Kitesurfing Ireland: what is kitesurfing and where to buy it ?

Kitesurfing is one of the fun recreational activities and sport enjoyed all around the world. Basically, it entails you combining a kite with normal surfing and allowing yourself to be driven by the wind. How does the sport work and where can you buy a kitesurfing? Read on to find out more.

What is kitesurfing?

Kitesurfing is a water sport that combines using a kite and a surfboard to move across water through the aid of the wind. The sport entails that you get on a surfboard, and fly a large parachute type kite that rides the wind and drags you along.

Kite surfing does not require waves like ordinary surfing. Instead, it relies on the wind for propelling power. As a result, flat water locations are best for the spot as the water is usually smooth and easier to move on. It also supports taking off and landing on for those that intend to practice skills like bog jumps, speed records, freestyle, or even long-distance adventures.

Where to buy a kitesurf?

Buying a kitesurf is pretty easy, as they are readily available in your local surfing store. You can also choose to purchase online from giants like Kitemana or Amazon, if they cover deliveries to your preferred destination. However, for the easiest purchase, most kitesurf locations have stores in the area where you can easily walk in and purchase your kit.

How can I use a kitesurf?

Kitesurfing is a relatively easy activity to learn, and it can be done in a few days. Having experience in flying a power or skating, snowboarding or wakeboarding in the past makes it easier. Here’s a guide on how you can use a kitesurf:

Step 1

Firstly, start by learning how to fly a trainer kite, as it would help you to safely learn the basics of kite flying before proceeding to water. Also, it teaches you about wind window and power zone, which are important for kite surfing.

Step 2

The next step is to get your old skateboard out and running, as you will need that old skill of yours for kitesurfing. Practicing skateboarding would help you practice your floor grip while kitesurfing.

Step 3

At this stage, you should source and watch useful instructional videos to help your progress. This information can actually be found on YouTube, and it should at least cover the following:

  • Kitesetup
  • Location and conditions
  • Launching and landing the kite
  • Body dragging
  • Changing direction

The last stage is the practice stage.

Step 4

You should learn how to release the control bar as it is what cuts power to the kite when you want to slow down. This bar could also be used to put your kite in reverse when using a 3-liner trainer.

Also, practice how to steer. A common mistake people make is tilting or turning the bar which doesn’t do much good. Instead, think of it as a push-pull movement or steering a mountain bike, wherein as one arm extends, the other arm bends.

Is it better to kitesurf than surf?

The choice between kitesurfing or surfing just depends on you. Personally, some prefer to ride the waves, while others can’t leave without the thrill of being driven by the wind. In all, they are both fun and very enjoyable sports.

Personal learning does not take the place of a skilled trainer. Therefore, if you can, visit one, and your kitesurfing learning experience would be much easier and enjoyable.

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