF THE WATER
Like a road, there are rules to the water which you must adhere to:
- You should have basic water skills and be able to swim in the sea; this includes in choppy conditions.
- Consider other water users-be alert. Don’t kitesurf on a busy, heavily populated beach.
- The upwind rider gives way to the downwind rider
- The rider on the port track gives way to the rider on the starboard track.
- Always maintain a 50m downwind safety zone between you and other craft.
- Make sure the water is deep enough. Never surf or jump into shallow water.
- When returning to the shore, give way to those who are launching.
GENERAL GUIDANCE
We recommend that you use your common sense. If you can’t, here a few things for you to consider:
- You should also have a decent level of strength to handle the kite.
- Make sure someone knows you’re out there or is watching you. Let someone know when you’ll be back on the beach. Use your kite with others-it’s safer and much more fun!
- If going on water get the forecast before you head out as well as checking the tides.
- Always assume that a crashed kite will relaunch. Even if it’s tangled, inside out or partially deflated it could very well; suddenly take off.
- Observe kitesurfing/kitesports zones on beaches and public land. Do not trespass on private land. Make sure you pay attention to local regulations.
- If you lose your kite or board, always report it to the local rescue services so that they do not waste time and money looking for you.
- Write your name, address and contact number on your equipment.
- Do not leave your equipment unattended.
- Act responsibly. Be alert and prepared to deal with expected risks.
- Be safe. Wear a helmet at all times. We also recommend that you wear elbow and shoulder pads and an impact vest. Also wear suitable and sturdy footwear. When in the water, wear water boots to protect from unseen objects. Use floatation devices in water.
- Those aged under 18 should always be supervised by an experienced adult.
- It’s strongly recommended that you seek expert advice from a recognised association or take lessons from a fully qualified instructor before undertaking any power and traction activities.
- Inspect your equipment for wear and tear each time before use, especially flying lines, kites and bladders. If there are traces found showing signs of wear and tear you should stop using your gear immediately and repair/replace before using your equipment again. If you’re not sure about the condition of your equipment, seek advice from a professional. If in doubt, do not use it!
- Make sure you use the original designed and manufactured parts from reputable suppliers.
- Do not use Flexifoil components with any other product than Flexifoil. We cannot guarantee the integrity and safety of the product once combined with non-Flexifoil products
- If you go kiting in a new or different location, make sure you have some information before going on the water. Ask the locals for information about the spot, wind conditions, reefs etc.
- Watch out for people around you. Make sure you keep your board and kite under control at any time on the beach or in the water. Disable your kite and lines on the ground when not in use.
- Understand the wind. Weather conditions can change very fast make sure you return to the beach if there is a significant change. This can be the wind dropping or wind & waves increasing.
- If you’re new to the sport, work within your own limitations and do not exceed them. If you can, go with someone who is experienced until you feel confident.
- Do not ask a non-kite surfer to help you launch. Always ask someone with experience.
- Flexifoil strongly recommends not to change your kite, bar and/or lines. We put a lot of effort and research to into producing safe, quality products which do not need to be changed or modified.
- Power kites cannot be used for paragliding or parascending at any time. Doing so is likely to result in serious injury or death.
- Do not use a land kite for water surfing and vice versa. Ensure you are using the right kite for the job.
- Understand the limitations of the product.
- If in doubt, don’t go out!
This is by no means a final and definitive list of guidelines. Please remember that you are responsible for your own safety and that of any third parties. Just because we have taken the time to publish this helpful guide does not mean that we can be held liable for your actions. We will of course keep our guidance updated however we welcome all Flexifoil users to give us feedback on safety guidelines.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Taking good care of your kite will prolong its happy life.
• Do not use a washing machine or tumble dryer.
• Do not use aggressive detergents or abrasive materials to clean your kite.
- Your kite can be hand-washed with care in warm not hot soapy water. Use a mild detergent, i.e. washing up liquid, and a soft sponge.
- Never store your kite wet. Always allow it to dry before packing and storage.
- Do not drag your kite across the ground when trying to launch or land, especially in stubble fields, on stony beaches or on other abrasive surfaces that could damage your kite.
- Rinse your bar, lines and swivel before and after each use with fresh water.
- If in doubt, seek professional advice.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
By assembling and/or using this Flexifoil product, you agree that you have read and understood the entire Flexifoil product owner’s manual, including all instructions and warnings contained in that manual, prior to use the Flexifoil product in any way. You additionally agree that you will ensure any additional or subsequent user of your Flexifoil product will read and understand the entire Flexifoil product manual, including all instructions and warnings contained in that manual, prior to allowing that person to use your Flexifoil product.
WARRANTY
At Flexifoil we believe in designing and manufacturing our products to the highest possible standards. We pride ourselves on our outstanding quality control but if any of our products fail as a result of defective workmanship or faulty materials, we will replace it free of charge. This is in addition to your statutory rights.
Products will not be replaced which have been:
• Damaged as a result of normal wear and tear, misuse or neglect.
• Repaired or modified without the authorization of Flexifoil International Ltd.
• Returned to Flexifoil International Ltd without a valid receipt.
Wherever in the world you are, simply email hello@flexifoil.com and we will endeavour to help you.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Flexifoil will not replace flying lines that have been improperly used. If kites are flown on flying lines of insufficient breaking strain, the lines will break. Always follow Flexifoil recommendations to ensure that flying lines of an appropriate breaking strain are used when flying one or more kites. Flexifoil will not replace flying lines that have failed as a result of knots in the line.