So, you’ve decided to give kitesurfing a go. Excellent choice! It’s an incredible way to challenge yourself, enjoy the outdoors and experience the rush of harnessing the wind. But where do you start? Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Take a Kitesurf Lesson (Seriously, Do It)
If there’s one thing you take away from this guide, let it be this: do not try to teach yourself kitesurfing. It’s not like picking up a skateboard and having a go in the park.
You’re dealing with wind, water and a powerful kite. A certified instructor will teach you how to control the kite safely, read the conditions, and get up and riding much faster than if you try to figure it out alone.
A good beginner lesson will cover:
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Kite setup and safety systems
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How to control the kite on land before heading into the water
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Body dragging (learning to steer yourself using the kite)
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Board starts (actually getting up and riding)
Book your Land Lesson or Intro Kitesurfing Day now.
Wondering if kitesurfing is hard for beginners?
2. Get the Right Gear (But Don’t Rush to Buy)
Once you’ve had a few lessons and are hooked (which, let’s be honest, you probably will be), you might be tempted to go all in and buy your own kit. But hold on. Kites come in different sizes, and the right one depends on your weight, skill level, and typical wind conditions. Get advice from your instructor or local kitesurfing shop before making a purchase.
Beginner-friendly gear usually includes:
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A suitable kite – A mid-range size kite with a depower system for easier control.
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A board with good buoyancy – Slightly bigger kiteboards help with stability.
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A harness that fits well – Seat harnesses can be more comfortable for beginners.
If you’re not ready to commit to your own gear, many kitesurf schools and shops offer rental options, which is a great way to test different setups.
Feel confident before you buy and speak with the team today. You can call or text us anytime.
3. Pick the Right Location
Not all beaches are beginner-friendly. To make learning easier (and safer), look for a spot with:
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Consistent, steady wind (not too strong, not too weak)
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A sandy beach with plenty of space
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Shallow water without big waves or strong currents
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A local kitesurfing community—experienced kiters can give great advice
Avoid beaches with rocky areas or crowded swimming zones. You don’t want to be dodging sunbathers while trying to learn.
4. Learn to Read the Wind
Understanding the wind is key to kitesurfing. Before you head out, you need to know:
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Wind direction – Side-onshore winds (coming diagonally onto the beach) are ideal for beginners. Offshore winds? A one-way ticket out to sea -> avoid.
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Wind strength – If it’s too light, you won’t get going. Too strong, and you’ll feel overpowered. Local wind forecasts and apps can help you plan.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
Kitesurfing isn’t something you master overnight. It takes time, patience, and quite a few splashdowns before things start clicking. The more time you spend practicing, the quicker you’ll improve. Some tips for getting better:
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Spend time flying a trainer kite on land, it improves kite control massively.
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Watch experienced riders and see how they handle different conditions.
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Film yourself if possible, small tweaks can make a big difference.
6. Join a Kitesurfing Community
One of the best things about kitesurfing? The people. The kiting community is full of friendly, helpful folks who are always happy to share tips, advice, and the odd post-session drink. Finding a local kitesurfing club or online group can be a great way to stay motivated and learn faster.
7. Stay Safe and Have Fun
Kitesurfing is an incredible sport, but like anything involving nature and speed, it comes with risks. Always check your gear, respect the conditions and never go out alone as a beginner. Stick to safe practices, and you’ll enjoy every session without unnecessary scares.
Ready to Start?
If you’re keen to get going, the best thing to do is book a beginner kitesurf lesson and take it from there. At Northern Kites, we run beginner-friendly sessions to get you up and riding in no time. Who knows? This might just become your new obsession.
Want to speak with our BKSA certified kitesurfing instructors before you book? Call or text us today.
