New to this
Moderator: MK
New to this
I realize I should probably try the lesson thing out but I never have and I'd like to give it a shot on my own first. Is this a recommendable site to keep track of what are favorable conditions for kiting, tips, tricks...etc.. Also, I hear alot of reference to kiting on a snow covered ice surface but not too heavily as to bog down. Now that is only in reference to boards I suppose?!? What if using skates or skis? Or any other options? I am borrowing a snowboard to get out there but what is the most alluring ride?
just getting acquainted with the midwest cold and snow/winter stuff
ET,
I'd say use whatever you feel to most comfortable moving on and allows you maintain the best edge against the pull of the kite.
For bare ice, skates would be good if the ice is smooth enough... but I've been finding that I can actually do pretty well on sharp skies (and I'm crappy on skates). I can't comment on snowboards for lack of experience.
No matter what you put on your feet, the major part of kiting is learning to anticipate & pilot the kite so you can keep it positioned properly in the wind window, and learning to control your speed and edge pressure relative to it.
Come out to the lakes even if you don't have gear yet. Catch some one rigging or taking a break and ask questions. Anyone around here will be glad to share what they've discovered. Always stay clear of the control lines (stay behind the pilot) when the kite is powered.
I'd say use whatever you feel to most comfortable moving on and allows you maintain the best edge against the pull of the kite.
For bare ice, skates would be good if the ice is smooth enough... but I've been finding that I can actually do pretty well on sharp skies (and I'm crappy on skates). I can't comment on snowboards for lack of experience.
No matter what you put on your feet, the major part of kiting is learning to anticipate & pilot the kite so you can keep it positioned properly in the wind window, and learning to control your speed and edge pressure relative to it.
Come out to the lakes even if you don't have gear yet. Catch some one rigging or taking a break and ask questions. Anyone around here will be glad to share what they've discovered. Always stay clear of the control lines (stay behind the pilot) when the kite is powered.
Welcome to the sport - it's a blast! You'll love it.
I would REALLY recommend a lesson (or at least an orientation) with somebody before you try it yourself. Besides the ever present SAFETY concerns, here are some other reasons:
1. In about an hour, someone can show you the 'wind window' - where its power curve is and how to use it to your advantage (this can be read about and figured out for yourself, but it'd take days and a few face slides.
2. You can start with a really small (trainer) kite - once again - maybe only for a hour or two, but why waste the money on one when you may not ever use it again (this is about the same as the cost of the lesson)? Also, any mistakes you make with the trainer kite don't hurt at all!
3. They'll show you how to launch, land, setup, and put away the kite.
4. You'll get connected with some people that may even be able to hook you up with some used gear.
5. Oh, and if you know how to skate, skates are the greatest in my opinion right now: total mobility and zero wait.
No, I don't teach lessons - still struggling a bit myself - talk to Tighe or Alex - they'll take care of you.
I would REALLY recommend a lesson (or at least an orientation) with somebody before you try it yourself. Besides the ever present SAFETY concerns, here are some other reasons:
1. In about an hour, someone can show you the 'wind window' - where its power curve is and how to use it to your advantage (this can be read about and figured out for yourself, but it'd take days and a few face slides.
2. You can start with a really small (trainer) kite - once again - maybe only for a hour or two, but why waste the money on one when you may not ever use it again (this is about the same as the cost of the lesson)? Also, any mistakes you make with the trainer kite don't hurt at all!
3. They'll show you how to launch, land, setup, and put away the kite.
4. You'll get connected with some people that may even be able to hook you up with some used gear.
5. Oh, and if you know how to skate, skates are the greatest in my opinion right now: total mobility and zero wait.
No, I don't teach lessons - still struggling a bit myself - talk to Tighe or Alex - they'll take care of you.
Re: Lessons?
Hey ET,
Well, after looking back at my first traction kiting experiences I would have to say, TAKE LESSONS.
I first saw kiteboaring in 1999 on a French news program on one of those cable access channels and thought, "Hey that looks easy enough!" So I went out and bought a full setup: An orange/pink 8.5 Wipika Classic, a big ol' bar, and 30m flying lines...while still thinking I could master the basics no problem...yeah.
To make a long story short:
My first day I tried running with the kite in 15-20mph winds. I ended up supermanning the length of 200 yards on a grass/gravel field while there were sports teams practicing. Yep, injury with an appreciative audience.
Later that week I tried to explore the wind window just like the instructional video showed. Well, I also discovered the power zone and soared up about 10-15ft for a decent distance, landed, and proceded to superman the field in front of the same devoted fans.
Needless to say, my water experiences were just as brilliant.
Moral of the story: I eventually tought myself how to kiteboard, but both the kite and my carcass have the scars of learning....so take lessons and save your self and your kite unneccessary beatings.
See you up there!
- Brad
Well, after looking back at my first traction kiting experiences I would have to say, TAKE LESSONS.
I first saw kiteboaring in 1999 on a French news program on one of those cable access channels and thought, "Hey that looks easy enough!" So I went out and bought a full setup: An orange/pink 8.5 Wipika Classic, a big ol' bar, and 30m flying lines...while still thinking I could master the basics no problem...yeah.
To make a long story short:
My first day I tried running with the kite in 15-20mph winds. I ended up supermanning the length of 200 yards on a grass/gravel field while there were sports teams practicing. Yep, injury with an appreciative audience.
Later that week I tried to explore the wind window just like the instructional video showed. Well, I also discovered the power zone and soared up about 10-15ft for a decent distance, landed, and proceded to superman the field in front of the same devoted fans.
Needless to say, my water experiences were just as brilliant.
Moral of the story: I eventually tought myself how to kiteboard, but both the kite and my carcass have the scars of learning....so take lessons and save your self and your kite unneccessary beatings.
See you up there!
- Brad
Have kite, will travel.
Thanks for the input
I have to say this is a very nice site and informative enough for a beginner or a seasoned veteran. I will probably contact Tighe in the near future but WHERE'S THE SNOW!!!??? When I moved up here everyone was ranting about how cold and blizzard like it is here and so far...? I left the wintery south for this? Just kidding, great place and see you on the ice! 
just getting acquainted with the midwest cold and snow/winter stuff